'I do know Bahorel, yes. A man of strong convictions.'

The recent conversation with him stands out starkly in his mind. He likes Bahorel and can withstand him well enough, but he is also tiring.

Valjean often feels tired, these days.

'And you are right, Javert cannot hurt you. Moreover, I do not think he would, but even if he made an attempt he would be stopped at once, mademoiselle. You need have no fear.'

He will make sure to speak with Javert on the matter should he ever see him again - indeed, he may leave him a note to ensure the man's good behaviour. He does not like influencing him, it does not seem fair, but he will also not allow Fantine to be harrassed.

'Bahorel has many friends here, all good young men. And in this place all mingle freely, so I hope you will have no shortage of people to talk to.'

There is no restriction of movement based on propriety, gender or marriage status - something that worries him less now that Cosette is safely married - and he hopes Fantine has realised that she will not be judged for whom she speaks with, as she might have been at home.