Johann's parents were, as might have been expected, down in the old Catholic rhineland in the capital of the spiritual principality of Treves, faithful members of the Roman Catholic Church.
"Makers of Modern Medicine"
James J. Walsh
His expedition to Bantry Bay in December, 1796, having miscarried, he was sent into the rhineland.
"The Life of Napoleon I (Volumes, 1 and 2)"
John Holland Rose
That is, he had to choose between the half of Belgium and the rhineland as offered by England, or Hanover as a gift from Napoleon.
"The Life of Napoleon I (Volumes, 1 and 2)"
John Holland Rose