Perhaps they only expected that out of you because you're woman.

( Javert understands her completely. Not so much on a gender inequality scale, but her desire for respect mirrors his own. He had to fight and claw to get where he was, to earn the rank of Inspector First Class despite the set backs of his upbringing, and his mother's heritage. )

Whatever the case, it should not make a difference. You are intelligent. Anyone who isn't a complete fool should be able to see that.

( He's not trying to charm her or anything, he's just being honest. )