Rebecca Gratz to Benjamin Gratz - September 03, 1808

Rachel tells her cousin Rebecca about her visitors leaving, and that she fears they won't relocate to Philadelphia. Both she and her husband Solomon send their wishes for the Jewish New Year to everyone in the family.

Rebecca tells her friend Maria about local society news including a ball attended by Joseph Bonaparte, discusses various literary events, and tells of her work at the Orphan Asylum. She also expresses her wish to see again Maria after two years.

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Maria about the marvels of contemporary dentistry, tells her about a friend who met Sir Walter Scott in Europe, and updates her on the health and travels of family and friends. She also suggests a trip to see the coronation of Queen Victoria.

Deeply affected by the death of her estranged brother Simon, Rebecca gives her sister-in-law Maria a detailed account of his last days and expresses hope that the family's relationship with his children can be restored.

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben, discussing the weather and food in Canada, the activities of family and friends, and Frank Blair's election to Congress. Their niece Sara adds a brief note of greetings.