Jean Valjean was released. He staggered back.
"Is it true that I am free?" he murmured weakly. 30
"Yes, of course. And my friend," the Bishop continued,
"take the candlesticks with you this time."
Going to the mantelpiece, he took down the two candlesticks
and brought them to Jean Valjean. The two
women watched, speechless, but made no sign of dissent.
Jean Valjean was trembling; he took the candlesticks
mechanically, as if in a dream. 5
"Depart in peace," said the Bishop, "and, by the way,
when you come again, enter by the front door; it is only
latched."
Turning to the gendarmes, he said, "Gentlemen, it is
unnecessary for you to remain." 10
The gendarmes retired.
Jean Valjean seemed unable to recover his senses; he
felt himself about to faint, when the Bishop approached
and said to him, in a very low voice,
"Remember always, my friend, that I have your promise 15
to use this money to become an honest man."
Jean Valjean, unconscious of having made a promise of
any kind, remained silent.