File No. 2956.
The Secretary of State to
Minister Bryan.
Department of State,
Washington, December 18,
1906.
No. 108.]
Sir: I inclose a copy of a dispatch from the
American consul at Funchal reporting that Frank Fratus (Freitas), a
naturalized American citizen of Portuguese origin, has been arrested by
the local authorities and compelled to perform military service, also a
copy of the application for a passport made by Mr. Freitas to the
American consul at St. Michaels, Azores.
You will see what can be done in his behalf.
I am, etc.,
[Page 959]
[Inclosure.]
Consul Blake to
the Assistant Secretary of
State.
[Extract.]
American Consulate,
Funchal, November 19,
1906.
Sir: I have to inform you that Frank
Fratus, formerly a subject of Portugal, a naturalized American
citizen, and bearer of passport No. 21139, issued by the Secretary
of State on September 25, 1906, has been seized by the local
authorities during a visit to Madeira and conscribed for military
service.
I have used my best efforts to procure his release, but the
Government absolutely refuses to grant his exemption.
In the absence of any treaty between the United States and Portugal
defining the rights of naturalized subjects upon their return to the
Kingdom, I desire to bring the matter to your attention for such
instructions as you may care to transmit.
Mr. Fratus returned to Madeira for the purpose of visiting his
people, leaving in the United States a wife and child that may not
unlikely become a public charge if it is not possible to effect his
release.
I am, etc.,
