Chapter 1 Summary

Compared with cricket in the 1840s, when Harry Flashman ("Flashy") excels as a bowler, the current game is for old women. In school, he learns only survival and cricket. Returning famous from Afghan service, Flashy is recruited by prissy old classmate Tom Brown, to play against Kent at Lord's. There, gigantic bowler Mynn terrorizes Flashy for three balls before Felix catches him, and after a stint lounging in the outfield stands in to bowl. After a slow start, he retires three stars of the sport—Felix, Pilch, and Mynn—achieving the world's first "hat trick."

Among those congratulating Flashy are a doddering old Duke, his flirtatious lover, Mrs. Leo Lade, and Daedalus Tighe, a bookie, who unsuccessfully presses on Flashy champagne and £50 from his winnings. Flashy finds Elspeth in the arms of Don Solomon Haslam, who is innocently teaching her archery...