Now. is it this class of American citizens who have so earnestly excited the sympathies of the gentleman from New York? These persons who have thus practically abandoned their country are yet prompt. when they get into any difficulty. to appeal to this Government for protection. and would ask that we should even embroil ourselves ill a war to vindicate their rights as American citizens. Now. as we know that by the principles of international law a national character may be acquired by domicile. and. as we know by our numerous naturalization treaties. expatriation may be presumed by a prescribed residence abroad. is it asking too much of this class of American citizens that they shall. for their own sakes and for our peace. preserve at thA legation or consulate the evideuce of their claim to American nationality? In my opinion. sir. this bill shows a tmost extraordinary tenderness for the rights of American citizenship when it permits this class of persous. who have really but little Cligit upon our proteetios. by this simpde registration of their names to invoke all the physical powers of this Government to vindicate their rights if they should be assailed. Sir.
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naturalization