He had even succeeded in getting into Nana's immediate circle.

In fact, he frequented both houses, where you encountered his continual smile behind doors.

So Muffat, wretched at home, driven out by ennui and shame, still preferred to live in the Avenue de Villiers, even though he was abused there.
Soon there was but one question between Nana and the count, and that was "money." One day after having formally promised her ten thousand francs he had dared keep his appointment empty handed.

For two days past she had been surfeiting him with love, and such a breach of faith, such a waste of caresses, made her ragingly abusive.

She was white with fury.
"So you've not got the money, eh?
Then go back where you came from, my little rough, and look sharp about it! There's a bloody fool for you! He wanted to kiss me again! Mark my words--no money, no nothing!" He explained matters; he would be sure to have the money the day after tomorrow.