Afloat With Henry Morgan 32-xx-xx ep01 Morgan Accused of Stealing an Aztec Necklace

Summary

Summary of "Afloat With Henry Morgan" Episode 01: Morgan Accused of Stealing an Aztec Necklace

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Description: Radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio. The time before television and the family all sat around the radio and listened to the shows of the time like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.
• Episode: Afloat With Henry Morgan 32-xx-xx ep01 Morgan Accused of Stealing an Aztec Necklace
• Release Date: April 27, 2025

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Introduction

"Afloat With Henry Morgan" plunges listeners into the tumultuous life of Sir Henry Morgan, a formidable pirate whose notorious exploits earned him the moniker Colossus of the Caribbean. Transitioning from his piratical endeavors to a reputable position as the Governor of Jamaica, this episode delves into a pivotal moment where Morgan faces accusations of stealing a priceless Aztec necklace. The narrative, crafted by Warren Barry and produced by George Edwards, masterfully intertwines historical intrigue with dramatic tension, setting the stage for an enthralling adventure.

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1. The Dual Life of Henry Morgan

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of Henry Morgan's transformation from pirate to governor. The narrator sets the scene, highlighting the serene beauty of the Caribbean juxtaposed with the underlying tensions:

"But there were few who had such a picturesque, blood-stained career, culminating in honored glory as a man named Morgan in the 17th century." (00:08)

This introduction establishes Morgan's complex character, revered as a hero in one realm and feared as a pirate in another.

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2. Cortes Confronts Don Pietro Pizarro

A significant portion of the episode centers around a tense exchange between Cortes, a high-ranking seaman, and Don Pietro Pizarro, the Spanish governor of Cuba. Cortes returns to Havana after losing a treasure-laden ship, which leads to accusations of negligence and failure to protect the ship from Morgan's attack.

Don Pietro Pizarro: "And after losing a ship, you have the effrontery to return here to Havana and face me." (01:59)

Cortes defends his actions, attributing the loss to unforeseen natural disasters rather than personal incompetence. However, Don Pietro remains unconvinced, emphasizing the theft of valuable treasures, including his own.

Cortes: "You fail to understand, Don Pietro. ... And then comes the morning. The storm is gone and in a blaze of glory the night changes to gray, then flaming red. And a ship is standing nearby. At first sight, I give thanks to heaven that I still have one of my escorts to protect me. And then breaks the flag. And I know I am victim to Henry Morgan." (02:34)

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3. Don Pietro's Vow for Justice

Overwhelmed by rage, Don Pietro delivers a heartfelt monologue expressing his desire for retribution against Morgan.

Don Pietro Pizarro: "I pray to heaven for one grant, one gracious gift. To see Henry Morgan in chains in Havana, to have him in the hands of the Inquisition. To see his broken body hanging by the neck in a slave market." (03:32)

This declaration sets the stage for the ensuing conflict and underscores the deep-seated animosity between the Spanish authorities and Morgan.

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4. Dolores Pizarro's Demand

The narrative shifts to an intimate conversation between Don Pietro and his daughter, Dolores Pizarro. Dolores confronts her father about the loss of their treasured Aztec necklace, revealing personal stakes intertwined with political tensions.

Dolores Pizarro: "But don't you realize the egg technique that was on that ship? My necklace worth more than my money can tell." (06:43)

Her determination to reclaim the necklace adds a layer of personal vendetta to the overarching plot, highlighting the intersection of personal and political grievances.

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5. Morgan's Crew and Growing Tensions

As Henry Morgan's ship sails towards Port Royal, internal conflicts among his crew emerge. Kitty, a savvy crew member, expresses dissatisfaction with Morgan's distribution of the treasure, leading to a conspiracy against him.

Kitty: "We won't reach Port Royal until late tonight. Morgan will leave the ship to visit the governor. ... A quick dagger thrust in the neck and we all his shiplords of gold." (10:34)

This brewing mutiny introduces a subplot of betrayal and greed, complicating Morgan's journey and foreshadowing potential threats.

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6. The Ambush in Port Royal

Upon reaching the darkened streets of Port Royal, Morgan becomes the target of an assassination attempt orchestrated by discontented crew members. Just as two assailants emerge from the shadows, a mysterious third figure intervenes, saving Morgan's life.

Henry Morgan: "I thank you. You saved my life." (11:28)

This unexpected rescue raises questions about the stranger's identity and motivations, adding an element of mystery to the narrative.

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7. A Mysterious Ally

The enigmatic savior warns Morgan against inquiring about his identity, hinting at deeper alliances and future collaborations.

Crew Member 2: "It isn't wise in Jamaica to ask questions of a stranger. I have done you a favor this night. Now do me one. Seek not to question who I am." (11:35)

This encounter not only saves Morgan but also hints at impending alliances that could influence the unfolding events.

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Conclusion

Episode 01 of "Afloat With Henry Morgan" masterfully sets up a complex web of interpersonal conflicts, political tensions, and mysterious alliances. Through dynamic dialogues and vivid storytelling, listeners are immersed in a world where loyalty is fragile, and the quest for justice intertwines with personal vendettas. As the episode concludes with unanswered questions and burgeoning threats, anticipation builds for the next installment of this riveting adventure.

"A strange meeting on a dark night. The beginning of an adventure tale. Don't miss the next exciting episode of Afloat with Henry Morgan." (11:52)

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Notable Quotes:

• Don Pietro Pizarro: "To see Henry Morgan in chains in Havana, to have him in the hands of the Inquisition." (03:32)
• Dolores Pizarro: "I shall get it. I swear by heaven that no fat English senora will wear the Aztec necklace which belongs to Dolores Pizarro." (07:00)
• Henry Morgan: "I thank you. You saved my life." (11:28)

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This detailed summary encapsulates the key events, character dynamics, and dramatic tension of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for both avid listeners and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Afloat with Henry Morgan Afloat With Henry Morgan is an original story written for radio by Warren Barry and a George Edwards production. History contains stories of colorful people, rogues, heroes, kings and commoners. But there were few had such a picturesque, blood stained career, culminating in honored glory as a man named Morgan in the 17th century. Henry Morgan, pirate whose foul deeds earned him the name of Colossus of the Caribbean, eventually became Sir Henry Morgan, King's representative governor of Jamaica. In the Caribbean Sea, the sun at day's end dips like a blazing ball.

Into the ocean, throwing over the sea.

A dancing pink mantle and over the islands a soft pink glow that blends in with the cool white buildings which stand invitingly midst waving fronds and green foliage. Thus the spirit of nights gives warning of her coming over the British island of Jamaica and the Spanish possession of Cuba. But in Havana, a capital of Cuba, inside a large white Moorish type of home, the serenity of the evening is gone. Beside a highly polished cedar desk, white and shaking with rage, stands Don Pietro Pizarro, Spanish governor of Cuba. Before him, hesitant, full of apology, stands.

A seaman of high rank.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

And after losing a ship, you have the effrontery to return here to Havana and face me.

[Cortes]

I have tried to explain, Don Pietro. It was no fault of mine.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

No fault of yours? That you let a ship laden down with treasure and. And part of it, my own treasure, be taken by that pirate Henry Morgan.

[Cortes]

It was the will of heaven before I left, Excellency, Did I not go on my knees and pray that you would let me put more armor on my ships? I had escorts. They were to protect me.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

And like the blundering fool you are, you get separated from them and allowed yourself to fall prey, defenseless to Henry Morgan.

[Cortes]

You fail to understand, Don Pietro. You yourself know the nights in the Caribbean are dark when there is no moon. Suddenly, as if from nowhere, a storm arises. We hurry to bring in our canvases to make our ship secure. And before we know what has happened, we are scattered to the winds. And then comes the morning. The storm is gone and in a blaze of glory the night changes to gray, then flaming red. And a ship is standing nearby. At first sight, I give thanks to heaven that I still have one of my escorts to protect me. And then breaks the flag. And I know I am victim to Henry Morgan. Henry Morgan.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Henry Morgan. Henry Morgan. Is there no one in the world who will rid us of him? Must we always fear the man Henry Morgan? And those aboard the ship?

[Cortes]

What of them Taken by Henry Morgan to Jamaica to be sold as slaves.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Then you are lucky, Coorties.

[Cortes]

My luck depends on your clemency, Excellency.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Perhaps it was partly my fault for. For not allowing you extra armor to defend yourself. But Cortes, witness this much. I say to you, I pray to heaven for one grant, one gracious gift. To see Henry Morgan in chains in Havana, to have him in the hands of the Inquisition. To see his broken body hanging by the neck in a slave market. That is what I wish from heaven. And with Heaven's aid, I will have my wish.

[Narrator]

Don Pietro's voice shakes with emotion as he sends his prayers heavenwards. And then, with a curtain nod, Cortes is dismissed. The governor watches him go, and the heavy cedar doors close on him. But already Cortes has gone from Don Pietro's mind. There is something else to be faced. The wrath of someone he fears when she is in anger. The loss of his own personal treasure is cause for grave concern. Yet the thought of the coming meeting gives him far greater worry. Like a man who realizes it is no good postponing trouble, he lets himself out through a small door into a cool and biting courtyard. Wisteria vines climb and twist themselves around arches. The mauve blossoms hang in their grape like bunches. The scent of the flowers mingles with the perfume waters of the fountain, which plays to cool the hot breath of coming night. The atmosphere of the courtyard is languid peace. But all the beauty and peace is lost on Don Pietro as his steps echo on the marble pavement. Lies are on the figure sitting on the stone seat, looking at the well fed goldfish in the fountain pond. The closer he gets, the greater his trepidation.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

How to tell her? Heaven help me, how to tell her?

[Narrator]

The girl by the fish pond looks up. The falling dusk gives her an added beauty, emphasizing the whiteness of her skin. The softness of her arms and shoulders gives luster to a raven hair. And jet black eyes gives a deeper hue to her passionate red manner. A frown crosses her forehead. A new light enters her eyes.

[Dolores Pizarro]

Something has gone wrong. I know that expression of his. He doesn't know how to tell me.

[Narrator]

She waits until he comes up close. And as he fidgets with the cravat at his neck, then with a curl of his wig, she sits waiting for him to speak first, then can bear his agitation no longer.

[Dolores Pizarro]

Well, Father, something is worrying you. I know. Tell me what it is.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Dolores. I. I do not know how to tell you. But remember, please do not lose your temper. I have had bad news. I could not stand a seat.

[Dolores Pizarro]

What is it? What has Gone wrong now.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Cortes has just left me.

[Dolores Pizarro]

Cortes? How can he be in Cuba? He is captain of the treasure ship on his way to Spain.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

He was the captain, but he fell into the hands of Henry Morgan, the English pirate.

[Dolores Pizarro]

He took the treasure. Our treasure.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

Dolores, please do not lose your temper. I cannot stand it. Yes, the storm scattered the Spanish ships. Morgan took Kotay's ship with the greatest of ease.

[Dolores Pizarro]

Our treasure gone. That doesn't matter so much. We can get more gold from the mainland. But don't you realize the egg technique that was on that ship? My necklace worth more than my money can tell.

[Henry Morgan]

Please.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

I. I will make it up. You? I. I will obtain for yourself a whole shipload of gold.

[Dolores Pizarro]

Gold? I don't want the gold. It is the egg tech necklace I want. And I shall have it back. I shall get it. I swear by heaven that no fat English senora will wear the Aztec necklace which belongs to Dolores Pizarro.

[Narrator]

So two oaths are taken on this balmy tropical night. And because of them our tail is spun. The spirit of night encloses the Caribbean in a cloak of black spangled with large dancing stars. And as she speeds across the sky, the edge of her cloak lifts in the east, showing a gray promise of a new day which warns the sun. It is time for work. Like a man disturbed from a heavy sleep, he climbs into the heavens, angry and red, casting vengeful rays over the ocean, reaching out to alight on the topmost peak of a sail and down the snow white canvas until they embrace the hull, making the ship as though of gold. Early as it is, the ship is alive with movement, for land is ahead. On the poop, with one hand resting on the rail, stands Captain Henry Morgan. Thick set, handsome, burly. Beside him, kneeling at an open chest, is a swarthy young man, handsome in a sinister, sly way. His dark eyes are alight with greed as he looks into the open chest. His tongue slowly moistens his lips as he looks upon the treasure.

[Henry Morgan]

I take your fill. The arts. That's your payment for your treachery to your countrymen.

[Kitty]

You are generous, Captain Morgan, in giving me this lotus. My share.

[Henry Morgan]

You serve me well. I reward well those who serve me.

[Kitty]

Diamonds, rubies, gold pieces. Twill make my stay in Port Royal a happy one. Captain.

[Henry Morgan]

You'll be a welcome visitor in the Dolphin Tavern, Kitty. The buccaneers bellow. Be glad to see you laden down with that loot. There'll be necklaces to hang around her nice neck.

[Kitty]

Ah, Captain Morgan. And look at this one. I shall hang it around her neck.

[Diaz]

Why, St. David, hand it to me.

[Crew Member 1]

Nonsense.

[Kitty]

Mine.

[Diaz]

Keep it here.

[Henry Morgan]

Ay, it is beautiful gold. So finely beaten. It looks like lace. Emeralds and rubies of the finest quality. It's too fine a thing to have.

[Diaz]

Scum like you waste upon a wanton's neck. It'll be better in my own pocket.

[Don Pietro Pizarro]

It will?

[Crew Member 2]

Yeah.

[Kitty]

Give it back to me. You gave me this chest and all the in it. Give me my necklace back.

[Diaz]

What's this? You renegade Spanish rat. Insubordination. You're sailing under Henry Morgan, and Henry Morgan takes what he wants.

[Kitty]

But that necklace, it is mine.

[Diaz]

Give it to me. I'll give you this. Your Spanish dog in exchange. Now get ye about your business.

[Henry Morgan]

The wind is falling. We'll not make Port Royal by tonight.

[Diaz]

See that? Every strip of canvas is spread to catch the failing wind.

[Narrator]

Henry Morgan's fear of the failing wind proves correct. Soon it dies away until it is just a faint whisper. The sun beats down on the boiling sea and the gallant ship barely moves towards that smudge in the horizon which is Jamaica. The tantalizing nearness of the land and the baking sun makes tempers edgy and crafty mines treacherous.

[Kitty]

Listen to me, Yoto man. Morgan gives us the crumbs and keeps everything for himself.

[Narrator]

And two pairs of shifty eyes are on diets as he talks.

[Kitty]

Enough loot was taken on the trip to keep us in luxury for the.

[Crew Member 1]

Rest of our lives.

[Kitty]

But Morgan seeks to keep it all.

[Narrator]

Two heads, not an agreement. And so a plot is born.

[Kitty]

We won't reach Port Royal until late tonight. Morgan will leave the ship to visit the governor.

[Crew Member 1]

Why not?

[Kitty]

You two wait for him. A quick dagger thrust in the neck and we all his shiplords of gold.

[Narrator]

Greed makes the other two fall in with a plan and blinds their eyes to the fact that they do it while Diaz has no hand in it. Diaz is right. It is late when Port Royal is reached and the town is wrapped in darkness. Before long, Captain Henry Morgan leaves the ship and goes along the dirty laneways near the docks. Figures lurk suspiciously in darkened doorways. Filth litters the ground. At his feet, two pairs of eyes watch out from under an archway, see him come closer and then spring forward. The suddenness of the attack throws Morgan to the ground.

A knife.

[Diaz]

You seek to take me life, do you?

[Narrator]

As if from nowhere, a third figure into the fray. A second knife flashes once, twice. And two figures lie dead amongst the film. Morgan has helped to his feet.

[Henry Morgan]

I thank you. You saved my life.

[Crew Member 2]

I never did like two against one.

[Henry Morgan]

Who is it I have to thank?

[Crew Member 2]

I know you're not. You know me not. It isn't wise in Jamaica to ask questions of a stranger. I have done you a favor this night. Now do me one. Seek not to question who I am.

[Narrator]

A strange meeting on a dark night. The beginning of an adventure tale. Don't miss the next exciting episode of A Flute with Henry Morgan.