A Tin Resonance

I slipped through the crack of the pantry door and hopped onto the bottom shelf. A large tin of loose tea leaves was resting right in the dim rear corner. I bumped my base gently against the metal side, producing a deep, hollow gong. Inside, the dried leaves gave a soft, whispering rustle. I tipped my ear against the lid to wait for the next beat. Bump, then whisper. Bump, then whisper. It made the shadowed shelf feel wonderfully lively.