EXCULPATE

BABYSTEPSSlow-but-steady progress, or the progression found at the starts of 18-, 23-, 36-, and 51-Across LEASTWAYSAlways set off, at any rate (9) BELVEDERESummerhouse with a view STANDBYMEBen E. King hit that begins "When the night has come / And the land is dark" WHEATMEALFlour in Spooner's sausage roll? PENTHOUSECooped up at home, a luxurious one (9) BASEBALLSSports equipment with mixed up label carried by swimmer SECRETARYAssistant's private call about becoming associate DEMEANOURHeartless Duke professor's not so nice look ANAEROBICWithout oxygen and low on energy, Mike yields to Rob CARPACCIOStarter of fish and chips cooked in oil originally FOOTSTOOLPays for device to make leg-rest (9) GRACELANDThe King’s home, elegance over acres (9) WOLVERINEGlutton