Even the enlisted men of the ranks are prejudiced against Sharpe, when it would seem that they ought to be proud to have one of their own as an officer. Captain Murray offers an explanation for this. Is it a fully adequate explanation?

Don Blas Vivar is continually lying. How does he remain such a likable character despite using and manipulating everyone around him with lies?

Don Blas Vivar says he has only three rules for his Cazadores. Sharpe later develops three rules for his riflemen. What are these three rules? Why might these simple rules be both effective and welcomed by the riflemen?

As Don Blas Vivar is explaining the legend of the gonfalon, he compares it to English legends such as Drake's Drum and King Arthur's Sword. Do Americans have similar legends?

Sharpe learns much about being a respected and effective leader...