Morillo concentrated his army in Calabozo, the center of the plains,
intending to attack Paez in Apure, and other patriots who operated to the
south under Zaraza. Bolivar sent General Pedro Leon Torres to support the
latter, but they were defeated in the bloody battle of La Hogaza.
Bolivar began his movement to join Paez, full of confidence in spite of the
check at La Hogaza. It was now 1818. He was wont to say "This year will see
the end of the Spanish power in Venezuela." His faith had more foundation
than during his exile and the earlier expeditions, when, with a handful
of men, he had started to fight against the great armies organized by the
Spanish government. Public opinion was now beginning to swing towards him;
he had Paez and his plainsmen on his side and he counted on the great
resources of Guayana.
His activity was astonishing. In a month and a half, he and his men
traveled 900 miles to join Paez. As they advanced, his forces were being
disciplined, organized, strengthened and made ready to fight. Owing to his
personal prestige, and his unbelievable daring, Paez was of inestimable
value. On one occasion he promised Bolivar to have boats at a certain place
so that the army could cross the Apure River. When Bolivar arrived at the
point in question with the army, he found that there were no boats ready.
When Paez was questioned by the Libertador, he replied:
"Oh, yes, Sir, I am counting on the boats."
"But where are they?" Bolivar asked.
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