Steel Magnolias

          The ladies of Downton Abbey both upstairs and down are really steel magnolias. Although the men of the era had all the financial, political and physical power, the women clearly had the emotional power which buoyed all the men’s efforts in whatever they were doing. The women at Downton (and dare I say everywhere else?) are the power behind the throne.

          So let’s begin with my first steel magnolia, Anna. For such a tiny, frail-looking person Anna is truly made of tough stuff. She doesn’t back down to anyone and is so incredibly kind to everyone. Thomas is so mean-spirited and has tried to undermine her so many times, yet Anna is still so concerned about his health. Anna keeps Lady Mary’s secrets even at the expense of real tension with her husband. When Bates found the book and the contraception, I almost choked. The questioning he put Anna through was like a courtroom drama, yet she wouldn’t crack and continued to hold on to Mary’s secret. She was also so relieved to know definitively that Bates did not kill Mr. Green. Although he would have liked to, for Anna’s sake he refrained from doing it. Now, will the police see things his way? We have to hope the railway ticket clerk has a short memory.

          My next steel magnolia is Daisy. I love Daisy’s new found ambition. She is certain not to stay a cook forever. Perhaps she will take over Mr. Mason’s farm and become a true business woman. Mr. Molsley remains a sad sack. His respect for Daisy’s ambition only highlights how life has not turned out the way he expected. Perhaps good things are yet in store for him.

          Miss Baxter is a steel magnolia very much like Anna. She keeps herself to herself as they say, however, she obviously has a deeply caring nature. She has taken on Molsley and Thomas as her reclamation projects and has made tremendous progress with both. Thomas finally realizes he needs someone’s help and turns to her. She has the fortitude to put the past damage he tried to do aside and get him the help he so desperately needed. My heart did go out to Thomas when he explained why he submitted himself to such torture. There was Baxter to put a silver lining to the situation telling him how brave she thought he was. Has the worm turned? Hopefully, he’s FINALLY learned his lesson and will play nice from now on.

          Rose is not quite a steel magnolia, not yet. I’ll call her a pewter magnolia. She is no doubt falling in love with Atticus Aldridge. It will be interesting to see how she handles his faith difference. My guess is her parents will have an issue and she’ll tell them they can go pound sand.

          Isobel is definitely a steel magnolia. To date, we’ve only seen the steel part of her nature. She’s a tough lady free with her own opinions irrespective of whether they are asked for or not. Lately we’ve seen more of the magnolia side. Stodgy Lord Merton has brought out a softer side of her nature. It would appear that they bring out the best in each other.

          Cora has finally become a steel magnolia. She finally stood up to Robert and let him know Bricker’s advances were not invited. When she asked him whether he could honestly say he never had a flirtation that got out of hand (which was like asking him if he’s stopped beating his wife in that no matter how he answers that question he’s condemning himself) remember the maid from two seasons ago, she expected him back in her room. She was also involved in looking at the plans for the new homes being built on the estate. Hopefully Robert has learned his lesson. Hopefully the littlest steel magnolia, Isis will be alright.

          Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Patmore are definitely steel magnolias. Mrs. Patmore invested her money in a way that will give her income while she’s working and will provide her with a home when she retires. Her insight got Mr. Carson thinking about his own retirement. He’s finally moving out of the past and moving into the future. By asking Mrs. Hughes to invest with him in a retirement property, perhaps he’s thinking about more than just having a place to live when he retires. Maybe he’s thinking of sharing his future with Mrs. Hughes. Cute!!

          Mary is the epitome of a steel magnolia. Lately, there has been very little magnolia about her. By changing her hairstyle so the men know what they’re missing is more steel than magnolia. In fact, for me, it’s actually very unattractive. Tony didn’t look heartbroken at the horse race. He paid all his attention to Mable. Charles’s plan is working. Hopefully his plans go more smoothly than any of the Crawley’s plans. I’m still hoping he and Mary will become a couple.

          Violet is a titanium magnolia. She’s been through so much in her lifetime she’s as tough as they get, yet she is extremely feminine. She knows her place and will not do anything to shirk her duty as Lady Grantham no matter what her heart may want. Prince Kuragan was brutally honest by saying he would have run away with her anywhere any time. She wouldn’t because she couldn’t not because she didn’t want to but because it would have meant failing to do her duty, utterly unthinkable. Kuragan and Violet may remain friends but she will not carry their relationship further.

          Finally, the magnolia who’s strength has been tested in the most intense fire, Edith.  Edith’s tensile strength would withstand a nuclear explosion. With the news of Michael’s death, Edith has made the decision to go it alone. Mary was particularly cruel to Edith helping Edith make her decision. Edith claimed her child and thereby her own life. It was heartbreaking watching Edith take Marigold from the Drews, but it had to be done. Edith will hopefully take over Michael’s magazine and make it a huge success. She’ll raise her child as she wants to and for the first time in her life, she will only be accountable to herself. She will be the master of her own future. Go get ‘em Edith.

Cheers!!

Patiently Waiting

 

I’m not sure it’s because I was so enraptured with last season and its breathtaking pace and spellbinding plot-lines, but this season seems smaller to me and somewhat more depressing. The action has taken nearly entirely in the Abbey. There have been few visits outside of the Abbey with the exception of a few quick trips into London or Liverpool. And with the exception of Edith lighting her room afire there have been very few “wow” moments.  Even the weather has been considerably drearier than it was last season. True, we cannot have the pageantry of Rose’s presentation at Court every season, however, things seem to be more plodding along than whistling along this season. In any event, I do love the show and there is more than enough going on to keep my interest.

        Rose is turning out to be such a pleasant surprise. Perhaps being presented at court and nearly toppling the future king of England brought her to her senses. and thus she is acting somewhat more responsibly.  She is still naïve but this time her youthful innocence is comes off more endearing than insolent.  She takes people how she finds them (whether a man is handsome or not). She is oblivious to race, religion and politics. She is sweet and it appears her relationship with Atticus Aldridge will blossom.  We’ll see if his being Jewish will be an impediment to a relationship. My guess is she won’t allow it to be.

        As one relationship begins, another ends. We waived goodbye to Sarah Bunting.  I can’t say that I’m sorry to see her go. I didn’t mind her politics, it was her manner that was so offensive.  She was as rigid in her way of thinking as the “aristos” she despised. She did reawaken Tom’s political side which will no doubt have its significance in the future, but she cannot be truly surprised Tom didn’t fall for her.  He told her several times that although he didn’t agree with much of the family’s politics, he loved them. They were good to him and to Sibbie. So, if she was listening to him, how could she have asked him “Don’t you despise them?” Of course not!! She just doesn’t understand his relationship with the family nor did she seem to try very hard. Tom will be better off without her. The question is what does he plan to do now? I’m still not sure if he’s staying at the Abbey. Can he pursue a socialistic lifestyle and continue to live with the family?

        Alas Edith is being blocked by the Drews from ever seeing Marigold again.  Violet and Rosamond talk about taking Marigold away to some school in France like it was picking up a package and bringing it to the post office.  Margie Drew has a talon grip on Marigold and isn’t likely to give her up freely. How do they think they are going to get her away from them? Money won’t do the trick. Margie is not the type who can be bought off. So how do they intend to remove Marigold from their home? Who does Edith know in London who needs to be called from Carson’s office in the middle of the night? If it’s another of Edith’s ideas, with her track record, it won’t be agood one!!

        Thomas is a mess. The drugs he’s taking are clearly harming him. As soon as we start to feel a little sympathy for him, he feels the need to stir the pot up downstairs. Anna is one of the few people at the Abbey who has ever attempted to show him friendship and he’s eager to cause her discomfort. It’s so hard, if not impossible, to like him despite what he’s dealing with. Evil.

        Violent unsuccessfully scuttled Isobel’s relationship with Lord Merton. If anything she only galvanized it. His keen interest in medicine matches Isobel’s showing they have more in common than Violet thought. The true telling moment was Violet’s conversation with Dr. Clarkson. She told Clarskson that she didn’t want Isobel to become a drudge with no interests to keep her occupied while living with a boring husband in a drafty house.  Was she describing Isobel’s fate or her own?” Is this why she found Prince Kuragan so interesting all those years ago?

        Bricker finally made his move on Cora, he is as subtle as a bee sting. True to form, Robert walked in at the exact wrong moment, assumed the worst and a pretty pathetic fight ensued. Robert really shouldn’t fight in his uniform it’s not very flattering to his regiment!!  So now he’s upset with Cora, which he has no right to be. I think this is a case of the truth hurting. Bricker paid Cora the kind of attention Robert hasn’t lately. She may not have minded his advances when they were innocent flirtations, but she drew the line when she had to. Again Robert is angry with Cora for something he really should be blaming himself for.

        Here comes Charles Blake to save the day. His plan to get Tony and Mable back together again is the obvious choice of getting Tony away from Mary. He knows it’s not going to be easy but there is a certain inevitability about it. The only question is how ugly is this going to get for Mary before everyone comes to their senses? Will Charles come out on top for being Mary’s champion?

        There is an interesting parallel being drawn between Violet and Mary. Violet understands Mary’s predicament with Tony better than she lets on because she went through a similar affair. In the previous episode at the dinner Robert and Sarah had their donnybrook Mary and Violet sipped their wine at the same time glaring at Sarah. In this episode, each is picking up on the tension between Cora and Robert. Mary is the next generation of Violet, sharp witted, sharp tongued and fiercely loyal to the family and their way of life.

        It’s hard to tell about the Bates’ conundrum.  It would appear that the police are closing the net, but what evidence do they have? The witness did not see Bates and no one can refute his testimony about where he was that day. So do they have more information than we know? I think the inspector will find a steel ring around Mary, Anna and Mrs. Hughes protecting each other and Mr. Bates. They’re stronger than he knows.

        Finally, Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes continue their sparring between the modern age and the past. Mr. Carson doesn’t like to think of himself as being left behind. Mrs. Hughes has no problem pointing out to him that he is a fixture of the past. Will her little nudges bring him into the modern age? Perhaps, and she’ll be there waiting for him?

Fatal Attractions

          I was torn as to the theme for this post. Episode 4 left viewers with much to think about. Was it a reap what you sew kind of episode? A little, but I think fatal attraction is closer to the mark. Neither is very cheerful, but the episode wasn’t very cheerful. Save for the surprisingly sweet and romantic proposal from Lord Merton to Isobel the show was pretty depressing.

 

          Robert continues to ignore Cora and her eagerness to learn more about the estate. He has elevated his indifference to her from saying “You needn’t concern yourself” to flat out turning his back on her during business conversations. She is clearly bruised by his rebuffs.

Bricker’s flattering attention may be what she needs psychologically, but, unlike Robert, I think she is strong enough to discourage him. Bricker made an awkward recovery when he was “busting” to tell Cora how much he adored her as Robert walked in. Robert may be aware that Bricker is flirting with Cora, but he is not doing a very good job discouraging him, rather he is taking it out on Cora. Is this a parallel story line to what Violet and Prince Kuragan went through? Will Robert give Cora a gift which will subtly remind her how much he loves her as his father did? Is it significant that the painting Bricker is at Downton to see an angel?

          We are seeing an entirely new side of Violet. Memories of years gone by, a glimpse into the past which betrays a person very different from the person she is now. She had a romantic relationship with Kuragan, he asked her to run away with him, and she “owes” it to Princess Kuragan to find her even though she doesn’t like her.  She was unkind to Edith at lunch after Edith encouraged her to see Kuragan again.  “You know nothing about it.” was her terse comment to Edith who winced under the verbal blow. I think she feels the need to set things right.

          I don’t know how Edith gets out of bed every morning, events in her life keep going from bad to worse to suicidal.  Margie Drew is now shutting the door on Edith’s face like she’s selling vacuums door to door.

Michael Gregson’s office called with news of a trial in Germany regarding the Brown Shirts who likely beat up Gregson. Edith naturally fears his death. Hopefully this tidal wave of grief will subside and miraculously Michael will have survived. If not, I’d keep all the sharp objects, matches, and poisons away from Edith.

          Sarah Bunting’s and Robert’s worlds exploded again over dinner. I may agree with little that Robert does, but Bunting’s behavior at dinner was inexcusable. She promised Tom not to push Robert’s buttons, but clearly she had a plan to goad him into a full-fledged fit.

I’m happy for Daisy but I think Sarah was more interested in undermining Robert and everything he stands for than helping Daisy. Daisy was just the means to her end. Watching Tom survey the Abbey from the balcony, I think he was weighing his options. I think Sarah pushed him too far and as a result, rather than leaving Downton, I think Tom is going to throw his lot in with the family and stay on.

          Thomas returned from his mysterious leave of absence. His dad was never in danger. Thomas has complained about being lonely. I think he realizes it is unlikely he will ever find a male companion given the times and the laws of the day. I think, therefore, the “Choose Your Path” ad he referred to in the magazine has to do with the promise of changing a person’s homosexuality by taking drugs. If that is the case, I actually feel sorry for Thomas. The times do not permit him to live his life as he would wish, so to fit in he is forced to extreme measures. Miss Baxter is showing extraordinary compassion for him. She will end up being his best friend.

          Poor Molesley, Carson showed a rather cruel sense of humor to Molesely taking advantage of his desire to advance his position. I guess Molesley should have been mindful of the proverb “Be careful of what you ask for, you may get it.”

          Mary’s fatal attraction is turning creepy. She actually thought all she had to do was tell Tony it was over and he would take the news and walk away. Not so much. Tony called her on her cavalier attitude toward relationships (he wasn’t completely off base, she did mistreat him). He didn’t just walk away, instead, he’s not going to let her go. “This is something we’re going to get through.” This is awfully reminiscent of Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction, “I won’t be ignored Dan.”

Last season Gillingham said he wouldn’t let Mary go even if she walked down the aisle with someone else. Mrs. Patmore should be on the lookout for pet rabbits in her soup pots! Mary may think the issue is behind her but Tony won’t be cast off that easily. Violet’s knowing look at Mary at dinner betrayed concern that Mary doesn’t fully appreciate the situation. Yet another example of Mary’s arrogance. Mable Lane Fox was certainly no Lavinia Swire, she’s rather a feisty creature. I think she’d love to cause Mary some grief. The real question is what part will Charles Blake play in all of this? Will he come to Mary’s rescue? Will he let Mary swing in the wind a little before he helps her? Will his help come in the form of a marriage proposal? Right now, I think he’s too good for Mary.

          The final fatal attraction is, of course, the Bates/Green situation. The police are now focusing their attention on Anna. My question is how the plain clothes police officer knew who Anna was. If he is a London police officer, how would he know who Anna was and what connection she had with Green. In any event, the result is the investigation is not going away. The police are focusing on both Bates and Anna, this can’t be good.

 

Cheers!

Revelations (Not the Biblical Kind)

               Episode 3 was filled with revelations which will have a bearing on important future decisions and outcomes. We’ll start with Lady Mary. Ah, Mary, Mary quite contrary. She has an annoying habit of wanting it all and using others for her own purposes. She has an intimate affair with a man (I’m trying to keep things G rated) and yet she doesn’t want to be tarnished AGAIN; and she asked devoted Anna to sacrifice her personal beliefs and pristine reputation so she won’t be discovered with an illicit book and a birth control device. In the 1920’s, sleeping with a man, not your husband, and using birth control makes you a tarnished person. She is so arrogant, she deludes herself into thinking as long as she doesn’t get caught everything is alright. Incredibly immature.

In any event, Mary’s “research” in Liverpool left her feeling that Charles Blake was correct. She confesses to Tom that Tony “is a nice man but he’s not…” Let me fill in the blank…SMART!!

Of course they have nothing in common. Tony is a well-bred, landed, handsome shell. He’s as deep as a puddle. It only took Mary one week to discover she’s already tired of him. In the sneak peek to the next episode it looks like she’s preparing to give him the push. But as we’ve come to know by now, nothing is that simple. The Dowager gave Mary both the least helpful and the most helpful advice. Violet said, “In my day a lady was incapable of feeling physical attraction until she was instructed to do so by her mama.” Sorry Granny, that ship sailed a long time ago. Then she told Mary, "You have to take control of your feelings before they take control of you." That is advice worth taking, which means Mary, quite contrary won't.

 

         Cora was the next one to have a revelation. For Cora, this was a revelation a long time in the making. Robert has had the long time practice of “not concerning” Cora with matters which affect the estate.

Since the war, Cora discovered she likes being involved and being useful. Robert treats her like one of Downton’s ornaments: beautiful and valuable but mute. Cora was first rankled by Robert’s refusal to tell her more about the development of houses on the estate, as if it was beneath her understanding. Then came Mr. Bricker who paid Cora the kind of attention Robert hasn’t. He was not only captivated by her beauty but also by her intellect. Robert’s belittling comment had a biting effect when he said he found it difficult to believe that an art critic could find her observations about art impossible to resist. A comment which no doubt Robert will regret.

         Poor Edith, all her revelations bring sadness. She could not have been too surprised, however, by the revelation that Margie Drew has had enough of Edith’s visits to see Marigold. She has more than worn out her welcome. Tim Drew was harsh with Margie when he told her she was soft in the head, but in Margie’s defense she doesn’t know the whole story. Now Edith’s child will be so close and yet so far away. Heartbreaking. How many ways can this girl be tortured emotionally?!?!

         Daisy and Rose turned out to have the only happy revelations of the episode. Daisy learns she is brighter than she ever gave herself credit and Rose has a caring heart and is capable of thinking of someone other than herself. Well done ladies. 

         I have to admit that Baxter’s revelation was a bit of a letdown for me. Baxter revealed to Cora that she was under the influence of a nasty man who persuaded her to steal the jewels and left her to face the consequences.

  I thought Baxter’s story would be more compelling but at least she gets to stay and continue her relationship with Mr. Molesley. Since Baxter won’t go to the police about Mr. Coyle, I wonder if Mr. Coyle will make another appearance in Baxter’s life and try to repeat the scheme at Downton.

         Violet’s revelation was subtle yet powerful. The appearance of Prince Kuragin at Downton nearly knocked her off her firmly planted aristocratic feet. It certainly left her breathless. 

 Is there more to the fan than just a fan? It would appear so based on her reaction and based on Kuragin’s statement that she hid the fan because she was afraid Lord Grantham would get upset if he saw her with it. Did she take her own advice all those years ago and take control of her emotions…we’ll see…

         Finally the reveal of reveals, there was a witness to Mr. Green’s death, a young woman who heard Green say, “Why have you come?” just as he fell (or was pushed) into the street. Then the police sergeant told Carson that apparently he and Bates had an argument at Downton. Mr. Green was a clever one, he was setting Mr. Bates up in the event Bates came after him for what he did to Anna. Perhaps he wasn’t as clever as he should have been. Bates, not to be outdone in the sly department, had an account for his day in York, his prison education at work. He made sure he was seen in a few places in York that day, making it unlikely that he’d have traveled to London.  Will Mr. Green have the last word? I hope not.

         Carson and Mrs. Hughes are again on opposite sides of an issue: whether or not to include young Archie, Mrs. Patmore’s nephew, in the village’s memorial to the WWI soldiers. It seems that it is these controversial issues which are bringing Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes closer together. Perhaps as they negotiate these trials they are coming to a better understanding of each other and closer together. Or will it be that their differences are too many for them to overcome personally?

         Tom and Thomas will have their big revelations in episodes to come.

On to the next episode…

Cheers!!

 

Sparks

               Sparks are needed to start a flame, and sparks are often generated with friction. Based on last night’s episode, there was ample friction to ignite all of Yorkshire County. Nearly every character was set at odds with another.

            Lord Grantham/Carson. It was odd to watch Carson at odds with Robert. He has such unfailing devotion to the family, it is strange to see Carson disagree with his Lordship. I think both of their egos got in the way. Robert is still bruised by not being asked to serve on the memorial committee. And Carson probably feels that Robert’s role on the committee should be that of a child during Puritanical times “seen and not heard.” Since Robert is not officially on the committee he should really but out.  Ironically, in the end, Robert had a better feel for the pulse of the town on the issue than Carson who was asked to lead the committee because he knows the people of the town so well. Carson proved to be the bigger man and agreed to a memorial in the center of town. I don’t think Robert was completely altruistic, again acting like a child, Robert’s deeper concern was protecting his cricket pitch, than giving it up for a memorial garden.

 

            Carson/Mrs. Hughes. Carson’s stiff upper lip waivered ever so slightly when he and Mrs. Hughes disagreed on a couple of issues. First, Mrs. Hughes disagreed that a garden of remembrance was the appropriate tribute. Next, he disagrees that Ms. Bunting should be teaching Daisy. Finally, Mrs. Hughes liked the wireless coming into the Abbey. Mrs. Hughes knows her mind well enough not to wither under Carson’s disappointment and moved on with her life. He confessed he’s uncomfortable when they are not on the same side. His respect for her is obvious, perhaps enough for a more significant relationship?

            Robert/Tom. Tom’s acquaintance with Miss Bunting is stirring the political activism which has lain dormant within him for the past few years. Robert’s fear that Tom might take Sibbie away is more than he can bear. If Robert continues to shoot barbs at Tom about his political views, he might as well pack Sibbie’s bag himself. Tolerance is not Robert’s strength.

            Thomas/Household staff. As predicted, since Thomas wasn’t able to convince Baxter to give him any dirt on the family, and since she confessed her past to Cora, he’s going to try to discredit her with the rest of the staff. Thomas has to reap what he’s sewn, he’s been so nasty with everyone no one cares or believes what he has to say.

            Molesley/Mrs. Baxter. Thomas was only too eager to tell Molesley Baxter’s back story. Clearly Molesley is crushed but he’s so in love with her it is beyond his ken that she could have done anything so nefarious without provocation. Baxter’s refusal to tell him the whole story only makes her more endearing. If Baxter stays (I think she will) she will eventually confide in him with the whole story. They are my odds on favorite for getting married by the end of the season.

 

 

 

            Violet/Isobel. Their relationship is always like flint even on the best of days. Isobel may be warming to the idea of Lord Merton’s attention. Violet is chaffing at the changes the future could be bringing. Isobel as a Lady, and the technological changes making the aristocracy more human are clearly worrying her she is sailing into treacherous waters.

            Edith and Tim Drew/Margie Drew. Tim Drew’s plan to have Edith become Marigold’s godmother is not going down easily with Margie Drew. Drew (who is one of those men who looks better when he’s not smiling, he looks a bit creepy when he smiles) is trying to force Edith on Margie who already thinks Edith has a crush on him. Hello? What part of this plan does Drew thinks is going to work? Margie is clearly an intelligent person, she’s bound to figure out the relationship between Edith and Marigold sooner or later. Will she keep Edith’s secret? Will Tim have to tell Margie the truth?

 

            Mary/Charles Blake Mary is so annoying when it comes to men. I hated her coy demeanor with Charles, who is so clearly smarter than that. She can play coy with Tony because he’s not as smart as Charles, but Charles can see for himself what is going on. He thinks Mary is selling herself short by settling for Tony, but he’s man enough not to grovel for her affection. He tells her she’s too smart for Gillingham, and it seems that there is something else he knows about Tony he’s not telling Mary being that sort of loyal fellow. I think it’s fantastic that he gives her his opinion about an issue then walks away, rather than engage in a debate with her which she clearly wants to do. Charles has given Mary something to think about and his words will come back to Mary. Her plan to spend time with Gillingham has disaster written all over it. There are so many ways this thing could go south. I have a feeling when it hits the fan, Tony will go back to Mable Lane Fox and Charles will be there for Mary to pick up the pieces.

            Cora/Robert/Bricker It’s strange how Robert can have a better understanding of the villagers than the people in his own home. Bricker is obviously flirting with Cora, and the thing Robert complains about is Bricker flirting with the dog. Again childish Robert, avoids the obvious and demands Cora ask him not to flirt with the dog. Cora knows she’s being flirted with and is stung that Robert is more concerned about the dog than he is about her. Bricker won’t stop his flirtations with Cora.

 

            The biggest spark of the episode was saved for the last 30 seconds. Sgt. Willis’s questions about Mr. Green froze the unflappable Mrs. Hughes in her tracks. Mr. Green’s death was apparently witnessed. What did the witness see? Do they think it was murder? Cue the piano and violin…

 

Cheers!

Sex, Lies and Fire Hoses



If anyone thought we’d be easing into Season 5 of Downton Abbey, they were grossly disabused of that notion after watching the first episode. We hit the ground running picking right up where we left off last season. It was an evening of sex, lies and fire hoses—what a start and where to begin?!?

The obvious choice is Edith, but I think I’ll wait to write about her. I’ll start with Robert. After 34 years of marriage, you would think he would take Cora into his confidence, but he doesn’t and continues to pay the price. By “protecting” Cora from the details of life, he puts the family in awkward situations. Had he told Cora about his feelings regarding Sarah Bunting, they could have avoided a painfully

uncomfortable dinner. Alas, he didn’t, and we squirmed through an intense political debate between Robert and Sarah more edgy than anything we’ve witnessed even between Violet and Isobel. He is also thinly veiling his disappointment of not being asked to serve on the WWI memorial committee. He continually says he’s not disappointed but it is obvious he’s crushed.

As for Sarah Bunting, I do not think she will become Tom’s new love. He does not seem to regard her in that way. He recognized her behavior at dinner as being rude (which it was) and apologized for it. I think her role is to prick Tom’s memory of the political activist he used to be. She is reinvigorating his personal views which may lead him away from Downton. He’s talked a lot about moving from Downton and being true to himself, I think Tom will solidify his position this season and either reconcile his views with life at Downton or he’ll move on. He has made frequent statements of how much he loves the family but those statements have always been qualified by another statement of how important it is for him not to lose himself. I’m truly not sure what he’ll do, I can make the case for both scenarios, we’ll see. In any event, I don’t see Miss Bunting coming back to Downton as a dinner guest any time soon. I think she’ll be back but downstairs as Daisy’s math tutor and perhaps she’ll try to rally the downstairs to her political way of thinking. Look out Mr. Carson!!

Ah, Daisy, how can you not feel for Daisy? Here is a young woman who knows there is more to life than peeling potatoes and making the béchamel for the savory. She does not have the formal education others have and has no self-esteem at all she calls herself a “pig ignorant idiot” with “the brain of a kipper” but she is smart enough

to know she needs to acquire certain math skills if she is to become a success as a head cook or the owner of a farm (Yay to Mrs. Hughes for encouraging her). Sarah Bunting will likely become Daisy’s math tutor, she’ll also probably plant some political revolutionary ideas in Daisy’s head as well.

Staying downstairs, I knew Miss Baxter’s secret would be a whopper but I never expected her to be a thief and a convicted felon!! Like Bates, there has to be more to the story. My guess is that she stole the jewelry to help a struggling family member or

friend. I don’t believe she stole the items for herself. The fact that the jewelry was gone by the time the police picked her up tells me she either sold them or gave them to someone else. Baxter must be protecting someone. I love Molesley’s steadfast support of her, and he’s spot on about Thomas.  Any secret she tells him will be used against that person. I don’t think Cora will sack her, which will only increase the tension between Thomas and Baxter. Thomas will try to scratch away at Baxter’s reputation until she’s forced to leave on her own. I think the staff will rally behind her.

Molesley’s hair dying effort was the comedy relief for the evening. Clearly he’s trying to look younger, perhaps to attract Miss Baxter? Robert’s line of inquiry was hysterical. “Molesley are you part Latin?” “No, my Lord.” “Italian?” “No” “Spanish or Irish?” “No”. Not that Italy is a Latin country, but Irish?? Not what I would associate as a dark complected country.

For more sexual innuendo, Violet’s and Isobel’s conversation about Lord Merton was priceless. Violet: “Lord Merton wants what all men want.” Isobel: “Don’t be ridiculous.” Violet: “I was referring to companionship…as I hope you were.” Too funny. In the end though, Violet is determined to scuttle Isobel and Merton’s relationship, she can’t stand the idea that Isobel could become a wife and titled woman and an important figure in the county. Her plans usually succeed, Isobel, however, is the sort of person that tugs in the opposite direction Violet is leaning so it should be interesting. They both live to meddle in other’s lives, we’ll see which meddler wins.

The final bit of sexual innuendo was a brief conversation between Anna and Bates. Bates ponders about parenting a child who was not his when talking about Mary and Gillingham, which led to a quick exchange about having a family of their own. Will there be the pitter patter of little feet for Anna and Bates? How much does Baxter know about Mr. Bates and Mr. Green? Will it interfere with their family planning?

For more sexual activity which was far from innuendo, there was lots going on

both upstairs and downstairs. First, Jimmy and Lady Anstruther made the Abbey fire even hotter!! Yikes! Clearly, Jimmy had to be sacked, but I wonder if we’ll be hearing more from him. Will he maintain his friendship with Thomas?

Then there is Lady Mary and Lord Gillingham. He’s not subtle, I’ll give him that. “Mary, I want to be lovers.” Even though Mary thinks she wants to know more about “that side of things” before deciding on a husband, I’m not sure she is ready. Mary doesn’t like to be pushed, if Gillingham continues to push too hard Mary may bolt. I can’t help but think he’s trying to trap her into the relationship. Gillingham is over-confident now, he thinks he’s won, but I know we haven’t heard the last of Charles Blake.

Now we come to Lady Edith. Sex, lies and fire hoses all apply to her she’s hit the trifecta. The lie is obvious, hiding her child at the Drew farm as the daughter of Mr. Drew’s friend who died. She dotes on Marigold at the Drew farm and ignores the other children completely, subtle. As for the sex, Margie Drew thinks Edith has a crush on Drew tangling the web further. Drew, of course, knows Edith’s secret. He is a funny sort he’s rather like an oracle whose pronouncements have to be deciphered. He tells Edith “We must find a way for you to live the truth without telling the truth.” What does that mean?? Then after giving the problem some thought he comes out with this suggestion, “You’re going to take a greater interest in little Marigold.” Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t that what got Edith into trouble to begin with?? Perhaps he means she should adopt her or become her godmother or take up some other role which will give her exposure to Marigold without raising suspicion and get Drew off the hook.

As for the fire hoses, unlucky Edith tosses the only reminder she has of Gregson into the fire and nearly burns the Abbey down in the process. Her bad luck has risen

to epic levels, she’s now endangering other people’s lives although the only room damaged in the fire was, of course, her room. Now Mrs. Hughes knows something is up with Edith as she overheard Edith and Drew’s conversation. If I trusted anyone with a secret it would be Mrs. Hughes. Perhaps Edith’s luck is about to change.

 

 

Cheers!

You Are Cordially Invited to Season 5

Like the passengers say before a death-defying rollercoaster ride, “here we go!!” Based on the previews PBS has been showing, Season 5 of Downton Abbey is sure to be a whirlwind ride the like of which we haven’t seen yet. Take your Dramamine!

            ‘Twas the night before Season 5 when all through the Abbey

            All the servants were stirring to bring off a dinner none too shabby.

            The silver was gleaming and polished with care

            In hopes Lady Grantham won’t fix them a glare.

            The Ladies and Gents were in deep conversation,

While footmen had visions of longer vacations.

            Cora in her tiara and Robert in his tails, 

Had just settled down for some pheasant and quail.

            When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter

            Mr. Carson ran out to see what was the matter.

            When what to Robert’s wondering eyes should appear,

            But Lady Mary with three suitors thinking her quite dear.

            More rapid than eagles the suitors they came,

            And she whistled and shouted and called them by name:

            “Oh Charles! Oh Evelyn! Oh Tony! Oh boy!

            Which one should I choose for my new handsome toy?

            To the Isles of Scotland, to the Court of the King

            I’d like some diamonds and sapphires in my engagement ring!” 

So off to the jewelers the suitors they flew

            With bags of money and landed estates too.

            She was dressed all in Chanel from her head to her shoes,

            Wondering “which man should I choose?”  

           With a wink of her eye, and a toss of her head,

            Gave her parents to know they had nothing to dread

            She spoke few words, but went right to her choice

            With loads of drama in her well-bred voice.

            “To keep Downton going, and for the love of my life

            I have decided that I will become the wife…”

 

In order to finish my poem we’ll have to do as Julian Fellowes suggests “we’ll just have to watch the show.”

 From what I’ve seen so far in the previews this is what I’ve learned:

·       Edith’s stretch of bad luck continues: Michael is nowhere to be found, she can’t stay away from her little girl (named Marigold (ew)), and she’s nearly burned to death in the Abbey!

·       Mary and Tony get cozy in some hotel (remember Mr. Pamuk?)

·       Mr. Green’s death is being investigated because there was a witness to his death, look out Bates!

·       Daisy wants to be more educated so she’ll be prepared to run Mr. Mason’s farm

·       Cousin Violet has some sordid secret herself

·       An art critic takes an interest in Cora to Robert’s consternation

·       Jimmy has an affair with a Lady who visits the Abbey (and will likely be sacked)

·       Thomas bullies Mrs. Baxter who looks terrified

·       Thomas becomes a sympathetic character (how is that possible??)

·       Branson stays at Downton and likely takes up with Miss Bunting the school teacher.

·       Love springs later in life either for Isobel and Lord Merton or Carson and Mrs. Hughes

·       There will be a wedding at some point

 

As for my personal take, I am still pulling for Charles Blake. I think he’ll

make a better husband for Mary than Tony Gillingham. Tony just rubs me the wrong way. To borrow a comparison from Frozen, Gillingham makes me think of Hans of the Southern Isles. I think he’s interested more in Mary’s estate than in Mary. He wants to be Mary’s lover so how much can he really respect her?? He’s spoken of how he’s had to sell off parts of his estate to pay the taxes after his father died and was all too ready to throw off Mable Lane Fox (who apparently will be making an appearance this series). Charles, on the other hand, knows Tony from the war, is independently wealthy, and loves Mary for who she really is, and I think he is miles smarter than Gillingham.

            I so hope Anna and Bates will catch a break, but I’m sure it won’t

be easy for them. I feel my stomach acids churning already. Warm up the piano and vibrating violin strings.

            I’m sure Mrs. Baxter’s secret is a whopper if she trembles every time Thomas comes near her. Will Molesley be her savior?

 

            As for Edith, like my grandmother used to say “if she didn’t have

bad luck, she wouldn’t have any luck at all”, it appears Michael is lost for good. Two perspective husbands down, but what will she do now? Her baby is with the Drew family and she visits a little too often. I predict Mrs. Drew will contract an illness, die, and Edith will become the new Mrs. Drew and become mother to the Drew children as well as her own little girl. Well, that can’t be any more farfetched than what has already happened to Edith!!

 

 

            Finally, I am most looking forward to Violet’s observations and one-liners. I also can’t wait to see what indiscretion in Violet’s past is

going to come back to haunt her now. It’ll be interesting to see her caught off her perfectly ordered guard.

I’m so excited…off to polish my tiara.

Cheers!