FATAL RARE GERM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21314, 15 October 1932, Page 12 (Supplement)

FATAL RARE GERM

DEATH OF YOUNG BARONET PERILS OF THE DESERT A rare and fatal tropical germ that, remains latent in the system for a considerable time has caused the sudden death of Sir Robert Alan Clayton-East-Clayton, the 24-year-old baronet of ancient ancestry. Sir Robert became ill on August 29, and although five doctors and specialists >veio called and oxygen applied his condition became worse, and he died at his home, Hall Place, Hurley, near Maidenhead, Berkshire, on September 1. It is regarded as probable that the germ that caused death was picked up during Sir Robert's recent travels in the Libyan Desert. The germ induces a condition known as acute anterior poliomyelitis. The disease is similar to infantile paralysis. Sir Robert went with Count Ladislas de Almasy to find the lost oasis of Zerzura. The oasis was discovered, but during the expedition Sir Robert and his companion were lost in the desert for two days. The privations then endured may, it is thought, have undermined his strength and mado him more susceptible to tho germ that caused his death. Sir Robert was married on February 29 to Miss Dorothy Mary Durrant, tho 25-year-old daughter of tho Rev. Arthur Durrant, vicar of Leverstock Green, Hertfordshire. Sho is a talented sculptress.