Hi Bernard,
Firstly I commend and applaud the time you take to answer so many questions from your fans. I really appreciate it.
Despite my considerable failures at identifying Sharpe’s father I think I have another lead. With my ever increasing knowledge of smugglers I came across Tom Johnstone from Lymington. Born in 1772 he was brought up as a fisherman by his smuggling father. In appearance he is almost identical to Sharpe; over six foot tall, with handsome, clear-cut features, dark curly hair and vivid blue eyes.
Reading about his adventures he also seems to resemble Sharpe in his exploits, for example he has the ability to escape sticky situations, bravely lead men and has a disdain for authority. He was also held in high regard by Napoleon.
Now I know he’s not the father as he’s only 5 years older then Sharpe but are they in any way related or connected?
Edward Taberner