The Osbornes and Dobbin now made their way to Chatham, from where the regiment was to embark for Europe. Amelia was presented to Peggy O'Dowd, the commanding officer's wife. Peggy O'Dowd was a friendly Irishwoman, and she made Amelia very welcome.

'We're all good friends here,' she explained cheerfully. 'There isn't a happier regiment in the whole army.'

Jos had agreed to accompany Amelia to Europe, and everyone noticed that his appearance became more and more military every day.

At last they arrived in Brussels where the regiment was quartered. Everyone was delighted with the city, and all the Vanity Fair booths were laid out before them with their usual attractions. There was gambling for those who liked it, there was a theatre, and above all, there was a huge throng of lords, ladies and gentlemen.

George was enthusiastic about the social life of Brussels. One evening he danced with one of Lady Bareacre's daughters. He even invited the Bareacres to a grand dinner. They accepted the invitation, but they refused to speak to poor Amelia, whom they considered their social inferior. She passed a very miserable evening in their company.

One day Captain Crawley and Becky arrived in the city. They were travelling with General Tufto, and they mixed in the very highest military circles. George was quite proud to know the Crawleys, and to be seen around the city with them.

Becky was in the very best of humours. She teased poor Jos about their old romance, and she flirted with George. Amelia was uncomfortable in her presence. She felt that Becky's influence on her husband was not a good one.

Dobbin was more forthright still.

'What a humbug that woman is!' he commented to George.

A grand ball was planned, and everyone was desperate to have a ticket to the social event of the year. Jos and Mrs O'Dowd were unlucky, but the Bareacres obtained tickets for Captain Osborne and his wife. Dobbin was given a ticket by a general he knew.

George bought new clothes for Amelia, and drove her to the ball. She did not know anyone there, and sat by herself while her husband went off to look for his friends. Amelia was unhappy, and the only person who came to talk to her was honest Dobbin.