496. Such, however, are explored by good spirits to discover what they are, and this in various ways; since in this, the first state, the evil equally with the good utter truths and do good acts, and for the reason mentioned above, that, like the good, they have lived morally in outward respects, since they have lived under governments, and subject to laws, and have thereby acquired a reputation for justice and honesty, and have gained favour, and thus been raised to honours, and have acquired wealth. But evil spirits are distinguished from good spirits chiefly by this, that the evil give eager attention to whatever is said about external things, and but little attention to what is said about internal things, which are the truths and goods of the Church and of heaven. These they listen to, but not with attention and joy. They are also distinguished by their turning repeatedly in specific directions, and following, when left to themselves, the paths that lead in those directions. From such turning to certain quarters and going in certain ways it is known what is the kind of love that leads them.