If all alliances, resources, and negotiations fail, and all conjunctures go against me, I prefer to perish with honor, rather than lead an inglorious life deprived of all dignity.

My ambition whispers me that I have done more than another to the building up of my House, and have played a distinguished part among the crowned heads of Europe.

To maintain myself there, has become as it were a personal duty; which I will fulfil at the expense of my happiness and my life.

I have no choice left: I will maintain my power, or it may go to ruin, and the Prussian name be buried under it.

If the enemy attempt anything upon us, we will either beat him, or we will all be hewed to pieces, for the sake of our Country, and the renown of Brandenburg.