As I grow older, memories of my youth keep popping up unbidden but not unwelcome. Almost all of these reminisces are pleasant enough but they are accompanied by a tinge of sadness. Why is that ? They are almost all known to no one but me.
This was brought forcibly to mind when I told a simple tale to the surprise of daughter, granddaughter, and even wife.
STORY
Back in 1940 or 41, King Carol 2nd of Romania was deposed and exiled. He first arrived in Mexico for perhaps 6 month or so. He was asked to leave and went to Brazil. He was accompanied by his most beautiful mistress, Madam Magda Lupescu.
While in Mexico he rented a house just one block from my family home
(Historic residence known as Los Naranjos). Across the street from his Majesties house was the home of Tom and Ethel Miller (Famous historical Casa Alvarado, built by Cortes' second in command), best friends of my parents. We often spent Saturdays or Sundays at cookouts at Casa Alvarado where his Majesty and Madam were usually present. We Schmidts also entertained King Carol from time to time. On one occasion, Madam Lupescu kindly agreed to play a few hands of gin rummy with me. I estimate that I was 15 or 16 years old.
King Carol was asked to leave Mexico and went to Brazil where he married
Madam Lupescu on her deathbed. He was asked to leave Brazil and was allowed to go to Portugal where he spent the rest of his life.
I could find no reference on my computer that he was ever in Mexico. All the people involved in this story are dead.
8 comments:
Wondeful post.
I found some minor information at the following address:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magda_Lupescu
Fascinating. Thanks for sharing this.
Amazing story!!! Thanks tom for digging up some background. European history is fascinating to me, but even more so when there is a little family involvement.
WoW!
OOPS -- once again, Nancy is posing as the kinder, gentler Michelle. Even after Michelle has been gone for a week (actually, this could be fun!) -- so, the previous comment is mine, not Michelle's, though she might actually agree with me for once!
I love this story and would enjoy more memories about your growing up in Mexico and or stories about your Father and Mother who were both fascinating people.
I seem to recall there were some Hemingway stories that were told - I would be interested in their retelling.
Granddad, this is a marvelous memory! Surely your sister Virginia might have some recollection of this?
Please, keep these coming, it is fascinating to read some family history here.
If you keep this up, I'll have to become an avid ruminations reader!
Thank you so much for digging up these memories - they are treasures!
Post a Comment