The Snapping Leaf Mast

I spotted a smooth wooden clothespin resting quietly between two flat flagstones near the porch steps. Did it want to play a clamping game? I pressed down firmly on the tapered ends with both of my paws. Snap! The front jaws popped wide open against the coiled wire spring, just like a little wooden mouth! I carefully nudged the thick stem of a dried brown leaf right between its notches before easing my paws back. The pin clamped tight, holding the big leaf straight up like a proud sail across the stone. With a cheerful hop, I gave my new standing mast an encouraging pat!