ABSTRACT
From the top of Pitcairn one can see nothing in the world but the curving horizon where sea and sky meet in an endless circular rim of empty ocean. It must, at times, have imposed a sense of physical restriction and – with few other people, a tiny peer group, and virtually no choice in selecting one's spouse – similarly limited social, cultural and affective horizons. In October 1832 the schooner Maria arrived at Pitcairn Island from Tahiti. From her embarked Joshua Hill who informed the islanders that he had been sent by the British government to take charge of their affairs. Hill was more powerful than any leader had been because, to all eyes he represented British authority. He created a 'Commonwealth' with himself as President over a committee of seven 'Elders' who actively preferred him to Nobbs and of whom Edward Quintal was the chief.
