- Henry Kissinger: [Reflecting on Nixon during his visit to the Soviet Union in final days of his presidency] I felt more warmly toward my doomed chief than at any previous time. Whatever happened and whoever else deserted, I had determined to stick by the president who had appointed me to high office, to vindicate the continuity of government. But in the recesses of my soul, I began to to feel what I am told is sometimes the attitude of survivors toward the terminally ill: I hoped that since the end was inevitable, it would - for the sake of our country - be quick and if it had to happen, it would - for the sake of the president - be merciful.
- Ron Ziegler: I mean, all that stuff about the President suggesting we make a new Dictabelt, that wasn't a serious proposal. He was just thinking out loud.
- Ron Ziegler: [after Nixon's lawyers argue that he must resign] What's happened to everyone's sense of loyalty?