Chapters 22, 23, and 24 Summary

The siege drags on for months and the small village is reduced to pulverized stones. Basements are connected by ditches and the only building standing in the town is the chapel from which observations are made. Pamphlets are sent into the French army by subterfuge—they advertise welcome reception of defectors by the English. One day, Hornblower accompanies Essen to review a large contingent of Spanish and Portuguese troops who have in fact defected. They have been fighting for Napoleon for five years, since Spain aligned with France. Since then Spain has revolted from France and has been largely liberated by English armies. Hornblower, speaking Spanish, greets the Spanish officers and tells them of their country's recent accomplishments. They are received warmly and Hornblower assures them the English will send them home as early as possible. In exchange, their leader...