Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 5, 1916

File No. 365.117/192

The Secretary of State to Ambassador Page

[Telegram]

Department of State,
Washington, February 18, 1916.

482. See Department’s 481, 17th, impressment Enrico Ajello, In connection with this please reread Department’s 252 of June 7⁵ and 387 of July 20, 1915,⁵ concerning Ghiloni. In pressing Ajello case use arguments contained therein. In particular emphasize facts Ajello born this country 1882, domiciled here ever since, has evidently elected American nationality, and was seized while on temporary visit to Italy. Foreign Minister’s note enclosed with your despatch 396, October 25, concerning Ghiloni,⁵ indicates misunderstanding of case. Ghiloni and Ajello claim American citizenship, not through naturalization, but through birth in this country. Please endeavor obtain definite reply from Italian Government and report.

Lansing

5. Id., pp. 558, 570, and 580.
5. Id., pp. 558, 570, and 580.
5. Id., pp. 558, 570, and 580.