Note by Eric Ferguson:  The starting and ending positions are both (1,2,3,4), but the progression (2x,3x,4,1) means that on each repeat two couples in varied positions start on opposite side.  This pattern is impossible to remember, and is confusing to the dancers.     
If 2c were to start on opposite side (1,2x,3,4), only the couple in 2pos would start on opposite side on each repeat. That would be easy to remember, and so make the dance easier, more elegant and more attractive.