Follow the rulebook or make it right?

[Todd VandenAkker]

You could ask the timer if he has definite knowledge as to how long he waited before starting the clock, but he probably doesn't know any more than you know. Unfortunate as it is, you shouldn't take any time off. I'd also make sure the timer understands that forgetting to START the clock does not permit a purposely "slow" STOPPING of the clock on the next whistle.