Slocum now formed on the right, with his left resting on the plank road, and his right on high ground which commanded the country around.

Altogether the general line was a good one; for there were large open spaces where the artillery could move and manoeuvre, and the army were almost out of the thickets.

The reserves could have struggled through those in the rear, and have filled the gaps, so that there is no reason to suppose our forces could have not continued to advance, or at all events have held the position, which, from its elevation and the other advantages I have stated, was an important one, especially as the column on the river road was in sight of Banks' Ford, which it could have seized and held, or have struck the right flank of the enemy with great effect.

The troops had come out to obtain possession of Banks' Ford, and all the surplus artillery was waiting there.

To retreat without making any adequate effort to carry out his plans made the General appear timid, and had a bad effect on the morale of the army.