File No. 365.117/260a
The Secretary of State to Ambassador Page
Washington, January 25, 1916.
Sir: The Department has been informed by Mrs. Enrichita Zuffi, who resides at 369 West Side Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey, that her son, John Zuffi, who was born in New York City on November 27, 1897, is now at the following address: “Care Signor Gianibatista Capelti, Ottone, Bertinoro Commune, Province of Pavia”. Satisfactory documentary evidence of the birth of John Zuffi on the date and at the place stated has been submitted to the Department. It appears that his parents were subjects of Italy at the time of his birth, that his father, who was a seaman by occupation, deserted his mother shortly after his birth, that after Mrs. Zuffi was deserted by her husband, John Zuffi was sent to Italy to be cared for by relatives, that he is the only son, and that his presence in this country is required in order to assist in maintaining his mother and several minor sisters. It further appears that Mrs. Zuffi has furnished her son with documentary evidence of his American citizenship, but that he has been unable to return to the United States.
You will please inform the appropriate Italian authorities concerning the facts in this case, calling especial attention to the fact that John Zuffi is the only son and that it is necessary for him to return to the United States to assist in maintaining his mother and sisters. You will also please request that he be released from the performance of military service in the Italian army and permitted to return to this country.
I am [etc.]