Sidney Everett to Mr. von Bülow, April 30, 1878

Mr. Everett to Mr. von Büllow.

Sir: The undersigned, chargé d’affaires ad interim of the United States of America, has the honor to call the attention of his excellency Mr. von Büllow, imperial secretary of state for foreign affairs, to the case of Mr. Charles Ganzenmüller, a naturalized American citizen temporarily resident in Sinsheim, Grand Duchy of Baden, as will be seen by the inclosed papers, the ultimate return of which is respectfully requested. The Baden authorities at Carlsruhe have, under date of April 11, ordered the departure of Mr. Ganzenmüller in fourteen days, under the provisions of a local law expelling persons who are dangerous to the safety of the state. The attestation of the police, likewise inclosed, would seem to show that this was not the case in regard to Mr. Ganzenmüller; but the Baden authorities have assigned as a reason for expelling him that his example in going to America, becoming naturalized and returning so soon to Baden with the intent to remain, is a pernicious example to other young men.

The great age and helplessness of Mr. Ganzenmüller’s parents would seem to be a sufficient reason for his filial desire to remain, but the official assertion that he intends to remain permanently is disproved by his statement that he intends to return in two years to the United States, while not admitting the right of the authorities to question his peaceful residence in Baden.

The undersigned, while unable to understand the reason that Mr. Ganzenmüller’s case was so suddenly selected as an illustration of so extraordinary a principle, which, as far as the legation is aware, has never been used before toward American citizens, would respectfully request his excellency Mr. von Bülow, in view of the shortness of the warning, which has apparently already expired, to cause the case to have as careful and speedy an investigation as it would seem to require.

The undersigned avails himself of this occasion to renew to his excellency, Mr. von. Bülow, the assurance of his distinguished consideration.