In the history before us our Saviour is represented as sitting "over against the treasury;" for though on every proper, and almost on every possible occasion, he addicted himself to solitude, both for the purpose of exemplifying the propriety of frequent retirement, and of obtaining spiritual refreshment; yet, at other times, he mixed with society to notice and to correct the follies of mankind. His observant eye could not overlook the minutest diversities of human character; and he never permitted a favorable opportunity of deducing from these appearances salutary lessons for his disciples, to pass unimproved. Happy, thrice happy men, to have such an Instructer at hand--to live so near the "Light of the world"--to have constant and intimate access to him, "in whom dwelt all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge!" And happy, thrice happy we, notwithstanding our comparative disadvantages of time and circumstance, who possess the recorded instructions of "the faithful and true Witness," in the page of inspiration, while "darkness covers" so vast a proportion of "the earth, and gross darkness the people!" In the situation which Jesus had chosen, he distinctly saw the people casting money into the treasury, and particularly noticed the large sums which many rich persons contributed to this sacred fund. Little did they suspect what an eye was upon them, watching their movements, and estimating their motives! It is probable that the majority of those who came to present their gifts on this occasion, had no personal knowledge of the Saviour, who assumed no extraordinary appearance, excepting that of extreme poverty of condition and deep humiliation of spirit; and that of those who might recognize him, some had been so discomfited by his superior wisdom in the field of argument, as to feel no inclination either to dare another contest, or to submit to his decisions; others were too indolent to make inquiries after heavenly truth, too ignorant to penetrate beyond his humble exterior, or too fearful to incur the censure of ecclesiastical authority, for seeming by a respectful approach to become his disciples; while few, if any, who passed by, were aware that "he knew what was in man."