no more than an alibi

"A memory stirs...
You make me think of a man...
From years ago...
A man who broke his parole."



"I have only known one other
Who could do what you have done.
He's a convict from the chain gang.
He's been ten years on the run."



"But he couldn't run forever.
Yes, we found his hideaway.
And he's just been rearrested,
And he comes to court today."



"Who am I?
Can I condemn this man to slavery?
Pretend I do not feel his agony?
This innocent who bears my face,
Who goes to judgement in my place."



"Who am I? Who am I?
I'm Jean Valjean!"



"And so Javert, you see it's true!
That man bears no more guilt than you!
Who am I?"



"24601!"