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Dobbin looked very pale and grave. ‘I’ve seen your fa-
ther,’ said he. ‘How’s Amelia—Mrs. George? I’ll tell you all
the news presently: but I’ve brought the great news of all:
and that is—‘
‘Out with it, old fellow,’ George said.
‘We’re ordered to Belgium. All the army goes—guards
and all. Heavytop’s got the gout, and is mad at not being
able to move. O’Dowd goes in command, and we embark
from Chatham next week.’ This news of war could not but
come with a shock upon our lovers, and caused all these
gentlemen to look very serious.

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