One of Sherlock’s three main personality traits is a high sense of curiosity. Sherlock would rather have cases that challenge his mind than have wealth. As John states, “...he refused to associate himself with any investigation which did not tend towards the unusual, and even the fantastic” (311). Throughout the eight years John lived with Sherlock and helped him, John observed many cases being thrown out because they hadn’t been peculiar enough. Holmes easily could have been extremely wealthy, using his deducing skills, in preference he chooses cases where people can barely pay him anything. As Helen Stoner explained her tale, Sherlock, intriguingly listened and asking plenty of questions making sure Miss Stoner doesn’t leave out any details.