And that for that reason not a single hour should be lost. You appeal to his soldierly sense of honor, and you ask that the case should be put in the hands of the Prosecutor General, or a communiqué published stating:
“....that the investigations had established no evidence of any complicity in the plot, in order that my honor and that of my officials thus be restored.
“If you do not wish to undertake these steps, my remaining in the Cabinet any longer would be an impossibility.”
Now look at the rest of the letter.
“I had placed my office at your disposal, Chancellor, as early as 18 and 19 June. I can ask for my dismissal with a much lighter heart today since the work jointly commenced by us on 30 January 1933 now appears to have been made secure against further revolts. At the same time I request to be relieved of my position as Commissioner for the Saar.
“I assume that you will make your decision regarding the restoration of my honor, for which I am asking you, within the next few hours.
“I remain loyally devoted to you and to your work for our Germany.”
Was it true that it lightened your heart that the work of Hitler now appeared to be secured against further revolts?
VON PAPEN: I did not understand the question.
SIR DAVID MAXWELL-FYFE: Is it true what you say there, that it lightened your heart that the work of Hitler now appeared to be secured against further revolt?