In fact, Joshua's guess was correct. After Mr. Hoff hung up the phone, he communicated briefly with Mr. Charles and already made a decision.
Compared to having possibly closer ties with the Holy Bell Party, which could jeopardize his status within the Socialist Party, the threat from the Lance family and Lance was even greater!
Having lost his status as a regional opinion leader, he would still be a wealthy man, capable of living in the Bay Area and enjoying all that only two percent of the people could indulge in.
But if he does nothing, he might lose not just his status as an opinion leader, but also his wealth and everything he owns.
When both choices essentially mean stabbing oneself, the left choice being a stab with a dagger, and the right choice a stab with a long sword, the decision doesn't seem so difficult.
