The Treasure of Lima

Two hundred years ago, Lima in Peru had some amazing treasures. But the Viceroy decided that this fabulous wealth would be safer in Mexico for safekeeping. Some people believe it was worth about 40 million pounds. It was all put on a ship called the Mary Dear. Her captain was William Thompson. But Thompson and his crew decided to become pirates. They killed the guards and set sail for Cocos Island, near Costa Rica, where it’s said they buried the treasure. They were going to come back at another time to divide up all the riches.

But the ship was captured and the crew were put on trial for piracy. Everyone was hanged except for Captain Thompson and his first mate. They promised to lead their captors to the treasure. But when they reached Cocos Island, they managed to escape into the jungle. Thompson, his first mate and the treasure was never seen again.