She took his hands and spoke very familiarly in order to soften her refusal.
"Come now, darling, do be quiet! Honor bright, I can't: Steiner's upstairs." But he was beside himself.

Never yet had she seen a man in such a state.
She grew frightened and put her hand over his mouth in order to stifle his cries.

Then in lowered tones she besought him to be quiet and to let her alone.

Steiner was coming downstairs.

Things were getting stupid, to be sure! When Steiner entered the room he heard Nana remarking: "I adore the country." She was lounging comfortably back in her deep easy chair, and she turned round and interrupted herself.
"It's Monsieur le Comte Muffat, darling.