124.84/106a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister Resident in Ethiopia (Engert)
299. Your 438, June 25, 9 a.m.82 In view of incident described in your 454, July 6, 10 p.m.,83 and other incidents of a similar character, the question arises whether our national interests might not better be served by your departure from Ethiopia during the present uncertain situation.
In this connection please furnish latest information available regarding number and situation of American nationals in those parts of Ethiopia which have not been occupied by Italian authorities. Also furnish a frank expression of your views as to whether your continued presence in Addis Ababa is essential to the protection of these nationals and of other American nationals and interests. In the event you consider your withdrawal desirable please indicate whether you believe that any useful purpose would be served by having Cramp84 and the staff remain on, for the time being at least. If you believe it would be desirable for Cramp to remain do you consider that he should act as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim or hold himself out merely as a consular officer? In this latter connection please bear in mind that once consular office is closed it would presumably be impossible to reestablish without requesting exequatur for newly appointed consul.
[Page 331]Please confirm Department’s understanding that only remaining chief of mission is French Minister. Also indicate status of Turkish mission and whether Greek Legation is functioning. Any information you may be able to obtain discreetly as to intentions of other Powers with respect to future representation at Addis Ababa would also be helpful.