There is a legend that runs through many cultures that a long-dead hero will return at his country's hour of need. Something similar happens when long-thought-dead hero John "Black Jack" Geary is found in a hibernation survival pod in enemy space, a century after his legendary last stand. After the commanding officers of the fleet are executed, Geary is responsible for seeing the space fleet safely home. Can he deal with the pressures and changes? 
 There are some interesting ideas floating around in here. Campbell uses this story to address the issue of the rule of law and the laws of war. And it is a bit frustrating that Geary is a little too perfect --I like my heroes with just a few flaws.