Rebecca Gratz and Sara Gratz Moses Joseph to Maria Gist Gratz - December 16, [1839]

Writing amidst the Cholera epidemic, Rebecca tries to alleviate her sister-in-law Maria's fears and shares advice on diet, including a recipe for rice pudding. She also tells of the dramatic circumstances under which an acquaintance gave birth.

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben about the character of Sylvester Larned, a pastor, who is romantically interested in Maria Gist Gratz, Ben's future wife. She also updates him on the health and travels of family and friends.

Sara Moses writes to her aunt Rebecca about her lingering health issues and shares her impressions of the social scene. Mary Boswell, Ben Gratz's warden, expresses her wish to Rebecca after a yearlong separation.

Rebecca updates her sister-in-law Maria on the health of her niece Harriet Etting and her newborn son, comments on the personality of the actor Fanny Kemble, and relates the death of her young orphaned cousin.

Writing to her aunt Rebecca, Miriam inquires about family and friends and comments on Charles Dickens's tour in the US. She also recommends a new book and describes Purim celebrations in Savannah.