The capital had been available for some time, thanks to an inheritance from an aunt.

Lantier told her of all the shopkeepers who were making fortunes.

The time was right for it; you could sell anything these days.

Virginie, however, hesitated; she was looking for a shop that was to be let, she did not wish to leave the neighborhood.
Then Lantier would take her into corners and converse with her in an undertone for ten minutes at a time.

He seemed to be urging her to do something in spite of herself; and she no longer said "no," but appeared to authorize him to act.