He sent Desaix with 4500 infantry and 60 cavalry to Beda, on the road to Damanhour.
This general was the first to experience the privations and sufferings which the whole army had soon to endure.

His great mind, his attachment to Bonaparte, seemed for a moment about to yield to the obstacles which presented themselves.

On the 15th of July he wrote from Bohahire'h as follows: "I beseech you do not let us stop longer in this position.

My men are discouraged and murmur.

Make us advance or fall back without delay.