Jean is about to snap back when Javert's words give him pause. This man respected him...the convict he then chased most of his life and killed himself over. Jean is used to scorn and pity but respect is completely new.

He studies Javert for a long moment trying to figure out why and when the other man's regard has become important to him. And why convincing him he too is a good person is important. He sighs. "Another stalemate between us it seems....."