Valjean, at last, we see each other plain
"M'sieur le maire," 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 somethin' I must do
This woman leaves behind a sufferin' 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
Men like you can never change
A man, such as you
Believe of me, what you will (men like me can never change)
There is a duty that I'm sworn to do (men like you can never change)
You know nothin' of my life (no, 24601)
All I did was steal some bread
My duty's to the law, you have no rights (you know nothin' of the world)
Come with me, 24601 (you would sooner see me dead)
Now the wheel has turned around (but not before I see this justice done)
Jean Valjean is nothin' now
I am warnin' 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 warnin' you, Javert (you know nothin' of Javert)
There is nothin' 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)
♪
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)
I will raise her to the light
I swear to you, I will be there