Rebecca Gratz and Joseph Gratz to Benjamin Gratz - January 11, 1836

Rebecca tells her sister-in-law Maria about the health of family members and friends, particuarly about Ellen Hays Etting, whose newborn recently died. She also discusses the literature she is reading.

Frances thanks her sister Rebecca for her letter and writes to share and inquire about the family's health.

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Maria, joking with her about phrenology and discussing the new building of the Orphan Society, developments with David Seixas, and Henry Clay as presidential candidate.

Mary Riggs, Ben Gratz's warden, tells Rebecca of her life in Lexington and comments on her latest readings. She also shares news about the family of Rebecca's brother Ben.

Miriam tells her aunt Rebecca about the growth of her congregation and her efforts to raise funds for her synagogue to employ a permanent reader.