blage of the people on the Queen's birthday has been depicted by a poet of their own, in one of whose national songs the following stanzas produce a pleasing sketch:Ha! that flash yon grove illuming, Long impervious to the sun; Now the quick report comes booming From the ocean-rescued gun. Now the bell is gaily ringing, Where yon white-robed train is seen ;* GOD PRESERVE OUR GRACIOUS QUEEN! In the year 1849, a Frenchman, of a military air, and partly military costume, arriving, with some other travellers, from the brig Fanny, was courteously received by the islanders. With the politeness characteristic of his countrymen, he soon engaged in conversation with Mr. Nobbs, and, in imperfect English, inquired, Whether the people of Pitcairn had heard of Prince Louis Napoleon, and the French Republic? and, as the next question, Would they enlist themselves under it? Suiting the action to the word, he took a paper for signatures from his pocket. He was briefly answered by Mr. Nobbs's * Mr. Nobbs here alludes to the Tappa dresses. quietly pointing to the English flag, which waved in the wind over their heads; "The flag that brav'd, a thousand years, The battle and the breeze!" The Pastor then assured him, that they knew all about Louis Napoleon, and the French Republic; but that all the people on the island were faithful subjects of Victoria, Queen of England. The Frenchman again bowed, begged pardon, returned the paper to his pocket, and explained, that "he did not know Pitcairn was a colony." Though it is not a colony, it is entirely English; and such a loyal and united community, as a whole, cannot be found in any of the colonies or dependencies of the British empire. The English union-jack is hoisted on all grand occasions; and to England the people would look for protection, should any attempt be made to disturb their position. But who would think of disturbing so inoffensive and so poor a settlement? Their leading man is a magistrate, who is elected on the first of January every year by a general vote of males and females who have attained the age of eighteen years. Married persons, both males and females, though they may be under that age, are entitled to vote. Two councillors are chosen at the same time, one elected by the magistrate, the other by the people. When there is any dispute to be settled, which cannot well be decided by the magistrate, or by the magistrate and councillors combined, a jury of seven is called, to whom the matter is referred. Then should the matter not be satisfactorily arranged, it stands over until the arrival of a British man-of-war; and there is no appeal against the Captain's decision. During the interval the matter drops, and no ill-feeling remains. It is a principle with them, never to let the sun go down upon their wrath. What an example is conveyed in the practical adherence to this scriptural rule! How simple and effectual a mode of adjusting differences, and preventing the growth of all uncharitableness! "The wise will let their anger cool, At least before 'tis night; But in the bosom of a fool It burns till morning-light." |