Bully Hayes: The Pirate-Prince of the Pacific is a biography of the notorious 19th-century Australian-American pirate, William Henry "Bully" Hayes. Written by Louis Becke, the book chronicles Hayes' life from his early days as a sailor in the South Pacific to his eventual death in the Solomon Islands. The book follows Hayes' adventures as he sails the South Pacific, engaging in piracy, trading, and other activities. Along the way, Hayes encounters a variety of characters, including fellow pirates, traders, and islanders. Becke also recounts Hayes' various exploits, including his capture of a Chinese junk, his escape from a penal colony, and his involvement in the mutiny of the brigantine Leonora. The book also examines the legacy of Hayes, who was both reviled and admired by those who knew him. Becke paints a vivid portrait of Hayes, exploring his motivations and his impact on the South Pacific. In the end, Becke argues that Hayes was a complex figure, whose life was a mix of good and bad.
By Louis Becke · First published 1902 · Genre: Biography, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 5 chapters