Part 97 - Halt day with reconnaissance toward the pass; mentions Tibrang and Kantanang

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SUMMARY:
The diarist describes persistent mist, heavy afternoon rain, and receiving food that lifted spirits, wishing Betty had crossed the pass to halt in Tibrang. They discuss difficulties getting route information from Ngudup and the need for five days’ notice for coolies from Kantanang; on 9 July, after fresh snow, they set out late toward the intended pass and returned very tired.

CONTENT:
Changing mist. It was never clear altogether. I went up the opposite bank and awaited, but the mist eventually got thicker and hid it altogether. But we've had real food sent up here today, which has been very nice indeed, to dry things and cheer us up. I wonder if we could have a second clear day. I just wish that Betty had gone over the Pass today and had a day's halt in Tibrang. In the afternoon again we had very heavy rain, but also some thunder, so I hope again for a good day tomorrow, at least for a while. I've been asking Ngudup about crossing the range to the West, but can get nothing from him. But we must move somewhere. No one seems to know anything about paths or passes. We have to give 5 days notice, as coolies come from as far away as Kantanang I'm told. With difficulty I could fill in another 5 days here, but we won't get very far in these days.

9th July. Halt. A sparkling morning, with fresh snow down to about 15000' up the valley. I decided to go to the pass we hope to cross eventually, but could not get off till 6.25. I think Ngudup now holds everything up in the mornings. Anyway we were off at 8.15, and we were only back by 5.45 pm, very tired indeed. I will add to this in the morning, as I can't manage now. A lovely day, but hardly