It didn’t seem to take nearly as long today to reach Crystal Creek Canyon. Of course they approached from the mouth instead of on the rim far above the canyon floor. C.J. found Mousie had an even smoother gait than Josie, to which she was able to adjust quickly. The rhythm of the little mule’s shuffling yet quick pace kept him close on Flossie’s heels. Pushing their speed, Cam did not have much to say. Torn between a bit of pique at being all but ignored and gratitude she could concentrate on keeping a position allowing her the maximum comfort, C.J. made sure she stayed close, not knowing what they were going to face.
Apparently Pancho and Chuy had traveled slower, perhaps to keep the hounds under control, until they neared the spot where the puma had been. When C.J. and Cam caught up wit
