“I met the old chap at the appointed time and place, when he produced the bond, and asked me if I was ready to accompany him.
“I said, said I, ‘Not yet, my lord.’
“‘Because,’ said I, ‘you have not fulfilled the conditions of the bond.’
“‘In what have I failed?’ asked he.
“‘In this,’ said I, ‘I was, by the bond, to enjoy the blessings for seven years, and I’ve had only one jug of beer.’
“‘But that was your fault,’ said he.
“‘Whether it be my fault or not,’ said I, ‘I will not come with you unless you fulfil your conditions.’
“‘I will not wait for you another seven years,’ said he; ‘but I will permit your having one more wish.’
“‘You’ll do what?’ said I.