The Autobiography of a Cornish Smuggler
(Captain Harry Carter, of Prussia Cove) 1749-1809
"The Autobiography of a Cornish Smuggler" by Harry Carter is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This narrative explores the life of Captain Harry Carter, who reflects on his experiences as a smuggler in Cornwall during a time when the region was notorious for such activities. The book offers an authentic perspective on smuggling, the local culture, and the societal attitudes of the time, focusing on the intersection of his criminal enterprises and personal faith. At the start of the autobiography, Carter expresses his intention to document the significant events of his life, driven by both personal reflection and a sense of divine inspiration. He begins by recounting his humble origins in Cornwall, detailing his upbringing in a large family and the early years of his labor in the mines. As he matures, he transitions into smuggling, which he describes with a mix of pride and the moral struggles he faces as he is torn between his actions and his religious convictions. The opening sets the stage for an exploration of the duality of his life: a smuggler enriched by illicit trade yet grappling with personal redemption and the influence of Methodism.