Thackeray may have begun working out some of the details of "Vanity Fair" as early as 1841 but probably began writing it in late 1844. Like many novels of the time, "Vanity Fair" was published as a serial before being sold in book form. It was printed in 20 monthly parts between January 1847 and July 1848 for "Punch" by Bradbury & Evans in London. The first three had already been completed before publication, while the others were written after it had begun to sell. As was standard practice, the last part was a "double number" containing parts 19 and 20. Surviving texts, his notes, and letters show that adjustments were made – e.g., the Battle of Waterloo was delayed twice – but that the broad outline of the story and its principal themes were well established from the beginning of publication.