With Kitchener in the Soudan facts for kids

With Kitchener in the Soudan; A Story of Atbara and Omdurman is an exciting adventure novel. It was written by the British author G. A. Henty. The story takes place during a real British military journey. This journey was led by Lord Kitchener. It shows the defeat of the followers of Muhammad Ahmad, also known as the Mahdi. This happened during the Mahdist War (1881–1899). The book was first published in 1902.

The Story of the Book

This book follows the thrilling adventures of a young man named Gregory Hilliard Hartley. He is the brother of a wealthy English family's heir.

Gregory's Early Life

Gregory marries a young woman his father does not approve of. Because of this, his father sends him away from home. Gregory then travels to Egypt. He knows Arabic well, which helps him get a job with a trading company.

Joining the Army

One day, a group called the Dervishes attacks and destroys his employer's warehouse. After this, Gregory decides to join the army. He works as an interpreter for an army led by Hicks Pasha. Sadly, this army expedition is defeated, and no one hears from Gregory for a long time.

A Son's Journey

Gregory's wife lives in Cairo. She does not know what happened to him. Years pass, and she raises their young son, who is also named Gregory. She makes sure he learns many local languages. When she passes away, young Gregory is left alone. He has a small amount of money and a mysterious tin box. He is told not to open the box until he is sure his father has died.

Adventure in the Soudan

Later, young Gregory gets a job as an interpreter. He joins an expedition led by Lord Kitchener. This group is moving into the Soudan to fight the Dervish forces. Gregory faces many challenges and dangers during this big military campaign. He shows great bravery and earns respect. All this time, he is still searching for his father.

A Surprising Discovery

Eventually, Gregory finds a clue that leads him closer to the truth. He opens the mysterious tin box. Inside, he makes a surprising discovery about who he really is.

Main Characters

• Mr. Hartley: He is the father of the main character, Gregory Hilliard Hartley.
• Mrs. Hartley: She is the mother of the main character.
• Gregory Hilliard Hartley: He is the main character of the story. He goes on many adventures.
• Zaki: He is a loyal servant and friend to Gregory.
• Mahmud: He is a leader of the Dervish forces.
• Lord Kitchener: He is the commander of the British forces in the story.