On this point the man cleared away all doubts at once,--we could certainly have a guide, as the _patron_ would be sure to let one of them go with us.

As to food, there was more doubt, for the master was not yet at home, and his wife would not be able to give us an answer without consulting him.

The wife confirmed this statement: they saw very few strangers, and did not profess to supply food to people crossing the plain.

I assured her that we intended to pay well for anything she could let us have, but she merely rejoined that they did not keep an auberge; however, her husband would be home some time in the course of the afternoon--it was now about half-past twelve--and she could ask his opinion on the subject.

But Liotir objected that he was meanwhile dying of hunger, and the monsieur of thirst which only milk or cream could assuage; he suggested that some one should be sent to look for the husband, and obtain his permission for us to be fed.