But notwithstanding the loss they had sustained by Claverhouse's first fire, the insurgents became soon aware that the advantage of numbers and of position were so decidedly theirs, that, if they could but persist in making a brief but resolute defence, the Life-Guards must necessarily be defeated.

Their leaders flew through their ranks, exhorting them to stand firm, and pointing out how efficacious their fire must be where both men and horse were exposed to it; for the troopers, according to custom, fired without having dismounted.

Claverhouse, more than once, when he perceived his best men dropping by a fire which they could not effectually return, made desperate efforts to pass the bog at various points, and renew the battle on firm ground and fiercer terms.

But the close fire of the insurgents, joined to the natural difficulties of the pass, foiled his attempts in every point.
"We must retreat," he said to Evandale, "unless Bothwell can effect a diversion in our favour.

In the meantime, draw the men out of fire, and leave skirmishers behind these patches of alderbushes to keep the enemy in check." These directions being accomplished, the appearance of Bothwell with his party was earnestly expected.