Parameter

status-code

   Defines a numeric value for the reserved global symbol $STATUS.
   You can specify the status-code parameter as an integer or an
   expression equivalent to an integer value. The value can be
   tested by the next outer command level. The low-order 3 bits
   of the value determine the value of the global symbol $SEVERITY.

   If you specify a status code, DCL interprets the code as a
   condition code. Note that even numeric values produce warning,
   error, and fatal error messages, and that odd numeric values
   produce either no message or a success or informational message.

   If you do not specify a status code, the current value of $STATUS
   is saved. When control returns to the outer command level,
   $STATUS contains the status of the most recently executed command
   or program.