Led by a boat taking soundings,
Bounty is surrounded by curious Tahitians. A light puff in the early
morning calm fills the sails for moment as the ship ghosts into the bay. Taking
no chances on the reception. Bligh has order swivel guns mounted.
Tahiti had come to Britain's attention only twenty one years
earlier. With its naturally abundant environment, comfortable climate, and
charming peopleespecially its amorous womenit was a paradise to
European sailors by comparison with their life at sea and the harsh existence
most had known in England. After a stay of almost six months, most of the men
had formed relationships with Tahitian women, and many were reluctant to
leave.
With a thousand breadfruit plants loaded aboard, Bligh rounded
up his crew, flogged those who had attempted to desert, and departed.
Page 108, Voyagers