Quote by James Branch Cabell
There are many of our so-called captains on industry who, if the truth were told, and a shorter and uglier word were not unpermissible, are little better than malefactors of great wealth.
Summary
This quote suggests that there are individuals in positions of leadership and power within industries who, if their true nature was revealed, would be seen as wealthy wrongdoers. The quote implies that these individuals are not deserving of their wealth and have engaged in unethical or even criminal activities to acquire such wealth. It highlights the perception that some people in positions of influence exploit their power and manipulate the system for personal gain, rather than genuinely contributing to the betterment of society.