The Snapping Latch

I shuffled down the front porch steps and slipped past the gate onto the sidewalk. Resting on the low brick rim of a tree planter, a small teal carabiner clip caught my eye. I paused, tilting my head to inspect its shiny wire gate. Stepping close, I gripped the curved frame and pressed against the metal latch with both curved hands. The spring was stiff and pushed back. I braced my feet against the stone and leaned my weight squarely into the lever. Click! The gate swung open into the hollow loop. I slipped a dry pine needle inside and let go. Snap! The latch sprang shut, holding the needle firmly upright.