File No. 819.55/16.

The American Chargé d’Affairs to the Secretary of State.

[Telegram.]

Wong Ah Sin, born in California of Chinese parents, proving American citizenship by birth certificate and certificate California residence, and registered in American Consulate General here, protests as American citizen against application in his case of Law 50. Having entered openly since 1904 he is directed to register under the law and threatened with imprisonment and expulsion by September 1st if he does not comply. Local authorities assert law applies to all of Chinese race irrespective of citizenship. I would request telegraphic instructions as to status and protection of American citizens of Chinese race born in California or Hawaii of whom there are a considerable number in Panama.

Wicker.