"The pen is mightier than the sword, but only if the sword is at the service of the pen."

"I have cut off the beards of my boyars, but I cannot cut off their stubbornness."

"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."

"I have given Russia a window to Europe."

"I am not a doctor, but I can cure some diseases with a good flogging."