765.84/1603: Telegram
The Chargé in Ethiopia (Engert) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:50 p.m.]
112. All remaining Italian subjects except 44 missionaries in the interior left by train this morning. Police arrangements at the station were excellent and no confusion. Not one Italian has been molested since hostilities began.
Count Vinci tells me his Consul from Dessie, who arrived yesterday by mule caravan, also spoke highly of treatment he had received en route.
I mention the above chiefly to show that central authorities seem to have situation well in hand.
Vinci is still without instructions. He says that if he should be handed his passport or be recalled he would ask for permission stay until two remaining Consuls arrive from the interior. He and Italian Legation staff are allowed to move about freely but have been given armed Ethiopian bodyguards for their protection. Meeting of Diplomatic Corps this morning, which was attended by the Italian Minister, [Page 666] decided that the general situation does not so far require any action on its part.
Vinci said he had received no intimation as to which Power would be requested to protect Italian interests in the event of a severance of diplomatic relations.