John Campbell Shairp, Robert Flint, James Auld, William John Cavendish-Scott-Bentinck, Jessie Stewart Howart

In 1868 John Campbell Shairp, then professor of humanity, was appointed principal of the United College, University of St Andrews, but, having initially relinquished the chair of humanity, continued to discharge its obligations. An attempt was made to present James Auld, classics master at Madras College, St Andrews, to the supposed vacancy, which was in the gift of William John Cavendish-Scott-Bentinck, fifth duke of Portland. In 1874 the widow of Dr Auld, Mrs Jessie Stewart Howart, brought an action against the duke.