Miriam Gratz Moses Cohen to Rebecca Gratz - December 12, 1841

Rebecca updates her sister-in-law Maria on family news, reflects on the status of American literature in Europe, and describes governance issues at the Orphan Asylum following the fire and the efforts of the Central Phrenological Society of Philadelphia.

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Maria, remarking on her family's experience with the whooping cough, the removal of a university president, and literature about the ancient Israelites.

Rebecca writes to her brother Joseph of the recent loss of their sister Richea's infant son, Barnard, and of the health and visits of friends and family.

Rebecca continues to persuade her sister-in-law Maria to visit Philadelphia after the death of her eldest son, Benjamin. She also informs her of the marriage of Ben Etting, her nephew, to Harriet Marx Etting.

Rebecca tells her brother Ben of their recent move from Boston Row to Spruce Street and shares news of friends and family.