Valjean considers that Marius has probably barely noticed he has a garden at all, and an instant later knows that as soon as Cosette mentions her interest, the young man will become devoted to the idea of improving it to her tastes. No one can say they do not do their utmost to make each other happy, and he can love Marius for that. Combeferre's words from the bar float back to him, and they have never seemed more alien. Marius, hurt Cosette? It is unthinkable.

A thought of the magic bar makes Valjean consider Fantine, and whether he should mention that he has seen her. But the whole thing is so immense, so complicated, he does not want to touch it if he does not have to.

'His grandfather will have an opinion too, I expect. Do you speak to him much? I trust he is keeping well.'