These little affairs, however, contributed but very little to the grand result.

They annoyed, it is true, but any damage thus done to a railroad by any cavalry expedition is soon repaired.
Sherman made preparations for a repetition of his tactics; that is, for a flank movement with as large a force as could be got together to some point in the enemy's rear.

Sherman commenced this last movement on the 25th of August, and on the 1st of September was well up towards the railroad twenty miles south of Atlanta.

Here he found Hardee intrenched, ready to meet him.

A battle ensued, but he was unable to drive Hardee away before night set in.