Hornblower is called to take a company of British troops(which the sailors Call lobsters because of their red coats)and a company of French nationalists(which are called frogs)to France to fight IN the revolution. But Hornblower is horrified by the brutality of the French commander as he guillotines everyone IN a village that destroyed hisformer home and his unwillingness to take part IN the actual battles. However,when the commander and his men set out to rape and brutalize a young school teacher,Hornblower vows his protection of her.