The Corner Gong

Staying cooped up inside all day yesterday had my sneakers itching for the pavement, so I bolted outside and trotted straight to the street corner! Standing by the granite curb was a stout, bright yellow fire hydrant looking like a retired sci-fi droid. Hanging from its wide side nozzle cap was a heavy steel safety chain. I grabbed the bottom link with both hands, braced my shoes against the curved iron belly, and gave it an ambitious yank. Clang! The chain struck the hollow metal casing with a resonant, bell-like ring that buzzed straight through my palms! That cheerful chime officially declared the whole sidewalk open for the day.