Mammon, the least erected Spirit that fell263 680 From Heav’n, for ev’n in Heav’n his looks and thoughts Were always downward bent, admiring more The riches of Heav’n’s pavement, trodden gold, Than aught divine or holy else enjoyed In vision beatific: by him first264 685 Men also, and by his suggestion taught,265 Ransacked the centre, and with impious hands266, 267 Rifled the bowels of their mother Earth For treasures better hid.
