`` it is certainly better than being a great solid lump upon the ground , '' iskierka said , `` and i do not mind if i do not have to carry you anymore , but that is a ridiculous thing for a dragon to do ; you ought to come down or fly properly , '' but kulingile 's spirits were not depressed by this criticism , and demane did indeed have to tether him with a rope , which temeraire allowed to be secured to his harness , as the only rocks about were flat and inconvenient for the purpose .