When I began the study of Revelation no thought of the present work had entered my mind. The splendor of the imagery and the sublimity of its descriptions had always attracted me, but I had read as one who walks through an unknown and mysterious country. Like many others, I believed that the book could not be understood, and was ready to pronounce the man a visionary who sought to interpret John's visions. Several years have passed since I entered seriously upon the study of the book. I was led to do so by the reflection that the Word of the Lord was not composed of enigmas and dark sayings which no man could understand; that it was all written "for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," and hence, must be written in such a way that it could be understood; that a special blessing was pronounced upon those who hear and keep the words of the prophecy, which would certainly never have been done if it was impossible for men to fathom its meaning; lastly, that a great part of the prophetic portion must have been fulfilled before this last quarter of the nineteenth century, and therefore be explained by the corresponding events of history. In my studies I ever kept in mind that the book is a series of symbolical pictures; a panorama of great events until the end of time; and by a careful [3] comparison of the pictures, in their order, with history, beginning at the date of John's exile to Patmos, I have been enabled to evolve what is to me a satisfactory view of the whole scope of Revelation. The prophecies are so wonderful, their fulfillment so striking, and there is such an exact correspondence between the prediction and the events of history, that it seems impossible for a candid student to doubt that the prophet of Patmos was filled with the Spirit of God. It is with the hope that its publication will not only increase the knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, but will serve to confirm the faith of saints and to convince the skeptical, that I have consented to add another to the vast number of books flung out in this book-making age. I think the reader will, at least, find that there is a wonderful correspondence between the symbols and historical events, and that this continues in such invariable order as to leave no doubt concerning the meaning of the prophecy. It will be found that a complete system reaches from the opening of the First Seal, until the Seventh Trumpet blows the signal for the coming of the Lord.

      An eminent writer has recently said: "There is great need of a clearer apprehension of the natural, simple, rational, self-consistent principles for the interpretation of Scripture prophecy." I would fain indulge in the hope that the verdict of the reader will concede the employment of such principles in the present work. A somewhat extended examination of books on Revelation has aroused unmixed astonishment over the wild dreams, vagaries, and meaningless speculations which have been presented as interpretations of prophecy. The principal effect of most of these works is only to conf use the mind of the reader and to involve him in an endless labyrinth of obscurity. It is not wonderful that a public, having access to these books, should reach the conclusion that Revelation cannot be understood.

      It is with pleasure that I acknowledge my indebtedness to two or three authors who are honorable exceptions to the mass of rubbish which the discussion of Revelation has evolved. I have derived substantial aid from the Horæ Apocalypticæ of E. B. Elliott, The Critical English Testament, and Barnes' Notes on Revelation. In many respects these coincide in their views, and, in the interpretation of the first Five Seals, I have found that some of them had anticipated my line of explanation. On the meaning of the Sixth Seal I believe that they have all made a mistake, as well as concerning the entire chapter following. While gratefully acknowledging my indebtedness, the reader who makes comparison will find that at various points the present work proposes interpretations never before published, and it is hoped that these will be found rational and harmonious.

      I take occasion here to mention that the view of chap. V:9-10, on page 49, is confirmed by the revised translation of the New Testament issued since that portion was written. This is the more satisfactory from the fact, that the views there expressed of the Four Beasts and The Elders have been considered somewhat revolutionary. I will further add, that in deference to those who have passed middle life, a class to whom the sunset of life gives a keener relish for the study of prophecy, I have chosen a bold type that call be easily read by every age. I trust that all who are waiting for the [5] "consolation of Israel," by the triumph of the Saviour's kingdom and his blessed appearing, will find comfort in these pages. John wrote in order that the saints, when the dark waves of persecution and sorrow and trial rolled over them, might be enabled to look beyond and see the brightness of the coming morning. If this work shall be the means of cheering, comforting and encouraging my weary fellow-travelers to that "city which hath foundations," I shall feel that I have not written in vain. [6]

[VOTA 3-6]