Photojournal: Attempt on Mera

Lead Sherpa, Furgeljen, negotiated with the local captain and explained the link between the phone and Stuart's mental health. It was agreed that he could keep it.

"This was with much relief to me – I had decided that if the phone was taken then I would turn back immediately."

But because he was the only tourist in the village, Stuart had to pay 5,000 rupees. He was told that the money would be used to buy food and clothing.