The Mesh Globe

I rested both hands against the cool dome of a stainless steel tea infuser sitting on the linen placemat. Its surface was made of the finest crisscross wire mesh, feeling just like miniature woven cloth under my palms. Curious about the tiny hinge at its waist, I pressed upward with one thumb until the clasp gave way with a soft clink. The two hollow halves parted just a sliver, yawning open before springing gently against my fingers. With patient care, I lined up the rims and nudged the little latch back home until it snapped shut. Holding the slender chain between my hands, I felt thoroughly pleased with my tidy metal globe.