It is the notoriety, the power that they are out for.

In Carleton's case, it is to feel himself the power behind the throne; to know that he can make and unmake statesmen; has the keys of peace and war in his pocket; is able to exclaim: Public opinion?
It is I." "It can be a respectable ambition," suggested Joan.
"It has been responsible for most of man's miseries," he answered.

"Every world's conqueror meant to make it happy after he had finished knocking it about.

We are all born with it, thanks to the devil." He shifted his position and regarded her with critical eyes.

"You've got it badly," he said.