Johnson

"The Critical Reviewers, I believe, often review without reading the books through; but lay hold of a topick, and write chiefly from their own minds. The Monthly Reviewers are duller men, and are glad to read the books through."

Samuel Johnson, in Boswell's Life

I would be a Papist if I could. I have fear enough, but an obstinate rationality prevents me.

Samuel Johnson

If it rained knowledge I'd hold out my hand, but I would not give myself the trouble to go in quest of it.

Johnson

"What, have you not read it through?"

"No, sir; do you read books through?

Johnson