Revised Jun 21 2021
One of the most important results, however, of this seemingly casual visit was, that the real position and prospects of the community became obvious to impartial judges, and were pointed out to the inhabitants themselves. Previously to his departure from Pitcairn, the Baron de Thierry addressed them on their helpless situation. He reminded them of the uncertainty attending the arrival of vessels on their shores, and called their attention to the scarcity of water, that great requisite, which the next landslip might cut off altogether. But the chief wants which he apprehended, especially amidst an increasing population, were those of food and clothing. "Whichever way I look," said he, "in whatever light I view your case, I see nothing left for you but removal, and that, too, as speedily as possible." Writing to them from Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, in June, 1852, he advised them to make an application to the Colonial Secretary for their transfer to Norfolk Island, in the event of the removal of the convicts.