Long John Silver is a cunning and opportunistic pirate who was quartermaster under the notorious Captain Flint. Long John Silver has a parrot, named Captain Flint in honor/mockery of his former captain. Silver claims to have served in the Royal Navy. His left leg was cut off close by the hip, and under the left shoulder, he carried a crutch, which he managed with wonderful dexterity, hopping about upon it like a bird.