“This story of the great financier’s childhood in Scotland and his early years and final success in America is a revelation of his geniality, indomitable cheerfulness, canny common sense, and idealism.”
— A.L.A. Catalog 1926
“Interesting as a frank and sincere recital of the early struggles and later successes of the well-known millionaire. Contains reminiscences of several noted persons, including Matthew Arnold, James G. Blaine, John Hay, John Morley and Herbert Spencer. Notable chapters are The Civil war. Mills and the men, The gospel of wealth, Problems of labor. Portraits and other illustrations. Short bibliography, index.”
– Standard Catalog for Public Libraries : Biography Section (1927)