I would guess that the reward was not worth the risk. Meaning if you have a strong company making $ why would you take on a contract that could put that at risk. Many contracts have clauses that put the company at risk if X is not completed on time or by a date; no matter if you finish the job or not. No matter you are right you can not turn anything down that is not offered.
The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket!