I was under the impression that the reinforcing material was a mistake... NOT a push for an edge. Is this still the basic understanding?

Obviously..... the issue is not the baby... it's to hammer this loft and make them an example to all of the other lofts... but also to the sailors.... "Hmmm should I take a chance on a small loft... hmmm... if they screw up... I am the one screwed..."