Napoleon addresses the French army with the fact that it is about to undertake a conquest of which the effects upon the civilization and commerce of the world would be incalculable. He points out that the first city they are to meet was founded by Alexander. Addressing the "Cadis, Sheiks, Imams and Chorbadgys", he assures them that he does not intend to destroy their religion but to reestablish their rights and punish the Mamelukes, their usurpers.