“When you have eliminated all which is impossible, then whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”

“It is a great thing to start life with a small number of really good books which are your very own.”

“There is nothing more deceptive than an obvious fact.”

“It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important.”

“You see, but you do not observe.”

“The world is full of obvious things which nobody by any chance ever observes.”

“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.”

“Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself; but talent instantly recognizes genius.”

“You have a grand gift for silence, Watson. It makes you quite invaluable as a companion.”