Honesty is always the best policy. In this situation I would even consider it a means by which FTs can show that we are not woven of the same cloth as so many of our employers.

In addition, you have not questioned whether or not I would condone a runner. Indeed, without knowing me in the slightest, you state that I would not. Fair enough - I won't fault you for guessing.

Twasn't a guess,my honourable friend.Twas the application of logic.
You have stated that 'honesty is ALWAYS the best policy.Doing a runner is dishonest,as is lying,of course.So,in line with your statement re 'honesty',you are bound not to condone anything dishonest,such as the telling of mere white lies,and doing a runner!
A pity be it that many Chinese employers do not believe in honesty always being the best policy.But I'm afraid that reality is reality!