[The crowd parts to reveal that the cart has crashed, trapping M. Fauchelevant.] Voices Look at that! Look at that! It's Monsieur Fauchelevant! Don't approach! Don't go near! At the risk of your life! He is caught by the wheel! Oh, the pitiful man. Stay away, turn away, There is nothing to do.. There is nothing to do.. Valjean Is there anyone here Who will rescue the man? Who will help me to shoulder The weight of the cart? Voices Don't go near him, Mr. Mayor The load is heavy as hell The old man's a goner for sure It'll kill you as well. [Valjean attempts to lift the cart. They manage to pull Fauchelevant clear.] Fauchelevant M'sieur le Mayor, I have no words You come from God, you are a saint. [Javert takes Valjean aside.] Javert Can this be true? I don't believe what I see! A man your age To be as strong as you are... A memory stirs.. You make me think of a man From years ago A man who broke his parole He disappeared Forgive me, Sir, I would not dare! Valjean Say what you must, don't leave it there. Javert I have only known one other Who can do what you have done He's a convict from the chain gang He's been ten years on the run But he couldn't run forever We have found his hideaway And he's just been re-arrested And he comes to court today. Of course he now denies it You'd expect that of a con But he couldn't run forever, No, not even Jean Valjean! Valjean You say this man denies it all And gives no sign of understanding or repentance? You say this man is going to trial And that's he's sure to be returned To serve his sentence? Come to that, can you be sure, That I am not your man? Javert I have known the thief for ages Tracked him down through thick and thin And to make the matter certain There's the brand upon his skin He will bend, he will break This time there is no mistake. [Javert leaves, Valjean is alone.]
https://primoaccordo.net/misc-musical/the-runaway-cart.htm