Debugging a High Level Language Program Operating Through a Runtime Engine

In a remote runtime engine, a method for debugging a remotely executing high level language specified computer program can include the steps of interpreting a high level language specified computer program and receiving debug messages from a debug tool over a computer communications network. Consequently, the received debug messages can be applied to the high level language specified computer program. Additionally, debug messages can be sent to the debug tool over the network. In a particular aspect of the invention, the method can include setting a breakpoint in the runtime engine on a method specifying logic for receiving the debug messages. Responsive to reaching of the breakpoint, the receiving and applying steps can be performed for a debug message in a message queue in the debug tool. Similarly, a breakpoint can be set in the remote runtime engine, and responsive to reaching the breakpoint, the sending step can be performed.