Slim obeys an unexpected reassignment to Burma

An abrupt call at his Iraq headquarters orders Slim to India within days. His first thought is that he has been sacked, and he openly says he wants to remain with his division. The army commander's answer is blunt: a good soldier goes where he is sent and does what he is told. Sandstorms delay the departure, and Slim's description of his staff fading into the haze makes clear how reluctant he is to leave. Even in Delhi no one will explain his new job; he is simply sent on with Lieutenant General Morris to inspect the deteriorating Burma front. Obedience under uncertainty begins before command has even formally changed hands.