Orginally published : Edinburgh : Hodge, l930.

Based on official admiralty records, this volume offers an astonishing glimpse into the world of 17th-century piracy, the English judicial system, and the dialogue from the actual trial.

A difficult mission, a mutinous crew, treacherous waters, and merchant ships bearing cargoes of gold, silk, diamonds and rubies...all awaited Captain William Kidd as he found himself caught up in the doomed voyage of the Adventure Galley. But did this well-respected seaman, familiar to New Yorkers and Londoners alike as a prosperous, honest and experienced skipper, understand exactly what he was to do? After being chosen by King William's representative to undertake this secret expedition, Captain Kidd meticulously prepared to sail around the Cape of Good Hope never dreaming of the fate awaiting him upon his return. Adventure abounds in this book complete with intrigue, pirates, unruly sailors, treasure hunting and double-crossing government officials. Carefully researched, this dramatically recounted story of a ship captain and his mysterious voyage will keep readers captivated to the very end. 137 pages with 11 black and white drawings by H.B Vestal and a two-page map of Kidd's voyage.

The execution of Captain William Kidd on 23 May 1701 is one of the most controversial and revealing episodes in the long history of piracy. The legend that has grown up around Kidds final voyage, his concealed treasure and the dubious conduct of his trial, has made him into one of the most intriguing and misunderstood figures from the golden age of piracy. For either Kidd was a legal privateer or he was a wicked pirate indeed he has been described as one of the most feared pirates to sail the high seas. But his story is complex and ambiguous. This timely new account of Kidds life and seafaring career reassesses the man and his legend it makes compelling reading.