Tracing the Chart

I slipped out from behind the stereoscope viewer and climbed onto the low slant-top desk where an oversized leather cartographer's folder lay open. Across the yellowed linen chart were drawn coastlines, compass roses, and faded depth soundings. Tucking my red relic securely under my arm, I picked up a small brass map weight shaped like an anchor. I slid it across the stiff paper, letting its smooth flat base pin down a curling corner right along an uncharted bay. Holding things firmly in place prevents unexpected drift.