in reply to How to retrieve element in hash?

The command-line perl debugger is wonderful for exploring data structures - allows you to experiment without causing damage.

use "perl -d <program>" to start, and it has a 'h' command for help.

Use CTRL-C freely to kill output, if excessive at any time.

             "By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest."           -Confucius

In Section Seekers of Perl Wisdom