Jacob to Frelinghuysen, January 9, 1884

Mr. Jacob to Mr. Frelinghuysen.

Sir: Having been born in Philadelphia July 10, 1858, of French parents, and having lived and pursued my studies in said city till the age of 19, I have always considered myself an American citizen.

Nevertheless, after graduating at the Polytechnic College I went abroad with my family to remain a few years. I was drafted and incorporated in the French army against my will and right, as my father had been naturalized while I was under age and had voted.

I called on the American legation at Paris, but they were unable to clear the case owing to the fact that I had been registered at my birth at the office of the French consul at Philadelphia.

My papers and those of my father were presented to the French Government by the American minister, together with a written protestation signed by me and approved by the legation.

All this being of no avail, I submitted and was obliged, under pain of being considered a deserter, to serve for a period of four years in the army, never giving up the desire, however, of retaining my American citizenship.

Being now relieved of the French service I have returned to my native country, and I appeal to you to please take such measures as you may think proper to have my name marked off from the French roll, for, being a citizen of the United States, I wish to be able to travel as such on the continent without further trouble about the French army.

Inclosed you will find all my papers in testimony of the above statements, and I will be much obliged to you to return same.

Hoping you will consider my claims, and answer favorably,

I remain, &c.,