Rebecca Gratz to Miriam Gratz Moses Cohen - December 16, 1855

Rebecca writes to her brother Ben about the improved weather, social events, Purim festivities, the health of friends, and references to family business activities.

Relieved that her sister-in-law Maria made it home safely after her visit to Philadelphia, Rebecca updates her on the health and activities of family and friends. She also shares some society gossip.

Elie Wiesel writes to Jiri Oberfalzer, Executive Director of the Patriae Foundation, to express his gratitude for the hospitality shown to him and his wife, Marion, during their recent visit to Prague. Wiesel apologizes for the delay in his correspondence, citing his intensive travel schedule, which included a "hectic--and traumatic--journey to Kielce, Poland, where I participated in a painful commemoration." He reflects positively on the Prague trip, mentioning the city's libraries and museums, and highlights that their time in Theresienstadt was particularly meaningful. Wiesel commends Oberfalzer and his staff for arranging interesting meetings and discussions and for their excellent handling of the visit. He concludes by expressing a desire to work together with Oberfalzer and the Patriae Foundation in the future.

Rebecca writes to her brother Joseph about multiple deaths in their social circle, comments on the American diplomatic efforts with France, and expresses her opinion on various romances among their acquintances.

Writing to her sister-in-law Maria, Rebecca discusses the engagement of her nephew, Benjamin Etting, and the heartbreak of her niece, Ellen Etting. She also details the scandal and subsequent legal battle between two Philadelphia citizens over one's conduct with the other's wife.