"Character" is right. Although it is true that his life sounds very interesting... and a little nuts. Here is what caught my attention:
"bird pirates"
How do you think they went over in prison?
"What are you in for?"
"Murder. How about you?"
"Bird pirate."
"Bwana haha hahahahahaha!"
I was amazed to read that they were literally worth as much as gold at that time.