*
   * <p><b>Note:</b> this method is now unnecessary and should be treated as deprecated. Instead,
   * use the {@code HashSet} constructor directly, taking advantage of <a
   * href="https://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/java/generics/genTypeInference.html#type-inference-instantiation">"diamond"
   * syntax</a>.
   */
  @SuppressWarnings("NonApiType") // acts as a direct substitute for a constructor call

   * try-catch block.
   *
   * If you think you would use this method, let us know. You might also look into the
   * Fork-Join framework: http://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/essential/concurrency/forkjoin.html
   */