Valjean Arrested & Forgiven

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Valjean Arrested & Forgiven is the third song in the first act of Les Misérables. It is sung by the Bishop of Digne, and two police officers. The two together carry a theme to the tone of their music.

The beginning of the song is considerably loud and fast-paced, while the officers sing, but becomes much softer and slower when the Bishop takes over the conversation.

[edit] Overview

Before the song begins, Valjean is seen stealing objects from the Bishop's house (which he had been graciously invited off the streets in to), to make an escape with them for food + money. He is caught by two officers who question him on how he obtained the expensive items from the reverend. The two constables (correctly) accuse him of stealing and prepare to arrest him; when the Bishop steps in. Out of goodness he protects Valjean, and verifies his story about having given him the items. After which he gives Valjean his most prized and expensive posessions (two silver candlesticks).

Valjean Arrested & Forgiven, though aimed entirley at Jean Valjean, has no vocals by him.