To say that I am visibly shocked would be putting it mildly. I can hardly believe that we both shared the stage only a few weeks ago at the Goan Festival which saw the launch of Selma's now-popular book. Cornel and I exchanged views on a variety of subjects and he always mentioned his regret that Goans, generally speaking, didn't take an interest in books and reading in general. He was a great orator and writer too and had many other strings to his bow including his musical talents. Many of his former Mombasa band colleagues will miss, just as I do. Words cannot express how empty I feel on the passing away of a great Goan. His memory will live on. He may have been an atheist, but I believe in a forgiving God, and pray that his soul may rest in peace. On behalf of my wife and myself, I should like to send our deepest condolences to his family.
Mervyn(Maciel)
