A dispute between the woman and the powers of darkness

writings to come true, to strengthen my faith, that they were of God, if they were not. Now as I have run all hazards for ten years past, trusting in the God of my salvation, that he would not leave me, nor forsake me; and as I have lost my good name by an ill-natured world, and all that I had, now will I run the hazard of my life also. For I know, that the words you speak of an all-wise God, never came from an all-wise God. After ten years' keeping silence, as Satan would persuade me, now to break out in one speech, mixed with so many foolish contradictions one with the other, is absurd. So now, Satan, mind, the fish had no power to hurt me; neither will you.

Satan. I ask you this question: are you so hardened through unbelief, to sign your name, that no argument shall prevail upon you to give them up in seven days? Suppose the ministers and your friends should come and persuade you to it. Answer me that question, and I know what I have to do.

Joanna. Joanna's answer is readily given; if the ministers and my friends come and persuade me to give them up, I shall judge their faith, like my dream, comes from hell. So I will not be led by them, nor any one, to give them up in seven days. Seven days can never convince me they are not of God; and I will sooner give up my life, than give up my faith in seven days. So it is not all the powers of earth or hell shall make me run so fatal a hazard. And I now sign my name, Joanna Southcott, that I will not give them up in seven days.

Satan. And do you mean to stand to that word?

Joanna. Yes. I will stand to it, unless the Lord takes my life from me. And then he and he alone makes me give them up. For men nor devils never shall make me give up my faith in the God of my salvation.