Walter Löpitsch, born into Prussian Junker Nobility in the 19^th. Century, in Pommerania, Northern Prussia. Sent to Military Academy at the age of ten thence to join a regiment of lancers at the age of 18. Married to Luise, the sister of his best friend, but subsequently carries on an affaire with a beautiful gypsy girl. Sees action in both the Austro-Prussian and Franco-Prussian Wars. A proud officer who becomes disillusioned with military life when he has to kill his best friend on the battlefield. Invalided out of the army he returns home to manage his family estate during which time he sees the unification of Germany and the seeds of future troubles. The book first traces the animosity between the French and German speaking peoples, going back 2,000 years to Roman times. And also the origins of ancient Prussia and its rise to power. This sets the backcloth to Walter.