William Le Queux
The Veiled Man
Being an Account of the Risks and Adventures of Sidi Ahamadou, Sheikh of the Azjar Maraude
"The Veiled Man" by William Le Queux is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Sidi Ahamadou, the Sheikh of the Azjar marauders in the Great Sahara, as he reflects on his risky adventures and the life of a bandit in the desert. The narrative portrays themes of romance, treasure hunting, and exploration against a backdrop of ancient mythology and conflict with colonial forces. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Ahamadou's character, detailing his rise from a common bandit to a feared leader. He shares his experiences of wandering across the Sahara, tribal feuds, and a life of hiding and theft among his people, the Touaregs. Also, he narrates a fateful journey that leads him to the ruins of the City of Saba, linking it to the legendary Queen Balkis. As he explores the splendor of the forgotten city and encounters the modern peril of colonial intrusion embodied by a lieutenant named Victor Gaillard, the story intertwines the adventure and mystique of the desert with personal tragedy, hinting at deeper conflicts and an unexpected bond with Balkis, the last descendant of the queen.