“the ladies from hell”
A Woman of Substance“the ladies from hell” is the enemy’s name for the Seaforth Highlanders, a sobriquet that turns the regiment’s striking appearance and reputation for courage into a compact image of military identity.
The Name and Its Bearers
The expression refers to the Seaforth Highlanders, described as tall, strapping men advancing with rifles drawn and ready. Their dark green-and-navy regimental kilts distinguish them visually, while their fierce, indomitable courage provides the other basis for the enemy’s name.
Formation and Significance
The men move in perfect step, their backs straight, eyes sharp, and heads held proudly high. The narration likens them to one giant body of tartan and khaki, presenting disciplined individuals as a unified force. Against that composed collective image, the enemy’s name registers the fear their courage inspires; the phrase joins the regiment’s distinctive dress to its battlefield reputation.
