Rebecca Gratz to Maria Gist Gratz - June 04, 1840

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Ann, fretting over the health of her brother Ben, who was supposed to visit her in Philadelphia.

A personal letter from François Gros, Honorary Permanent Secretary of the Académie des Sciences, to Elie Wiesel, dated November 28th (year unspecified). Gros expresses his deep affection and admiration for Wiesel. He mentions that he and Danièle learned about Wiesel's successful heart operation from a France V broadcast, which they listened to with great attention. Gros notes Wiesel's "astonishing vitality" despite his age (82, soon 87) and expresses a desire to see him soon. The letter concludes with affectionate thoughts, including regards for Marion. A postscript indicates that Gros learned Wiesel was staying at Fouquet's, and thus addressed the short message there.

Writing to her aunt Rebecca, Miriam offers congratulations to Isaac and Sally Hays, who just gave birth. Miriam also expresses her anxiety over her current pregnancy, after having lost several in the past, and thanks Rebecca for the baby gifts.

Rebecca gives her brother Ben a detailed account of the on-going "Bible Riots" in Philadelphia, where anti-immigrant groups attacked Irish-Catholic immigrants. She also updates him on the health and travel plans of family members.

Rebecca expresses relief at her sister-in-law Maria's recovery from serious illness and shares updates on the health and education of family and friends.