The Crime of the Brigadier

Name: The Crime of the Brigadier
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows Colonel Etienne Gerard, a flamboyant and self-assured officer in the French army during the Peninsular War. He is tasked by Marshal Massena to gather intelligence on the English forces by infiltrating their lines. Despite his initial reluctance to act as a spy, he is motivated by the promise of glory and the thrill of adventure. Gerard embarks on his mission under the cover of night, riding a magnificent horse named Voltigeur. However, his journey takes a turn when Voltigeur is shot and killed, leaving Gerard stranded behind enemy lines. In a moment of despair, he resolves to hide until nightfall to escape. He discovers a posada (wine shop) and hides in its stable, where he witnesses the arrival of English officers, including Sir Stapleton Cotton. To his surprise, he observes the English engaging in a fox hunt, a spectacle that highlights their peculiar customs. Amidst the chaos, Gerard seizes an opportunity when he spots a beautiful English hunter tied outside the inn. He steals the horse and joins the hunt, reveling in the excitement. As he rides, Gerard becomes swept up in the thrill of the chase, forgetting his original mission. He skillfully navigates the hunt, ultimately catching the fox with a dramatic sabre strike, much to the astonishment of the English hunters. In that moment, he feels a sense of triumph and camaraderie with his adversaries. However, realizing the futility of his mission and the danger of being discovered, he makes a hasty retreat back to the French lines, pursued by the English. Despite the chase, he manages to evade capture and returns to his camp, where he reflects on the absurdity of his situation and the unexpected bond formed through the shared experience of sport. The story explores themes of honor, bravery, and the absurdities of war, showcasing Gerard's character as both a gallant soldier and a man oblivious to the consequences of his actions. His escapades highlight the complexities of enemy relationships during wartime, revealing moments of shared humanity amidst conflict.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1892 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Military Fiction · 7,606 words

First lines

In all the great hosts of France there was only one officer towards whom the English of Wellington's army retained a deep, steady, and unchangeable hatred. There were plunderers among the French, and men of violence, gamblers, duellists, and _roues_. All these could be forgiven, for others of their kidney were to be found among the ranks of the English. But one officer of Massena's force had committed a crime which was unspeakable, unheard of, abominable; only to be alluded to with curses late in the evening, when a second bottle had loosened the tongues of men. The news of it was carried back to England, and country gentlemen who knew little of the details of the war grew crimson with passion when they heard of it, and yeomen of the shires raised freckled fists to Heaven and swore. And yet who should be the doer of this dreadful deed but our friend the Brigadier, Etienne Gerard, of the Hussars of Conflans, gay-riding, plume-tossing, debonnaire, the darling of the ladies and of the six brigades of light cavalry.

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The Crime of the Brigadier is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1892 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1892 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Military Fiction, Comedy, Drama
Length: 7,606 words
Structure: 1 section, 52 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Historical Fiction — The story is set during the Peninsular War, incorporating historical events and figures, which is central to the plot.
Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a daring mission filled with peril and excitement, characteristic of adventure narratives.
Military Fiction — The narrative focuses on military operations, strategies, and the experiences of a soldier, highlighting themes of honor and bravery.
Comedy — The protagonist's humorous perspective and the absurdity of certain situations contribute comedic elements to the story.