CHAPTER XIV 259

Admirable Work of the Palma Administration--Rise of Sordid Factionalism--José Miguel Gomez, Alfredo Zayas and Orestes Ferrara--Character of the Liberal Party, and of the Conservative Party--Conspiracy to Discredit an Election--An Abortive Insurrection--Pino Guerra's Intrigues--The Rebellion of José Miguel Gomez--President Palma's Unpreparedness and Incredulity--His Faith in the People--The Crisis--Suggestions of the American Consul-General--American Intervention sought--Ships and Troops Sent--Arrival of Mr. Taft--His Negotiations with the Rebels--His Yielding to Their Threats--Resignation of Estrada Palma--Mr. Taft's Pardon to the Rebels--Charles E. Magoon Made Provisional Governor--Estimate of President Palma and His Administration.