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The greatest support that Bolivar found at that time was that of General Piar's troops. In order to supplant Bolivar, Marino convoked a congress, which proved to be a farce, having but ten members. Marino solemnly resigned his place of second in command of the army and also resigned on behalf of Bolivar, without the slightest authorization from his chief.
He obtained, besides, great resources in cattle and horses, and it seemed possible that he might obtain the cooeperation of the plainsmen of the Apure Valley, the old followers of Boves, now followers of Jose Antonio Paez, a lover of personal liberty and a sworn foe of the Spanish regime. Piar's Death. Victory of Calabozo. Second Defeat at La Puerta. Submission of Paez
It was thought to be an indication that he feared his authority would not be sufficiently strong to carry him through the dangerous business of disciplining a man with so large a following as Paez. But this was not so. Bolivar had, upon the occasion of Piar's treachery, shown himself capable of decisive, if difficult action; but his preference was always for justice tempered with mercy.