A Solid Brass Tick

I trotted into the warm fireplace lounge to get out of the evening draft, hopping straight onto the broad stone mantlepiece. Sitting right in the center was an antique brass mantel clock, completely silent! On its back, a sturdy little key was already slotted into the winding arbor. Naturally, I couldn't leave it quiet. I planted my feet against the warm brickwork, wrapped both paws around the winged brass key, and twisted with all my strength. Scritch-clack! The internal spring tightened with a crisp, heavy click, and the heavy brass pendulum below began swinging with a deep, steady rhythm that vibrated right through my toes.