McPherson remained there during the 8th, while McClernand moved to Big Sandy and Sherman marched from Grand Gulf to Hankinson's ferry.

The 9th, McPherson moved to a point within a few miles west of Utica; McClernand and Sherman remained where they were.

On the 10th McPherson moved to Utica, Sherman to Big Sandy; McClernand was still at Big Sandy.

The 11th, McClernand was at Five Mile Creek; Sherman at Auburn; McPherson five miles advanced from Utica.

May 12th, McClernand was at Fourteen Mile Creek; Sherman at Fourteen Mile Creek; McPherson at Raymond after a battle.
After McPherson crossed the Big Black at Hankinson's ferry Vicksburg could have been approached and besieged by the south side.