The Attack

General Smith divided his force into four battalions and launched his attack as seen above in the purple arrows.  His forces had breached the "Dimmock Line" and due to the scarity of Confederate troops on his front  it was said that once past the fortifications, " He held the city's fate in his hands."  However, instread of  moving ahead to take the city of Petersburg,  he dug in for the night, affording the Confederate forces sufficient time to arrive and spoil his opportunity.