Is it a sin to maintain an open mind to the possibilities of something so unknown, or to continually reconsider the evidences that present themselves, or as you say, to change one's mind and position on the possibilities of something so completely unknown? If so, then yes, I am certainly guilty in this present search for a possible truth. If we don't allow ourselves to conduct our research in this exact manner then how can that research be anything else other then biased to a single theory or notion? It can't be. All that can ever come of this type of tunnel vision and unfounded pride is, well, blind conclusions.
And to say that you have never claimed outright "remedy/solve" as I refer, you should do your due-diligence before making such a statement as you have repeatedly made claim of nothing else. In these claims you have included just about everyone associated with Ward's family and even some of the people who sold the publication, repeatedly incriminating all of them in a family affair that you have absolutely zero evidence of their direct involvement in that narration. What did you call them, "confirmed influences." How, dare I ask, have you determined that Ward was indeed the actual author of the pamphlet and that his narration was, indeed, influenced by a multitude of family events that you proclaim? Have you discovered personal old letters to that effect? Perhaps an old diary or Ward's or a family member that outlines all of those details? Or, have you just assembled circumstantial evidence that fits into your personal pet theory like everyone else? Maybe you need to reflect on this a bit, really see if you have any type of true confirmation or verification at all. I'm betting you don't have anything more then anyone else in the way of verification or confirmation. If so please share it and you can end a 130 year mystery. I'll even applaud you when/if you ever do. But until then, "it's just another unfounded claim as to the true nature and source of the tale." Just like everyone else.
PS: I'm glad my humble pride isn't afraid to let me change my mind or to reconsider the possibilities of complete unknowns, even in public forums where I might have, at an earlier date and time, held different opinion.