File No. 763.72/50
The Chargé d’Affaires in Russia (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
St. Petersburg, August 1, 1914, 3 p.m.
[Received 5:30 p.m.]
[Telegram]
Situation seems to me unchanged though British, French and Italian Embassies appear to have very faint hope that Austria may accept conference. German Ambassador had special audience with the Emperor yesterday but Bavarian Minister tells me situation was not changed. Associated Press correspondent has rumor that Russia has informed Austria that she will move immediately unless operations against Servia end before 4 p.m. to-day. I doubt rumor but consider war almost inevitable within short time. Reports from all parts of the country show determination of all classes to support Government fully, mobilization under way and recruits show great enthusiasm. Business seriously crippled by calling out so many men, stock exchange closed, gold unobtainable and paper much depreciated. All railway and steamship traffic closed except for troops. About eighty Americans mostly tourists have reported at Embassy unable to leave country and are very uneasy as some have passages engaged at early date and others will run short of money if situation long continued. They are all perfectly safe here as whole country is calm and order perfect. No mail arriving or leaving and I shall use cable freely.