“Speaking of citizenship, I have always wanted to know about the Delbruck Law, Professor Schaefer, in regard to citizenship,” said Larry. The professor hesitated, “The Delbruck Law?” “Yes,” said Larry. “How does it affect, for instance, your American citizenship?” “Not at all, I should say. Not in the very least,” replied Professor Schaefer curtly and as if dismissing the subject. “I am not so sure of that, Professor Schaefer,” said Hugo Raeder. “I was in Germany when that law was passed. It aroused a great deal of interest. I have not looked into it myself, but on the face of it I should say it possesses certain rather objectionable features.” “Not at all, not at all, I assure you,” exclaimed Professor Schaefer. “It is simply a concession to the intense, but very natural affection for the Fatherland in every German heart, while at the same time it facilitates citizenship in a foreign country. For instance, there are millions of Germans living in America who like myself shrank from taking the oath which breaks the bond with the Fatherland. We love America, we are Americans, we live in America, we work in America; but naturally our hearts turn to Germany, and we cannot forget our childhood's home. That is good, that is worthy, that is noble--hence the Delbruck Law.” “But what does it provide exactly?” enquired Mr. Wakeham. “I confess I never heard of it.” “It permits a German to become an American citizen, and at the same time allows him to retain his connection, his heart connection, with the Fatherland. It is a beautiful law.” “A beautiful law,” echoed his friend, Mr. Meyer. “Just what is the connection?” insisted Hugo Raeder. “Dear friend, let me explain to you. It permits him to retain his place, his relations with his own old country people. You can surely see the advantage of that. For instance: When I return to Germany I find myself in full possession of all my accustomed privileges. I am no stranger. Ah, it is beautiful! And you see further how it establishes a new bond between the two countries. Every German-American will become a bond of unity between these two great nations, the two great coming nations of the world.” “Beautiful, beautiful, glorious!” echoed Meyer. “But I do not understand,” said Larry. “Are you still a citizen of Germany?” “I am an American citizen, and proud of it,” exclaimed Professor Schaefer, dramatically. “Ach, so, geviss,” said Meyer. “Sure! an American citizen!” “But you are also a citizen of Germany?” enquired Hugo Raeder. “If I return to Germany I resume the rights of my German citizenship, of course.” “Beautiful, beautiful!” exclaimed Meyer. “Look here, Schaefer. Be frank about this. Which are you to-day, a citizen of Germany or of America?” “Both, I tell you,” exclaimed Schaefer proudly. “That is the beauty of the arrangement.” “Ah, a beautiful arrangement!” said Meyer.