The Gasparilla pirate fest took place here in Tampa last
Saturday, yet this tiny vessel still sails the waters. During the chaos of the
annual invasion, it would have gone unnoticed among all the grand ships. Truly
a feat that the craft is still afloat!
I wonder…did the commander abandon his or her vessel, or is
the crew of this schooner determined to take the city of Tampa single-handed,
relying on the element of surprise with the belated timing of their attack? If
that is the case, my hat and pirate beads are raised to their determination and
bravery.
During the grand invasion, we landlubbers were all pleased
that the mayor fiercely kept possession of the ornate skeleton key to the city,
no matter what the pirates threatened. Some even wrestled him for it, but he
wouldn’t relinquish. Many years the ruffians win, but not this time. If this
crew does manage to force the mayor to surrender, I wonder how they plan to steal
away their bounty without sinking. I’ll be sure to watch and report whether some
enchantment from the abyss or just ordinary buccaneer luck is their game.
