"I have often sinned, but I have never consciously done anything against the interests of my country."

"To educate the people, one must first educate the nobility."

"I see nothing but good in following the example of the most civilized nations, and in introducing into Russia all that is useful and necessary."

"God is my witness, I have done everything for the good of the state."

"I have no fear of consequences, only of inaction."