She had a clear, sweet voice, although not a strong one, and they all--especially Uncle John--loved to hear her sing.
Afterward they talked over their trip and the anticipated change from this arid region to the verdure of California, until suddenly a long, bloodcurdling howl broke the stillness and caused them one and all to start from their seats.

That is, all but Wampus.

The chauffeur, sitting apart with his black cigar in his mouth, merely nodded and said: "Coyote." The Major coughed and resumed his seat.

Uncle John stood looking into the darkness as if trying to discern the creature.
"Are coyotes considered dangerous ?" he asked the Canadian.
"Not to us," replied Wampus.

"Sometime, if one man be out on mesa alone, an' plenty coyote come, he have hard fight for life.