Chapters 19 and 20 Summary

The rejection of Napoleon comes only at a high price—within days, the Comte and his followers are fugitives, surviving only by hiding and moving in stealth. In effect, they fight a losing guerrilla war against Napoleon's forces, which have been sent to obliterate them. After only a few weeks, the Comte's forces dwindle through desertion to scarcely more than a score of individuals. Placards posted about invite the Comte's followers to clemency if they will desert the hopeless cause—clemency for all, that is, except Hornblower, Brown, the Comte, and Marie. Even the few loyal followers are exhausted, starving, and destitute. The small party makes a prolonged forced march through hostile territory to gain a virtually unknown river crossing which promises a brief respite. However, rains swell the river so that when it is ultimately reached, the crossing...