The troops, still obscured by branches, were now very close to the castle walls. Malcolm, Siward and Macduff were together.

Malcolm said: “Now we are near enough. Throw down leafy disguises and show yourselves as soldiers. Pass the message along. You, Siward, worthy uncle and your noble son shall lead the first charge. Macduff and I shall oversee the other parts of our strategy.”

“Farewell, Malcolm,” said Siward, “if we confront the tyrant's army tonight and can't defeat him, we deserve to lose!”

“Sound all trumpets!” said Macduff. “Blow on those heralds of blood and death!”