Don't put them aside on that account.

Take the first hypothesis that you can invent and test it thoroughly with your facts.

You will probably have to reject it, but you will be certain to have learned something new.

Then try again with a fresh one.

You remember what I told you of my methods when I began this branch of practice and had plenty of time on my hands ?" "I am not sure that I do." "Well, I used to occupy my leisure in constructing imaginary cases, mostly criminal, for the purpose of study and for the acquirement of experience.