He cannot afford to see a ward of his swing with his feet off the ground.

Moreover, as soon as I can hear news from the north, I shall go to find my father.

So, farewell, Humphrey.

Expect me in London ere long, and forget not our oath." I gave him my hand in answer, and with a heavy heart started on my way.
I had not gone many paces when he came after me.
"Who and what sort of man is this Captain ?" said he.
"He is the Devil," said I.

And I told him what had passed between us.
He laughed loud when I spoke of the duck-pond--so loud that I feared we should be heard.
"Oh," said he, when the tale was done, "that settles it." "Settles what ?" I asked.
"I mean," said he, "that I think I shall slay him." And with that we parted, he back to the house, I, dismally enough, to London..