On Crimes and Punishments

the overly free course of ill-directed power, which has given until now a long and authorized example of cold atrocity. And yet the groans of the weak, sacrificed to cruel ignorance and rich indolence; the barbaric torments, multiplied with lavish and useless severity for crimes either unproven or chimerical; the squalor and the horrors of a prison, increased by the most cruel executioner of the miserable, uncertainty, should have shaken that sort of magistrate who guides the opinions of human minds.

The immortal President of Montesquieu has touched rapidly upon this matter. The indivisible truth has forced me to follow the luminous tracks of this great man. But thinking men, for whom I write, will know how to distinguish my steps from his. I would be fortunate if I could obtain, as he did, the secret thanks of the obscure and peaceful followers of reason, and if I could inspire that sweet trembling with which sensitive souls respond to one who upholds the interests of humanity!