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Doesn't anyone do RT on here anymore or are you all so clever you don't need help? I, unusually , have hit a real brick wall but hints on a couple might clear the log jam.
9 ac. Second best hoot. (6) All I have is - - - - - M and
18 ac. Confused person embracing criminal (12). I have
- - G - E - M - G - E- . I Think/hope the crossers are correct. Thanks in anticipation and keep safe folks.

9a looks like S+CREAM

9. A usual abbreviation, followed by a common 5-letter 'best'. The definition is the last word.

Apologies, you asked for hints, I didn’t see that

18. A person who likes embracing, followed by a common criminal. Confused is the definition.

18 is two rhyming 6 letter words run together. I was a bit surprised by the definition.

Thanks each. No problem Jono