Now, however, freights were very bad and the company was nearer the rocks than he hoped the shareholders knew.
Cartwright imagined he could yet mend its fortunes, if he were left alone, but the job was awkward and opposition might be dangerous.

To command a solid block of votes would certainly help.
For all that, there was a risk Clara ought not to run.

His antagonists were getting stronger, and if they meddled and baffled him, the company would fail.

Its bankruptcy would not ruin his wife, but she would feel the loss of her money, and he was not going to use Clara for a shield against Ellen Seaton's attacks.

The thing was shabby.