He was so sure of being prudent and calm that he did not even keep watch on his gestures and speech.

The egotism he displayed in the enjoyment of his good fortune, shielded him from any fault.

All that kept him from kissing Therese in the shop was the fear that he would not be allowed to come any more.

He would not have cared a bit about hurting Camille and his mother.
Therese, who was of a more nervous and quivering temperament, was compelled to play a part, and she played it to perfection, thanks to the clever hypocrisy she had acquired in her bringing up.

For nearly fifteen years, she had been lying, stifling her fever, exerting an implacable will to appear gloomy and half asleep.