299. I was raised up also into a habitation of the very inward heaven where, by the mercy, and under the direct and miraculous auspices of God the Messiah, I was able to abide for a while, and at the same time speak with the angels, who sensed most sharply that someone was present. For they are extremely happy about newcomers, and want most eagerly for a newcomer to become one of them. But from that keen perception, they at once know and sense whether that person is able to live among them. If not, they are sad, and still make every effort to initiate the soul, but when there is not concord, they separate themselves. Then the soul is again allowed to be transported around in carriages, which I have not only heard, but also seen; and I have been with them in the carriages, and afterwards conversed with them at some length.

From these circumstances in the inward and very inward heaven, one can see how things are with those who are quickened immediately after the life of the body, namely, that "they walk through dry places, and seek rest" [Matt. 12:43, Luke 11:24]. 1747, the 5th day of December.