To James Hay Beattie, from Aberdeen Beattie had a good journey to Aberdeen on Thursday and found Dr Dun and the Divine [James (nephew) Beattie] in good health. Beattie begans his operations [ to secure the nomination of James (nephew) Beattie for Chair of Civil and Natural History in the event of Dr Moran's death] on Friday after consulting Dr Skene. By Saturday night had seen all colleagues except Dr Donaldson who is in the country. His proposal received with great civilty but no word for or against which is according to the rule on such occasions. Two other candidates have declared themselves, though Beattie only knows Mr Fraser, Minister of Drumoak. Skene will canvas for the Divine, but Beattie has asked the Divine to look on the issue as extremely uncertain. Lord Gardenston has accepted Rector's office and Beattie has sought his approval. So in two days he has done everyhting that is possible. Principal advises him to stay until is seen how Dr Morgan fares. If he dies, the College will meet instantly to recommend a successor so Beattie needs to be near. As soon as he was kown to be in danger some members of the College informed Lord Bute and Lord Sydney, asking that in the case of a vacancy no application should be ecouraged except in favour of the candidate Lord Bute (that is the College) recommended. Lord Sydney's answer, which Beatte has, is entirely satisfactory. 3 August 1788