Pirate Isle

By Greg Moran

On the day of Ethan Carter’s execution for a past crime, he is suddenly granted a reprieve when Catherine Albright, the governor’s niece, is suddenly kidnapped by an evil pirate named Barnaby. The governor offers him a choice: Save Catherine or continue with the execution. Ethan chooses the former, and he and his crew embark on an exciting adventure to the mysterious Pirate Isle. A large island filled with cutthroats and criminals, Pirate Isle proves to be a place filled with mystery and danger. Ethan and his crew endure many hardships from both man and nature on their quest, which ultimately leads up to a thrilling showdown between Ethan and Barnaby. The story is packed with excitement and adventure from beginning to end.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Greg Moran
• Release date: Apr 7, 2011
• ISBN: 9781458128324

Greg Moran

I was born and raised in northeastern Pennsylvania. Attended Penn State University and Widener University School of Law. I currently work as a lawyer for GEICO. Writing has been a passion of mine for several years. All of my work to date is adventure fiction. My influences have been Jules Verne, Robert Louis Stevenson, Arthur Friel, H.G. Wells, and other classic adventure writers. Contact me at [e-mail].

Book preview

Prologue

A ship off the port side!

Upon hearing the cry from the watch posted in the crow’s nest, Captain James Albright immediately put his spyglass to his eye. He slowly swept his gaze across the vast ocean. At first he saw nothing, but then a white speck came into view on the horizon where the deep blue water met the cloudless turquoise sky. The mainsail of a ship! And it was heading toward them!

It’s them! Samuel Tillweather, the ship’s rugged, blond-haired first mate exclaimed. We need to increase our speed!

We do indeed, the captain replied grimly.

With that, he began barking out orders to his crew. For the next several minutes, the twenty hardened sailors that made up the crew of the schooner Eleanor scurried about the decks hoisting sails and hauling lines. Meanwhile, Captain Albright stood behind the helm urging his men to move faster.

How do you think they found us? Tillweather inquired of the captain.

I’m not sure, Albright answered. At this point though, it doesn’t matter. We have to outrun her. If they manage to catch us, it’s all over. Once they get what they’re after, they’ll kill us all!

With all the sails hoisted, the Eleanor began to pick up speed. A stiff breeze filled the massive squares of canvas, pushing the craft along. It was not long before the schooner was speeding through the water, creating a foaming wake behind her. So long as the wind remained steady, she would continue to plough through the two foot swells in an effort to outrun the pursuing craft.

It was not to be, however. The pursuing craft was gaining on them. Captain Albright’s anxiety grew as the white speck on the horizon slowly grew into the outline of a ship. In a few hours time, they would be within cannon range!

They’re gaining! the watch called down from the crow’s nest. Can’t we go any faster?

The captain remained silent. In fact, they could not go any faster. His crew had managed to coax every knot that they could out of the Eleanor. Evidently the pursuing ship was larger. And faster.

What should we do? Tillweather asked, pacing the deck behind Albright. Once they catch us, we’re sitting ducks! A ship that size will have twice the number of canon as we do! He ran a hand through his shaggy hair.

I know, the captain replied. We’ll never survive a broadside. We’ll just have to try to reach land before they come within range. He spoke with a confident tone. Inside, however, his confidence was all but gone. A bead of sweat dripped down his ruddy cheek, losing itself in his graying beard. For a brief moment, a flicker of fear showed in his bright blue eyes. It was not for himself that he feared, but for his crew and, more importantly, his passenger below.

During the next two hours, the Eleanor flew through the water. The crew scurried nervously about adjusting the sails to compensate for the shifting breeze. Their work was for naught though. The pursuing ship grew larger and larger as each minute passed. Meanwhile, the captain and crew grew more and more tense.

Won’t be much longer before they’re within canon range, Tillweather commented in an agitated tone.

Less than an hour, I’d say, Albright responded, raising the spyglass to his eye. He could clearly make out the enemy craft now. It was a frigate about twice the size of the Eleanor. Emblazoned across its bow was the name Raider. Dozens of small figures could be seen scurrying about the decks. What was most frightening, however, was the flag fluttering atop the mainmast. It was solid black with a skull and crossbones!

The mood aboard the schooner was as tense as could be. As the frigate grew closer and closer, the sailors sensed that they were in a no win situation. Clearly, they could not outrun their pursuers, and they knew they stood no chance against an attack. They were outmanned and outgunned.

It was not long before a young crewmen named Jacob Edwards timidly approached the captain. Maybe we should raise the white flag, he suggested in a low voice.

Raise the white flag! the captain bellowed. Absolutely not! You think we’ll survive by surrendering? You see those men on that ship? He pointed toward the frigate. They’re pirates! They’ll kill every last one of us whether we surrender or not! Our only chance is to reach land before they catch us!

Edwards’ face went white.

Back to your post! Tillweather commanded, pushing the frightened young sailor away.

Should we be worried about a mutiny? the captain asked, gazing across the deck at the rest of the crew.

I don’t think so, sir, Tillweather responded. Most of those men are tough sailors and fiercely loyal to you. Edwards is just young. Never been in this kind of situation before.

Albright nodded.

Land ho! The voice of the watch echoed through the air.

Instantly, the spyglass was up to the captain’s eye. Directly ahead, he could just make out a strip of green on the horizon. The coast was only a few miles away! Would they make it before the frigate came within firing range, however? Albright was not sure.

Each minute passed with agonizing slowness. The Eleanor flew through the water, but yet it seemed as if the land was not getting any nearer. Such was not the case with the frigate! It came closer and closer!

Soon, the Raider was close enough that the voices of its crew could be heard. This sent the Eleanor’s crew in a frenzy. They raced about, trying futilely to coax another few knots out of her.

Captain Albright knew that the crew’s actions were in vain, however. The coastline was still too far away. They would never make it before the frigate came within firing range. He decided to let them try, however. He didn’t want them to know that it was over until the last possible second.

We’ll never make it, Tillweather commented quietly, giving voice to Albright’s thoughts.

I know, Albright replied, running a hand over a one-foot-long cylindrical object hanging from his belt. Retrieve Catherine from her cabin.

Tillweather gave the captain a questioning look.

Now! Albright commanded, his eyes flashing. And ready the canon!

* * * *

Catherine Albright was awakened by the sound of her cabin door being thrown open. Rubbing her bright blue eyes, she saw Samuel Tillweather standing in the doorway. His chest was heaving. He was scared. This much was plain, even to a ten year old girl.

Your father needs you topside, Tillweather declared in as gentle a voice as he could muster.

Why? Catherine asked, sitting up. Her dark, curly hair tumbled down onto her shoulders. Pillow creases could still be seen on her freckled cheeks.

I don’t have time to explain, Tillweather replied with a forced smile. Come. We have to hurry!

Wordlessly, Catherine climbed out of bed and followed Tillweather through the narrow passageways of the schooner. Kerosene lanterns hung on nails intermittently along the walls providing a flickering glow. They soon reached a steep set of stairs and began climbing. A few moments later, they stepped out onto the main deck.

Catherine squinted in the bright morning sunshine. It took her eyes a few seconds to adjust. A steady breeze whipped about her, refreshing after the oppressive atmosphere below. She followed Tillweather up another set of stairs to the helm where her father was standing. Upon seeing her, he smiled.

Despite her father’s smile, Catherine could tell something was wrong. There was a constant flicker of fear in his eyes. This was unusual. James Albright was fearless. A brave, yet caring father.

Catherine, he said urgently, giving her a quick embrace. I need your help.

What is it, father? she asked.

Before he could answer, however, she spotted the frigate bearing down on them. The Jolly Roger was clearly visible, fluttering in the wind. The ports on the gun deck were being thrown open. Canon barrels could be seen poking out. She shivered despite the warm air. A terrible feeling came over her.

I cannot lie to you, her father said, kneeling down so that his face was even with hers. We are in a terrible situation. There is a chance that I won’t make it through this.

No! Catherine cried, tears forming in her eyes.

I need you to be brave, my dear. I’m counting on you. He gently wiped a tear from her cheek.

Catherine took a deep breath. She loved her father and didn’t want to let him down. What do you need me to do? she asked.

Wordlessly, Albright grabbed the cylinder that was attached to his belt. It was made of leather with a battered iron cap, which he unscrewed. Reaching inside with two fingers, he pulled out an old, worn parchment, which had been rolled up. He handed it to her. This, he said. Is what they’re after. Whatever happens, they mustn’t get it. Our family has protected this secret for three generations. I hadn’t planned on passing it on to you so soon, but I have little choice now.

What is it? Catherine asked.

Remember the bedtime story I used to tell you? It wasn’t just a story. It’s true. This is the map.

Catherine knew exactly what her father was talking about. From about the time she was five years old, he would often tell her stories to help her fall asleep. On many occasions, he’d tell one particular story, which involved a map. She’d always believed that it was just a story. But it wasn’t! The map was real!

You must protect this map no matter what happens, her father told her. It can’t fall into the wrong…

The rest of Albright’s statement was drowned out by the deafening blast of the Raider’s canon! A barrage of cannonballs whistled through the air, splashing down into the water alarmingly close! Geysers of spray shot up, sending droplets raining down onto the deck of the Eleanor.

Catherine screamed. She’d never been so frightened in all her life. Instinctively, she clung to her father for protection. It was with great effort that he managed to extricate himself from her grasp. Rising, he turned to Tillweather. Take her in the skiff and head for shore as quickly as you can. Take her to Port Stevenson. My brother is the Governor there. He’ll watch over her.

But Captain… Tillweather protested.

That’s an order! Albright practically screamed. Go! Now!

With that, Tillweather grabbed Catherine’s arm and began pulling her across the deck. She struggled to break free from his grip. Tears now flowed freely down her face. She didn’t want to leave her father’s side.

Captain Albright stood there, motionless as she was led away. I love you, Catherine! he called after her. Then to Tillweather, Keep her safe!

Suddenly, another deafening blast rocked the air as the frigate fired a second volley. They made it to the skiff on the far side of the deck just as a cannonball struck the deck! Splinters of wood flew in all directions. Catherine felt herself being thrown into the skiff. Tilllweather dove on top of her, protecting her from the deadly, flying debris.

The next thing she knew, she felt the skiff being shoved over the side of the schooner. It smacked the water with a jolt and a splash. A few moments later, Tillweather jumped in causing it to rock precariously. Another deafening boom as the Eleanor fired her canon at the invading pirates.

Hey! a voice suddenly called out over the noise. Wait for me! I’m coming with you!

Catherine looked up to see a youthful looking sailor leaning over the railing of the Eleanor. He wore a frightened look on his face. A moment later, he started climbing over the railing.

Edwards! Tillweather growled angrily. Get back to your post! You’ll not abandon ship without the captain’s permission!

With that, he grabbed the oars and began rowing as fast as he could toward the distant shore. Catherine sat in the front, sobbing uncontrollably. Clutched in her hand was the map her father had given her.

* * * *

A fourth blast echoed over the water. Three of the Raider’s cannonballs hit their target. The first struck the mainmast halfway up, shattering it like balsawood. The upper half toppled down onto the deck. Crewmen ran in all directions. Two of them failed to make it out of the way. The thick, wooden mast crushed them instantly!

The second shot struck the side of the Eleanor several feet above the waterline. A jagged hole appeared in the wooden hull. The third shot smashed through the railing, struck the deck and rolled across with lightening speed. An unfortunate crewman happened to be in its path. The ball smashed his ankle, splintering the bone. The man cried out in pain and went down. The ball, meanwhile, crashed through the opposite railing and disappeared into the sea.

Captain Albright stood at the helm watching the scene unfold. A pained expression covered his face as he saw his ship and crew being destroyed before his very eyes. He knew it was over even as his own crew sent another volley of cannon shot toward the frigate. Two of the balls hit their target, but did relatively little damage.

Heave to! the captain bellowed. It’s over! We’ll never make it!

Despite their panic, the well-disciplined crew took immediate action. Working together, they hauled in the sails. The Eleanor lost speed quickly. Within a few minutes, it was floating in the waves.

Edwards! Albright called, scanning the deck for the crewman. He spotted him cowering near the mainmast. Edwards! he called again. Raise the white flag!

Edwards looked up at the captain and nodded. A look of relief flooded the young man’s face. Without wasting a second, he tore off the white shirt he was wearing, tied it to one of the lines that ran up the mast, and hauled it up for all to see.

The frigate eased alongside the Eleanor. Several hard-looking pirates threw grappling hooks onto her deck. The curved iron pieces caught on the railings. The ships were now tied together.

Next, came a long wooden plank used to span the space between the ships. More than a dozen pirates then dashed down the improvised gangway, each carrying a pistol. They fanned out over the Eleanor’s deck. Within a few minutes, they successfully herded the crew into a group.

Captain Albright watched this with a hardened look on his face. He hated to see his ship, and more importantly, his crew treated like this. There was nothing he could do, however. The only weapon he had on him was a dagger tucked into his belt. Surely, this was no match for so many loaded pistols!

Well, well, well, a gruff voice broke the tense silence. Looks like I finally found ye, captain.

Looking to his left, Albright saw an unwelcome figure walking down the gangway from the frigate. It was Captain Richard Barnaby, the notorious pirate, wanted in many ports for unspeakable crimes. His dark brown, almost black eyes roamed the Eleanor’s deck, enjoying the scene. His lips, hidden beneath a thick, black beard, broke into a smile, showing off his crooked, yellow teeth. Dressed in a tattered blue sailor’s coat, torn stockings, and a black tri-corner hat, the man looked every bit like the pirate that he was. He even had a scar above his left eye. A pirate’s trademark.

I don’t know how ye slipped away back in Seaport, Barnaby continued. But me and me crew spent three weeks lookin’ for ye. But ye won’t be slippin’ away this time. At least not before I get that map. Now where is it?

Albright said nothing. The events that had brought him here began to flash through his mind. It had all started when his wife, Anne, passed away a few months ago. He’d become depressed after she died. He found himself spending a good deal of time in bars, getting drunk. One night, he got exceptionally drunk, and began talking loudly about the map. Unbeknownst to him, one of Captain Barnaby’s crew happened to be in the bar, and overheard him.

A few weeks later, Barnaby himself showed up on his doorstep, offering to buy the map from him. Albright refused, claiming the map did not exist. Clearly, Barnaby did not believe him. A few nights later, one of Albright’s close friends was found dead! A message was scrawled on his chest in blood! It read: Give us the map!

It was at this point that Albright knew his life was in danger. The very next night, he took his daughter down to the docks. He met briefly with Tillweather, telling him to get the crew together. Within a few hours, they were sailing away from Seaport. Albright’s plan was to sail to Port Stevenson, where his brother was Governor. Surely, his brother could protect them!

Nothin’ to say, eh? Barnaby asked. Maybe this’ll loosen yer tongue! With that, he signaled one of his crew. The pirate aimed his pistol at the nearest sailor and fired! The sailor fell heavily to the deck in a heap! A growing pool of blood spread across the deck. The rest of Albright’s crew stared wide-eyed.

Albright’s eyes flashed with hatred. Still, he said nothing. He simply couldn’t let Barnaby get his hands on that map. He had to buy as much time as possible so that Catherine and Tillweather could get to shore.

All right, Barnaby said. Since ye won’t tell me where it is, maybe one o’ yer crew will. He turned to the group of sailors held captive by his men. I’ll kill each o’ ye one by one until someone tells me where the map is. The one who talks gets to live.

With that, he walked over to the nearest sailor. Ye got anythin’ to say?

The sailor, named Thompson, boldly shook his head. You’ll get nothing from me, he declared.

In a lightening fast movement, Barnaby whipped out a dagger from his belt and swung it in an arc toward Thompson. The razor sharp blade sliced a six inch gash across the man’s midsection. A bright line of crimson appeared as the wound started to bleed profusely. Barnaby then grabbed Thompson by the hair and pulled him over to the railing. With a forceful shove, he sent the sailor over the side and into the water!

Won’t be long before the sharks get here, Barnaby announced with a cruel smile. A bad way to go.

A brutal silence reigned for the next several minutes. The air was thick with suspense. Then, all of a sudden a loud splashing could be heard from below. Next came a bloodcurdling scream as Thompson was devoured by sharks! The scream soon melted into a gurgling sound, which quickly died away. Silence returned.

Who’s next? Barnaby asked, strolling back over to the captive sailors.

He signaled his crew to pick someone. Two of the pirates randomly chose a sailor, named Moran, and dragged him over. The man struggled, but was no match against the muscular pirates.

Where’s the map? Barnaby asked.

In response, Moran spat in the pirate’s face!

Slowly, Barnaby wiped his cheek. The dagger gleamed in his hand. He hefted it as if deciding whether or not to use it. He was clearly enjoying this. Suddenly, he swung his arm back, preparing to slash it across Moran’s midsection!

Wait! a voice suddenly yelled from amongst the captive sailors. I’ll tell you what you want to know!

Barnaby froze, his arm high in the air. Come forward, he said, lowering the dagger.

The crowd parted as a figure pushed through. It was Edwards!

Albright, who had been watching the scene with a heavy heart, sighed. Of course it was Edwards! He was the one who had suggested they surrender earlier that day. Then, he’d tried to abandon ship with Tillweather and Catherine. Now, here he was selling them all out.

What’s yer name? Barnaby asked, sizing up the young sailor.

Edwards, he responded in a shaky voice.

Well, what do ye have to say?

Edwards swallowed hard. I’ll tell you where the map is if you let all of us go.

Ah, ye wanna make a bargain, do ye? Barnaby responded, scratching his chin with the dagger. Interestin’.

A bead of sweat rolled down Edwards’ forehead. Will you let us go? he asked.

Aye, I’ll let ye go, Barnaby answered after a moment’s thought. Now, where is it?

The captain gave it to his daughter. She and the first mate took off in a skiff a short time ago. They’re headed for shore as we speak.

Albright fumed. Edwards had no idea what he’d just done!

So, ye smuggled it off the ship, eh? Barnaby asked, turning toward Albright. Clever.

I held up my end of the bargain, Edwards interrupted timidly. Now, let us go.

Barnaby turned back and stared at the brash young sailor standing before him. A few seconds later, he signaled to two of his men. They immediately snapped into action and seized Edwards.

He’s comin’ with us, Barnaby announced just before he whirled around and slashed Moran’s throat with his dagger! Tie the others up, and burn the ship down to the water, he then ordered as Moran crumpled to the deck. With that, he turned and headed for the gangway.

You can’t do that! Edwards cried, struggling as he was dragged onto the Raider. We had a deal!

Albright lowered his eyes. He knew all along that this would happen. Captain Barnaby was a ruthless man who would break a deal in a second if it suited him. Now, not only were they all going to die, but Barnaby also knew where the map was! He only hoped that he’d bought enough time for Catherine and Tillweather to get ashore and disappear before Barnaby and his pirates caught up to them!

* * * *

The skiff rode the surf to the shore before scraping its bottom against the gravel that made up the beach. Tillweather jumped out into the ankle deep water. He scooped up Catherine in his arms and quickly headed toward the tree line ahead.

Look! Catherine suddenly exclaimed, pointing back out to sea.

Tillweather stopped and turned around. What he saw nearly made him sick. Thick black smoke rose up into the sky at the spot where the Eleanor lay! He could just barely make out the red glow of flickering flames coming from the burning ship! What was even worse was the fact that the pirate’s ship was now heading directly for the shore! For them!

What’s happening? Catherine asked.

Tillweather took a deep breath. I’m afraid they set our ship on fire, he explained.

But what about my father? she said, tears once again forming in her eyes.

I don’t know, Tillweather answered sadly. But we need to go. They’re coming this way.

With Catherine still cradled in his arms, Tillweather crossed the gravelly beach and entered the thick forest that ran along its edge. He traveled as fast as he could, shouldering his way through the undergrowth and low-hanging branches.

Where are we going? Catherine managed to ask between sobs.

There’s a town called Newberg a few miles west of here. We’ll head there for now, then make our way to Port Stevenson in a day or so.

The trip to Newberg was not an easy one. The thick forest slowed their progress considerably. Every few minutes, Tillweather would stop and listen for sounds of pursuit. At one point, he swore he heard voices from behind. This spurred him onward even faster than before.

Finally, after nearly three miles, Tillweather and Catherine emerged from the forest. They found themselves in a large field that sloped gently downward. At the bottom of the slope, about a half mile away was Newberg. Sheltered in a small cove, it consisted of a port with several docks, a commercial district complete with a grocer, a bank, a blacksmith, a livery, a hotel, and several small shops, and a number of one and two story clapboard houses. Cobblestone streets crisscrossed the town at right angles.

Tillweather and Catherine headed into town just as the sun was beginning to set. They wandered about until they found the hotel on one of the main thoroughfares. It was a three-story brick structure surrounded on three sides by narrow alleys.

Deciding to spend the night, Tillweather reserved one of the vacant rooms on the third floor. He then went to the grocer across the street and purchased some food. That evening, he and Catherine enjoyed a decent meal before turning in.

Around midnight, Tillweather awoke. He’d heard something. At first, he didn’t know what it was that had awakened him, but then he heard it again. It was the sound of Catherine’s voice. She was calling for her father.

With a heavy heart, he climbed out of bed and went over to comfort her. He held the young girl in his arms until she finally fell back asleep. It was not long before he slipped into unconsciousness as well.

Just before dawn, he was awakened again. Thinking it was Catherine, he was surprised when he looked down to find that she was still asleep. Something else had awakened him.

A minute or so later, he heard voices outside in the street below. Climbing quietly out of bed, so as not to awaken Catherine, he crept over to the window. He could just make out two figures standing outside the grocer’s shop. Easing the window open a few inches, he listened.

You seen a man and a young girl come ‘round lately? a gruff voice asked.

Actually, I have, another man’s voice responded. I saw them just before dark yesterday. The man came into my shop and purchased some food.

Where are they now?

I’m not sure. But you could check the hotel right across the street.

Tillweather didn’t wait to hear any more. The pirates had found them! That much was clear. They needed to get out of there immediately!

After shaking Catherine awake, he pulled her out of bed and rushed her out into the hall. Still groggy, she complained. Tillweather hardly paid any attention, however. He had other things to worry about. Like how to get out of the hotel without being seen.

The building had two stairwells, one in the back and one in the front. Tillweather and Catherine headed toward the front first. They were just about to descend when they heard heavy footsteps coming up!

Turning around, they rushed down the hall toward the back stairwell. Fortunately, this one was empty. They quietly hurried down the steps. At the bottom, they were confronted by a locked door that most likely led out into the rear alley. Suddenly, they heard footsteps on the stairs above! A voice called out!

Find ‘em yet?

Not yet! another voice replied.

They gotta be in here somewhere! The guy at the desk said they checked in last night! the first voice declared.

Panic began to set in! They had to get out of there! The footsteps on the stairs were getting closer. Using his shoulder, Tillweather pushed against the door. Fortunately, it wasn’t very strong and gave way easily.

He and Catherine crept out into the alley. The darkness was