PITCAIRN A WILDERNESS. 361 
Thus far of Pitcairn. In preparing the eleventh 
edition of this book, the author observed, that 
of Pitcairn's Island the reader might then take 
leave ; one of the fairest spots in the world 
having become a wilderness, and left in sole 
possession of a few head of cattle, 
" Whose right there was none to dispute." 
The view of Pitcairn appeared to have dissolved, 
and passed away; and it was added, with reference 
to the settlement of the people on Norfolk Island, 
" The remaining portions of our history will give 
further intelligence of the community, and unfold 
the new and strange, but not unpleasing scenes, 
which have opened before them." 
Strange to say, however, more will yet remain 
to be said of Pitcairn, as a place for the residence 
of human beings; two families, consisting, in the 
whole, of sixteen persons, having sailed thither, 
from Norfolk Island, in December, 1858, with 
the object of re-inhabiting their old home. 
The reader's attention is now called to a short 
notice of the original settlement, and present 
condition of Norfolk Island. 
