It is here again stated that the 1260 years terminated in 1798. And the express “In those days,” found in the text, “In those days, after the tribulation,” is made to refer to the 1260 days. On this basis the statement is made: “Between these two dates [1773-1798] according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened.” WWPGC 25.2
This interpretation involves the necessity of explaining why all the other signs mentioned in Matthew 24 come outside this period, and this is a difficult matter to establish satisfactorily. It seems to me a much more consistent interpretation of this passage to regard the expression “In those days, after that tribulation,” to refer to the indefinite period beginning with the close of the period of tribulation and extending to the time of the second advent, thus taking in all those events mentioned in Matthew 24:29, 30. WWPGC 25.3
Response: Criticism considered and the phrase: “following this persecution” was substituted for “Between these two dates.” WWPGC 25.4
1888 book read: “Between these two dates, according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened. On the 19th of May, 1780, this prophecy was fulfilled.” WWPGC 25.5
1911 edition wording reads: “Following this persecution, according to the words of Christ, the sun was to be darkened. On the 19th of May, 1780, this prophecy was fulfilled.” WWPGC 25.6