Rebecca Gratz and Simon Gratz to Benjamin Gratz - October 17, 1825

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben of their mother's troubled health and the family's anticipation of his return from travel.

Josephine writes to her grand aunt Rebecca as she recovers from a cold, as is her Aunt Sally, of her life with her aunts, that she misses Philadelphia, of her visit to a foster house, and the visitors she receives.

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben about life at home, Sally's improving health, Philadelphia's deserted streets, and their brother Joseph's military service. Jacob writes to Ben concerning pressing problems within his military company.

Rebecca sends further updates to her sister-in-law Maria about her sons, who are staying with Rebecca, including about Bernard's tooth extraction. Rebecca's niece Sara tells Maria more about her sons and asks her to come back soon.

Rebecca reports to her sister-in-law Maria on the health of family and the wider community; recent news from their social circles in Baltimore; and a recent, highly publicized duel that resulted in the death of one participant and the trial of the other.