An independent investigation. set on foot by the Department of State. disclosed that all normal precautions for the safety of the prisoners had been taken by the local officers. and that no blame could justly attach to them by reason of the sudden outbreak of mob violence against these three men against whom there was convincing evidence of murder. The investigation further disclosed the fact that the lynched men by participating In the political affairs of this country and voting at its elections appeared to have in effect renounced their allegiance to their native land. It was established that one of the victims of the mob had taken the preliminary steps to abjure Italian allegiance. and it was but natural to presume that the others had also forfeited Italian citizenship. since by domicile and sharing in the electoral franchise they had acquired lawful citizenship of the State of Louisiana. a privilege inuring only to such as could show their declaration of intention to be naturalized. The Italian ainbassador complained of a failure of justice in the case. and Congress. in the deficiency act of July 19. 1897. appropriated the sum of $6.000 to be paid "out of humane consideration and without reference to the question of liability therefor to the Italian Government. as full indemnity to the heirs of three of its subjects." This was treated in its reference. Its report. and its course through this House as a public and not a private bill.
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naturalized