After Dora's death, David's life seems empty and meaningless. After a period of unhappy wandering he returns home to the end of an old friendship and the beginning of a new life with Agnes.
After the death of Mr Spenlow, Dora and David marry. Traddles enters the Law and begins investigating the affairs of Wickfield and Heep.
Ham reveals the news that his bride-to-be, Emily, has run away with Steerforth. Mr Spenlow has discovered David's letters to Dora and has forbidden David to see her anymore.
David has fallen in love with Dora, the young daughter of his employer Mr Spenlow. After capturing her attention at her birthday party, David is hoping that Dora will return his affection.
After meeting his old schoolfriend Steerforth at an inn, David takes him on a visit to Yarmouth to see Peggoty and her husband Barkis and her family.