THE “PERFECT BUTLER”

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 12 June 1926, Page 3

THE “PERFECT BUTLER”

PERSONATION OF master “THE END' OF M Y TETHER” LONDON, May 19. , 'Clifford Clarke, ' whom Commander Locker Lampson employed as a 'butler for three days, is described as clean and sniooth-shaveii, with charming manners—a perfect butler. When lie was sent on a message to a Wimbledon nian, whom Commander Locker "Lampson had not seen) but to whom lie'had often written, Clarke put on evening dress and Commander Locker Lampson’s D.S.O. and C.M.G. decorations. ' Clarke spent the evening at Wimbledon posing as his master and relating his adventures in Russia. He borrowed a motor-car, and alighted at the'House of Commons, after which lie disappeared. Four silver knives and £ls are also missing.' Stepping iauntiiy into the dock and carelessly flinging his hat nil a chair, Clarke appeared at Court after his arrest- on a charge of stealing Commander Locker Lamnson’s property, including a revolver and ammunition. • A detective stated that when he arrested Clarke the latter pulled out a revolver and said: “Beware ! It’s load-' ed. There are two cartridges for Vera 1 and one for hie. But I’ll go quietlv.” Jn a later' slateriient accused said : “I’m at the end of my tether. If I had not been arrested I would have drowned myself.” He was remanded.