To Robert Arbuthnot from Aberdeen Still hopes that Maiden Hospital will do something for Laing but has advised him no to expect too much. A hundred copies of book [ on Peterhead] were sent to Peterhead and he says three-quarters are already sold. Beattie does not know state of sale in Aberdeen since Chalmers the printer who manages it has gout. Some altercations have happened between him and Dr Dun, but last Sunday they had a long conference with good temper on both sides. Dun expressed his great regard for Beattie and concern that his family should have caused Beattie so much distress. Beattie's misfortune is beset with idle tattling people. Mercer is common friend, but he semdom meets Dun. Beattie and Mercer see each other often and Beattie able to walk to his house. 7 May 1793