Judge Henry St. George Tucker said, "He was one of the most profound and learned of lawyers."
Daniel Sheffy said, "He possessed gigantic power without effort, and was not only a great but a good man."
Major James Garland, of Lynchburg, said, "There was no greater lawyer in the Commonwealth."
Judge Alexander Rives wrote that "I know no lawyer in Virginia for whom I have the same admiration, respect and esteem."
John B. Baldwin said, "He was the greatest common-law lawyer he ever knew."
Judge Briscoe G. Baldwin said, "He had more strength, originality and learning than any lawyer of his acquaintance."
Judge Lucas P. Thompson said, "His sentiments were illuminated by genius."
Sidney S. Baxter, late Attorney General of Virginia said, "No lawyer in Virginia equalled him in debate."
Thomas J. Michie said of him: "That he was a man who had served his country with distinguished ability in various civil positions in time of peace, who has honorably and gallantly served and sacrificed his property in time of war, a man whose honor and integrity have never been impeached in this or any other community."
Judge R. C. L. Moncure in speaking of him as a young lawyer said: "He took a position on being admitted to the bar which brought him immediate and continued popularity as a lawyer, a pleader and a scholar."