The fortnight for which I engaged them is now over, so I pay them nothing when I am doing nothing. But they're going to accompany me on my last expedition. That won't be very expensive however. The Meije, guide and porter together, cost 8. Of course, besides that I have up to now paid for their board and lodging, but it's not been very dear.
Refuges are cheap.
I thought of you last night when I lay down on my straw in the Refuge R publicain.