Ogil. So much truth being among the good angels, I am apt to think that lies and falsehood will be as much in vogue among the bad.
Cool. A gross mistake, and it is not alone the mistake which the living folks fall under with respect to the other world; for the case plainly is this: an ill man will not stick at a falsehood to promote his design; as little will an evil soul departed stop at anything that can make himself successful; but in admitting report he must tell the truth, or woe be to him. But besides their monthly, quarterly, or yearly meetings, or whatever they be, departed souls acquainted may take a trip to see one another yearly, weekly, daily, or oftener, if they please. Thus, then, I answer your question that you was so much concerned about; for my information was from no less than three persons, viz., Aikman, who attends Thurston’s family; James Corbet, who waits upon Mr Paton; for at that time he was then looking after Mrs Sarah Paton, who was at your house, and an original emissary appointed to wait upon yours.
At this I was much surprised, and after a little thinking, I asked him, And is their really, Cool, an emissary from hell, in whatever sense you take it, that attends my family?
Cool. You may depend upon it.
Ogil. And what do you think is his business?
Cool. To divert you from your duty, and cause you to do as many ill things as he can; for much depends on having the minister on their side.
Upon this I was struck with a sort of terror, which I cannot account for. In the meantime he said several things I did not understand. But after coming to my former presence of mind, said—
Ogil. But, Cool, tell me, in earnest, if there be a devil that attends my family, though invisible.
Cool. Just as sure as you are breathing; but be not so much dejected upon this information, for I tell you likewise that there is a good angel who attends you, who is stronger than the other.
Ogil. Are you sure of that, Cool?