[He sighed in his cup. This wasn't really his kind of game, but he was a con artist at heart.]

Doubtful we're going to get much agreement though. There's good people here, a few creative types even, but they might not like the risks. Not that we need their full cooperation though, if we play the field. I can set the stage myself. [And take the shot if needed.]

...it helps that we can play behind the scenes. We might be able to win some of our hand back.