about noon
As we were toiling through the deep heather on the eastern skirts of the Mearns-moor , a mist hovered all the morning over the pad of Neilston , covering like a snowy fleece the sides of the hills down almost to the course of our route , in such a manner that we could see nothing on the left beyond it . We were then within less than fourteen miles of Glasgow , where General Dalziel lay with the King 's forces , keeping in thraldom the godly of that pious city and its neighbourhood . Captain Learmont , well aware , from the eager character of the man , that he would be fain to intercept us , and fearful of being drawn into jeopardy by the mist , persuaded Wallace to halt us some time . As November was far advanced , it was thought by the country folk that the mist would clear away about noon . We accordingly made a pause , and sat down on the ground ; for many were weary , having over-fatigued themselves in their zeal to come up with the main body , and we all stood in need of rest . Scarcely , however , had we cast ourselves in a desultory manner on the heather , when some one heard the thud of a distant drum in the mist , and gave the alarm ; at which we all again suddenly started to our feet , and listening , were not long left in doubt of the sound . Orders were accordingly given to place ourselves in array for battle ; and while we were obeying the command in the best manner our little skill allowed , the beating of the drum came louder and nearer , intermingled with the shrill war-note of the spirity fife .