124.63/98: Telegram
The Chargé in Austria (Wiley) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 22—5:40 p.m.]
134. Your 40, March 19, noon.88 Saw Von Stein this morning. He said that he had no authority whatsoever but would be delighted to help personally in every way possible.
I gave him memoranda covering all pending cases. He promised to have them looked into promptly.
He described all legations as in liquidation but assured me that diplomatic immunities would be scrupulously observed for the present.
In view of your 41, March 19, 3 p.m.89 and the fact that the results of forthcoming plebiscite may be taken for granted I venture to suggest that this Legation be officially put into “liquidation”. Its functions are already entirely consular in nature and it appears advisable to regularize them at least provisionally with the German Government. It might be well to request assurances regarding continued use of codes.
I think the departure of the Military Attaché should be accelerated and his transfer announced.
The Commercial Attaché will need several weeks to liquidate pending affairs. In view of his diplomatic status it would seem advisable that he should then be transferred. Stebbins could usefully remain for some months as Trade Commissioner to dispose of remaining matters.
The Visa Section is in a state of siege. This will continue for protracted period. Otherwise pressure on the office appreciably lessening. We have many but only minor protection cases. Important [Page 461] American interests such as Vacuum Oil, International Telephone and Telegraph, et cetera, are being taken over by already established German companies with headquarters in Berlin.
Vienna from now on can be considered only as German provincial city. It will rate only a small Consulate General at most. I believe Morgan90 and Lord91 admirably suited to run this office for the foreseeable future. Morgan has excellent technique in dealing with new local authorities. Lord has administration exceedingly well in hand. Latter’s child has just had most critical operation, is in plaster cast and cannot be moved for months.
Within a few weeks most of the American clerical staff could slowly be transferred to other offices. The reduction of the native personnel should be as gradual and humane as possible.
I should be grateful for intimation before April 1 whether I may give notice on apartment.