On the night after crossing the line the news of the fall of Fort Donelson was received.
Soon after entering Arkansas on his retreat, General Price met General McCulloch moving northward to join him.

With their forces united, they determined on making a stand against General Curtis, and, accordingly, halted near Sugar Creek.

A little skirmish ensued, in which the Rebels gave way, the loss on either side being trifling.

They did not stop until they reached Fayetteville.

Their halt at that point was very brief.
At Cross Hollows, in Benton County, Arkansas, about two miles from the main road, there is one of the finest springs in the Southwest.