765.84/1541: Telegram
The Chargé in Ethiopia (Engert) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5 p.m.]
108. My 104, September 29, 9 p.m.97 General mobilization was proclaimed this morning and hostilities are reported to have begun on the Eritrean border.
I have insisted that three American women and six children of the Seventh Day Adventist in Addis Ababa depart by next train.
For all Americans remaining I have arranged with the British Legation to be afforded such protection as may be possible. British Minister has kindly consented to distribute gas masks to any Americans who desire them and to allow them to set up tents in his compound in the event that police protection fails. I have been repeatedly assured by the Emperor and local authorities that everything possible will be done to protect American lives and property. Please see paragraph 3, my 94, September 14, 10 p.m.98 and convey to Rome hope that American flags will be respected. The Department might emphasize the fact that the American Legation is not in the same quarter as the other Legations but at the opposite end of the city. I am still at the Imperial Hotel as are also numerous other American citizens. The Italian Minister who will probably leave in a few days is being informed.
[Page 892]City is, so far, remarkably quiet but the atmosphere is naturally extremely tense.