863.00/957: Telegram
The Minister in Austria (Messersmith) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 26—2 a.m.]
82. Mayor Vienna informs me Chancellor Dollfuss has died of bleeding result two shots in the neck and that Schuschnigg is acting at the request of the President until return of Vice Chancellor Starhemberg tomorrow morning from Italy where he has been on holiday.
Foreign Office has been cleared and the prisoners estimated at well over 100 have been taken to the police prison.
President Miklas returns to Vienna by special train arriving tomorrow morning.
Foregoing now officially confirmed in Government statement. All reports and personal observation staff confirm city quiet. Official and other sources confirm quiet throughout country.