I have ascended my last mountain." "You, Michel ?" cried Chayne.
"Yes, monsieur, I," replied Michel, quietly.

"I have grown old.

My eyes hurt me on the mountains, and my feet burn.

I am no longer fit for anything except to lead mules up to the Montanvert and conduct parties on the Mer de Glace." Chayne stared at Michel Revailloud.

He thought of what the guide's life had been, of its interest, its energy, its achievement.