Part Five, Chapters Five through Nine Summary

In Chapter Five, Tristram has assumed the role of platoon leader on the ship, assuring the men that they will soon have a chance to fight the enemy. To him, however, it all seems strange and unreal, as if he were in an old war film. At night, he leaps from his bunk and tells Sergeant Lightbody they have to get out of here, but Lightbody replies that their death will be preceded by an illusion that they have choice in the matter. An orderly enters with letters, among which is Beatrice-Joanna's letter to Tristram. It is the first he has received, and after reading it, he unashamedly gets on his knees and prays. In Chapter Six, the soldiers have been on the ship for three more days, locked in the hold. Finally...