Was there love in this transformation?
Cayrol did not hesitate.

He guessed at once that the future would be Panine's, and that the maintenance of his own influence in the house of Desvarennes depended on the attitude which he was about to take.
He passed over to the side of the newcomer with arms and baggage, and placed himself entirely at his disposal.
It was he who three weeks before, in the name of Panine, had made overtures to Madame Desvarennes.

The errand had been difficult, and the banker had turned his tongue several times in his mouth before speaking.
Still, Cayrol could overcome all difficulties.

He was able to explain the object of his mission without Madame flying into a passion.

But, the explanation over, there was a terrible scene.