  I introduce two continuous transformations between the $S=1$ Heisenberg chain
and the antiferromagnetic $S=1/2$ Heisenberg ladder. Both transformations
couple diagonally situated {\it next nearest neighbor} $S=1/2$'s to form each
$S=1$. Using the density matrix renormalization group, I demonstrate that the
two systems are in the same phase. Furthermore, I find that the hidden
topological long-range order characterizing the $S=1$ system is even stronger
in the isotropic two-chain system.
