[Bamatabois is a well dressed gentleman.]

Bamatabois

Here's something new, I think I'll give it a try.

Come closer you! I like to see what I buy

The usual price, for just a slice of your pie

Fantine

I don't want you, no, no, m'sieur, let me go.

Bamatabois

Is this a trick? I won't pay more!

Fantine

No, not at all.

Bamatabois

You've got some nerve, you little whore

You've got some gall.

It's the same with a tart as it is with a grocer

The customer sees what he gets in advance

It's not for the whore to say 'yes sir' or 'no sir'

It's not for the harlot to pick and to choose

Or lead me to a dance!

[He hits her with his stick, she claws at his face,

drawing blood.]

Fantine

I'll kill you, you bastard, try any of that!

Even a whore who has gone to the bad

Won't be had by a rat!

Bamatabois

By Christ you'll pay for what you have done

This rat will make you bleed, you'll see!

I guarantee, I'll make you suffer

For this disturbance of the peace

For this insult to life and property!

Fantine

I beg you, don't report me sir

I'll do whatever you may want

Bamatabois

Make your excuse to the police!

[Javert enters, accompanied by constables.]

Javert

Tell me quickly what's the story

Who saw what and why and where

Let him give a full description

Let him answer to Javert!

In this nest of whores and vipers

Let one speak who saw it all

Who laid hands on this good man here?

What's the substance of this brawl?

Bamatabois