A cloud had come over John the Baptist’s mind; the faith which had hitherto borne him up, is now sharply exercised. He sent his disciples to Jesus. I do not think that he had the disciples’ good _only_ in view. Our blessed Lord “in that same hour cured many,” etc. (Luke vii. 21, 22), and answered them, “Go your way,” etc. (ver. 22); and He added this (Oh, I thank God for that addition), “And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me.” Have you ever had prayers so answered—I hope you have had many—that you almost, as they say, leapt out of your skin, you have been so astounded? You will have many more if you “come boldly to the Throne of Grace.” I believe then, when the Lord sent this message to His faithful servant, He answered the very want and questioning of his heart, and that word satisfied the yearning of his heart. John the Baptist must have said, “Why, He knows my very thoughts, my very doubts, my failings, my fears!” May I not thus interpret? I do not add to the Word of God. All clouds disappeared; the Sun of Righteousness shines out with healing in His wings. By-and-by there is the glimmer of a light, the sound of the key in the lock. “Ah! my lord” (so the jailor would probably have called the prophet), “I bring you heavy tidings—the king has sent his executioner.” “Heavy tidings? Nay, joyous tidings! blessed tidings! glorious tidings! Lord Jesus, I thank Thee! Where is he? Do not keep me one moment from heaven and glory!” Down he laid his head on the block joyfully, and another saint was in glory! Oh, my brethren, think what that will be—“For ever with the Lord”! * * * * * * * * * * C. F. HODGSON AND SON, PRINTERS, GOUGH SQUARE, E.C. FOOTNOTES. {3} Some printers’ errors have been corrected, and a few sentences omitted by the Editor re-inserted.