“In the first place, father, I want you to come and embrace me. What do you mean by not saying anything instead of taking my part? who gave me such a father as that? You must perceive that my family life is very unhappy. My husband beats me. Come, embrace me instantly.”
Jean Valjean approached.
Cosette turned toward Marius.
“As for you, I shall make a face at you.”
Then she presented her brow to Jean Valjean.
Jean Valjean advanced a step toward her.
Cosette recoiled.
“Father, you are pale. Does your arm hurt you?”
“It is well,” said Jean Valjean.
“Did you sleep badly?”
“No.”
“Are you sad?”
“No.”
“Embrace me if you are well, if you sleep well, if you are content, I will not scold you.”
And again she offered him her brow.
Jean Valjean dropped a kiss upon that brow whereon rested a celestial gleam.
“Smile.”