Rebecca Gratz to Maria Gist Gratz - January 15, 1837

Rebecca updates her sister-in-law Ann on her son Jo Shelby's education and shares how much she revels in the company of Lizzie Blair, Mary Riggs, and her niece Sara Joseph. She also comments on developments in the Mexican-American War and the signing of the Oregon Treaty to settle a longstanding territorial dispute.

Slowey teasingly expresses her dismay to her friend Rebecca at the misunderstandings between them and informs her of her plans for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Rebecca writes to her friend Maria and tells her of the sudden death of a young woman after she broke off her engagement with James Buchanan, the future president.

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.

Rebecca tells her friend Margaret (Peggy) of life at the Cottage, continues their musings about married life and mentions 4th of July celebrations in Baltimore.