The Confrontation

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
man like you can never change
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
ne 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)

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!