Worn out by the strain of life at Fort Zinderneuf and by his struggle against alcoholism, Captain Renouf has committed suicide. Now Sgt-Major Lejaune is in sole command.

The mutiny at Fort Zinderneuf has been averted by an Arab attack. Hopelessly outnumbered, the Legionnaires fight and die bravely - and Sgt-Major Lejaune makes his final attempt to steal Beau's jewel.