563. Certain spirits appeared to me in the western quarter towards the south, saying that they had been in positions of great dignity in the world, and that they deserved to be more highly esteemed than others and to rule over them. Their interior character was explored by angels, and it was found that in their offices in the world they had not looked to uses but to themselves, and thus that they had set themselves before uses. But as they were very eager and importunate to be set over others, they were allowed to associate with those who were consulting about matters of great importance; but it was perceived that they were unable to give any thought to the business under discussion, or to see matters as they are in themselves, or to speak with reference to the use of the thing, but were able to speak only from the proprium, and that they wished to act from what is pleasing on the ground of favour. They were therefore dismissed from that duty, and left to seek employment for themselves elsewhere. Therefore they went further into the western quarter, where they were received here and there, but everywhere were told that they thought only of themselves, and of no business except with reference to self; and for this reason were stupid and merely like sensual corporeal spirits. On this account, wherever they went, they were sent away. Some time afterwards, they were seen reduced to a destitute state and asking alms. Thus it was clear that those who are in the love of self speak merely from the memory, and not from any rational light, no matter how wisely they may seem to speak in the world from the fire of that love. Therefore in the other life, when they are no longer permitted to bring forth the things of the natural memory, they are more stupid than others, and for the reason that they are separated from the Divine.