Possible Clues:

• What you do when going to a bishop for pardon
• It's clear a second-rate crossword addict will not finish
• Let off the hook
• Clear, as of sins
• A book with instruction for crossworders is free
• Acquit — free of blame
• Bachelor backing what you do, free of guilt
• Free (someone) from guilt
• Declare blameless
• Sailor's love sick? Pardon!