Crossword Genius

Letter bound to have shown sympathy (6)

Ross
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'shown sympathy' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'letter bound to have' is the wordplay.
'letter' becomes 'rac' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'bound' is an insertion indicator.
'to have' becomes 'bed' (synonyms).
'rac' inserted into 'bed' is 'BRACED'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for braced that I've seen before include "Buttressed" , "Ready for action" , "Supported, gave firmness to" , "Stiff" , "Ready for impact - wearing trouser straps" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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