A Copper Marker in the Soil

I stepped out from beneath the pine slats of the fruit crate, easing my cardboard box into the soft morning sun. Right along the garden hedge, a line of smooth white pebbles separated the dirt lane from a bed of dark, fragrant soil. Stuck upright among the mint leaves stood a small copper plant stake, its flat rectangular face glinting in the light. I paused, setting my strap down to observe the neat, embossed capital letters reading 'MINT'. Taking the brass pocket ruler from my kit, I gently aligned its straight millimeter edge against the stamped metal plate. The lettering was remarkably even and clear, making our first garden landmark feel official.