Rebecca Gratz to Maria Fenno Hoffman - July 27, 1818

Writing from Saratoga Springs, Rebecca updates her sister-in-law on the health of her brother, Jo, and describes the weather and social scene there.

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.

Elie Wiesel writes to Colin Powell expressing profound gratitude and admiration for a "gift letter" that Powell sent. He mentions that the letter was read aloud by Jon Voight at a dinner attended by over 700 guests, and was met with great applause and emotion. Wiesel conveys a deep personal connection, stating he never had a brother and now feels he has found a "very special one" in Powell, emphasizing his strong feelings of gratitude and admiration.

Rebecca tells her sister-in-law Maria about the aftermath of Yellow Fever in the South and discusses the effects of slavery on rich Southern women.

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben regarding his propensity towards travel, the physical and mental health of family members, that cold weather has dampened social gatherings, news of marital engagements, professional activities of family members, and reflections on the Purim holiday.