Why did Montcalm attack the British forces quickly on the Plains of Abraham?

Upon learning that British forces had successfully landed and ascended the cliffs to the Plains of Abraham, the Marquis de Montcalm decided to attack immediately because he wanted to engage the British before they had the opportunity to establish themselves on the plateau.1

While Montcalm’s decision to engage quickly has been criticized by historians—who suggest he should have waited for reinforcements from other French detachments in the area—his choice was driven by the urgent need to prevent the British from solidifying their position outside the city of Quebec. Ultimately, the French forces were defeated by the highly disciplined British regulars, and both Montcalm and the British commander, James Wolfe, were mortally wounded during the battle.12