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Blood (THOMAS commonly called Colonel)

THOMAS (commonly called Colonel Blood), born in Ireland about 1618, was a disbanded officer of Oliver Cromwell, and lost some estates in Ireland at the Restoration. His whole life was one of plotting and adventure, though it is probable that he acted a double part, keeping the Government informed of so much as might secure his own safety. His most daring exploit was an attempt to steal the crown jewels (May 9, 1671) from the Tower. He was seized with the crown in his possession, but was not only pardoned by Charles, but obtained forfeited Irish estates of £500 annual value. He died in London, in 1680.

BLOODBIRD (myzoměla sanguinolenta), an Australian species of honey-