It was too late to do
anything that night. Early Wednesday morning, the day before
the children were to sail, when they were already on the ship,
I sent the following dispatch to President Roosevelt:
TO THE PRESIDENT, WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON, D. C.
I appeal to your clear understanding and kind and brave heart
to interpose your authority to prevent an outrage which will
dishonor the country and create a foul blot on the American
flag. A neighbor of mine in Worcester, Mass., a Syrian by
birth, made some time ago his public declaration for citizenship.
He is an honest, hard-working and in every way respectable
man. His wife with two small children have reached New York.
He sent out the money to pay their passage. The children
contracted a disorder of the eyes on the ship. The Treasury
authorities say that the mother may land but the children
cannot, and they are to be sent back Thursday. Ample bond
has been offered and will be furnished to save the Government
and everybody from injury or loss. I do not think such a
thing ought to happen under your Administration, unless you
personally decide that the case is without remedy.
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