"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. "I am afraid I have destroyed the handkerchief; I hope
the young lady will pardon me."

He looked at Rose, but she made no sign. She felt a little disturbed,
for it was a fine handkerchief, given her by her aunt.