Upon his arrival at Maracaibo, he published
a proclamation, resolved to make every effort at persuasion before
resorting to the sword. Paez had declared that Bolivar was coming to
Venezuela as a citizen to help with his advice and experience to perfect
the work of reform. From Coro, the Libertador wrote him, attempting to
convince him that his conduct was criminal and making him flattering offers
if he would desist. When the people of Caracas learned that Bolivar was
approaching, a reaction took place, to such an extent that Paez became
frightened. Some of the population openly declared themselves in Bolivar's
favor.
On the last day of 1826, Bolivar's mind passed through a crisis in an
effort to decide what steps would best reduce Paez to obedience, and, if
possible, avoid bloodshed. On the following day, the first of 1827, he
issued a decree, by virtue of his extraordinary powers, granting an
armistice to all those who had taken part in the so-called reform movement,
and ordering that his authority as President of the Republic be recognized
and obeyed. He also offered to convoke a national convention. Paez
hesitated no longer; he acknowledged the authority of Bolivar as President,
annulled the decree convoking a congress, and ordered that the President
should be honored in all the towns from Coro to Caracas. From Puerto
Cabello, Bolivar issued a beautiful proclamation in which he said:
"There are no longer any enemies at home.... Today peace triumphs.
Pages:
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177