Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. To Jay Pierrepont Moffat, Washington.
Date
1934-08-21
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Has authority to send pouch every two weeks, but during times of tension thinks legation should send pouch each week; hopes Department doesn't think he delayed too long sending telegram concerning Nazi putsch and Dollfuss assassination; delayed only long enough to get facts straight; delighted to see Department's circular authorizing Chiefs of Missions to travel in their districts; particularly interested in Department's circular on telegraphic reports of unusual political events; was able to establish contacts in worthwhile places rapidly; members of the government very frank and friendly; present government realizes utter helplessness against Germany without support of rest of Europe, but determined not to yield on any point involving Austrian independence or interference in her internal affairs; Austrians believe that in spite of joint declaration of England, France, and Italy, Italy is the one they can depend on for decisive action; Italian, French, and English Ministers in Austria act in close accord; events of July 25 consolidated Austrian opinion against political union with Germany, but government still lacks sufficiently wide popular support; improvements in economic situation will help to strengthen government; [Franz] von Papen arrived; no one here has confidence in his mission and government determined not to negotiate with him; he will doubtless try to undermine Italian influence; newspapers putting too much stress on visits of Schuschnigg to Budapest and Florence and of Starhemberg to Rome; believes exchanges during visits of no major importance; newspaper talk of restoration [of monarchy] mere speculation; government proceeding against the National Socialists who took part in putsch but trials are conducted fairly; number of death sentences small compared with nature of offense; death sentences seem to have good effect; bombing outrages have ceased; thinks Austria can expect brief lull, but situation remains unchanged and dangerous; Hitler, in desperate straits, may seek way out through a foreign adventure, perhaps on the Saar question or Austria; enjoyed seeing Herbert Feis here; had Ambassador [Breckinridge] Long and Senator [Joseph T.] Robinson to lunch; both left that afternoon to join Mr. Barouch's [Bernard Baruch] hunting party in Czechoslovakia.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.