"I have a strong sense of duty, and I always fulfill my obligations."

"I have always been convinced that the world is governed by chance, and that we are all but instruments in the hands of fate."

"I praise loudly. I blame softly."

"I came to Russia a poor girl, and I will make Russia rich."

"A great many things have been said about me, and I have heard them all. But I have not heard anything that has made me change my opinion of myself."