War & Peace (TV Series)

Austerlitz (1972)

Frank Middlemass: Mikhail Kutuzov

Quotes 

• Mikhail Kutuzov : However, before every battle, a great deal of discussion must take place. In my experience, such discussion achieves very little, because once a battle starts, one usually has very little choice. Still it seems we all feel better because of it. So let us have it and get it over.

• Tsar Alexander I : Why don't you begin, Mikhail Illarionovich?

  Mikhail Kutuzov : I was waiting, Your Majesty.

  Tsar Alexander I : Waiting?

  Mikhail Kutuzov : Not all the columns have formed up yet, Sire.

  Tsar Alexander I : We are not on the Empress Field, you know, Mikhail Illarionovich, where the parade is not begun till all regiments are present.

  Mikhail Kutuzov : That is the reason I do not begin, Sire. Because we are not on parade. And not on the Empress Field. However, if it be Your Majesty's command...