Charles Adam, Notary to John Bigelow, August 2, 1865

Mr. Adams to Mr. Bigelow

Mr. Minister: The undersigned has the honor very respectfully to represent to you that the person called George Schneider, native of Allen wilier, canton of Marmoutier, left his native place, provided with a passport, at the age of seventeen years; that he went to America, where he remained until the month of June, 1865; that he served as a soldier in America during three years; that he has a certificate of naturalization from the American authorities; that he came to France in the month of July, 1865; that in passing through Paris he went to call upon your excellency to place himself under your protection; that he passed fourteen days at Allenwiller, and on yesterday was arrested by the gendarmerie of Marmoutier as refractory; that he is now at prison at Strasbourg, and that his papers emanating from the American authorities are in the hands of the military authority at Strasbourg.

It seems that, during his absence, which lasted thirteen or fourteen years, his parents caused his name to be borne on the recruiting census list, and his father, on drawing lots, drew an unlucky number for him, and he was consequently matriculated in the seventh regiment of the line.

He has charged me to send you these details, and to beg you will be so good as to interest yourself in him as an American citizen. He has also told me that, at the time of his visit to you, you were pleased to promise him your protection. As the moment has arrived when he has need of that protection, he ventures to recall your promise, hoping not to do so in vain.

Shall I venture, your excellency, to beg myself that you will please to give effect to the applications of Mr. Schneider, and receive in advance the thanks of—

Your humble servant,