In September 1783, in his Commonplace Book, Robert Burns acknowledges his indebtedness to Adam Smith's The Theory of Moral Sentiments. Burns' familiarity with Smith's The Theory of Moral Sentiments is made obvious by the parallel phrases of the opening lines of his poem but even more so by his taking up of the theme of those who suffer by our conduct and the dread and terror of punishment that is experienced by the perpetrator. Burns obviously continued an interest in The Theory of Moral Sentiments, even purchasing a copy of the sixth edition, published in 1790. It is likely that Burns had been introduced to The Theory of Moral Sentiments as part of his father's library. Writing to Graham on 13 May 1789, Burns described his current reading: Burns wrote again on 31 July 1789, But it was not until 9 December 1789 that he returned the book.