The campaign has started going wrong for General Cummings. The front-line troops have become lethargic as they wait around for the roadwork to be completed so they can advance. He is furious, humiliated and frightened as he realizes he has lost control and imagines his superiors talking about him, and planning to replace him. He begins to suffer from constant diarrhea.
Hearn's relationship with the General worsens, as Cummings gives Hearn tasks to do that he knows will cause problems for Hearn with the other men. He demands fresh flowers in his tent, but lets the orderly believe that it was Hearn's idea. Cummings orders Hearn to go to a supply ship and bring back crates of liquor and supplies for the officers' mess. The purser in charge of the stores refuses.....
