I think it was the diabetes which made him more susceptible to the meningitis and also caused complications.. but like I say, my memory is full of holes.. which makes it all the more remarkable that I should still remember Mr Smith, even 30 years later. That's the mark of a good teacher (although dying unexpectedly half way through term may also cause him to stick in my mind.. at that time I would have been glad if a few other teachers had done that too - or rather, instead)