Javert Valjean, at last, We see each other plain `M'sieur le Mayor', You'll wear a different chain
Valjean Before you say another word, Javert Before you chain me up like a slave again Listen to me! There is something I must do This woman leaves behind a suffering child There is none but me who can intercede, In Mercy's name, three days are all I need Then I'll return, I pledge my word Then I'll return
Javert You must think me mad! I've hunted you across the years A man like you can never change A man such as you
Valjean (in counterpoint) Javert (in counterpoint) Believe of me what you will Men like me can never change There is a duty that I'm sworn Men like you can never change to do No, 24601, You know nothing of my life My duty's to the law All I did was steal some bread You have no rights You know nothing of the world Come with me 24601 You would rather see me dead Now the wheel has turned around But not before I see this justice done Jean Valjean is nothing now I am warning you Javert Dare you talk to me of crime I'm a stronger man by far And the price you had to pay There is power in me yet Every man is born in sin My race is not yet run Every man must choose his way I am warning you Javert You know nothing of Javert There is nothing I won't dare I was born inside a jail If I have to kill you here I was born with scum like you I'll do what must be done! I am from the gutter too!
[Valjean breaks chair and threatens Javert with the broken piece Turns to Fantine]