"The Rifles were a new kind of Regiment, prizing skills and intelligence above blind discipline. They worked hard, rewarded progress, and encouraged the men to think for themselves. Officers trained with the men, even drilled with them, and the hours that other regiments wasted in pipe-claying and stock polishing, in boot-licking and tuft-brushing, the greenjackets spent in rifle practice" (Chapter 1, pg. 13.)

'"Yes,' Sharpe said, and the bitterness was unassuageable now, drenching him, consuming him, and the years of pain and misery were driving his right arm as he sawed the blade hard and fast across Hocking's throat. Hocking's last shout was abruptly cut short as a fountain of blood sprang up" (Chapter 2, pg. 34.)

"Sharpe liked Baird. Most soldiers liked Baird. He might be a general, but he was as tough as any man in the ranks. He could outswear the sergeants, outmarch the Rifles and outfight...