Rebecca Gratz to Maria Gist Gratz - February 22, 1841

Writing to her brother Ben, Rebecca reflects on the political tensions in his and in the Mordecai family and shares news of their recently widowed niece Becky Nathan and her sons. She also expresses her hope that Ben's family will come for a visit in the spring.

Rebecca tells her sister-in-law Ann of the death of her niece Sara Mordecai's child, Emma, and gives other updates on the health and travels of family and friends. She also comments on a recent murder committed by Isaac Lafayette Shelby, the grandson of Kentucky's first governor.

Rebecca tells her friend Maria of the visits by the husband of the late Harriet (Maria's sister) and updates her on the health of various family members.

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Maria, discussing the newly published letters of John Randolph, a Virginian politican, and tells of the long romance between two of her acquaintances.

Writing to her brother Ben, Rebecca discusses the physical and social affects of the Civil War, as well as the differing politics, within her family circle. She also relays military news.