Christian, in fact, had very soon perceived that his authority was on the wane, and that no peaceful establishment was likely to be accomplished at Toobouai; he therefore held a consultation as to what would be the most advisable step to take.

After much angry discussion, it was at length determined that Toobouai should be abandoned; that the ship should once more be taken to Otaheite; and that those who might choose to go on shore there might do so, and those who preferred to remain in the ship might proceed in her to whatever place they should agree upon among themselves.
In consequence of this determination they sailed from Toobouai on the 15th, and arrived at Matavai Bay on the 20th September, 1789.

Here sixteen of the mutineers were put on shore, at their own request, fourteen of whom were received on board the _Pandora_, and two of them, as before mentioned, were murdered on the island.

The remaining nine agreed to continue in the _Bounty_.

The small arms, powder, canvas, and the small stores belonging to the ship, were equally divided among the whole crew.