765.84/4218: Telegram
The Minister Resident in Ethiopia (Engert) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:14 p.m.]
257. My 253, April 30. As the Emperor and Crown Prince are still believed to be in the city reports are current that the Ethiopians may make a last stand some 10 miles to the northeast. If true this would almost certainly cause much confusion and perhaps suffering besides serving no useful purpose. At a meeting of the Diplomatic Corps this morning it was therefore suggested that we should each individually and informally try to dissuade the Ethiopian Government from taking any steps that might lead to fighting in the immediate environs of the capital, basing ourselves solely on humanitarian grounds and to protect our nationals.
The following principal leaders are understood to be here with the Emperor: Ras Kassa, Ras Seyoum, Ras Getat and Fitor Aribirru. If they decide not to fight they will probably leave with the Government tomorrow for the Italians are now only about 50 miles from here.