UNUSUAL POISONING CASE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 1082, 14 December 1911, Page 2

UNUSUAL POISONING CASE.

A most remarkable case of poisoning took place on Dr. Wails property, in the ranges, behind Shannon yesterday afternoon. Mr Roberts’, three children, a girl aged about eight years, boy seven, and a little girl aged five, accompanied their lather to the bush, and while he was employed in fencing, wandered in search of tawai. They, however, decided to sample the pith of the tutu plant, which has such a deadly effect upon animals. Not knowthe poisonous nature of the plant, they stripped the skin and devoured a good deal of the pith, which is not at all appetising, being bitter and sour. The effect of the repast soon made itself felt. The youngest child commenced to vomit and collapsed and the second child was soon in a like condition. The eldest child managed to make its way to near where the father was working and then collapsed. Mr Roberts lost no time in getting the children to the house and sent out word for medical assistance. Dr. Adams was communicated with and gave instructions for temporary treatment, and finally arrived on the scene at 7 o’clock. He found two of the children in a semi-comatsoe state, and the boy having a series ol epileptiform seizures. The eldest child was conscious, but very weak. Kinetics and stimulants were given and after about two hours treatment there was an improvement in the condition of the little ones, all of whom, this morning, are reported to be out of danger.