The Taut Linen Hoop

I noticed a round wooden embroidery hoop resting flat on the woven hearth rug. A neat piece of natural linen was stretched tight across the frame like a tiny drum. Step by slow step, I trotted over to inspect it. I lifted one front paw and tapped the center of the fabric. It answered with a soft, hollow thump that vibrated gently through the wood. I stood still, listening to the faint resonance fade away. Then I leaned forward and rested my front paws along the smooth, curved pine rim. The taut cloth held firm, calm and steady in the dim evening.