Mr. Uhl to Mr.
Breckinridge.
Department of State,
Washington, May 3,
1895.
No. 50.]
Sir: I inclose a copy of a letter from Mr.
Robert M. Lewis, respecting the case of John Ginzberg, a naturalized
American citizen, under arrest in Russia.
It appears that Ginzberg left Russia at the age of 14, four years before
any obligation to perform military service could have accrued. He was
duly naturalized as an American citizen and received a passport from
this Department on October 8 last, the statements in his application
corresponding with those of Mr. Lewis’s letter. It is said that he was
arrested on crossing the Russian frontier, thrown into jail at Minsk
Pinsk and is now held under surveillance while his case is being
considered at St. Petersburg.
You will investigate the case and use your good offices in his
behalf.
I am, etc.,
Edwin F. Uhl,
Acting Secretary.
[Page 1082]
[Inclosure in No. 50.]
Mr. Lewis to Mr.
Gresham.
Glasgow, Mont., April 23, 1895.
Dear Sir: Last October John Ginzberg left
this country to visit his parents at Minsk Pinsk, Loheshin, Russia,
having left Russia fifteen years ago, when but a boy of 14 years of
age. He took out his naturalization papers at Wilmington, Del., some
years ago, and before leaving this country procured a passport for
two years. I am in receipt of a letter to-day from him stating that
when he crossed the Russian border at or near Prostken he was
arrested, and the authorities took away his certificate of
naturalization and passport, also his clothes, when he was placed in
jail at Pinsk. It seems from his letter that he is now allowed to go
about, but under surveillance, and without his passport can not
leave. He further says that he understands that his case is to be
carried to St. Petersburg. I trust that this matter will be promptly
taken up by your Department, that Mr. Ginzberg may be released, his
crime consisting of becoming an American citizen. Kindly acknowledge
receipt and oblige.
Very respectfully,
