“ One of the first things to set it afloat was an observation of Mr Fox's in the House of Commons : 'As my learned friend Dr Adam Smith says, the way for a nation, as well as an individual, to become rich is for both to live within their income.' The remark, surely is not profound but the recommendation of Mr Fox raised the sale of the book, and the circumstances of the country, our wars, debts, taxes etc. attracted attention to a work where such subjects were treated - subjects that unfortunately have become too popular in most countries of Europe. ”

“ Before effecting this revolution, he had published his ingenious but fanciful Theory of Moral Sentiments, which he continued to read to his pupils during a few weeks at the beginning of the term; the rest of the session, as it is called in Scotland, which lasts for eight months, being destined to the subjects above mentioned.
A man who is continually going over the same ground will naturally smooth it. Dr Smith's lectures gradually acquired greater improvement and higher celebrity ”

“ The illiberality with which he thought himself treated at Balliol College drove him to retirement, and retirement fortified his love of study. When the time of his residence at Oxford expired, the question arose what line he was afterwards to pursue. ”