In spite of concern caused by unfavourable comments on the opening chapters by James Ballantyne and Robert Cadell, Scott finished the first volume before the end of January 1831, using the services of William Laidlaw as amanuensis when he was available.
Despite negative feedback from James Ballantyne and Robert Cadell on the early chapters, Sir Walter Scott completed the first volume by the end of January 1831, with William Laidlaw assisting him as his secretary.