In all probability they would be most unfavourable to Ling Chu, who would come immediately under suspicion.
Tarling, however, was satisfied--or perhaps it would be more accurate to say inclined to be satisfied--with his retainer's statement.

Some of his story was susceptible to verification, and the detective lost no time in making his way to the Stores.

The topographical situation was as Ling Chu had described it.

Tarling went to the back of the big block of buildings, into the small, quiet street of which Ling Chu had spoken, and was able to distinguish the iron rain pipe (one of many) up which the Chinaman had clambered.

Ling Chu would negotiate that task without any physical distress.