As a public speaker Mr. Hopkins made no pretensions to elocution but was ever listened to with profound attention. His reasoning was strong--always to the point and his speeches short. His was a vigorous, clear, inquiring, analyzing mind, that surmounted every barrier with the same fortitude, energy and determined resolution that carried Bonaparte over the Alps, Roger Sherman to the pinnacle of fame, Franklin to the summit of science. He was a laborious and extensive leader and a friend to education. He was the principal founder of the Providence library in 1750 and when it was destroyed by fire in 1760--contributed largely towards the purchase of a new supply of books. He was the father of the free school system still in successful operation in Rhode Island. He was a friend to unshackled religion--breathing charity for all whose deportment gave them the impress of divine grace--the only genuine touchstone of true piety. He admired most the creed of the Society of Friends who frequently held meetings at his house. All gospel ministers were made welcome to his hospitable mansion which many called the ministers tavern. He was plain in everything and deprecated pomp and vain show in others. In addition to his multifarious public duties he was extensively engaged in agriculture, manufactures and commerce. He was a systematic and thorough business man--scrupulously honest, honorable and liberal. He never became wealthy but enjoyed a competence through life. He was repeatedly placed in the crucible of domestic affliction. Of the seven children by his first wife not one survived him. One son was murdered by the Indians, another died in Spain--the youngest, who was the fourth sea captain of the brothers, was presumed to have been lost at sea as his vessel was never heard from after leaving the port of Providence. The eventful career of patriarch Hopkins was closed on the 13th of July 1785 after enduring the course of a lingering fever with the same calm fortitude that had marked his whole life. He had lived respected and esteemed--he died peaceful and happy. To the last moments of his life he retained full possession of his mental powers and approached the confines of eternity with a seraphic smile that augured heaven. He had long labored under physical infirmities of a nervous nature. For many years it had been difficult for him to write his name in consequence of an attack of paralysis. His ashes rest peacefully in the city of Providence in his native state. His death produced a mournful sensation over the whole country.