Water was only obtainable at the halts, and then was frequently altogether insufficient for the wants of the army; while in front, on flank, and in rear hovered clouds of the cavalry of Saladin.
At times King Richard would allow parties of his knights to detach themselves from the force to drive off these enemies.

But it was the chase of a lion after a hare.

The knights in their heavy armour and powerful steeds were left behind as if standing still, by the fleet Bedouins on their desert coursers; and the pursuers, exhausted and worn out, were always glad to regain the ranks of the army.
These clouds of cavalry belonging to the enemy did not content themselves with merely menacing and cutting off stragglers.

At times, when they thought they saw an opening, they would dash in and attack the column desperately, sometimes gaining temporary advantages, killing and wounding many, then fleeing away again into the desert.
Finding that it was impossible to catch these wary horsemen, King Richard ordered his bowmen to march outside his cavalry, so that when the enemy's horse approached within bowshot they should open upon them with arrows; then, should the horsemen persist in charging, the archers were at once to take refuge behind the lines of the knights.
Day after day passed in harassing conflicts.

The distance passed over each day was very small, and the sufferings of the men from thirst, heat, and fatigue enormous.