The Mechanical Fanfare

A wind-up tin music box sat silent upon the polished bureau, its brass winding key sticking out like a frozen baton. Silence during the afternoon interval is an intolerable breach of backstage etiquette. Stalking across the green leather inlay, I bypassed all hesitation and sized up the small mechanism. Leaning my whip securely against a crystal inkpot, I grasped the winged brass key with both hands. With a resolute, theatrical twist, I turned the spring two full rotations until the internal gears caught with a crisp metallic snap. Instantly, a tinkling waltz surged from the pierced tin lid, transforming the quiet afternoon room into an impeccably conducted recital hall.