[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
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