The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

“You see, but you do not observe. The distinction is clear. For example, you have frequently seen the steps which lead up from the hall to this room” “Frequently” “How often” “Well,some hundreds of times” “Then, how many are there?” “How many?I dont know.” “Quite so! You have not observed. And yet you have seen. That is my point. Now, I know that there are seventeen steps, because I have both seen and observed.”

“I have no data yet. It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.”

“It is my business to know things. Perhaps I trained myself to see what others overlook. If not, why should you come to consult me?”

“To the police?” “No, I shall be my own police. When I have spun the web, they may take the flies, but not before.”

“Data!data!data!” he cried impatiently. “I can't make bricks without clay.”