Quotes by I. Péter orosz cár

"

I foresee that one day, or perhaps even in our lifetime, the Russians will surpass the most enlightened peoples by their successes in the sciences, by their power of work, and by the greatness of fame, brilliant and unshakable.

"

I respect those who have acquired their noble title due to services rendered to the country, such as, for example, the race of the Repnins and their ilk; but that of their posterity whose behavior does not rise to the height of their forefathers deserves my contempt; a fool of an unworthy race is more tolerable than one of a noble race.

"

I know that I am subject to sins and that I often make mistakes, and I will not be angry with the one who wants to prevent me in such situations and show me the mistakes I make.

"

Procrastination is like death.

"

Victory is decided by the art of war, the courage of commanders and the fearlessness of soldiers. Their chest is the shield and pavement of the homeland.

"

The man without conscience is ungrateful, he is not to be trusted. Better an enemy in sight, Than a flattering and hypocritical scoundrel; he shames the human race.

"

Laws and commandments must be clearly written so that they cannot be misinterpreted. Truth is little in the hearts of men, and guile abounds. There are as many galleries in their hearts as under a fortress.

"

Peace is good, but don't let drowsiness seize you, let your hands soften, and let the soldiers turn into mule.

"

If one begins to speak, the other should not interrupt him, let him finish, as is the case among honest men, not as among presumptuous women.

"

When the ruler obeys the law, no one dares to break it.

"

Evil cannot move quietly.

"

Better an open sin than a hidden one.

"

In case of recognition - forgiveness, for concealment there is no mercy.

"

Forgetting your job for the sake of a woman is unforgivable. To be the prisoner of a mistress is worse than to fall a prisoner in war; from the enemy you get freedom sooner than from the fetters of woman.

"

Money is the artery of war.

"

Run all you want after wild animals: this fun is not for me. I must chase the enemies outside the state, and within it tame the wild and obstinate subjects.

"

Judgment is above all virtues, because without reason every virtue is empty.