It is proper that I should lose no time in apprizing the Visitors of the University that the resignation of Mr Key has been tendered, as authorized, and accepted as required, by the resolution of the Board, on that subject. He is very desirous at the same time, that it may not take effect till the middle of August, which will give him the opportunity of being present at the examination of the Students, and free him moreover, from the expence of waiting for a London Packet from N. York, or going with his family by land from Liverpool. This alternative it seems, is produced by the periods at which the Packets respectively sail. As the change in the time at which the Session is to terminate, was made since the answer to Mr Key on the subject of his resignation, and there is a propriety in his being present at the examination, the indulgence he wishes, as it extends to the 20th. of july, seems un-objectionable; and if extended to the middle of Augt. will be at a cost, not greater than will be overbalanced by our desire, that he should leave us with the best feelings, and by the advantage of cherishing a confidence in our liberal dispositions, in a quarter, where we may be obliged to seek occasional supplies for vacant professorships. The question now is how we shall fill the vacated Chair? I shall take the liberty of writing to Mr Gallatin, and requesting him to aid us with his enquiries, and let us know as soon as possible, whether we can rely on a good successor to Mr Key from G. Britain. I know of no qualified Natives who are attainable. The only foreigners among us, who occur for consideration, are Mr Hassler and the State Engineer. Both of them are I presume, scientifically qualified; but how far possessing the other fitnesses, I cannot judge. I have heard of a Mr Nuttal as being well spoken of as a man of science. He also, may be a proper object for enquiry and consideration.

We must all turn our thoughts to the subject, and collect, and interchange whatever information we may obtain that can prepare us for a decision at our next meeting, or even sooner, if it be found that we can sooner unite in a choice. With great esteem & regard