"When I had been governor of Harar and its entire province for about a year, stabilizing without mishap the life of peasants and soldiers, of government and of all else necessary for administration, it was decided, by my wish and that of my relations, that I should marry (I was twentieth year at the time) Wayzaro Menen (now Empress), the grand-daughter of Negus Mikael. We were married by church ceremony on 23rd Hamle 1903 (31st July).
Her character is such that, apart from goodness, there is no evil or malice in her. Ever since we were married we lived together, by virtue of her being fertile in one family sharing joy as well as sadness..."
Empress Menen Asfaw
Autobiography of Emperor Haile Selassie I page 41-42