An important step to success came in 1864, when Robertson wrote "David Garrick", an adaptation of Mélesville's comedy "Sullivan". Edward Sothern staged the piece and starred in it. The actor was at the height of his popularity, and although the notices paid more attention to his performance than to Robertson's writing, the success of the production advanced the author's career. Encouraged by this professional achievement, he wrote a new play, "Society", a comedy depicting what one critic called "the efforts of an illiterate millionaire to introduce his son into 'society', and the equally vigorous efforts of 'society' to repel the intruder". This play was his breakthrough. London managements turned it down, but through Byron's influence it was produced in Liverpool, where it was a critical and popular success.