The Dealings of Captain Sharkey, and Other Tales of Pirates

Arthur Conan Doyle's The Dealings of Captain Sharkey, and Other Tales of Pirates is a collection of pirate-themed short stories written in the early 20th century. The book centers on the infamous Captain Sharkey, a ruthless pirate whose notorious exploits dominate the seas. Through tales of betrayal, adventure, and the brutal realities of piracy, the collection vividly portrays Sharkey's infamy and the fierce world of his contemporaries. In the opening story, Captain Scarrow of the Morning Star docks at the port of St. Kitts and learns that the infamous Captain Sharkey is set to be executed for his numerous crimes. Having been terrified by accounts of Sharkey’s ruthless murders and plundering, Scarrow feels a brief sense of relief upon hearing this news. However, his relief is short-lived when he discovers that Sharkey has cunningly infiltrated his ship, seizing control and turning the tables on Scarrow and his crew. Sharkey uses his wit and menace to dominate the situation, leaving Scarrow utterly powerless. This opening story sets the tone for the entire collection, creating an atmosphere of tension and cunning while foreshadowing the dark and treacherous adventures of Captain Sharkey. It effectively captures the perilous and grim world of piracy that defines the book.