Book 6 (1879-1884): Vitai Lampada

Book 6 of The Speedicut Papers covers Speedicut's reluctant and unsought involvement in a series of British colonial and imperial disasters – in Afghanistan, South Africa, Egypt and the Sudan. Whilst not ducking shot, shell and spears, Speedicut indulges deeply in such pleasures (usually of the carnal variety) that are on offer. Book 6 ends with the news that Speedicut has been ordered to join General Gordon in Khartoum.