Catherine the Great

The greatest happiness is to be loved for oneself.

I know what I want, and I will get it.

I have often seen that the most clever people are not always the most intelligent.

To be great, one must be able to suffer greatly.

I shall die as I have lived, with my boots on.

I have always thought that it is better to be feared than loved.

I have a reputation for being a very difficult woman, but I am not.

I am not afraid of anything, except God.

I have a good memory, but it is short.

The mind is the only absolute.

I am never bored, because I am always thinking.

I have a great deal of curiosity, which is a great help to me.

I am a woman of my word, and I keep my promises.

I have no need of a husband, but I have need of a lover.

I have a strong will, and I usually get my way.

I have always been independent, and I always will be.

I am not a saint, but I try to be a good ruler.

I have a clear conscience, and that is all that matters.

I have a great love for books, and I read constantly.

I have no desire to be a man, but I have a man's mind.