Lt. Hornblower and his attachment, along with a British Army company are assigned to assist a Royalist French expedition in to their homeland. The mission being to advance on Paris and retake the country from its Replublican 'usurpers'. The plan to gather forces from loyal local populations as they advance has not fared as well as hoped, with the inhabitants of the first township staunchly loyal to the present governing regime.

With Republican forces advancing on the town and their British allies, the commanding French Colonel seems more concerned with enforcing the rule of law.

Meanwhile, the Captain of the HMS <i>Indefatigable</i> battles a windless sea as he rushes to his young officers aid...