L. H. (Lionel Hugh) Branson

Lionel Hugh Branson (1879–1946), often published as L. H. Branson, was a British officer in the Indian Army as well as a magician and writer on conjuring. He is chiefly remembered for Indian Conjuring, a lively book that drew on his long experience in India and his interest in stage magic.

Available reference sources consistently describe him as both a career military man and an enthusiast of conjuring, which helps explain the tone of his writing: observant, hands-on, and eager to separate performance from mystery. His work has lasted because it offers more than tricks alone; it also captures a period fascination with travel, spectacle, and the craft behind illusion.

I couldn't confirm a suitable portrait image from the pages I checked, so none is included here.