Chapter 3-4 Summary

Sharpe learns that Wellington has a mission for him in chapter 3; however, he does not know the exact nature of the item he is supposed to procure. When returning to Wellington's quarters, the Provost, Ayres, and a Colonel Williams are waiting for Sharpe. The minute they all sit down, Williams expresses indignation over Sharpe's behavior towards the Provosts' authority. Sharpe apologizes but says that he is sorry and is sure Ayes is as well. Ayres quickly accepts the apology even though it implies he was at fault as well. Williams does catch this but the Provost says they are done and leaves. Hogan is not surprised at the ambiguous way Sharpe has apologized.

Sharpe talks with Michael Hogan, an Irish engineer who speaks both Spanish and Portuguese, which has helped him move up in the ranks quickly. Hogan tells Sharpe that...