She meant all the time to accept Ben's escort, for he was a bright, attractive boy, and she liked his society.
"Then perhaps I had better accept your offer, but I am sorry to give you so much trouble." "No trouble at all," said Ben promptly.
Just then Prof.Harrington came forward and made his introductory speech.
"For my first experiment, ladies and gentlemen," he said, when this was over, "I should like a pocket handkerchief." A countrified-looking young man on the front seat, anxious to share in the glory of the coming trick, produced a flaming red bandanna from his pocket and tendered it with outstretched hand.
"You are very kind," said the professor, "but this will hardly answer my purpose.

I should prefer a linen handkerchief.

Will some young lady oblige me ?" "Let him have yours, Rose," suggested Ben.
Rose had no objection, and it was passed to the professor.
"The young lady will give me leave to do what I please with the handkerchief ?" asked the professor.
Rose nodded assent.
"Then," said the professor, "I will see if it is proof against fire." He deliberately unfolded it, crushed it in his hand, and then held it in the flame of a candle.
Rose uttered a low ejaculation.
"That's the last of your handkerchief, Rose," said Ben.
"You made me give it to him.

You must buy me another," said the young lady.
"So I will, if you don't get it back safe." "How can I ?" "I don't know.

Perhaps the professor does," answered Ben.
"Really," said the professor, contemplating the handkerchief regretfully.