Lt. William Trench is one of Harry's former comrades who contributes a white feather. Captured by Arab forces, Trench is held in a Dervish prison. Harry infiltrates the camp, and they devise an escape plan. During their flight, a severely ill Trench instructs Harry to kill him if recaptured. They successfully reach Cairo, where Harry returns Trench's feather. Trench later aids Harry's reconciliation with Ethne by directing her to him.