"If you really think so--" commenced Rose, with cunning hesitation.

"I feel quite sure of it. He's a terrible looking fellow."

Rose smiled to herself. 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.