We have been fortunate enough to live at a time when virtue, though it does not triumph, is nonetheless not always tormented by attack dogs. Beaten down, sickly, virtue has now been allowed to enter in all its tatters and sit in the corner, as long as it doesn't raise its voice.

If there were no executioners, there would be no executions.

We should clearly understand that only the voluntary and conscientious acceptance by a people of its guilt can ensure the healing of a nation. Unremitting reproaches from outside are counterproductive.

And the over-all fact that you are a frail vessel full of errors.

For us in Russia, communism is a dead dog, while, for many people in the West, it is still a living lion.

Good or evil-you cannot build your life apart from this distinction.

The belly is an ungrateful wretch, it never remembers past favors, it always wants more tomorrow.