The accounts which Edward was daily receiving of the progress of the Scots, determined him to renew hostilities, as soon as circumstances would permit. Having regained the good will of his barons, by a gracious compliance with their demands, by writs tested, on 29th December 1299, he summoned all who owed him military service in England and elsewhere, to attend at Carlisle on the feast of the nativity of John the Baptist. 1300. “On the day appointed,” (1st July), says an eye-witness,[40] “the whole host was ready, and the good King, with his household, then set forward against the Scots, not in coats and surcoats, but on powerful and costly chargers, and, that they might not be taken by surprise, well and securely armed. “There were many rich caparisons embroidered on silks and satins; many a beautiful penon fixed to a lance; and many a banner displayed. “And afar off was the noise heard of the neighing of horses; mountains and vallies were every where covered with sumpter-horses and waggons with provisions, and sacks of tents and pavilions. “And the days were long and fine. They proceeded by easy journeys, arranged in four squadrons.” The first squadron was led by Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln.[41] The second was under John, Earl of Warren and Surrey. King Edward conducted the third squadron himself, and, says the fore-mentioned author, “brought up the rear so closely and ably, that none of the others were left behind. In his banner were three leopards courant of fine gold, set on red; fierce, haughty, and cruel; thus placed, to signify, that, like them, the King is dreadful fierce, and proud to his enemies, for his bite is slight to none who inflame his anger; not but his kindness is soon rekindled towards such as seek his friendship or submit to his power.” This part of his character, the Scots would not call in question. The fourth squadron was led by “Prince Edward, a youth of seventeen years, and bearing arms for the first time. He was a well-proportioned and handsome person, of a courteous disposition, and intelligent; and desirous of finding an occasion to display his prowess. He managed his steed wonderfully well, and bore with a blue label the arms of the good King his father.” John de St John, an experienced warrior, was in close attendance upon the Prince, ready to instruct him in what his duty required.