Celebrated French novelist (1821-1880) best known for his classics Madame Bovary, Salammbo, and A Sentimental Education. Lengthy handwritten manuscript in French by Flaubert, unsigned, three pages on two sheets, 8.75 x 11.75, no date but circa 1857. Flaubert's handwritten transcript of an ancient Greek letter from Hyppolochus to Lincee, which he used as a reference for the opening feast scenes of his famous novel Salammbo. In part (translated): "Caranus, having a nuptial feast in Macedonia, invited twenty parasites. As soon as they were placed at table, each of them was given a bottle of silver. They had received each before entering the hall a strip of gold estimated five gold Ecus....For us, happy for the rest of our days, because of the feast of Caranus, we are looking for possessions, country houses, slaves to buy, with the presents he has given us." In fine condition, with horizontal folds and some light ink offsetting. A remarkable and important piece from the revered French author.Format: Handwritten Manuscript