This Craftsman mower won't start after I left covered outside for a
month. I check the oil dipstick, it's full. I'd check the gas, it's full. I
check the spark plug for sparks, it sparks. I'd remove the spark plug
and check for gas and I smell gas - plus a bit of moisture. The air filter
has been missing for months.

It doesn't have the extra "dead man" safety handle, or does it? I
do notice a dangling loose wire running from the coil into the brake
cable mechanism. I don't know where it actually goes or if it's
necessary. What are some steps I could do in order to get this
mower starting again?

Thanks