First of all he positively decided to keep to himself.

Then he had a cowardly feeling.

He sought to forget, to avoid seeing Therese, and yet she always seemed to be there, implacably extending her arms.

The physical suffering that this spectacle caused him became intolerable.
He gave way.

He arranged another meeting, and returned to the Arcade of the Pont Neuf.
From that day forth, Therese entered into his life.