Abstract: A paper making process with improved retention and binding of fillers is characterized by the use of an amphoteric mucous compound as binder. The preferred compound is the reaction product between cationic starch (CS) of low charge density and a polysaccharide acid such as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). This compound has amphoteric and mucous character and should be used for enveloping fillers, while in a unique transient structure. This structure is characterized by filler particles being enclosed and finely distributed in droplets of the highly hydrated but substantially water-insoluble mucous compound. According to the invention this transient structure should further be reorganized to a less hydrated and more resistant gel structure, still enclosing the filler. This gel structure can stand the draining forces on a paper machine wire screen. This structural reorganization is achieved by reaction with colloidal particles, especially of polyaluminum-oxy-citrate compounds.