‘Then we’d better put an end to that rumour. There will be no retreat,’ Napoleon said firmly as he stared round at the group of soldiers. ‘We’re here to win this land for France. That is what we have been ordered to do and there will be no debate on the matter. Clear?’

The men nodded and saluted Napoleon as he turned and strode off in the direction the sergeant had indicated.The soldiers watched him for a moment, and then returned to tending their evening fire and began to mutter again.

When Napoleon found the building he strode past the astonished sentries outside and made for the sound of raised voices that echoed off the high walls of the interior. The officers were gathered in the courtyard garden and from the top of a covered well General Desaix was waving his hands to try to quiet them when Napoleon emerged from the entrance hall. As soon as he saw his commander Desaix froze and his hands sank slowly to his sides. Gradually the angry debate died away as the other officers became aware of Napoleon’s presence. When all was still Napoleon made his way through the crowd and nodded to Desaix to get down from the well. He climbed up and surveyed the officers with a hostile expression.

‘What is the meaning of this meeting, gentlemen?’

At first no one dared to answer him, and most avoided his gaze, until, at last, General Desaix cleared his throat.

‘Sir, the army cannot endure this godforsaken land. The heat and the lack of water are driving our soldiers mad. Nearly every well we have found has been fouled by the Bedouin. Some of our men have even been driven to take their own lives.And for what? There is nothing here but desert and a slow death. There is not even a proper enemy to fight. They flee into the distance the moment any of our lads turn on them, and then come back when it’s safe and wait to pick off any stragglers like a pack of vultures. The men have had enough. It’s the same with many of the officers.’

‘Which officers?’ Napoleon asked coldly. ‘You?’

The blood drained from Desaix’s face. ‘No. Not me. Never.’

‘Then who is it that wishes to defy me? Which of you fine men wants to take issue with your general?’

No one replied and Napoleon snorted with derision. ‘You cowards! You are officers in name only. It’s no wonder that your men are mutinous dogs. Not when they are commanded by such curs as you.’

One of the senior officers pushed himself forward. ‘Since no other will speak, then let me!’

‘Very well, General Mireur. Say your piece.’