What does "They can´t keep him in mattresses or mistresses" in simpler words mean?

Question

Sorry, I´m from Germany and am reading OUTFOXED by Rita Mae Brown at the moment. I don´t quite understand these words. Is it a wordplay?
Please help. Thanks.

Additional Details

Thanks! So now I can continue reading...

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

think about it. "Cant keep him in mattresses" (at home with wifey) "or mistresses" (or with the women he has affairs with). He's a player.

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

No, I don´t think, he´s a player. He wants to become joint master of the Jefferson Hunt Club - that´s what it means, I think. Not only women but also be a very important citizen... thanks to everyone, you all helped.

Answer 2

never heard the saying before, but it sounds like it means he goes thru quite a lot of women.

Answer 3

I think it means "they can't keep him in his own bed or with one woman".
So basically, he sleeps around XD

Answer 4

Have to agree with reeree on this one. He gets around a lot and therefore goes through mattresses and women quickly.

Answer 5

it means he's a male whore.