So would rather he live with the guilt? What do you imagine that would do to him?

( He can sympathize with Soldat's frustration. He felt much the same when Valjean spared his life, and that's one of the reasons why Javert had to lie to him when he did. He couldn't tell Valjean the truth and have the man try to change his mind. Nor could he allow him to feel guilty for what Javert was about to do. )

You're a good man, too, and the people here respect you. Don't speak as if your life has no value.