There is a plot inconsistency here in Conrad's otherwise meticulously plotted novel. Not just Decoud, but Charles Gould agrees that maintaining the flow of silver to Holroyd is essential for the Separatist plan. In fact, that assumption is the whole motive for the adventure in the Gulf that follows. And yet, when the silver fails to reach Holroyd, Gould continues the plan of Separation regardless, and succeeds. One can defend the inconsistency by saying that the characters simply reconsidered the situation and changed their minds, which would be consistent with the theme, yet still vexing for the reader.