These, however, were less inconvenient to Highlanders, from their habits of life, than they would have been to any other troops, and they continued a steady and swift movement.
As the clan of Ivor approached the firm ground, following the track of those who preceded them, the challenge of a patrol was heard through the mist, though they could not see the dragoon by whom it was made--'Who goes there ?' 'Hush!' cried Fergus, 'hush!--Let none answer, as he values his life .-- Press forward!' and they continued their march with silence and rapidity.
The patrol fired his carabine upon the body, and the report was instantly followed by the clang of his horse's feet as he galloped off.
'HYLAX IN LIMINE LATRAT,' said the Baron of Bradwardine, who heard the shot; 'that loon will give the alarm.' The clan of Fergus had now gained the firm plain, which had lately borne a large crop of corn.

But the harvest was gathered in, and the expense was unbroken by tree, bush, or interruption of any kind.

The rest of the army were following fast, when they heard the drums of the enemy beat the general.

Surprise, however, had made no part of their plan, so they were not disconcerted by this intimation that the foe was upon his guard and prepared to receive them.

It only hastened their dispositions for the combat, which were very simple.
The Highland army, which now occupied the eastern end of the wide plain, or stubble field, so often referred to, was drawn up in two lines, extending from the morass towards the sea.