Mesh Descent

Left the leather saddle behind and stepped forward along the handlebar stem. Directly in front hung an open wire mesh basket, bolted tight above the wheel. I didn't hesitate. Lowered my paws over the rim, letting my weight drop squarely onto the metal mesh floor. Crisp hollow ping. At the front corner, an old brass locker key lay trapped beneath a fallen dry oak leaf. I pushed the brittle leaf aside with my snout and wedged my knuckle into the key's circular head. One solid heave dragged it flush against the outer wire rib, locking it into a secure right angle. Perch cleared. Wide morning view straight ahead.