It has always astonished me, Georgy Daniilovich, that those who are most repulsed by autocratic or dictatorial rule are among the first to eliminate their enemies once they take on the mantle of power themselves.
Georgy Daniilovich finds it surprising that individuals who oppose autocracy or dictatorship are often the first to act ruthlessly against their enemies when they gain power. This paradox highlights how power can change people's behavior and values, sometimes leading them to abandon their principles.
"It has always astonished me, Georgy Daniilovich, that those who are most repulsed by autocratic or dictatorial rule are among the first to eliminate their enemies once they take on the mantle of power themselves." This quote underscores the irony and human tendency to repeat the corrupt practices they initially despise when faced with authority and control.