File No. 763.72/7546
The Ambassador in Italy ( Page ) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 3, 9.25 a.m.]
1174. Have seen British General Robertson. He confirms substance my 1171. He says that only six German divisions identified in Italy, all seems to depend on whether Italians intend to fight or not, as England and France can help but cannot assume full burden. I hear that Cadorna says that his lines were impregnable but they were betrayed. Second Army contained 27 of Italy’s 60 divisions at the front, 23 of these are reported to have thrown away tools and left front, others fought well. From two to three hundred thousand men abandoned arms. About one-third of army stores in Italy lost. Prime Minister Orlando, now at front with King, returns to-morrow, is very confident. General Robertson, full of fight, does not despair of Russia even.