The idea occurred to him that there was, perhaps, still time for him to make peace with his brother.

He wondered what he might well ask in return for playing the traitor.

His rancour against the Rougons still gnawed at his heart; but he was in one of those moods when, lying on one's back in silence, one is apt to admit stern facts, and scold oneself for neglecting to feather a comfortable nest in which one may wallow in slothful ease, even at the cost of relinquishing one's most cherished animosities.

Towards evening Antoine determined to send for his brother on the following day.

But when, in the morning, he saw Felicite enter the room he understood that his aid was wanted, so he remained on his guard.
The negotiations were long and full of pitfalls, being conducted on either side with infinite skill.