Oh, I do think a multi-dimensional, non-obsessed Javert is far more interesting (and plausible) than an obsessed one! And it's certainly clear he does a v. good job as policeman doing things that have nothing at all to do with Valjean; it doesn't interfere with his work. (I mean, when he's actually making the arrests at the Gorbeau house, he's entirely focused on arresting the bad guys and pays no attention to the man in the corner.) But I'm still having trouble interpreting his comments about Marius's Old Man in any way other than a) he still sees Valjean around every corner and in every shadow, or b) he has known where Valjean is for years already and has been stalking him looking for evidence.... well, maybe when I've read more context it will stand out less.