Francisco Gregorio Billini, inaugurated president on September…

Francisco Gregorio Billini, inaugurated president on September 1, 1884, resists Heureaux's efforts to manipulate him.

Thus denied de facto rule, Heureaux undermines Billini by spreading rumors to the effect that the president has decreed a political amnesty so that he can conspire with ex-president Cesareo Guillermo Bastardo (February 27-December 6, 1879) against Luperón's leadership of the Blues.

These rumors precipitate a governmental crisis that results in Billini's resignation on May 16, 1885.

Vice President Alejandro Woss y Gil succeeds Billini.

Heureaux assumes a more prominent role under the new government.

A number of his adherents are included in the cabinet, and the general himself assumes command of the national army in order to stem a rebellion led by Guillermo.

The latter's death removes another potential rival for power and further endears Heureaux to Luperón, a longtime enemy of Guillermo.