Chapter 13 Summary

Sharpe is angry and questioning Vivar about sending Louisa. Vivar has given her the story that the banner is too degraded to hang in Santiago de Compostela, so he intends to attack a smaller town and put the remains of the banner in the sea. While the men talk, Sharpe prepares to shave. While Sharpe's shirt is off, Vivar is shocked to see that Sharpe has scars all across his back. Sharpe says that many years ago he was flogged while he held the rank of private. He did nothing wrong, but a sergeant did not like him.

The expedition sets off in a cold rain. Harper is enthusiastic and Sharpe is again impressed with how quickly Harper has become an effective leader. The troops march all through the night. The soldiers take precautions to make sure they do not make unnecessary noise...