765.84/4138: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister Resident in Ethiopia (Engert)
153. Your 221, April 18, 2 p.m.50 No special instructions were issued to the Embassy at Brussels in the case referred to in the final paragraph of your telegram, and the Department considers it preferable not to issue any special instructions with regard to your relations with the Italian military authorities in the event they occupy Addis Ababa, pending their arrival and announcement of their plans.
You will, of course, cooperate with your colleagues in such informal measures as may be practicable with a view to protecting American nationals, being careful to avoid any action which might be interpreted as unneutral.
Please endeavor to keep the Department promptly advised of developments.