46 
The latter may not follow, as a matter of course, even with 
willingness on his part. 
The best safeguard is a clear mental picture of the case 
which shows what it is necessary to get, and thus prevents 
the omission of important items. The six watchwords of 
a complete case are again valuable reminders. 
The method to be used depends much upon the witness. 
Unless he wanders beyond forbearance, it is best to let 
him tell his story straight through in his own way. Then 
question and requestion until it is certain that he can not 
or will not add anything more of value. Take sufficient 
time, no matter how much of a hurry you are in. Better 
not start the interview in the first place than be in too 
much of a hurry to permit of getting the facts. 
Write the story all down as it is told, unless the witness 
shies at that, in which case do it at the completion of the 
interview. Opposition to having a statement written 
down may often be allayed by saying, “Now, I’d like to 
put this down, so that I can include it in my report, and 
I will not quote you incorrectly.” If rightly handled, 
he will doubtless help you to get it all straight and can 
then hardly refuse to sign it. A much more complete and 
satisfactory statement will ordinarily be obtained by 
thus writing it yourself than by letting the witness write it. 
Read to the witness what you have written, word for 
word; ask him if it is correct; change any items which he 
may desire corrected; have him sign it, and have his sig¬ 
nature properly witnessed. 
In case a witness refuses to make or to sign a written 
statement but will talk, get him to tell his story in the 
presence of several reliable witnesses and afterwards write 
down the essential substance, as nearly verbatim as pos¬ 
sible, of his statements, either yourself or in collaboration 
with the others, who will swear to it in court. 
In addition to the record of what was said, put down in 
your notebook the circumstances of the conversation, per¬ 
sons, witnesses, time, and also all the conclusions for future 
guidance which you can draw from the facts thus learned. 
