The Treasure of Henry Morgan

Introduction

“The Treasure of Henry Morgan” is an unfinished story (2500 words fragment/draft) by Robert E. Howard that intertwines the grand tales of piracy with a personal quest rooted in familial legacy. Set in the bustling town of Charlestown in 1718, the narrative revolves around Stephen Morgan, the grandson of the legendary pirate Sir Henry Morgan. As Stephen navigates the treacherous waters of his grandfather’s past, he encounters a mysterious old sailor with secrets that could change his life forever. 

Howard also made a list of names/characters for the draft.

Summary

The story opens on a lively day in Charlestown, 1718, a hub of trade and activity frequented by pirates and traders alike. The protagonist, Stephen Morgan, encounters various characters, including boisterous pirates openly boasting of their exploits. Amidst this, a dispute erupts outside a tavern, resulting in an old sailor being thrown out. Stephen intervenes, settling the dispute by paying the sailor’s tab.

The old sailor, intrigued by Stephen’s act of kindness, decides to accompany him. As they walk, the sailor shares his grievances about the rough treatment he received and laments the loss of the old days when pirates like him could enjoy a drink without hassle. He hints at his past life of adventure and his association with notable pirates, including Stephen’s grandfather, Sir Henry Morgan.

The sailor, revealing more about himself and his past, recognizes Stephen’s last name and becomes excited. He then confides in Stephen that he sailed with Sir Henry Morgan and knows of a hidden treasure. Eager to discuss further in private, they find a secluded spot at an old, deserted dock.

Seated on the wharf, the sailor divulges that he was part of Sir Henry Morgan’s crew during the infamous raid on Panama and subsequent adventures. He describes how, after a successful looting, internal conflicts and mutiny prompted Morgan to escape with the majority of the treasure, leaving many of his crew behind. The sailor reveals that he and Morgan had hidden a significant portion of the treasure on a remote island during an escape from a British man-of-war.

Motivated by this tale and the promise of wealth, Stephen becomes intrigued by the possibility of retrieving his grandfather’s treasure. The sailor proposes a partnership, and Stephen, driven by both the lure of adventure and a desire to connect with his grandfather’s legacy, agrees.

The story ends with them planning their next moves to locate and retrieve the hidden treasure, setting the stage for an adventure that remains untold due to the story being unfinished.

Characters

  • Stephen Morgan – The protagonist, a young man and the grandson of Sir Henry Morgan. He is intrigued by the tales of his grandfather and drawn into the search for the hidden treasure.
  • The Old Sailor – A mysterious and seasoned former pirate who sailed with Sir Henry Morgan. He knows the location of a hidden treasure and seeks Stephen’s help to retrieve it.
  • Simon Baddlesmere – The innkeeper involved in the initial dispute with the old sailor. His confrontation with the sailor introduces the themes of change and conflict within the pirate community in Charlestown.
  • Various Pirates and Townsfolk – Characters that add to the setting of Charlestown, illustrating the town’s bustling, diverse, and sometimes lawless nature.

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