We return to the graveside and experience these same events from Fauchelevent’s perspective. He makes a last attempt to be the man to go drink with him and it pushes the new gravedigger over the edge. The new gravedigger is mad now and tells Fauch to stop, and he actively begins burying the coffin.
Frantic and looking for an out, Fauchelevent notices that the man has his badge, the way in and out of the cemetery after dark, sticking out of his pocket. Earlier Hugo told us about these cards, and without it the gravedigger will be in a good bit of trouble.
Thinking quickly Fauchelevent pulls the card out of the gravediggers pocket as the fourth shovelful is scooped and dumped and then notes how quickly night is coming. He asks if the gravedigger has his card, and when the gravedigger can’t find it he begins to panic a bit. Fauch digs in - he tells the gravedigger that the fine for forgetting it (a seemingly made up fine) is the outrageous amount of 15 Francs. The gravedigger can’t afford something like that. Fauch cuts a deal with him, telling him if he goes and gets his card from home (15 minutes away, a 30 mintue detour minimum) then Fauch will guard the grave and wait for his return. The man leaves and instantly Fuach pulls the grave open to find an unresponsive Valjean.
He’s terrified now. After all of this is his old friend Valjean, Pere Madeleine dead?! Is he too late?! Thankfully Valjean’s eyes open and he comes to! Getting out and moving slowly and stiffly from being crammed in the coffin, Valjean helps Fauchelevent bury the empty coffin and they leave together, returning the gravedigger’s card at the gate.
Fauchelevent goes to the gravediggers house and lets him know he found the card and finished the job and the gravedigger is relieved enough that he doesn’t ask any questions.