Question:
Yet a few lines later, Hugo wrote, his Bonapartist blood

Does it follow that "Hugo referenced the life of Bonaparte and his comrades."?
Answer:
it is not possible to tell

Question:
However, there seemed to be an inexhaustible supply sailing across the Atlantic.

Does it follow that "There was no product sent over the ocean."?
Answer:
no

Question:
Then why hadn't the shell melted?

Does it follow that "Why didn't the black shell melt?"?
Answer:
it is not possible to tell

Question:
In response, several said they offered higher salaries and special benefits to attract and keep expert staff.

Does it follow that "Expert staff might be attracted with higher salaries."?
Answer:
yes