MY DEAR YOUNG FRIENDS; I— have received, so many letters from you in answer to the note of last January about the continuance of the questions, that we cannot do otherwise than continue them. If it were possible, I would reply to each of you, but hard-worked people have not sufficient time to do so; only be sure of this, that it is only want of time, not lack of love to you, that hinders. What has given me so much joy in hearing from you is that many a dear boy and girl has told me, simply and brightly, of being truly the Lord's. How I wish that all who have written to us could scythe same! And I believe that real love to the Scripture has called forth many of the letters received, for I have heard how sorry you were to see given up a means of helping you to dig into the sacred mine of the divine word. May the Lord make your love to His word to abound, and your knowledge of His love to increase!
Our questions will be resumed in our March number, and we propose beginning with the gospel by John. We purpose asking you forty questions during the five ensuing months, at the end of which time we shall award six prizes for the best answers given. This will leave five more months to complete the year, and of this, if the Lord will, we will speak by-and-bye.
You will direct your answers to stating your age and giving your address. Let such as may change their address not forget to tell us. Your replies must be sent in not later than the 25th of the month.
Now let me say that, as rich and poor answer our questions, it is not fair that any help should be received in stating the replies. We want you each to take your own spade and dig for yourselves. Your parents and friends may show you how to dig, but they must not dig instead of you. If you find any of the questions very difficult, say so, and we will see how we can aid you.
In writing you this little letter I have said "we" as well as I," the reason being that some kind friends have offered their assistance in helping you. Hence, if you have any little difficulty about understanding Scripture we shall be glad to receive your letters and will do our best to assist you.
Your affectionate friend,