Possible Clues:

• Become ill again (after initial recovery)
• In retrospect, Ernie's pal, Eric is somewhat degenerate
• Deterioration (of illness)
• Ornamental tree, one cut back, is to deteriorate
• On time to leave messy plates in sink again
• Fall back and soldiers leap off, surrounding son
• One leaving latticework erected in sink
• Backsliding Republican, asleep, given shake
• Drink in part of army quarters: become ill again
• Deterioration concerning northern Scandinavians, reportedly