The mountain club hut was an enclosed log-built shelter. Inside, there were no bunks, but by the time she arrived, many young people had created spaces on the floor for their sleeping bags and backpacks.

In a central place, a group of students from a TheCIty University had erected a folding table on which was set a jug of red wine and many plastic cups. They offered Clara a glass of wine. In return, she placed her bag of peanuts on the table. Soon the students were exchanging stories about their professors. Some had brought books. Others were singing songs to which Clara did not know the words.