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The enemy, observing them in so uncommon a posture, concluded that they were frighted unto submission, and that, by kneeling when they should be ready to fight, they meant to surrender at discretion, and only begged their lives; but they were soon undeceived, when they saw them rise again, and stand to their arms with steady countenance.
The English began the action, by a brisk charge upon the left wing of the Scots, commanded by Randolph, near the spot where the bridge is now thrown over the river at the small village of Chartershall. Hereabout was the only place where the river could be crossed in any order. A large body of cavalry advanced to attack him in front, while another fetched a compass to fall upon his flank and rear but before they could come to a close engagement, they fell into the snare that had been laid for them. Many of their horses were soon disabled by the sharp irons rushing into their feet, others tumbled into the concealed pits, and could not disentangle themselves. Pieces of the harnessing, with bits of broken spears, and other armour, still continue to be dug up in the bog. In the beginning of the engagement, an incident happened, which though in itself of small moment, was rendered important by its consequences. King Robert was mounted on horseback, carrying a battle-ax in his hand, and upon his helmet he wore a high turban, in the form of a crown, by way of distinction.
