( It's good that he clears that up, otherwise Javert might almost thought that he was feeling concerned about him. Being underestimated is one matter, but being coddled is far worse. )

You think I would be standing here if I could not?

( It's true, Javert's got the devil's own luck when it comes to keeping himself alive. Even when he begs for death, for someone to blow his brains out from three paces away, it doesn't happen. He doesn't like to fight if he doesn't have to, but he most assuredly can.

He moves a closer toward him, hand gripping tight to his cudgel, stained with spirit's blood. )

I will not insult you by telling you to go inside. But you cannot stay out here forever either. We do not know how long this will last. It may be better to wait it out, inside.