Before Javert Became Inspector - A short story based on Les Miserables

A Conundrum

Javert, the persistent, logical, and somewhat cold galley guard at Toulon, was faced with a rather serious problem. That is to say, serious to the matters of Javert himself, since one might say it was less of a problem and more of a trivial concern. Earlier that afternoon, in a manner most unlike him, he had been unable to find the stout cane that was his habit to carry with him. It weighed heavy on his mind that though the galley slaves were already used to having miners drills in their possession, Javert was convinced that his cane may soon be involved in a crime. He had taken it upon himself to interrogate every convict in Toulon but one. The convict, number 24601, legal name Jean Valjean.

With quick, measured steps, he approached the convict in the stony manner that had become a part of his character – which briefly paused as Javert momentarily lost his balance and tripped over a loose stone. After regaining his footing and taking a moment to collect himself, he resumed his path towards his original goal. Jean Valjean, hearing footsteps, looked up from what he was doing, his expression neutrality mixed with distrust.

"Jean Valjean" Javert said, somewhat unsure of what to do with his hands because of his lack of a cane.

"Javert" the convict said with a small nod, a slight tone of boredom and tiredness in his voice. "Are you aware of the cane I carry on me? And possibly my lack of one today?" Javert tried to keep the slight tone of embarrassment out of his voice. To be missing anything was mortifying for someone like the calculating galley guard. Jean Valjean gave him a quick once-over, then nodded again. "Yes, I am aware. This has to do with me, how?" he raised an eyebrow questioningly, suppressing a sigh. "A thief like you wouldn't happen to know anything about it?" Javert decided to cross his arms, addressing 24602 coldly. "No. I've been in the quarry for the most part of the day." Javert narrowed his eyes, suppressing his own sigh. "I see. Good day then." He turned and left, still wondering what to do with his unoccupied arms.

Later that day, as Javert was preparing to retire for the night, he noticed an odd shadow from under his bed. Crouching to investigate, he withdrew the stout length of formerly missing cane. Javert, upon recognizing it, paused in shock. The night before, it must have slipped from its usual place leaning on the dresser. Javert sighed. He owed Jean a proper apology tomorrow.