Testing the Spring

I came across a wooden clothespin lying beside a cork coaster on the low table. Its coiled metal spring looked tight and sturdy. Bracing my boots against the oak surface, I gripped both tapered ends with my hands and leaned my weight forward. The metal gave way with a sharp, satisfying snap, forcing the front jaws wide open. Before the leverage slipped, I guided the open teeth onto the rim of the coaster and let go. It clamped down instantly, standing upright like an anchor on the table.