“That’s the first part of the battle complete,” Macpherson nearly echoed Jack’s thoughts. He sat astride his horse as he addressed his senior officers. “Now, my brigade will remain close to the face of the Pir Paimal Ridge and turn the Afghan flank. How is your regiment, Windrush?”
Jack glanced at the Royals. “A bit shaky, sir, but they’ll get better.”
Macpherson ducked as a shell exploded nearby, showering him with dirt. “Should I retire them to the rear?”
“No, sir!” The ignominy of leading his regiment away on his first day of command would have lived with Jack forever.
“All right.” Macpherson gave Jack a stern look. “Keep your men in hand.”
Macpherson flicked his reins and pushed in front, with his regiments following in a compact mass of khaki and steel with the scarlet coated Roy
