He has told the truth, but he is making the sacrifice.

When that is done you will enter and take him to prison." The two constables standing beside the Coroner made a move forward, as though to show they meant to enforce the law without any palaver.
The Chinaman raised the palms of both hands at them.

"Not yet," he said.
Then he looked at the Coroner.

"You are master.

Will you not prevent them ?" The Coroner motioned the constables back.