862.00/3299: Telegram
The Ambassador in Germany ( Dodd ) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 6—5:25 p.m.]
133. Department’s 82, July 1, noon. In the course of a conversation on other topics, Minister of Foreign Affairs told me that there was but one conspiracy (note some accounts have indicated three separate movements) with Roehm and Schleicher as leaders, aimed at imprisoning whole Government including Hitler, and seizing power. Originally planned to take effect August 1st, was advanced to June 30th, noon, because conspirators learned that Hitler was informed. Chancellor only became convinced of danger night of 28th and then resolved on immediate suppression, sending for Goebbels. Minister stated that there were written proofs of conspiracy which would shortly be published. He admitted that numerous innocent persons had been arrested. He denied that any foreign power is implicated. He alluded to terrific strain under which Chancellor and other members of administration, including himself, had been during the past week.