The remarkable success of Sir Ralph Abercromby's expeditionary force to Egypt in 1801 was a decisive moment in European history. Dislodging Napoleon's forces in Egypt at a stroke protected Britain's Indian empire and her trade with the Far East, as well as restoring the reputation and flagging morale of the British Army.

An assault landing of unparalleled daring and bravery was followed by two pitched battles which broke the enemy's morale. Abercromby died of wounds after his decisive victory outside Alexandria. He was not alone. It was a day when the officers and men of the Black Watch were seen crying like children at their dreadful losses. It was left to Abercromby's eccentric successor, Hutchinson, to complete the task, barring the route to the east against Bonaparte.

The success of the high risk strategy pursued by the British government was in large part due to Abercromby. It was he who trained and led the force with courage and audacity. This book restores the memory of a great soldier, once regarded as the peer of Nelson and Sir John Moore. It is also the life-story of his army, from its chaotic birth to its victorious dispersal a year later.