Bidding on Mercs

[tinkthank]

Two questions here:

First one: How much more do you bid on mercs in MP games -- especially during the beginning of the game (turns 1-3)? Do you bid +3, +5, +10, or what? Your opinions and reasons for them are greatly appreciated!

Second one: You bought Bob and his merc troop, and Bob survived three turns and is up for bids again; Bob's original price was 200 gp. Do I understand correctly that Bob would rather work for you for the next three months if you bid 104 than for your enemy if your enemy bids 203? Or does this half-price-for-continuing-deal also halve your "extra" bid (e.g. your bidding 104 is considered to be only "two" more than he is asking, or "eight" more?).

Thanks

EDIT: also, is there any way to turn mercs off? That is, during game creation, stipulate: no mercs in this game? I couldnt find that

[ March 10, 2004, 17:15: Message edited by: tinkthank ]