SUICIDE’S “SPIRIT GUIDE”

Manawatu Times, Volume LIII, Issue 6551, 7 March 1928, Page 3

SUICIDE’S “SPIRIT GUIDE”

A strange story of a man’s obsession tliat ho con’d do nothing without consulting his spiritual “guide” was told at an inquest on Bertram Carnarton Webb, aged 45, of Brighton. Webb, the unmarried son of a retired tea planter, was found dead with a bullet wound in the head at his father’s home. It was stated that he was a very reticent man and made few friends. He became more reticent after taking up Christian Science some time ago. “Alter he joined this spiritual business,” said his father, “he ceased to go to concerts which he had previously enjoyed, saying ho had a “guide” who would not allow him to do these things. He would not go to hear music, and even refused to go for rides in my car. On Sunday last, however, ho heard wireless music, and expressed appreciation of tho carols which were broadcast. The next morning his mother made tho tragic discovery in his bedroom.” Ho felt sure that the act. must have been done on the impulse of tho moment, for his son would not do anything without consulting his “guide.” A verdict of suicide while temporarily - c unsound mind was returned.