Sharp's relationship with his informants is, taking into account the era in which it happened, well documented and exemplary, both in England and in the Appalachians. With perhaps the exception of Alfred Williams all of the collectors were way above their informants in social standing. However, unlike some of the other collectors Sharp needed to make a living from his music, and whilst he can be criticised for some of the things he did, I don't think he can be criticised for this, especially by someone else who makes his living from his music.