He thought their dump was too dreary without Lantier's company so he patched things up between Gervaise and Lantier whenever they had a falling out.
In the midst of all this Lantier put on the most consequential airs.
He showed himself both paternal and dignified.

On three successive occasions he had prevented a quarrel between the Coupeaus and the Poissons.

The good understanding between the two families formed a part of his contentment.

Thanks to the tender though firm glances with which he watched over Gervaise and Virginie, they always pretended to entertain a great friendship for each other.

He reigned over both blonde and brunette with the tranquillity of a pasha, and fattened on his cunning.