The expedition methodically constructed a road across what is now southern Pennsylvania, but was then largely Indian territory. This was in contrast to a similar expedition led by Edward Braddock in 1755 that ended in disaster. Working for most of the summer on the construction of the road, fortifications, and supply depots, the expedition did not come within striking distance of Fort Duquesne until September 1758. In mid September, a reconnaissance force was soundly defeated when its leader, Major James Grant, attempted to capture the fort instead. The French, their supply line from Montreal cut by other British actions, attacked one of the expedition's forward outposts, Fort Ligonier, in an attempt to either drive off the British or acquire further supplies, but were repulsed.