Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. To William Phillips, Washington.
Date
1934-10-17
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Situation between Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor somewhat strained; no personal difficulties, but they have opposing views regarding Heimwehr; Vice-Chancellor Prince Starhemberg, as head of Heimwehr, under pressure to place some of their members in the government; Chancellor feels appointees should be chosen for their capacities rather than because of affiliation with Heimwehr; increasing activity in Communist circles; it is reported that Communists and Left Wing Social Democrats have formed a common front; Jews, who have supported government staunchly in past, now becoming lukewarm; Dollfuss knew how to handle anti-Semitism and keep it under control, but anti-Semites now becoming more active; not a U.S. minister's place to meddle in Austria's internal affairs, but when occasion arises will not refrain from offering comment on implications to outside world, whose support Austria needs; [Franz] von Papen's movements extraordinary since his appointment as Minister to Austria; back and forth between Germany and Austria and then a visit to Budapest; he has had nothing of importance to say to government here; believes he has been given no instructions; tragedy in Marseilles [assassination of King Alexander of Yugoslavia and French Foreign Minister Louis Barthou] caused concern in Austria; Yugoslavia will have three regents, for the new king is only ten years old, and the Government will undoubtedly be weaker; Mussolini may be tempted to press her ambitions in the Adriatic, but so far has made no move; situation between France and Italy unchanged; suggests Phillips read memorandum of conversation [Alfred W.] Kliefoth had with [Edward Hallett] Carr of British Foreign Office; indicates certain public opinion in England influencing British policy; [Douglas] Reed, London Times correspondent, called recently; Reed disturbed by section of public opinion which thinks that by avoiding commitments on Continent England can avoid participation in possible European conflict; may be precipitating conflict by avoiding action; Sir Walter Layton in Vienna recently; Layton believes general situation here good; though the political situation delicate; church problem in Germany may be rock on which present German regime will break; reliable information that economic and financial situation in Germany fast approaching crisis; [Hjalmar] Schacht desperate; leading bankers forced out and replaced by mediocre men; much dissension within Nazi Party.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.