How Butterfield Got His Start

HOW BUTTERFIELD GOT HIS START

JOHN LAWRENCE BUMPED UP AGAINST HIM

Saw What was in the Young Man and Gave Him the Chance That Led to His Present Job

It may not be generally known, but the University authorities had in contemplation some time ago an act to give to Ora E. Butterfield, who was last week appointed attorney for the Michigan Central railroad system, a position on the faculty. Mr. Butterfield was graduated in 1891, and his progress in the profession has been under close observation by the law faculty.  Although but 31 years of age now,  it was two years ago when the University authorities sent out a "feeler."  John F. Lawrence, the senior member of the firm of Lawrence & Butterfield was approached by the emissary.

"Do you think Mr. Butterfield would accept a law professorship?" he was asked.

"_____, no," said MR. Lawrence.  "Butterfield is going to be the general attorney for the Michigan Central railroad some day, and nothing would tempt him to get sidetracked from this."

It was an opportunity for the brilliant young man that started Mr. Butterfield towards his fine position.  Mr. Lawrence has been the local attorney for the Michigan Central for some years.

"How did you happen to take him into partnership?" was asked of Mr. Lawrence.

"Well, Butterfield struggled along for a couple of years after graduation, but I never ran across him then.  Finally, one day I bumped up against him on a little case in the justices' court.  I laid down a proposition of what I considered the law, and Butterfield got up and taking out a lengthy brief from his pocket, he made an argument that would interest the supreme court of Michigan.  Well, he beat me in that case.  After it was over I asked him about his future intentions.  He told me he was going to Colorado.  I had seen evidence of his ability, and I offered him a little interest in my law practice here.  He remained, and it was but a short time before he was influencing as much practice as I was.  There is nothing that can stop Butterfield from becoming one of the best known lawyers in the United States, and the young students can take him as an example of what energy and application to work can accomplish."