This is a story of Egypt and the Soudan with its principal scenes in
Cairo and Khartoum. It was published in 1909, and anticipated by
many years some racial, political and religious problems which are
now agitating those countries. The central character resembles the
Madhi in his earlier years. At first he is a religious reformer
only, but later he developes political aims which bring him into
sharp collision with the British rule. A tragic happening enlists on
his side the son of the English Consul-General who remotely resembles
the late Lord Cromer in his policy, but not his person. Out of this
fact and the further complication of his affection for an English
woman, Helena, the author developes his love story. The glamour and
mystery of the East are the background of the novel, which is a
strong contrast to the stark simplicity of the scenes of Hall Caine's
Manx and Icelandic stories.
_The Liverpool Post_ says: "Hall Caine's power of rivetting and
engrossing attention will be found in this novel at its zenith."