The Clarence Darrow Letters

Jacob C. Lutz to Clarence Darrow, January 14, 1908

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.

Click on the image to view as a PDF. A transcription of the letter is on the right.

Jacob C. Lutz to Clarence Darrow, January 14, 1908, page one

Bank of Gardner
Established 1887
J.C. Lutz, Proprietor
F.L. Root, Cashier
R.I. Lutz, Asst. Cashier

Jany 14/08

Friend Darrow

Yours written by Mrs Darrow of the 7th & 9th [?] received -

I am sorry that you are in bad shape, on your account and mine

I am sure Mr Paul Brown, nor Mr Brigham can help us - they endorsed note of Calaversas [?] Or for 6000 00 with Adams, myself &, due Jany 1st Mr Brown only could pay 250 ⁰⁰ and I Brigham 500 ⁰⁰ Adams 750 ⁰⁰

I enclose letter from Brigham, you will see that he hopes you can pay on your Note to the Blk Mountain -

I am in no immediate danger so far as I can see, but may be -

I am sure I must have relief by Feby 1 ^st -

I am afraid Harper has done all he can, as he has sent me 24000 ⁰⁰ and he can not do more, unless the Bank sale goes through - and that is doubtful

Jacob C. Lutz to Clarence Darrow, January 14, 1908, page two

the deal is not entirely off but it has hung fine so long I have no confidence in it -

Black Mountain is selling at 462 1/2 - But I am afraid if any large amount is put on the market, it will go down -

I would have more confidence if you was here -

Schilling can do nothing. I dont think Mr Ensign would do anything unless you could make a personal appeal to him -

I wish you would drop me a short letter daily - I am very anxious to hear from you and hope you can report improvement

Yours

J.C. Lutz