within two generations, the powells had become the dominant planters on the island. by 1715, gabriel powell's eldest son and namesake was reported as having more land, cattle and slaves than any other planter. he also had one of the worst records of cruelty and greed on the island. powell's grandson, george powell, became deputy governor of st helena in 1741 and acting governor in the following year, but a few years later fled the island in disgrace and to avoid trial for the misappropriation of company funds.