Defaced Deceptions

Paper promises are worthless;
They're dry and dull,
Vouchers vanquished with ease.
Worn out, or wasted, or watered down;
They scorch, or shatter, or
Are stolen with quick hands.
They shackle, and fetter in, and narrow
Bounds to a monolithic horde of corpses.

They signify nothing to my Lord,
Who values only virtue —
Compassion spreading through action.
His currency is time, a loan
Given to all the living;
Employ these talents; enrich the Earth
With true profits.