“In general,” says Robsahm, “Swedenborg would not enter into dispute on matters of religion. If he was necessitated to defend himself, he did it with mildness and in a few words; but if any one would not be convinced, and became warm in argument, he retired, saying, ‘Read my writings attentively and without prejudice; they will answer you in my stead, and will afford you reason to change your ideas and opinions on such things.’ “He used, at first, freely to speak of his visions and spiritual explications of the Scriptures; but as this displeased the clergy, who proclaimed him a heretic and madman, he resolved to be less communicative of his knowledge in company, or, at least, more cautious, lest the censorious should have room to blame what they could not comprehend like himself. I once,” says Robsahm, “addressed the rector of the parish where he lived, an old and respected clergyman, asking him what he thought of Swedenborg’s visions and explanations of the Bible. The venerable man answered: ‘God alone can judge of this; but I can not think him to be such a person as many do; I have myself conversed with him, and in company where we have been together, and I have found him to be a good and a holy man.’ “It was remarkable that Swedenborg never endeavored to persuade any person to receive his opinions. He was in nowise led by that self-love which is observable in those who publish new opinions concerning church doctrines; neither did he seek to make many proselytes, not even communicating his thoughts and sentiments, except to those whom he thought virtuous, disposed to hear them with moderation, capable of comprehending them, and lovers of truth. “It is a very singular circumstance,” continues Robsahm, “that all who have read the writings of Swedenborg, with a desire to refute them, have finished the attempt by adhering to his sentiments.” This assertion must be received, however, with qualification.