Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. Despatch No. 583 to Secretary of State [Cordell Hull], Washington.

Conversed with Foreign Minister [Egon Berger-Waldenegg] on Oct. 16; he indicated Austrian government had definitely decided not to leave League of Nations if Italy should leave; Minister stated Austria did not intend to benefit by refusal to apply sanctions against Italy; he hoped Austria would continue its normal trade with Italy but there was no expectation of increasing it as result of application of sanctions by other countries; he implied Austria would not supply military goods to either Italy or Abyssinia; Minister observed that because of trade agreement with Germany, Austria could not interfere with her transporting supplies through Austria to Italy; will report in later despatch on changes in Austrian cabinet on Oct. 17