The Confrontation

Valjean, at last
We see each other plain
`M'sieur le Mayor'
You'll wear a different chain.

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...

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)
Men like me can never change
Men like you can never change
No, 24601,
My duty's to the law
You have no rights
Come with me 24601
Now the wheel has turned around
Jean Valjean is nothing now
Dare you talk to me of crime
And the price you had to pay
Every man is born in sin
Every man must choose his way
You know nothing of Javert
I was born inside a jail
I was born with scum like you
I am from the gutter too!

Valjean (in counterpoint)
Believe of me what you will
There is a duty that I'm sworn to do
You know nothing of my life
All I did was steal some bread
You know nothing of the world
You would rather see me dead
But not before I see this justice done.

I am warning you Javert
I'm a stronger man by far
There is power in me yet
My race is not yet run
I am warning you Javert
There is nothing I won't dare
If I have to kill you here
I'll do what must be done!

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

And this I swear to you tonight
There is no place for you to hide
Your child will live within my care
Wherever you may hide away
And I will raise her to the light.

I swear to you, I will be there!