File No. 763.72/7458
The Ambassador in Italy ( Page ) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 28, 5.30 p.m.]
1158. All reports tend to show that the German-Austrian successful offensive on Isonzo front is very serious. Official news agency terms situation grave but declares confidence in army and people. The German reenforcements now engaged on the Italian front are reported on good authority to be over 150,000. Ten divisions have been identified. Government officials say more, placing number at double foregoing. The Cabinet crisis complicates matters. The King has arrived Rome and it is reported may decline to accept resignation of the Ministry as best way to meet the situation but some well-informed public men think new Cabinet may be agreed on to-morrow with Orlando, Sonnino, Nitti, Bissolati as members.
If conditions admit it would be a great advantage and important reenforcement here if we declared war to exist with Austria. I believe it would help immediately.