Prologue and Chapter 1 Summary

The novel opens immediately after a combat encounter between the first battalion of the South Essex Regiment and French forces. The action occurs in Spain during June, 1813, and leaves many casualties behind including a sergeant that dies in the protagonist Richard Sharpe's arms. Sharpe reflects on the encounter, noting that it was strategically insignificant and tactically pointless. Nevertheless, the British forces fought with determination and pride and successfully defended the area against a larger French force armed with artillery. After the action, Sharpe and the other British soldiers recuperate. Later, Sharpe observes the South Essex Regiment and notes that its numbers are seriously depleted through casualties. Later still, he meets with Colonel Nairn and they have a frank discussion about the regiment. The South Essex regiment is composed of two battalions. The first battalion is deployed in Spain and...