Sentence:  But I do not pretend that my protestations should <WSD>acquit</WSD> me: I rest my innocence on a plain and simple explanation of the facts which have been adduced against me; and I hope the character I have always borne will incline my judges to a favourable interpretation, where any circumstance appears doubtful or suspicious. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  To declare or find innocent or not guilty.