From the Pall Mall Gazelle.
The great Abyssinian chief Ras Alula, is at present a person of much interest to the Italians, and the Riforma is publishing a sketch of his life, in the course of which it is stated that he is the son of Abyssinian peasants. He was born about 45 years ago in the village of Pamaka, near Mekelle, served for many years as groom under the uncle of the Negus Ras Area. Later on he became Master of the Wardrobe at Court, and married the daughter of Ras Area, who died not long after the marriage. He then rose to the rank of Chamberlain, and was finally made Governor of Tigre, with the title of Ras. Ras Alula is of middle height, has a chocolate-colored skin and a thin face, hut is otherwise rather stout. He never laughs, talks slowly, is polite to strangers, but haughty to inferiors. His orders are only given once. If they are not executed he horsewhips his servants. As a rule he wears a white cotton shirts and trousers. A red fez covers his cut hair. On special occasions he wears a red silk shirt, the robe of the Governor. He is as excellent horseman, and it will be difficult to find an Abyssinian who bears the hardships of traveling better than he. He accompanies the Negus barefooted on all his tours, and never shows a sign of fatigue. Having had no education, he can neither write nor read, but is very intelligent and cunning, hut pious and superstitious withal. His avarice is extreme; he takes everywhere and gives nowhere. Wherever he goes he takes everything he can lay hold of. On his marches he is accompanied by his servants, who carry his wine, made of honey. Ras Alula is fond of women, but tries to conceal that fact. One of the many Abyssinian poems in his honor runs thus:
«He is as fair as an angel
And strong as a lion,
Swift-footed as a leopard,
Sly as a fox,
Wise as Solomon,
Generous as a King,
Is most valiant of all.»
The King has promised him the crown of Kassala. If he can earn it. Eight Generals fight under him. His daughter is a good and beautiful woman, who has protected Count Salimbeni and his companion, and it is due to her influence that they have not been killed.
The New York Times
Publish: April 12. 1887
- RAS ALULA, THE ABTSSINIAN