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The Dorr Letters ProjectThomas Wilson Dorr to George Turner: |
Introduction
In a short follow up to his February 3, 1847 letter, Dorr informs Turner that the only possible grounds for delay in the trial should be if one or more of the justices were unable to sit to hear the case. Dorr remained adamant that the case needed to be fully aired. He did not want the arguments to be presented in writing and handled behind closed doors.
Letter
Providence, Feb. 4th, '47
GeorgeTurner Esq:
Dear Sir:
My letter of yesterday I think could
not have gone far on its way to you last night, if the severe
gale which blew its blast upon us extended southerly, as
it must have; and I trouble you with only a few lines
today – as No. 3 – to catch up, if they can with those that preceded.
I believe I have already very fully expressed the
wishes of Mr Luther & his friends in regard to the immediate trial
of his case. There is only one contingency that has not
been alluded to; and that the sickness and inability to attend
of a judge or judges believed to incline toward our views of the case. In
this event, if driven to desire delay, your best course will be
a continuance, and not an agreement to argue in writing.
But we feel it in us here that not only will the court be
upon their pins to attend to business, but that our counsel (Walker
or no Walker etc.) will be strong and hearty for the occasion. We
are waiting with some impatience to hear the first ringing
of the steel upon the armor of the combatants. Do not forget
to write as often as you can, if only a half of a page at a time.
Your bulletins will be eagerly inquired after.
Tho's W. Dorr
Nothing very important in the way of news
Questions
Why do you think Dorr wanted the arguments to be fully aired out in court?