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CHAP. I
BIONA.
7

answered the summons, and demanded rather sharply what was wanted; but became pacific—almost good-natured—when a five-franc piece was held in her face, and she heard that lodging and supper were requested in exchange.

THE VILLAGE OF BIONA.

My directions asserted that a passage existed from Prerayen, at the head of this valley, to Breil,[1] in the Val Tournanche, and the old woman, now convinced of my respectability, busied herself to find a guide. Presently she introduced a native, picturesquely attired in high-peaked hat, braided jacket, scarlet waistcoat, and

  1. There was not a pass between Prerayen and Breil. See note to p. 105.