Chapters 2 and 3 Summary

Chapter 2

While Sharpe examines the wounded, Williams speaks to Harper so Sharpe cannot hear. Williams says that Sharpe is not a real officer but merely a sergeant who has been promoted. Sharpe orders Williams to move the wounded. Williams suggests surrendering to the French so that the wounded can receive medical attention. Sharpe ignores Williams and orders Williams to have the men ready for inspection in one hour.

Sharpe speaks to Murray and says that they are hopelessly cut off. Murray, believing he is about to die, tries to offer advice to Sharpe on how to build a better relationship with the men. He says that the men are unused to seeing an officer who was once a member of their ranks. He says that the men have the notion that officers are born with special leadership skills. Murray advises Sharpe...