Beadle's Pocket Library No. 227

Merle, the Boy Cruiser: Brandt, the Buccaneer Colonel Prentiss Ingraham's serial "Merle, the Boy Cruiser: Brandt, the Buccaneer" opens with the captured pirate schooner anchored in the Potomac River near Washington. The ship's former master, the notorious buccaneer Brandt, awaits execution, though a mysterious young cabin-boy named Little Belt claims he will save him. The fifteen-year-old Midshipman Merle Monte—assisted by his slave Mezrak—has captured the vessel and returned it to port. Little Belt carries a secret vendetta against Brandt, promising to rescue him specifically to exact personal revenge. Through an elaborate ruse involving disguised men posing as marines, Belt orchestrates Brandt's escape from the prize crew, freeing him with horses waiting ashore. The narrative balances maritime adventure with mystery surrounding Belt's true identity and motivation.