Inquisitor 1239

[Neveracrossword]

12 A. Clergyman runs after the French trader (6) ????er
(If it's 'dealer', why?)
18 A. Wave retreating over lantern in Cape Wrath subsides (6)
???te?

The wordplay in lots of clues leads to the answer plus a superfluous letter not to be entered into the grid - I don't know if these clues are affected.
Thanks for any assistance.

[slaney]

12a Yes, dealer
Clergyman =Dea(n) - N extra letter.
18a Wave = sea reversed around Scots word for lantern minus a letter.
Subsides is the definition.

[Neveracrossword]

Thanks - and I got 18 sorted.

[Neveracrossword]

I'm making progress...slowly.
A very small clue/answer has me stumped...
36 D. Fish without constant sign of encouragement? (3) ?l?

[Neveracrossword]

Got it.

[haggis58]

Anyone in same position as me? I have completed the grid, although still unsure about 13ac (pardner). However I cant make out the 39 superfluous letters which spell out the five thematic groups and individuals. Also cant see the other group members to highlight so have no idea waht the theme is. Any help?

[Q-lyn]

Extra letters have a musical connection to this theme, highlights have a different connection.

[haggis58]

OK thanks - got the groups and individuals and therefore now know the connection. Just word searching now to try and spot the highlighting.

[haggis58]

Got it... all done!