The act revealed to him the fact that he was using her handkerchief for the purpose, soiling it, perhaps.

His face flushed deeply and an embarrassed gleam came to his eyes.

"Why, I am using your handkerchief.

I assure you I did not know what I was doing when I took it from you.

Have I ruined it ?" Miss Vernon laughed at his concern and her face brightened considerably.