The enemy have been trying to bridge the river." "I suppose so," Jackson replied.

"I have ordered one of my brigades to come to the head of the bank as soon as they can be formed up, to help Barksdale if need be, but I don't want to take them down into the town.
It is commanded by all the hills on the opposite side, and we know they have brought up also all their artillery there." In a few minutes Captain Longmore returned.
"The enemy have thrown two pontoon bridges across, one above and one below the old railway bridge.

The Mississippians have driven them back once, but they are pushing on the work and will soon get it finished; but General Barksdale bids me report that with the force at his command he can repulse any attempt to cross." The light was now breaking in the east, but the roar of musketry continued under the canopy of fog.

Generals Lee, Longstreet, and others had now arrived upon the spot, and Vincent was surprised that no orders were issued for troops to re-enforce those under General Barksdale.
Presently the sun rose, and as it gained in power the fog slowly lifted, and it was seen that the two pontoon bridges were complete; but the fire of the Mississippians was so heavy that although the enemy several times attempted to cross they recoiled before it.

Suddenly a gun was fired from the opposite height, and at the signal more than a hundred pieces of artillery opened fire upon the town.