In the book "Papillon" by Henri Charrière, there's a significant quote reflecting on the nature of authority and control. It highlights the idea that those who are tasked with keeping watch over prisoners can often be just as corrupt or criminal as the inmates themselves. This observation suggests a cycle of corruption, where the guardians of law and order may exhibit similar moral failings as those they are meant to oversee.

This quote from Napoleon III illustrates a broader commentary on the justice system and the individuals it employs. It raises questions about who is truly fit to enforce the law and protect society, emphasizing that power can attract those with questionable motives, ultimately leading to a system where the line between lawbreakers and law enforcers may blur significantly.