It feels so utterly good, and such an overwhelming comfort and relief, to rest her head on her father's lap and hear the love in his voice as he calls her my angel, my child, tu. She does shed a tear or two, very quietly.

"Thank you, Father. I've been so worried. But there, I'm sure it was very silly of me to think such things. I won't worry any more about that. I won't worry a bit. I shall be nothing but happy! Only --"

She catches his rough hand in both of hers now, and brings it to her cheek, as she straightens up enough to gaze up at him beseechingly. "Only you will listen to your little Cosette now, and tell her things now and again? Please say you will. Please say you'll never be such a naughty father again, and draw away from us. I love you so."