Otto Erk to William H. Seward, February 12, 1866

Mr. Erk to Mr. Seward.

Respected Sir: Having left Prussia in the year 1856, (then being under the age of seventeen,) and having had permission from the Prussian government to remain away two years, but could not arrange to return in that time, and having become a naturalized citizen of the United States, I respectfully ask that you would use your influence with the Prussian government to obtain from them the right, unmolested, in my visiting my father and other relations in Prussia, and that I may get consent of emigration from the Prussian government that I may pass as an American citizen and not be forced in the Prussian army. By sending the necessary papers to me I can forward them to my father, in Berlin, who will use his influence and endeavors to have them properly noticed.

Being anxious to proceed to Berlin at as early a moment as possible, I would most respectfully ask that you would kindly notice the above.

With respect, I remain your obedient servant,