Letter to William Osler from D.E. Cunningham, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland. Thanks for his letter. Answers that in former contests, the non-political candidate has usually been unfortunate at the poll. But things have changed. The deputation said that Osler would have strong backing here, Churchill and Wyndham are very weak. Advises him though that political excitement enters largely into these contests. He would receive a cordial welcome as Lord Rector from those in the University who do not possess a vote.

Letter to William Osler from G. A. Gibson, 3, Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland. His supporters made a splendid fight against the political odds, and came within 200 of victory. Congratulates him on the magic influence of his name, which greatly explains such results for an independent. Wonders if he would accept to be put up next time as an independent conservative. In that case, he would win. Thanks him for Cunningham and Osler kindness about a paper. Civilities.

Letter to William Osler from (H. J. Darnton?) , Fraser, 34, Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, Lothian, Scotland. Comments on the unexpected results of the Rectorial Contest. Details on the predictions that were made and on the progress of the elections. Sheet with the statistics of the Rectorial Elections from 1859 to 1908.

Letter to William Osler from W.S. Greenfield, 7, Heriot Row, Edinburgh, Scotland. Greenfield supplies a news clipping announcing the vacancy for the Chair of Medicine at Edinburgh and the call for applications. Greenfield is hopeful that Osler will get the position. Includes manuscript notes.

Letter to Edward A. Sharpey Schäfer from Lord Joseph Lister, 12, Park Crecent, Portland Place, Edinburgh, Scotland. Lister writes that he must refrain from endorsing any specific candidate to the Chair of Medicine at Edinburgh. Although he is sure Osler would make an excellent candidate, he does not see how Osler can secure the position without making a formal application. If the Curators were to appoint someone to the Chair who had not applied for the position, it would be a slap in the face to the other worthy candidates.

Letter to William Osler from Edward A. Sharpey Schäfer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland. Schäfer reports that several important people are supporting Osler's candidacy to the Chair of Medicine at Edinburgh. He has learned from Greenfield that Osler wants a guarantee for a clinical laboratory and assistants if he were to come to Scotland. Schäfer writes that no guarantee can be made as the electors are outside of the University and have no such power. But he tells Osler not to worry, for the University will surely provide him with whatever he needs if elected. [CUS417/96.24 attached on reverse side]

Letter to William Osler from Edward A. Sharpey Schäfer, University Club, Edinburgh, Scotland. Schäfer writes that he and all of Osler's friends in London have been working very hard to get Osler elected as the Chair of Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. He urges Osler to provide testimonials and eight copies of every document to the Curators.

Letter to William Osler from John Thomson, 14, Coates Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland. Thomson writes to express his and everyone else's disappointment that Osler declined the Chair of Medicine at Edinburgh. He believes that Osler was certain to get the post and would have been very warmly welcomed.

Letter to William Osler from Alexander R. Simpson, 52, Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland. Simpson responds to Osler's inquiry into the life and work of Jean Astruc.

Letter to William Osler from A.R.S. Kennedy, 33, Fountainhall Road, Edinburgh, Scotland. Kennedy writes of the life and work of Jean Astruc.