OK...so it's not dramatic fiction from the days of knights and kings...but
I have a solution for you, nonetheless!
 
OK...for those with a problem using a baby gate due to moulding concerns,
simply do the following:
 
Raise the gate *above* the moulding, so that the gate solidly hits the wall
on both sides.
 
Next, measure the distance *between mouldings* on each side, as well as the
gap from the bottom of the gate to the floor (NOT the step).  Go to your
nearby hardware store (Builder's Square, Rickel's, etc.) and have them cut
a piece of plexiglas to the *exact* width (between the mouldings), but
about four or five inches *higher* than the bottom gap.
 
Now, take the plexiglas home, and drill some holes along the top, about an
inch below the edge, and about two or three inches apart.  Be sure to smooth
the inside edges of the holes, so that you don't leave any sharp edges.
 
Now, mount the gate above the mouldings as stated before, then slide the
plexiglas *behind* the gate, and *in front* of the bottom step.  Use
twist-ties, yarn, even knotted clothesline lengths (measure the length you
need to go from one hole to the next, leaving about two inches at each end.
tie a knot at one end, pass the rope through and tie a loose knot at the
other end.) to secure the top edge of the plexiglas to the gate.
 
If the gate you are using is solid, you can use short bungee cords
(stretched from one side of the gate to the other, *behind* the plexiglas
[leaving the plexiglas between the cords and the gate]) to secure the
plastic in place.
 
Now, this may *sound* complicated, but it isn't.  If you are interested in
trying this out, drop me an E-Mail and I'll be glad to describe the idea in
more detail! :)
 
Todd and the (Hello? Bob Villa?) Fuzzbutt Rodeo Clowns!
 
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[Posted in FML issue 2310]