Yours of the 11th finds me this morning on the point of setting out, in company with Dr Dunglison, on a visit to Genl. Cocke, which I have been promising for two or three years. On Mr. Tracie’s account, I at first hesitated whether I should give up the trip, which the delay of going to the University where his papers are would have obliged me to abandon altogether; but on reflection, I have judged that the difference of a post or two will not be important to him, and have therefore concluded on postoponing that business until tuesday next.

Saturday before last, I wrote from the University a few hasty lines in which I enclosed a copy of the resolution authorising the appointment of Dr Harrison. The remark you make on this subject leaves me in doubt whether you received this letter: it was accompanied by a large packet containing the letters you had desired me to send.

Besides authorizing the appointment of a temporary incumbent, the resolution in question requires that enquiries be instituted concerning a permanent one; and I am sorry to tell you that the necessity for these enquiries is not confined to the school of Ant. Languages. I know (but this I communicate to you, alone) that Dr P. is not to be considered as fixed; and therefore take the liberty of suggesting that you had better not lose sight of Mr Richie.

I made it my business to see Jones, the bookseller, immediately after the adjournment of the Bd. On the alternative being presented of a rival establishment on the part of the Uny, he readily acquiesced in the plan; but for want of authority, I could not go any further than to sound him. The authority resides in the Ex. commee; and as serious inconvenience will result at the opening of the session, unless something be done immediately, I wish you would write a line by the first post, expressing your concurrence in any thing which Genl Cocke may empower me to do in the business.

The Dr & myself promise ourselves the pleasure of a trip [to] Montpellier during the vacation: in the mean time, accept for Mrs Madison & yourself, assurances of my very affectionate regard