Published in NZMJ 1909;7(30):42–45 and written by Dr W J Barclay, Thames.

At the present time the explosive engine burning petrol or allied liquid is in extensive and increasing use, especially perhaps as providing a cheap and convenient means of propulsion. A device that has rendered possible the motor car and the motor boat, not to speak of the submarine and the aeroplane, must be accounted a signal boon to mankind. But, unfortunately, like every good gift, the explosive engine is not perfect, and has certain disadvantages and dangers. One of these is illustrated by the following case :—

On the 14th April last, five men went out fishing on a motor launch propelled by a 6 h.p. benzine engine. Of the five men on board, four were regular fishermen and one a friend having a day’s outing. This man was a strong, healthy young fellow, about 20 years of age; he was in good health, and apparently enjoyed his holiday. When darkness came on fishing ceased, and the launch started on the return journey. The regular crew set to work as usual, one going into the cabin to mind the engine, the others remaining outside and occupying themselves with the fish.

The visitor feeling drowsy, and having no particular task, went into the cabin, crawled right forward past the engine, and lay down to sleep. This was about 8 p.m. Shortly after, the man tending the engine heard the visitor groaning and called out to him, but, receiving no reply, thought he was perhaps feeling seasick in the heat of the cabin, and wished to be left alone. Apart from this the visitor lay quiet, and was presently thought to be asleep.

About 11.30 p.m. the boat arrived home, and as the visitor did not turn, out one of the crew went to wake him. This, however, was found impossible; he could not be roused, and assistance was sent for. I saw him about midnight. He had been removed to a neighbouring house, and was lying on a couch. The face looked natural in colour, so much so that at first glance I thought the man was living, and was surprised on examination to find that he was dead. The body was still warm, but no sign of heart’s action or of breathing could be noticed, even after hypodermic injection of strychnine and prolonged use of artificial respiration.