midnight
The expedition started on the 23d of January , 1598 , and after marching twenty-four miles reached the village of Rivels , three miles from Turnhout , two hours after dark . The night was bitter cold , and after cooking supper the men wrapt themselves up in their cloaks , and lay down on the frozen ground until daybreak . The delay , although necessary , enabled the enemy to make their escape . The news that the allies had arrived close at hand reached Count Varras at midnight , and a retreat was at once ordered . Baggage wagons were packed and despatched , escorted by the cavalry , and before dawn the whole force was well on its road . Prince Maurice had set off an hour before daybreak , and on reaching Turnhout found that the rear guard of the enemy had just left the village . They had broken down the wooden bridge across the River Aa , only one plank being left standing , and had stationed a party to defend it .