19.09. - 1 - Speech Of The Day - DEATH OF BLATENGETA HERUYE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

DEATH OF BLATENGETA HERUYE

IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

The man, whose last rites we now perform and who now goes to his 1ast resting place, is Blatengeta Heruye Wolde Selassie, a gentleman well-bred who stands among the foremost of Ethiopia's intellectuals.

This illustrious son of Our beloved country employed his intelligence and energies for the betterment of His country and was therefore selected for the high post of Minister of Foreign Affairs in Our Government. The books he wrote, which portray his noble character, and, especially those pertaining to history and theology, have made him renowned.

It is hardly necessary to say more of his intellectual attainments and how profoundly we feel about the greatness of his character, about his dedication to a purposeful life, his selfless devotion to help those in trouble, his respect for truth and justice and his burning patriotic zeal for his country – all of which touch Our heart deeply at this hour of his departure.

My loyal friend, Heruye! If Our words prove inadequate in extolling what you have done for your country to the fullest of your ability on this mournful occasion, your deeds themselves will certainly speak more convincingly.

Even though the storm of aggression that upset the tranquillity of the world brought you suffering and a severe test of your moral endurance, you did not permit it to overwhelm you. Now, however, it has become your fate to obey the order of the great and merciful Lord, a lot that befalls each and everyone of us in our turn. As it were, after you had accomplished what was within your bounds, you have slept, but although you depart from us physically, your works and your name will always remain among us.

Dear Heruye! As God the Almighty has permitted Us to lay to rest your bones, while your spirit joins with those of your forefathers. We bid you goodbye in this hospitable land to which we came as guests.

Sept. 19, 1938.

Selected Speeches of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie – page 644 –   

QHS - CHRIST - CENTRE OF LIFE