The King of Pirates (Hesperus Classics)

Following the success of Robinson Crusoe, Defoe composed a further tale of high adventure at sea. The result was this lesser–known work, an inspired and hugely enjoyable “first–hand” account of pirate life. In response to an alleged letter accusing him of the worst possible deeds, Captain Avery pens a reply seeking to exonerate himself from all such charges. He sees fit to provide a full account of life as captain of a pirate ship. Yet far from being the archetypal, murderous villain, his letters reveal him simply to be a lovable rogue—albeit one with something of a penchant for fine jewels. With a Foreword by Peter Ackroyd.