Daniel was torn between being amused or perturbed. He reached and pulled on the ladder firmly; it seemed that it would hold his weight.

Daniel considered his options, glancing back to the busy street. He could stop this silliness and return to “real life.” After all, he was very late for the party at this point.

But what if I come back tomorrow, and this is gone? he thought. Then again, I could fall to my death, or serious injury, climbing this stupid ladder.

Daniel sighed. He knew there was no way anyone could let such a mystery go. He grabbed onto the ladder and heaved himself off the pavemet.

The ropes and wooden rungs were sturdy. Daniel climbed steadily, his breath bouncing off the brick wall and into his face. He did not allow himself to look down.

At last, he reached the open window and dragged himself inside, landing on a dusty wooden floor. As his eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, he spotted a white envelope in front of him. On it was written:

DANIEL GATE , PERFORATE.