The author portrays Benjamin Purnell's relationship with the female followers as one of charismatic leadership and personal devotion. Purnell is depicted as a charming and charismatic figure, often seen in the company of beautiful girls dressed in white, and he is described as affectionate towards all his young female followers. This creates an image of a leader who is both revered and desired by his followers.
This relationship reveals a power dynamic within the colony that is heavily skewed towards Purnell. The female followers are portrayed as devoted and loyal, often to the point of blind faith. Their lives are centered around Purnell's teachings and his vision of a utopian future. The colony's rules, including restrictions on cutting hair, eating meat, and engaging in sexual relations, are largely dictated by Purnell, and the followers are expected to adhere to them without question. This illustrates a power structure where Purnell holds the ultimate authority, and his word is law within the colony.