I think this postcard/photo was taken in Egypt,the guard in the back ground is wearing a fez,under a powerful magnifying glass you can make out the C number which is C4381661 which is a dark colour possibly black.

The Norton is an India Office machine...possibly therefore with a 1938 pattern engine. Recognition points are the front mudguard grab handle, wider sump guard and pillion facilities combined with an extended version of the early pattern rear carrier.

Quantities of motorcycles arrived in the Middle East with units of the Indian Army. A number of the Nortons on Thistlegorm were of this specification. The presence of a Martini-action rifle at this late stage probably does suggest Egyptian forces.