Never apologize and never explain - it's a sign of weakness.

Never apologize, mister, it’s a sign of weakness.

I restate my absolute and unreserved apology.

I wasn't saying whatever they're saying I was saying. I'm sorry I said it really. I never meant it to be a lousy anti-religious thing. I apologize if that will make you happy. I still don't know quite what I've done. I've tried to tell you what I did do but if you want me to apologize, if that will make you happy, then OK, I'm sorry.

An apology? Bah! Disgusting! Cowardly! Beneath the dignity of any gentleman, however wrong he might be.

It's easier to apologize than ask for permission.