He began his campaign with a wise precaution.
The last important fort on the road to Pitt was Ligonier, about one hundred and fifty miles from Carlisle.

It would be necessary to use this post as a base; but it was beset by Indians and in danger of being captured.

Lieutenant Archibald Blane in charge of it was making a gallant defence against a horde of savages.

Bouquet, while waiting at Carlisle, engaged guides and sent in advance thirty Highlanders, carefully selected men, to strengthen the garrison under Blane.

These, by keeping off the main trail and using every precaution, succeeded in reaching the fort without mishap.
Bouquet led his force westward.