| Administrative History | Montagu Beattie [1778-96] Beattie's younger son. Named after Mrs Montagu, who was his godmother and took an affectionate interest in him. In his early childhood he spent less time with his parents than did James Hay, often being boarded with the minister of Durris and his wife, William and Margaret Strachan, who were childless. He attended Aberdeen Grammar School and then Marischal College 1792-96. He is represented as less studious and more outgoing than James Hay Beattie. He hoped to become a clergyman in the Church of England, and in 1791 on a visit to London with his father was confirmed by Beattie's friend Beilby Porteus, Bishop of London. He died after a short illness (probably not tubercolosis) on 14 March 1796, presumably just before he would have graduated MA |
| Description | To Montagu [aged fifteen] at Dr Glenny's, Maryculter. Has little to say but writes because Montagu expectes it. Advice on reading. Read Horace second Epode and conclusion of second book of Virgil's Georgick from 'O fortunatos nimium', over and above daily task of entertainment in Caesar and Homer. Be kind, attentive and friendly to everybody, and have a right sense of duty to God. Avoid dangerous amusements, and especially gunpowder. Good to practice archery, but Beattie believes Montagu has no bow. Mr Blake dined yesterday and Beattie gave him two guineas. Accounts of Jean Valentine's death. Dr Dunbar has resigned his professorship and its succeeded by one Dr Jack. |