Before I posted my message I above, I deleted one short paragraph almost exactly similar to yours. :P I figured if I was going to post a relatively "neutral" thought, I might as well try not to reveal my biases right then and there! :D

I like what Deborah Y said below about the factors that determine different characters' fates: good sense and luck, at least with regard to CW. At the very least, it's a mixture of good sense and luck (grace) that Captain Harville is CW's friend. Notwithstanding his judgment and all, CW's a pretty lucky fellow to have friends like him, despite the Mr. Elliots in the world.