THE GERMAN STATE MINISTRY FOR CHECH AND MORAV, PRAGUE (1906) 1939 - 1945 (1965), inv. 776, sig. 110-5/66

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English Translation

146 Rome, 26 July: The newly appointed Italian head of government, Marshal Badoglio, issued the following appeal immediately after taking over his office: "By order of the King and Emperor I took over the military government of the country with all the full. The war continues. Italy is hit hard with its invaded provinces, in its destroyed cities, but as jealous guardian of its thousand-year tradition keeps the given word faithful. Close the ranks around the king and emperor, the living model of the fatherland, the example for all! The order given to me is clear and precise. He is carried out unscrupulously, and everyone who thinks he can interfere with his normal conduct is wrong. Whoever tries to disturb public opinion will be punished relentlessly. Long live Italy, long live the King!"