Useful - thank you!

Sprout fur around a time after midnight (9) - two es

First day hint: direct on left.

G(mid niGht)ERMIN at E (ermine = fur)
at = a t(ime)

Just fur you you to grow into:
===[**WCF**]===

Thanks Lex.

Assume (in the French spirit) (4)

Given that it's Denis, it is not impossible that the answer is:

L(OK)E

an alternative spelling of LOKI, the Norse spirit of mischief. Also 'assume' has to = OK.

This clue would be worth multiple wet noodles, but as I said, it's Denis

That would be mischievious

Fe-fe, fi-fi, fo-fo, fum
I smell smoke in the auditorium
Charlie Brown, Charlie Brown
He's a clown, that Charlie Brown
He's gonna get caught
Just you wait and see
Why's everybody always pickin' on me?????????????

Guys, I'd NEVAH stoop THAT way

Esube, you are very close...to solving a cryptic gem

I'll try elan

French in = en
French the = la

assume = container indicator?

No

Okay, how about L(IF)E?

Yes

Here's your LIFE-belt: ===[**WCF**]===

I'll thank esube for throwing me that line.

Aaaahhhh, little belt, come to Mama! I haven't seen you for a while.

A deadly sin? Yes (6)

agreed

I'll agree that this belt belongs to you!

===[**WCF**]===