In the tumult of great events, solitude was what I hoped for. Now it is what I love. How is it possible to be contented with anything else when one has come face to face with history?

I wouldn't mind dying for France, but not for Air France.

Whereas ordinary officers must be content with behaving correctly in front of their men, the great leaders have always carefully stage-managed their effects.

The graveyards are full of indispensable men.

A true leader always keeps an element of surprise up his sleeve, which others cannot grasp but which keeps his public excited and breathless.

Diplomats are useful only in fair weather. As soon as it rains they drown in every drop.

In order to become the master, the politician poses as the servant.