IMHO, drop option one - too confusing. Decide whether or not you want inline POD or plop it all at the end ( I prefer inline myself, especially with long code. Going inline can mean no duplication between normal comments and pod. ).

For the stored data, I think it is a toss-up on a seperate data file or making use of __DATA__ - unless others are modifying the stored values. If they will, a seperate data file is best.

YMMV
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idnopheq
Apply yourself to new problems without preparation, develop confidence in your ability to to meet situations as they arrise.

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