In "A Place of Greater Safety" by Hilary Mantel, the character Charpentier expresses a deep dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, voicing his fear of the consequences if reform efforts are led by those he does not trust. He acknowledges that the system is flawed but is apprehensive about who might take charge of any changes.

Camille, on the other hand, dismisses the idea of reform, suggesting that the situation in the city is far more precarious than that. He foresees an imminent crisis, predicting that the summer will bring a significant upheaval. Their exchange highlights the tension between a desire for change and the risk of chaos.