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Composition describing a search (with her cousin) through her aunt’s garret and all of the interesting things they find, including "a pair of epaulettes worn as we supposed by some of our ancestors either in the revolution or the war of 1812."

His eyes are improving. Attended an oration in Boston and intends to send a copy when it is published. Briefly describes Brookline. Wishes for more leisure time to read, but is occupied with social visits. Provides an update on Mr. Ogilvie, who is "now at Portland-- left off the vile habit of laudanum and is I am told, become quite fresh & plump." Has not been able to wear a straw hat this season, "as all the girls all had black crape I was obliged to make one too." Mentions texts by Mrs. Grants, "... her volumes are really a text book one can be in no circle where there is not some allusion to something Mrs Grant has said." See also S. H. ALS to [Maria Hodge], August 3-4, 1817.

Discussion about faith and salvation. Dessert recipe: Rice & apples.

Boarding for the summer. Market prices for 20 different food items. History of the marriage of childhood sweethearts after many years of separation.

Writing to Starks despite being "unaccustomed of writing to any of your sex," in order to confront him about his slanderous comments about her. "…you ascerted that you never had any other object in coming to see me onely to gratify some inclinations that you might do." Chastises him for knowing these comments would "deprive me of every source of comfort by rendering me odious in the sight of the world." Notes its poor reflection on his character. Docketed on verso: "Abigail Wright. Northampton"

Notes extensive house renovations at “Espranza.” Comments on parties and distributing Helen’s picture. Reminds Helen that if she is uncomfortable, they can see to her returning home. “Morris is with us and is looking and feeling well though the troubles in the South make his business lighter than he could wish.” Discussions of clothing and accessories. Governor [Marshall] Jewell (1825-1883) will visit Helen. Warns Helen not to over-extend herself studying. “I had rather you know less- and kept your beauty.”

"… you would be more profitably employed making love to a young woman, than asking an old married one, for a shoking bad autograph."

Comments on her unwittingly uncovering Sarah's Christmas surprise and her delight in the hand-crafted gift. "Mother, all unconscious that Santa Claus had any designs on us, opened the letter in our presence." Will send pictures "as soon as I can get some more struck off." Sending Christmas and New Year's greetings.

Detailed description of Christmas activities, decorations, presents, visitors, etc.

Acknowledges a wedding anniversary. Attended a “fancy ball,” describing the decor, costumes, dancing, and music. Notes the characters played, including King Richard I, Katrina Van Tassel, Robert Walpole, La Sylphide, Henry the VIII and Catherine of Aragon, Sir Roger de Coverley, Romeo, La Fille du Regiment, Little Red Riding Hood, “the three Cherry Hill Van Rensselaers,” sailors, soldiers, pirates, knights, and others. “…Mary Ellen Benedict as a regular ‘Squaw’ such as we see at Oneida, with her face painted and a blanket, she supported her character the best of any and with a sad look seated herself on the steps of the throne without answering any of the questions put to her or bowing to any who might recognize her through her disguise.” Other ethnic costumes include sultanas, Italian noblemen, Zuleika the Bride of Abydos, Dutch peasants, Polish figures, and a “Circassian Captive.” Also attended another ball, a concert, a “Polka party,” and a lecture at the “young Men’s association.”