Scipio, considering that Syphax and the Carthaginians could make no further efforts, gave his whole attention to the siege of Utica, and was now bringing up his engines to the walls, when he was diverted from his purpose by a report of the renewal of the war; and, leaving small forces merely to keep up the appearance of a siege by sea and land, he set out himself with the main strength of his army to meet the enemy.

At first he took up his position on an eminence about five miles distant from the king's camp.

The next day, coming down with his cavalry into a place called the great plains, which lay at the foot of that eminence, he spent the day in advancing up to the outposts of the enemy, and provoking them by skirmishing attacks.

During the ensuing two days, irregular excursions were made by both sides alternately, but nothing worthy of notice was achieved.

On the fourth day, both sides came down in battle-array.