Chapter I: Introduction

Of all the characters that come into the minds of writers, there is probably none that has been so thoroughly dramatic as the detective, unless it should be the crook with whom the detective deals.

The deeds of the underworld have a fascination for the most of us, and the detective who finds his way into them by the golden thread of his ingeniousness and unravels them, in our mind is the hero of romance and the guardian of the law abiding public. He reveals the mystery, apprehends or arrests and assists in the conviction of those who are regarded as the worst enemies of society.

To my mind, as well as thousands of others, the detection of crime and the “hunt” for the criminal is one of the most fascinating callings in which a man can engage. I believe I am safe in saying that every man has a desire, something within him calling out, to try and unravel some mysterious crime.

This work is based upon careful study of the highest recognized authorities on the subject. Its purpose is to present in a clear, connected and forcible manner the knowledge obtained from twenty-two years in the detective profession.

It is hoped that this treatise may satisfy the most thoughtful and experienced officers and that it may be also of special interest and profit to the new beginner, the more experienced officers and members of police departments.

The story section deals with actual facts and experiences in the mountains of West Virginia.

This being a book of facts and recounting some of my experiences in the detective profession, I sincerely hope that it will meet with the approval of all officers of the law and have a full reading from that portion of the public who are interested in perplexing problems dealing with the underworld of crime.

Respectfully,
RUFUS H. CLENDENEN.