Using his most powerful weapon - the Welsh longbow - Edward won a decisive victory at Falkirk in July, 1298. It didn't help the Scots that even Robert the Bruce, who had agreed to fight with Wallace, changed his mind and gave his support to Longshanks. Wallace barely escaped with his life. Scottish forces and morale were decimated.

Because of his defeat at Falkirk, Wallace resigned as Guardian of Scotland. Not much is known about his whereabouts for the next several years. It is believed he went to the continent to gain support for Scottish independence, where he had discussions with European leaders, including the Pope. Any efforts he may have made to get help of England's greatest enemy, the French, failed when England and France agreed to peace. (The price of peace was high for a French princess: Her father gave her in marriage to Edward.)

Meanwhile Edward strengthened his position in Scotland. His job was easier since the Scottish clans once again had a falling out with each other. Edward offered peace to all but William Wallace. For him, Longshanks reserved choice words:

No words of peace are to be held out to William Wallace in any circumstances whatsoever unless he places himself utterly and absolutely in our will.

Wallace, of course, had no intention of doing anything of the sort.

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