Captain Luna
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Pictute credit _ Artstation- Samuel Allan
In 17th and 18th century England, travelling by coach on the main roads was fraught with danger from highwaymen. The most dangerous routes were the Bath to Exeter road and the London to York road, highwaymen operated on these routes and other minor routes.
The most famous of these were Dick Turpin and Claude Duval, some were gentlemen but others were ruthless killers, they have always been portrayed in a romantic image but there was nothing romantic about them at all and all those caught were sent to the gallows.
Sometimes their bodies were left hanging at crossroads as a warning to others.
On a horse at the crossroads a pistol in his hand
Dressed in dark clothing he looked fine and grand
Waiting in the moonlight for the York coach to appear
With cool nerves of steel; he showed no fear.
A gentleman by day and a Highwayman by night
Only carried out his crimes when the moon shone bright
Nicknamed Captain Luna; there was a price on his head
If you didn’t part with your valuables you’d end up dead
He heard it in the distance; the approaching coach
A lady friend had requested a necklace or a brooch
He'd heard some well to do had attended a ball
They'd be dripping with jewellery; he wanted it all.
He moved onto the road as the coach drew near
His face covered with a black mask to instill fear
He ordered the two coachmen “slow down to a stop
And throw down those bags you have on the top”.
He then shouted to the passengers" alight if you please
And line up if you will, over yonder by them tree’s”
Three ladies and a gentleman dressed in clothes so fine
Adorned with jewellery that twinkled, in the moonshine.
He said “you and your fine jewellery must forever part
Please fill up my leather bag and I'll let you depart”
The ladies were crying thinking that they'd all die
They thought anything Captain Luna said would be a lie.
He went through the bags and pulled out a silk dress
And thought to himself this will fit my lady friend Tess
He picked up his leather bag and into the night rode away
Leaving his victims quite shaken and in total disarray.
Written 15th day of April 2020.
Copyright © Tom Cunningham | Year Posted 2020
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