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.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/The_Ascent_of_the_Matterhorn_-_The_Village_of_Biona.png/400px-The_Ascent_of_the_Matterhorn_-_The_Village_of_Biona.png)
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
- ↑ There was not a pass between Prerayen and Breil. See note to p. 105.