Smith's divisions by the southernmost of these roads, and Osterhaus and Carr by the middle road.

Orders were to move cautiously with skirmishers to the front to feel for the enemy.
Smith's division on the most southern road was the first to encounter the enemy's pickets, who were speedily driven in.

Osterhaus, on the middle road, hearing the firing, pushed his skirmishers forward, found the enemy's pickets and forced them back to the main line.

About the same time Hovey encountered the enemy on the northern or direct wagon road from Jackson to Vicksburg.

McPherson was hastening up to join Hovey, but was embarrassed by Hovey's trains occupying the roads.