He had corrected the proofs of this article, and was returning home somewhat calmed, when, as he passed along the Rue de la Banne, he instinctively raised his head and glanced at the Rougons' windows.

Their windows were brightly lighted up.
"What can they be plotting up there ?" the journalist asked himself, with anxious curiosity.
A fierce desire to know the opinion of the yellow drawing-room with regard to recent events then assailed him.

He credited this group of reactionaries with little intelligence; but his doubts recurred, he was in that frame of mind when one might seek advice from a child.

He could not think of entering his father's home at that moment, after the campaign he had waged against Granoux and the others.

Nevertheless, he went upstairs, reflecting what a singular figure he would cut if he were surprised on the way by anyone.