PREFACE.

"I BELIEVED, therefore have I spoken." This is a sufficient reason for speaking, by book-publication or otherwise, on a subject of such importance as that here considered. It would be impossible to believe the truths contained in this book and remain silent concerning them, without treason to conscience, and to humanity itself. Some truths act on the mind like water on the wheel, setting all its faculties in motion, and calling into their service all the forces of the life. No one can stand in the shadow of the great truths of Divine retribution, without feeling himself impelled to lift up his voice, in every form possible, to make them known.

Looking into the open face of things prayerfully and thoughtfully, I get from nature and from revelation the view of truth given in these pages, and I should deserve the severest doom they describe if, having seen the vision for myself, I should fail to declare it to others. I acknowledge the attractive power of truth, making it a joy to follow it for its own sake, but it was rather the impelling force of truth within, often rendering me almost the involuntary instrument of its expression, that carried me through the preparation of this treatise. It has been boldly asserted that in their hearts or

thodox clergymen no longer believe in the endless punishment of the wicked, though they may still allow it a place in their creeds and sermons. I hope not only

to refute this statement, but also to present a rational and scriptural support for the doctrine, which must compel its acceptance with all unprejudiced thinkers, who accept the Bible as a revelation from God.

I have endeavored to avoid undue expansion, and the discussion of some points may be shorter than the reader would have desired, but it seemed best to keep the work within its present limits. The subject is a vast one, and single pages might have been expanded into volumes, but compact brevity seemed the better course.

If these pages shall prove an aid to clear thought, earnest conviction, and faithful service among those who are going forth "to seek and to save that which was lost," and if they shall be the means of causing any "to flee from the wrath to come," the author's purpose will be attained, and he will have cause for thanksgiving in being permitted to aid his fellow-laborers "in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ," and in rendering any service to the souls of men for whom Christ died.

S. M. VERNON.

TRINITY PARSONAGE, PHILADELPHIA, PA.

March 2, 1886.