He was acutely sensitive to the human side of those with whom he had dealings.
In fact, he was more inclined to take their point of view than to hold his own.

For that reason, the subtler disputes were likely to go against him.

His desire to avoid coming into direct collision of opinion with the other man, veiled whatever of justice might reside in his own contention.

Consequently it was difficult for him to combat sophistry or a plausible appearance of right.

Daly was perfectly aware of Radway's peculiarities, and so proceeded to drive a sharp bargain with him.
Customarily a jobber is paid a certain proportion of the agreed price as each stage of the work is completed--so much when the timber is cut; so much when it is skidded, or piled; so much when it is stacked at the river, or banked; so much when the "drive" down the waters of the river is finished.