The moon was high and so bright a concern

for the lone masked rider.

Sitting high on his powerful and frisky horse

waiting patiently to pounce.

Out of sight of the twisty main London road

with the devil he strode!

This was his first robbery for the highwayman

prepared to take at any cost.

Poverty and his stubborn pride got him here

rich pickings from passengers.

All he cared about as the adrenaline circulated

how the wealthy he hated!

From his vantage point saw it coming at speed

holding the reins very tight.

As the coach neared he came out to confront

but it had no intention to stop.

Making his fiery steed rear violently into the air

that made him curse and swear!

Had the opportunity gone by his own blunder

without delay went in pursuit!

Catching up at speed he heard a shot ahead

and the stagecoach slowed.

Arriving saw another rider a pistol in hand

definitely in command!

Passengers were ordered out without delay

he noticed the coachman.

Was going for his flintlock he shot him first

surprised his new rival fired.

Back at him thankfully it went past his head

being to intrigued to be dead!

Ending up assisting taking their possessions

terrified victims left at the scene.

Racing together to make a good get away

stopping in a hidden copse.

They faced each other and wearily unmasked

in complete surprise he basked.

In the surreal moonlight saw a beautiful woman

sitting calmly in his vision.

This was not her first time at highway robbery

she was not from a poor family.

Her motives were for the thrill and adventure

not easy to take in for sure.

Yet there was no anger it was if they had to meet

a bond grew from there on.

And a love that would overcome every barrier

for many years to come.

Though with no illusions their alliance could end

but together would transcend!

What happened to them is another tale to tell.

The Foureyed Poet.