Rebecca Gratz to Maria Gist Gratz - December 13, 1824

Rebecca tells her friend Maria of the frenzy around a famous actor performing in Philadelphia, her family's search for a new house, and muses ironically about creating purpose in her life.

Rebecca writes to her sister-in-law Maria about suggested names for Maria's newborn son, changes to Rebecca's neighborhood, and the love of her nieces and nephews for Maria's family.

After reading Harriet Martineau's latest book, Rebecca shares with her sister-in-law Maria her concern over foreign visitors' focus on slavery when discussing the United States. She also gives updates on her nephew Horace's current geological work.

Rebecca tells her friend Maria of the safe birth of Rachel's son, discusses their friends the Hamiltons, and informs her on the death of a mututal acquaintance.

Writing to her sister-in-law Maria, Rebecca attempts to persuade her and her family to visit Philadelphia in the winter. She also updates her on the health and activities of family and friends.

Rebecca writes to her friend Maria about the health of her friend, the release of Washington Irving's newest publication, the appearance of Yellow Fever in her city and its possible connection to the Fourth of July celebration.