French diplomat (1805–1894) who spearheaded the project to build the Suez Canal. LS in French, signed “Fedr de Lesseps,” one page, 8.25 x 10.5, Compagnie Universelle du Canal Interoceanique letterhead, December 24, 1887. Untranslated letter concerning a failed attempt to build the Panama Canal. In very good condition, with central horizontal and vertical folds, pencil notations to bottom, and some scattered light creasing and soiling. RR Auction COA.
