For to tempt and to be tempted are things very nearly allied - whenever feeling has anything to do in the matter, no sooner is it excited than we have already gone vastly farther than we are aware of.
Catherine II

I am one of the people who love the why of things.
Catherine II

I beg you take courage; the brave soul can mend even disaster.
Catherine II

I like to praise and reward loudly, to blame quietly.
Catherine II

I shall be an autocrat: that's my trade. And the good Lord will forgive me: that's his.
Catherine II

In my position you have to read when you want to write and to talk when you would like to read.
Catherine II

In politics a capable ruler must be guided by circumstances, conjectures and conjunctions.
Catherine II

Men make love more intensely at 20, but make love better, however, at 30.
Catherine II

Power without a nation's confidence is nothing.
Catherine II

The more a man knows, the more he forgives.
Catherine II

Your wit makes others witty.
Catherine II