that different spiritual states give the appearance of separate places in the spiritual world, more or less distant from each other, according to the states of those who dwell there. It is only on this principle,—as a transition state,—that the world of spirits is distinct from heaven and hell. It still forms a part of the spiritual world in general, and exists in accordance with the same laws.
I must here remark, that being under the necessity of bringing this work to a close immediately, for the purpose of attending to other duties, I have determined to fill up the remainder of this section, for the most part, from a chapter on this subject, contained in a work entitled "Noble's Appeal." I take this method of lightening my labors, with less regret, from a conviction, that the reader will derive much more benefit from the extracts that will be introduced, than he would from anything that I could write. And even those who have read the book referred to, will find it difficult to spend a few moments more profitably, than in perusing again the few pages that are given below.
I will first remark, however, that in the views just presented, a brief description has been given of the nature of the last judgment, considered in reference to each individual. But it is important also to observe, that, according to the doctrines of the New Church, a Last or General Judgment has several times been executed upon immense societies of spirits at the same time. The reason of this will be readily seen when it is remembered how intimately connected is the destiny of every spirit, with that of the church or dispensation, under which he has begun his existence. It is true, that under every dispensation, the man who was far advanced in regenerate life, would pass rapidly through the world of spirits, and would soon arrive at his eternal home in heaven, while he who was confirmed in evil would rush as rapidly to his abode in hell. But there would still be an immense number of those who were internally good, as well
