Summary
The quote refers to the notion of representative government, a system where elected officials are chosen to represent the interests and views of the people. The term "fatal drollery" implies a sense of irony, suggesting that the concept of representative government is perceived as both absurd and detrimental. It alludes to the idea that this system may be flawed, possibly due to challenges such as corruption, ineffective decision-making, or the inherent limitations in fully representing the diverse needs and desires of the populace.