247. THE EXTREME CRUELTY OF CERTAIN SPIRITS, WHO NEVERTHELESS PROFESS MERCY AND HOLINESS WITH THE MOUTH This night something so very cruel was represented to me, that if anyone perceived but a slight idea of it, he would be horrified; wherefore I wish to spare chaste eyes and ears in referring to it. Certain spirits, from some very trifling cause, cried out for the mercy of God Messiah, which they claimed for themselves alone, as I also explained to them; for they seemed to lay a most cruel hand upon innocence itself for the sake of revenge; but it was only those spirits who suppose that what they apprehend in phantasy exists; thus they committed an act altogether opposed to mercy. But whether they have any mercy and charity anyone can judge, since of themselves they committed an act contrary thereto, solely for the sake of revenge against innocence, not against wickedness from a good end.