Parameter

status-code

   Defines a longword (integer) value or expression equivalent to
   an integer value that gives the exit status of the subroutine by
   defining a numeric value for the reserved global symbol $STATUS.
   The value can be tested by the next outer command level. The low-
   order 3 bits of the longword integer value change the value of
   the reserved 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.