Tied for 4th most-quoted character in Les Misérables (2012): in 3 of its 20 quotes
Most scenes with: Jean Valjean (3)
Scenes with Javert
3 scenes
Javert Now Prisoner 24601, your time is up and your parole's begun. You know what that means?
Javert No. [hands him a yellow paper] Follow to the letter your itinerary, this badge of shame you'll show until you die. It warns you're a dangerous man.
I stole a loaf of bread. My sister's child was close to death, and we were starving...
Javert You will starve again unless you learn the meaning of the law!
I know the meaning of those nineteen years; a slave of the law.
Javert Five years for what you did. The rest because you tried to run, yes 24601...
Javert And I'm Javert! Do not forget my name. Do not forget me, 24601.
Javert Valjean, at last. We see each other plain. "Monsieur 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.
Javert You must think me mad! I've hunted you across the years. Men like you can never change. A man such as you!
Javert Monsieur le Mayor, I have a crime to declare. I have disgraced the uniform that I wear. I've done you wrong- let no forgiveness be shown. I've been as hard on every rogue I have known. I mistook you for a convict; I have made a false report. Now I learned they caught the culprit, he's about to face the court. Of course, he now denies it; you'd expect that of a con. But he could not run forever- no, not even Jean Valjean.
You say he denies it all and gives no understanding or repentance? You say this man is going to trial and he's sure to be returned to serve his sentence?
Javert [offering his sword]
He will pay, and so must I. Press charges against me, sir.
[Valjean stands, giving back Javert's sword]
You have only done your duty; it's a minor sin at most. All of us have made misjudgements- you'll return, sir, to your post.
Other characters in Les Misérables (2012)
