Book 2, Chapters 3 and 4 Summary

Two years have passed with Charles and Julia living at Brideshead without initiating divorces from their respective spouses. In fact Rex is still in residence at Brideshead and fills his time with business and political issues. The time that Julia and Charles spend together is idyllic with long walks and romantic moments. Charles spends most of his time painting at Brideshead especially portraits of Julia. The mounting tensions in Europe and the talk of another World War instill in Julia a sense of urgency to bring some stability to their relationship and she begins to push for divorces for both herself and for Charles.

Bridey who appears at Brideshead sporadically arrives unexpectedly at dinner one evening and informs Julia and Charles that he is to be married. Julia is shocked due to Bridey's reclusive nature and wonders where her...