Chapters 10-12 Summary

In Chapter 10, the narrator is shown the spot on which A. Cajard, a veteran of the trenches since August 1914, is executed earlier in the day as an example to others, for seeking not to go back. His executioners recall the ceremonial and write protests on the post against which Cajard is shot. Returning to quarters, the narrator finds Volpatte telling anecdotes.

Chapter 11 takes place under a violent rainstorm. The squad huddles inside the collapsing barn in which they are lodging during a rest period, watching Fouillade take a shower-bath under the downpour. They believe that he will be "carpeted" for the shell hole affair with Volpatte. Afterward, Fouillade regrets bathing, for the wind rushes through the rickety barn, which the poilus have plugged as best they can, but to little effect. There is little to do but stretch out in the...