Very insightful. In reviewing the passage that mentions Mr Shepherd's "interest," I noted that Lady Russell (and Anne through her) were not so successful in influencing Sir Walter. They took too direct an approach I suppose. From chapter 2:

How Anne's more rigid requisitions might have been taken is of little consequence. Lady Russell's had no success at all: could not be put up with, were not to be borne. "What! every comfort of life knocked off! Journeys, London, servants, horses, table--contractions and restrictions every where! To live no longer with the decencies even of a private gentleman! No, he would sooner quit Kellynch Hall at once, than remain in it on such disgraceful terms."