The Confrontation

Javert:
Valjean, at last,
We see each other plain
`M'sieur le Mayor',
You 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...

Javert (in counterpoint): Valjean (in counterpoint)
Men like me can never change Believe of me what you will
Men like you can never change
No, 24601, There is a duty that I'm sworn to do
My duty's to the law You know nothing of my life
You have no right All I did was steal some bread
So come with me 24601 You know nothing of the world
Now the wheel has turned around You would sooner see me dead
Jean Valjean means nothing now But not before I see this justice done
Dare you talk to me of crime I am warning you Javert
And the price you had to pay I'm a stronger man by far
Every man is born in sin There is power in me yet
Every man must choose his way My race is not yet run
You know nothing of Javert I am warning you Javert
I was born inside a jail There is nothing I won't dare
I was born with scum like you! If I have to kill you here
I am from the gutter too! I'll do what must be done!

[Valjean breaks chair and threatens Javert with the broken piece. Turns to Fantine.]

Valjean
And this I swear to you tonight

Javert
There is no place for you to hide

Valjean
Your child will live within my care

Javert
Wherever you may hide away

Valjean
And I will raise her to the light.

Valjean & Javert
I swear to you, I will be there!

[They fight, Javert is knocked out. Valjean escapes.]