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 to rule over them. They were examined by the angels in order to ascertain their true quality; and it was discovered that, in the discharge of the duties of their offices in the world, they had not looked to uses but to themselves; and so had preferred themselves to uses. But because they were very earnest and importunate in their desire to be set over others, they were allowed to take their places among those who were consulting about matters of superior importance; but it was perceived that they were unable to attend to the business under consideration, or to see things interiorly in themselves; and that they did not speak upon the subject from a regard to use, but from proprium; and likewise that they wished to act from personal favor according to their arbitrary pleasure. Wherefore they were dismissed from that office, and left to seek employment for themselves elsewhere.

They therefore proceeded further into the western quarter, where they were received first in one place and then in another; but they were everywhere told that they thought only of themselves, and of nothing except on their own account; consequently that they were stupid, and only like sensual corporeal spirits. On this account wherever they went they were sent away. Sometime afterwards I saw them reduced to extreme poverty, and asking alms.

Hence also it was made manifest that, however they who are in self-love may, from the fire of that