He told them when they encountered the enemy not to wait for the word of command, but each to "be his own officer," and do all he could, sheltering himself as far as possible, and not to throw away a chance; if they came on the British in the woods they were "to give them Indian play," and advance from tree to tree, pressing the enemy unceasingly.

He ended by promising them that their officers would shrink from no danger, but would lead them everywhere, and, in their turn, they must be on the alert and obey orders.
When they set out their uncertainty as to Ferguson's movements caused them to go slowly, their scouts sometimes skirmishing with lurking tories.

They reached the mouth of Cane Creek, near Gilbert Town, on October 4th.

With the partisans that had joined them they then numbered fifteen hundred men.

McDowell left them at this point to go to Gates with the request for the appointment of a general to command them.
[Footnote: Gates MSS.