A Mine there is no Man would own

A Mine there is no Man would own

But must it be conferred,

Demeaning by exclusive wealth

A Universe beside ―

Potosi never to be spent

But hoarded in the mind

What Misers wring their hands tonight

For Indies in the Ground!

“Potosi” is known for rich silver mines in Spanish colonial days.  It was actually exhausted in 19th century. But “Potosi” is still hoarded in the mind.

Nobody would own that mine

But it must be transferred,

Demeaning neighboring Nature

By exclusive wealth ―

Potosi will never be exhausted

But what Misers grip tonight

For West Indies in the Ground

Is hoarded in the mind!

* Indies: West Indies