"But while Mr. Peterson was commonly known as an author, editor and publisher, he was best known by those who enjoyed the happiness and privilege of his acquaintanceship, friendship or more affectionate relations, as a man of the noblest character, the tenderest sensibilities, the most refined and gentle qualities. Advancing age, a great and sorrowful loss, that of an only son by sudden death, induced him to withdraw from the society that had always welcomed his presence, but in his seclusion he did not grow misanthropical or morbid. His faith in God and men seemed to grow stronger and greater the nearer he approached the end, and in dying he was close to both. His nature was most generous and affectionate; and age, which so often dulls and hardens the finest characters, left his brilliant and gentle to the end. He was a man of large benevolence, giving largely to those who in his wise judgment were worthy, and his bounty to authors and old associates who had struggled and fallen by the way was measured only by their needs. He was a good citizen and a good man; those who knew him best loved him best. We can speak of him only as he was in that part of his daily life with which all who happily knew him were familiar. His life within his own home, which was his own, and into which we would not intrude, was noblest of all, full of refinement, love and chivalric devotion. His loss will most be felt there, though there is no friend who shared his friendship upon whom it will not fall heavily and sorrowfully."
The _Botanic Medical Reformer and Home Physician_ was published monthly by H. Hollemback and Co., and edited by Dr. Thomas Cooke. It was begun May 7, 1840.
The _Philadelphia Repository_ (1840-1852) was begun by William Henry Gilder (1812-1864) father of Richard Watson Gilder, editor of the _Century Magazine_. The first William Henry, grandfather of Richard Watson, laid the corner-stone of Girard College. William Henry the second continued to edit the _Repository_ about one year; he subsequently published in Philadelphia the _Literary Register_, a quarterly review.
The _Literalist_ was published from 1840 to 1842 at No. 67 South Second Street. James Rees edited the _Dramatic Mirror and Literary Companion_, August 14, 1841, at No. 15 North Sixth Street.