The Clarence Darrow Letters


Clarence Darrow to Paul Darrow, February 20, 1912


Darrow is discussing raising money for his upcoming bribery trial. He was indicted on January 29, 1912. The reference to ensign could be to Charles B. Ensign (1860 - 1942) or his brother, Adelbert L. Ensign or to their firm, C. B. Ensign & Co. The Ensign firm, based in Chicago, was used by Clarence Darrow and his son as an investment bank for their Greeley Gas & Fuel Company in Colorado.

Clarence Darrow to Paul Darrow, February 20, 1912, page one

Feby 20

Dear Paul

Yours containing Ensign letter & answer is received. I have written quite a number of friends asking financial assistance, am getting some. I tell xxx them the truth that most that I got went to pay my debts. That while I have the main interest in that plant subject to bonds still I could not get money on it. Tthat any how those in sympathy ought to help. Of course I may never be able to make any more money, whatever the outcome. I dont want you to write any one that we can give security or

Clarence Darrow to Paul Darrow, February 20, 1912, page two

any thing like that. You can say that you think I am hard up & in a general way tell them the truth just as I tell you.

There is nothing new since I last wrote[.] Am feeling well & in fighting mood & ready for whatever comes.

C.S.D.