SLEEPER.
Ah! you told me so before. But now that I am free, I should wish to use my time to advantage, and gain some knowledge, however soon I may lose it again.
SPIRIT.
Your body seems effectually asleep, and not likely to want you very soon: if you please, you can accompany me in my present employment, which will give you some insight into the management of human life.
SLEEPER.
What is your employment, and what are you? For you have encouraged me to ask questions by answering them.
SPIRIT.
Not long ago I was a man like yourself. Out of those who die, a few of the most meritorious are selected to perform certain duties in the management of mankind. I having lived virtuously was appointed, at my death, to one of these offices; and my present employment is to prevent men from being too happy.
SLEEPER.
Is that the vocation of heavenly beings? Surely they can distribute nothing but good.