 They actually spent several days lying down in a covered wagon. So you can imagine the misery of traveling through bumpy roads in the intense summer heat in that condition. It was in this setting on July 9th where the British advance guard spotted French soldiers and their Native American allies in the trees. Shots rang out. The men in the trees charged and began attacking the main body of Braddock's army. And the British, because of Braddock, were totally unprepared and on the defensive. Before long, confusion reigned.