Page:Swedenborg, Harbinger of the New Age of the Christian Church.djvu/280

 to possess the manners and everything else which in those so-called serious or sober times caused a man to be honored and made him agreeable in society. He was accordingly, even in his old age, cheerful, sprightly, and agreeable in company; yet at the same time his countenance presented those uncommon features which are seen only in men of great genius."

Robsahm's vivid picture of his friend may be supplemented by the slighter sketches of some of Swedenborg's visitors, with less intimate acquaintance. The royal librarian in Stockholm, Gjörwell, called on him in 1764 to request for the Royal Library a copy of the works he had lately published. His account of his visit to Swedenborg is simple, and pleasant to read:—

"I met him in the garden adjoining his house in the Södermalm [southern part of Stockholm], where he was engaged in tending his plants, attired in a simple garment. The house in which he lives is of wood; it is low and looks like a garden-house; its windows also are in the direction of the garden. Without knowing me or the nature of my errand, he said, smiling, 'Perhaps you would like to take a walk in the garden.' I