There was constant skirmishing and fighting between the cavalry of the two armies, but this did not retard the advance of the infantry.

Four days, also, were lost in making complete the destruction of the most important railroads south of Columbia; there was also some delay caused by the high water, and the destruction of the bridges on the line of the road.

A formidable river had to be crossed near Columbia, and that in the face of a small garrison under General Wade Hampton.

There was but little delay, however, further than that caused by high water in the stream.

Hampton left as Sherman approached, and the city was found to be on fire.
There has since been a great deal of acrimony displayed in discussions of the question as to who set Columbia on fire.