Downton Abbey s01e04 Episode Script
Episode 4
"Downton Abbey" Episode 4 When does it open? Tomorrow afternoon.
Well, let's get up a party in the evening, if Mrs Hughes lets us.
After we've had our dinner.
You're right.
It doesn't come often.
And it doesn't stay long.
What about you, Mr Bates? I don't see why not.
There's Lady Mary.
You go on ahead.
I'll see you back at the house.
Right you are, then.
Good day, milady.
Is her ladyship all right? Has she recovered from? If you think she'll ever recover from carrying the body of Mr Pamuk from one side of the house to the other, then you don't know her at all.
Well, I didn't mean recover exactly.
Just get past it.
She won't do that, either.
When she dies they'll cut her open and find it engraved on her heart.
What about you? What about your heart? Haven't you heard? I don't have a heart.
Everyone knows that.
Not me, milady.
You wanted to see the new chauffeur, milord? Indeed.
Please send him in.
Come in.
Come in.
Good to see you again.
Branson, isn't it? That's right, your lordship.
I hope they've shown you everything, and delivered whatever we promised.
Certainly, milord.
Won't you miss Ireland? Ireland, yes, but not the job.
The mistress was a nice lady, but she only had one car, and she wouldn't let me drive it over 20 miles an hour.
So, it was a bit well, boring, so to speak.
(CHUCKLES) You've got a wonderful library.
You're very welcome to borrow books, if you wish.
Really, milord? There's a ledger that I make everyone use, even my daughters.
Carson and Mrs Hughes sometimes take a novel or two.
What are your interests? History and politics, mainly.
Heavens.
Carson, Branson is going to borrow some books.
He has my permission.
Very good, milord.
Is that all, milord? It is.
Off you go, and good luck.
He seems a bright spark after poor old Taylor.
And to think Taylor's gone off to run a tea shop! I cannot feel it will make for a very restful retirement, can you? I would rather be put to death, milord.
Quite so.
Thank you, Carson.
How about some house parties? She's been asked to one next month by Lady Anne McNair.
That's a terrible idea.
She doesn't know anyone under 100.
I might send her to visit my aunt.
She could get to know New York.
Oh, I don't think things are quite that desperate.
Poor Mary.
She's been terribly down in the mouth lately.
She was very upset by the death of poor Mr Pamuk.
Why? She didn't know him.
One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner.
We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper.
Oh, no.
Of course, Mary's main difficulty is that her situation is unresolved.
I mean, is she an heiress or isn't she? The entail's unbreakable.
Mary cannot inherit.
No, what we need is a lawyer who's decent and honour-bound to look into it.
I I think, perhaps, I know just the man.
Are you going to the fair? I shouldn't think so, sir.
But I don't mind it.
I like the music.
Goodness, what's happened to your hands? It's nothing, ma'am.
They look very painful.
Oh, no, ma'am.
Irritating more than painful.
Have you been using anything new to polish the silver or the shoes? No.
May I? Leave him alone, Mother.
It looks like erysipelas.
You must have cut yourself.
Not that I'm aware of.
We'll walk to the hospital tomorrow.
Really, ma'am - I insist.
If you've got a cold, I want you out of here.
Anna, they are.
You know I'm out tonight? Because I don't want to come home to any surprises.
Huh! That'll be the day.
We thought we might go to the fair later.
You'd like that, wouldn't you, Daisy? Now, you ought to go.
She's been that down in the mouth since the death of poor Mr Pamuk.
Don't say that.
Well, she has! We could all walk down together after the servants' dinner.
(SNEEZES) You won't be walking anywhere.
She's got minutes to live, by the sound of it.
Go to bed at once.
Yes, Mrs Hughes.
I'll bring up a Beechams powder.
Right, if there's anything you want to ask me, it'll need to be before I go.
What would I want to ask you? I'm preparing a meal for Lord and Lady Grantham and the girls.
No-one is visiting.
No-one is staying.
Well that's settled, then.
I'm afraid Dr Clarkson's out delivering a baby.
We don't know when he'll be back.
No matter.
If you open the store cupboard, I can easily find what I need.
Well - Tell the doctor you opened it for the chairman of the board.
I assure you he will raise not the slightest objection.
This should do it - tincture of steel, And this is solution of nitrate of silver.
Rub a little in morning and night.
How long before it's better? Erysipelas is very hard to cure.
We should be able to reduce the symptoms, but that might be all.
Oh, and you must wear gloves at all times.
I couldn't wait a table in gloves I'd look like a footman.
You may have to do.
The tincture and the salve will help.
Try it for a week, and we'll see.
Someone to see you, Mr Crawley.
Well, there's nothing in my diary.
It's Lady Grantham.
Well, in that case, show her in at once.
Cousin Cora, to what do I owe the - I hope I'm not a disappointment.
I thought it might be nice to cheer it up a bit.
Easier said than done.
Perhaps a flower or a bit of veil.
I can find you a veil, if you like.
I hope you're not expecting ME to do it.
Not if you're busy, of course.
Good.
And Miss O'Brian? I've sent Anna to bed with a cold, so I need you to manage the young ladies.
What, all three of them? I'm not an octopus.
Why can't Gwen do it? Because she is not a lady's maid.
I am not a slave.
Just do it, Miss O'Brien.
Just do it.
I'll pay you the compliment that I do not believe you wish to inherit just because nobody's investigated properly.
No, but - Nor can Mary accuse you of making trouble when you will suffer most from a discovery.
You're right that I don't wish to benefit - at Mary's expense - from an ignorance of the law.
Putting it bluntly, do you think Robert has thrown in the towel prematurely? Good heavens! What am I sitting on? A swivel chair.
Ooh.
Another modern brainwave? Invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Why does every day involve a fight with an American? I'll fetch a different one.
No, no, no.
I'm a good sailor.
It will depend on the exact terms of the entail and of the deed of gift when cousin Cora's money was transferred to the estate.
That is all I ask, to understand the EXACT terms.
Is Daisy going to the fair tonight with the others? Why don't you ask her? She needs taking out of herself.
What's it to you? Nothing.
Daisy, I was hoping - Would you like to go to the fair with me, Daisy? There's a few of us going later on.
Do you mean it? MRS PATMORE: Daisy, don't let it get cold! Come on, come on, come on! You bastard.
Why is Sybil having a new dress and not me? Because it is Sybil's turn.
Can it be my choice this time? Of course.
As long as you choose what I choose.
Branson, you'll be taking Lady Sybil to Ripon tomorrow.
She'll be leaving after lunch.
Certainly, your ladyship.
Poor old Madam Swann.
I don't know why we bother with fittings.
She always makes the same frock.
What do you want? Something new and exciting.
Heavens, look at the time! Not a minute to change.
And Granny's invited herself for dinner.
Then, she can jolly well wait.
So, women's rights begin at home? I see.
Well, I'm all for that.
(ALL GIGGLE) I'm just off, Mr Carson.
According to the wine book, we should have six dozen of this.
But I'm beggared if I can find more than four.
Look again before you jump to any nasty conclusions.
Long time since you last took a night off.
You don't think I ought to stay? Certainly not.
Be off with you.
And Anna's in bed with a cold, so I'm afraid it's all down to you.
Go.
(LAUGHTER AND CHATTER) I wanted to have a go before I went home.
How about you? Thank you.
Thank you.
Is your father doing anything this evening? He's not coming to the fair.
Seriously.
We're having dinner with his family.
Could I look in afterwards? May I ask why? Your grandmother paid me a visit this afternoon, and I'm Well, never mind.
But I would like to see him.
Granny came to see you? Is it all part of the great matter? So, are you enjoying your new life? Yes, I think so.
I know my work seems very trivial to you.
Not necessarily.
Sometimes I rather envy you, having somewhere to go every morning.
I thought that may have been very 'middle-class.
' You should learn to forget what I say.
I know I do.
How about you? Is your life proving satisfactory? Apart from the great matter, of course.
Women like me don't have a life.
We choose clothes and pick halls and work for charity and do the season.
But, really, we're stuck in a waiting room until we marry.
I've made you angry.
My life makes me angry.
Not you.
I never put the Sauternes on ice.
Mrs Hughes goes out for one night and we all fall to pieces! We wondered if we could walk down to the fair.
I suppose so.
But don't be too late.
Where do you think she's gone? None of your business.
Like most of what goes on round here.
Well caught that man - though I say it myself.
Thanks ever so.
Yes? You've cheered up a bit.
He's so agile, in't he? He could have been a sportsman.
Who? Thomas, of course.
Really? Which sport did he have in mind? I ran into cousin Matthew in the village.
He wanted to call on you after dinner.
Apparently, Granny's been to see him.
Did you tell him she's coming here? I didn't know she was.
When he arrives, do your best to keep her in the drawing room.
Well, I'd like to see YOU try.
(CHUCKLES) CORA: Don't stay too long.
Let them have an early night.
Sybil, darling, why would you want to go to a real school? You're not a doctor's daughter.
Nobody learns anything from a governess.
Apart from French and how to curtsy.
What else do you need? Well, there's - Are you thinking of a career in banking? No.
But it is a noble profession.
Things are different in America.
I know.
They live in wigwams.
And when they come out of them, they go to school.
If you wait in the library, I'll tell Papa you're here.
Thank you.
(CHILDREN SCREAM AND LAUGH) (ORGAN WALTZ) (GASPS OF AMAZEMENT) Elsie? It is Elsie, isn't it? It is.
Though there's very few left to call me that, Joe Burns.
Well, I'm flattered that I'm one of them.
Where's Thomas? I let the servants go down to the fair, milord.
I didn't know we'd have any visitors tonight.
Well, that's all right.
They don't have much fun.
You should join them.
(CLEARS THROAT) So what did you say to Mama? I haven't spoken to her since her visit, but I have looked through every source, and I can't find one reason on which to base a challenge.
I could have told you that.
I'm not quite sure how to phrase it when I tell HER.
She shouldn't have put you on the spot like that.
It was unkind.
I'm afraid she'll think I've failed because I don't want to succeed.
She will think that, but I don't.
And nor will Cora.
Of course, it's impossible for Mary.
She must resent me so bitterly.
I don't blame her.
Yes, it must have been hard for you when Ivy died.
It took some getting used to.
What about your son? Do you see much of him? Peter? No.
I would have given him a share of the farm if he wanted it, but he's joined the army.
Well, I never! Aye, he seems happy.
But it's left me on my own.
Shall I take your plates, then? Thank you.
So, how's life treated you? Oh, I can't complain.
I haven't travelled.
But I've seen a bit of life, and no mistake.
I notice you call yourself missus.
Housekeepers and cooks are always missus.
You know better than anyone I haven't changed my name.
Well, I know you wouldn't change it to Burns when you had the chance.
You shouldn't have eaten with us.
The chauffeur always eats in his own cottage.
Steady on.
You can cut him a bit of slack on his SECOND day.
I'm waiting to take old Lady Grantham home.
Even then, Taylor never ate with us.
You're taking advantage of Mrs Hughes' absence.
What are you doing? I'm sorting the collars.
Removing the ones that have come to an end.
What happens to his lordship's old clothes? What's it to you? Clothes are a valet's perk, not a chauffeur's.
I get some, but mostly it goes into the missionary barrel.
(SIGHS) I know it's meant to be kind, but I can think of better ways of helping the needy than sending stiff collars to the equator.
I thought Anna might have come down for her dinner.
And show she's ready to start work again? Not a chance.
Is she still in bed, then? She is.
While I'm sat here sewing like a cursed princess in a fairy tale, and not down at the fair with the others.
Would you like me to ask Branson to bring the car round, milady? Where's Robert? He can't have been drinking port since we left.
He'd be under the table by now.
His lordship's in the library.
All alone? Oh, how sad.
No, he's - We can say goodbye to Papa for you, Granny.
He's what? He's with Mr Crawley, milady.
The question is, what do I say to cousin Violet? Don't worry about that.
I can handle her.
Really? Well, if you can, you must have learned to very recently.
(KNOCKING) Anna? Mr Bates? Can you open the door? I daren't.
No-one can open that door except Mrs Hughes.
Just for a moment.
I've brought you something.
I don't know what - Ssh.
(DOOR OPENS) (LOCKS DOOR) What I don't understand in all this is you.
You seem positively glad to see Mary disinherited.
You speak as if we had a choice.
Thank you, Branson.
I'm worn out.
Tell Lady Mary and Mr Crawley I've gone to bed.
Shall I tell them NOW, milord? No.
Wait until they ring.
I like this one.
Yes, sir? I ought to start back.
This is very late for me.
Aw, not yet.
It's a long time since I've had a girl to show off for at the fair.
So, I take it you never get lonely? Well, that's working in a big house.
Though, there are times when you yearn for a bit of solitude.
Oh! We have a winner! Ah, thank you.
Right, well, er something to remind you of me.
I don't need help to remember you.
(CHUCKLES) But what happens when you retire? I should think if I stay here they'll look after me.
Suppose they sell the estate.
Suppose there's a tidal wave.
Suppose we all die of the plague.
Suppose there's a war.
(CHUCKLES) What did I tell you? She's found her Romeo.
He might be her brother.
She hasn't got one, or we'd know.
Just a sister in Lytham St Anne's.
You know everything, don't you? Everything my foot! You're hiding behind him, but he's not what you think he is.
Oh, go home, William.
If you're gonna be such a spoilsport All right, I will.
Come back.
She didn't mean it.
I must go.
But it's been lovely to see you again, Joe.
Really.
And you know what I'm asking? You haven't asked anything yet.
But you know what it is? When I do.
I'm going to stop here at the pub until I hear from you.
Oh, and take your time.
I'd rather wait a week for the right answer, then get a wrong one in a hurry.
Think about it carefully.
I will.
I promise you that.
To break the entail, we'd need a private bill in Parliament? Even then, it would only be passed if the estate were in danger, which it's not.
And I mean nothing in all this? On the contrary, you mean a great deal.
A very great deal.
(DOOR OPENS) You rang, milady? Yes, Carson.
Mr Crawley was just leaving.
Do you know where his lordship is? Gone to bed, milady.
He felt tired after he put Lady Grantham into the car.
I bet he did.
Thank you, Carson.
I'm sorry.
I wish I could think of something to say that would help.
There's nothing.
But you mustn't let it trouble you.
It does trouble me.
It troubles me very much.
Then, that will be my consolation prize.
Good night, cousin Matthew.
Good night.
I hope I haven't kept you up too late? I'm afraid we've interfered with your dinner.
It's been rather a chop-and-change evening downstairs.
Lady Grantham got off all right? 'All right' is an optimistic assessment, sir.
It's very difficult, Carson.
For her, for Lady Mary.
For everyone.
It is, Mr Crawley.
But I appreciate your saying so.
Well, that's her greatness done and dusted for the night.
Will, have you had a good night? I'm off to bed.
Wait.
What happened? Nothing.
Doesn't matter.
How was your evening, Mrs Hughes? Very enjoyable, thank you.
The others are just behind me, so you can lock up in a minute.
Well, I'll say goodnight.
Goodnight, Mrs Hughes.
Good night.
(LAUGHTER AND CHATTER) Night, Mrs Hughes.
Good night, Mrs Hughes.
I was right when I said she was looking sparkly eyed.
I beg your pardon, Thomas? He can disapprove all he likes.
Mrs Hughes has got a fancy man.
Him, a fancy man? Don't be so nasty, Daisy.
It doesn't suit you.
I reckon there's a job vacancy coming up.
Miss O'Brian, do you fancy a promotion? Huh, very droll.
If she's got a boyfriend I'm a giraffe.
(KNOCKS) Leave me alone, Mr Bates.
I know you mean well, but let me be.
What chance did he have up against a champion? Well, you listen.
You filthy little rat.
If you don't lay off, I will punch your shining teeth through the back of your skull.
Is this supposed to frighten me, Mr Bates? Because if it is, it isn't working.
I'm sorry, but it's just not working.
Daisy? Chafing dishes now.
Right in front of you, Mrs Patmore.
Are you trying to trick me? Anna's still not well.
O'Brien, you'll need to dress the girls this morning.
All we know about Lady Mary, and here I am waiting on her hand and foot! Will we do anything with that? Maybe, but not yet.
What do you look like? Daisy, what do you think he looks like? Do your buttons up.
Well, go on, then.
What do you want? I've got a message for Lady Sybil.
From her ladyship.
Thank you, O'Brien.
I'll manage now.
Odious woman.
What does Mama want? I just said that to get rid of her.
This came today.
I knew they would want to see you.
It's your reference what's done it.
How am I going to get there? They won't let me take a day off.
You're going to be ill.
They can't stop you being ill.
What? No-one has seen Anna for a whole day.
They won't notice if you vanish for a couple of hours.
The only one who never sticks up for me in all this is you.
Why is that? You are my darling daughter, and I love you.
Hard as it is for an Englishman to say the words.
Well, then.
If I had made my own fortune and bought Downton myself, it should be yours without question.
But I did not.
My fortune is the work of others who laboured to build a great dynasty.
Do I have the right to destroy their work? Or impoverish that dynasty? I am a custodian, my dear, not an owner.
I must strive to be worthy of the task I've been set.
If I could take Mama's money out of the estate, Downton would have to be sold to pay for it.
Is that what you want? To see Matthew a landless peer with a title but no means to pay for it? So, I'm just to find a husband and get out of the way? You could stay here if you married Matthew.
You know my character, Father.
I'd never marry any man that I was told to.
I'm stubborn.
I wish I wasn't, but I am.
(BIRDS TWITTER) Will you have your own way, do you think? With the frock.
Only I couldn't help overhearing yesterday.
And from what her ladyship said, it sounded as if you support women's rights.
I suppose I do.
Because I'm quite political.
In fact, I brought some pamphlets that I thought might interest you.
About the vote.
Thank you.
But please don't mention this to my father.
Or my grandmother.
One whiff of reform, and she hears the rattle of the guillotine.
It seems rather unlikely, a revolutionary chauffeur.
Maybe.
But I'm a socialist, not a revolutionary.
And I won't always be a chauffeur.
Mrs Crawley.
How nice.
You're busy.
We can come back later.
Molesley? What are you doing here? Are you ill? Poor old Mr Molesley.
How's it going? The solution doesn't seem to make it any better.
My imagination's running riot.
I've got erysipelas, your ladyship.
Oh, I am sorry.
Mrs Crawley tells me she's recommended nitrate of silver and tincture of steel.
Why, is she making a suit of armour? But I take it there's been no improvement? Not really.
And you're sure it's erysipelas? That is Mrs Crawley's diagnosis.
What it is to have medical knowledge.
It has its uses.
Mm.
I see your father has been making changes at home.
He has, milady.
He's got no use for the herb garden now my mother's gone.
And you've been helping him? I have.
Grubbing out the old rue hedge? How did you know that? Because this is not erysipelas.
This is a rue allergy.
If Molesley wears gardening gloves, it'll be gone in a week.
Please don't think we're ungrateful for your enthusiasm, Mrs Crawley, but there comes a time when things are best left to the professionals.
But I - And now I really, I really must go.
Good day.
Thank you, your ladyship.
(CHUCKLES) I hope cousin Violet has recovered from last night.
Whatever she says, my mother is as strong as an ox.
It's high time she let go of her scheme for upsetting everything.
Time we all did.
I can't deny I'm pleased to hear it.
Are you beginning to see a future here, then? In a way, this business has forced me to recognise that I do want Downton to be my future.
I'm glad.
You must have thought me an awful prig when I first arrived.
Not a prig, just a man thrust into something he never wanted or envisaged.
I could only see the absurdity of the whole thing.
I'm sorry.
Well, there are absurdities involved, as I know well enough.
Possibilities, too.
And I was blind to them.
I was determined not to let it change me.
It was absurd.
If you don't change, you die.
Do you think so? I'm not sure.
Sometimes I think I hate change.
At least we can comfort ourselves that this will still be here.
Because we saved it.
Thomas is lovely, in't he? He's funny and handsome.
He's got such lovely teeth.
He's not for you, Daisy.
Course not.
He's too good for me.
I know that.
No! He's not too GOOD.
What, then? He's not the boy for you, and you're not the girl for him.
In't that what I just said? (SIGHS) And why would he be, when he's seen and done so much, and I've been nowhere and done nothing? Perhaps, Thomas has seen and done more than is good for him.
He's not a lady's man.
Well, in't it a blessed relief? Daisy! Thomas is a troubled soul.
I don't know what you mean, Mrs Patmore.
Oh.
Nothing.
I don't mean anything.
Except, if I don't get the ice cream started, they'll be dining at midnight.
Golly, my corset's tight.
Anna, when you've done that, be an angel and loosen it a bit.
Mm.
The start of the slippery slope.
I'm not putting on weight.
It didn't shrink in the draw.
Are you coming down? I don't know why we bother with corsets.
Men don't wear them, and they look perfectly normal in their clothes.
Not all of them.
She's just showing off.
She'll be on about the vote in a minute.
If you mean do I think women should have the vote, of course I do.
I hope you won't chain yourself to the railings, and end up being force-fed semolina.
What do you think, Anna? I think those women are very brave.
Hear-hear.
How did you get on with your dressmaker? Find anything? I did.
And she says she can have it done by Friday.
I'm sorry I couldn't come, but I didn't want to put Matthew off.
EDITH: Were you pleased with the work on the cottages? I think they're making a very good job of them.
You must all go and see.
CORA: You'll restore a few every year? It was Matthew's idea.
Old crips was rather reluctant, but I'm pleased we went forward.
I suppose it's worth it.
Of course it is.
Because of the people who will live in them.
Matthew's conscience is much more energetic than mine.
Excuse me, I'm going to bed.
I've rather a headache.
Of course.
Should I bring you something for it? No, I'll be perfectly fine.
If I can just lie down.
Mary.
(SOBBING) Oh, my darling.
What is it? You heard him, 'Matthew this, Matthew that, Matthew, Matthew, Matthew!' Oh, Mother, don't you see? He has a son now.
Of course he didn't argue with the entail.
Why would he when he's got what he always wanted? Your father loves you very much.
He wouldn't fight for me, though.
Because he knew he couldn't win.
You're no better.
What? You don't care that Matthew gets everything, because you don't think I'm worthy.
Mary! I wish you'd just admit it.
I'm a lost soul to you.
I took lover with no thought of marriage - a Turk! Oh, think of that! Oh, my dear! (SOBS) Don't worry, Mama.
You can go down now.
Everything will look better in the morning.
Isn't that what you usually say? I say it because it's usually true.
Papa will wonder where you are.
Don't quarrel with Matthew.
Why shouldn't I? Because one day you may need him.
Oh, I see.
When I've ruined myself, I must have a powerful protector to hide behind.
(PLAYS WISTFUL TUNE) I'd tell you off .
.
but I like to hear you play.
Where are they all? Busy, I suppose.
Haven't you got anything to do? Yes, I have.
Of course I have.
You mustn't let Thomas get you down.
He's just jealous.
Everyone likes you better than him.
Not everyone.
Then, she's a foolish girl, and she doesn't deserve you.
Though, why am I encouraging you? Forget all that for 10 years at least.
You're a kind woman, Mrs Hughes.
I don't know how this house would run without you.
I don't, truly.
Stopped flannelling and get on.
Before I betray you to Mr Carson.
Is there anything more thrilling than a new frock? I suppose not, milady.
You shall have one, too.
I thought this would be suitable for your interview.
I won't be wearing it, milady.
Of course you will.
We have to make you look like a successful, professional woman.
What is it? What's happened? Well, I won't wear it because I'm not going.
They've cancelled the appointment.
They found someone more 'suited for the post.
' And better qualified.
This time.
Let's face it.
There will never be anyone less suited for the post or worse qualified than I am.
That isn't true.
You'll see.
We're not giving up.
No-one hits the bull's-eye with the first arrow.
I've put out the Rundle candlesticks for dinner tonight.
Oh.
I'm sorry.
I'll come back later.
No, stay.
Please.
I've got something I'd like to talk to you about.
If you've a minute.
Before I first came here as head housemaid, I was walking out with a farmer.
When I told him I'd taken a job at Downton, he asked me to marry him.
I was a farmer's daughter from Argyll, so I knew the life.
He was very nice.
But then I came here, and I did well, and I didn't want to give it up, so I told him no and he married someone else.
She died three years ago, and last month he wrote asking to see me again.
And I agreed, because all this time I've wondered.
Go on.
I met him the other night.
We had dinner at the Grantham Arms, and after, he took me to the fair.
And he was horrible and fat and red-faced, and you couldn't think what you ever saw in him? He was still a nice man.
He IS still a nice man.
Well, he was a bit red-faced, and his suit was a little tight, but none of that matters.
In the real ways, he hadn't changed.
And he proposed again and you accepted? In many ways, I wanted to accept.
But I'm not that farm girl any more.
I was flattered, of course, but .
.
I've changed, Mr Carson.
Life's altered you, as it's altered me.
And what would be the point of living if we didn't let life change us? You won't be leaving, then? (KNOCK ON DOOR) You'd better come.
Mrs Patmore's on the rampage.
She wants the key to the store cupboard.
You know how angry she gets she hasn't got one.
Nor will she have, not while I'm housekeeper here.
Leaving? When would I ever find the time? MRS PATMORE:.
.
I have to go cap in hand to Mary Queen of Scots! Whatever is holding Sybil up? She was going on about her new frock.
We'd better go in without her, or it's not fair on Mrs Patmore.
Oh, is her cooking so precisely timed? You couldn't tell.
I think her food is delicious.
Naturally.
Good evening, everyone.
Why should you be burdened with Mary's secret? There's a rumour in London that you are not virtuous.
I wish you'd just come out with it.
With what? Whatever it is you're keeping secret.
Isn't it possible I should win the thing on merit? The appropriate answer to that is: 'Yes, dear.
' Maybe I'll shine by comparison.
Maybe you will.
Well, let's get up a party in the evening, if Mrs Hughes lets us.
After we've had our dinner.
You're right.
It doesn't come often.
And it doesn't stay long.
What about you, Mr Bates? I don't see why not.
There's Lady Mary.
You go on ahead.
I'll see you back at the house.
Right you are, then.
Good day, milady.
Is her ladyship all right? Has she recovered from? If you think she'll ever recover from carrying the body of Mr Pamuk from one side of the house to the other, then you don't know her at all.
Well, I didn't mean recover exactly.
Just get past it.
She won't do that, either.
When she dies they'll cut her open and find it engraved on her heart.
What about you? What about your heart? Haven't you heard? I don't have a heart.
Everyone knows that.
Not me, milady.
You wanted to see the new chauffeur, milord? Indeed.
Please send him in.
Come in.
Come in.
Good to see you again.
Branson, isn't it? That's right, your lordship.
I hope they've shown you everything, and delivered whatever we promised.
Certainly, milord.
Won't you miss Ireland? Ireland, yes, but not the job.
The mistress was a nice lady, but she only had one car, and she wouldn't let me drive it over 20 miles an hour.
So, it was a bit well, boring, so to speak.
(CHUCKLES) You've got a wonderful library.
You're very welcome to borrow books, if you wish.
Really, milord? There's a ledger that I make everyone use, even my daughters.
Carson and Mrs Hughes sometimes take a novel or two.
What are your interests? History and politics, mainly.
Heavens.
Carson, Branson is going to borrow some books.
He has my permission.
Very good, milord.
Is that all, milord? It is.
Off you go, and good luck.
He seems a bright spark after poor old Taylor.
And to think Taylor's gone off to run a tea shop! I cannot feel it will make for a very restful retirement, can you? I would rather be put to death, milord.
Quite so.
Thank you, Carson.
How about some house parties? She's been asked to one next month by Lady Anne McNair.
That's a terrible idea.
She doesn't know anyone under 100.
I might send her to visit my aunt.
She could get to know New York.
Oh, I don't think things are quite that desperate.
Poor Mary.
She's been terribly down in the mouth lately.
She was very upset by the death of poor Mr Pamuk.
Why? She didn't know him.
One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner.
We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper.
Oh, no.
Of course, Mary's main difficulty is that her situation is unresolved.
I mean, is she an heiress or isn't she? The entail's unbreakable.
Mary cannot inherit.
No, what we need is a lawyer who's decent and honour-bound to look into it.
I I think, perhaps, I know just the man.
Are you going to the fair? I shouldn't think so, sir.
But I don't mind it.
I like the music.
Goodness, what's happened to your hands? It's nothing, ma'am.
They look very painful.
Oh, no, ma'am.
Irritating more than painful.
Have you been using anything new to polish the silver or the shoes? No.
May I? Leave him alone, Mother.
It looks like erysipelas.
You must have cut yourself.
Not that I'm aware of.
We'll walk to the hospital tomorrow.
Really, ma'am - I insist.
If you've got a cold, I want you out of here.
Anna, they are.
You know I'm out tonight? Because I don't want to come home to any surprises.
Huh! That'll be the day.
We thought we might go to the fair later.
You'd like that, wouldn't you, Daisy? Now, you ought to go.
She's been that down in the mouth since the death of poor Mr Pamuk.
Don't say that.
Well, she has! We could all walk down together after the servants' dinner.
(SNEEZES) You won't be walking anywhere.
She's got minutes to live, by the sound of it.
Go to bed at once.
Yes, Mrs Hughes.
I'll bring up a Beechams powder.
Right, if there's anything you want to ask me, it'll need to be before I go.
What would I want to ask you? I'm preparing a meal for Lord and Lady Grantham and the girls.
No-one is visiting.
No-one is staying.
Well that's settled, then.
I'm afraid Dr Clarkson's out delivering a baby.
We don't know when he'll be back.
No matter.
If you open the store cupboard, I can easily find what I need.
Well - Tell the doctor you opened it for the chairman of the board.
I assure you he will raise not the slightest objection.
This should do it - tincture of steel, And this is solution of nitrate of silver.
Rub a little in morning and night.
How long before it's better? Erysipelas is very hard to cure.
We should be able to reduce the symptoms, but that might be all.
Oh, and you must wear gloves at all times.
I couldn't wait a table in gloves I'd look like a footman.
You may have to do.
The tincture and the salve will help.
Try it for a week, and we'll see.
Someone to see you, Mr Crawley.
Well, there's nothing in my diary.
It's Lady Grantham.
Well, in that case, show her in at once.
Cousin Cora, to what do I owe the - I hope I'm not a disappointment.
I thought it might be nice to cheer it up a bit.
Easier said than done.
Perhaps a flower or a bit of veil.
I can find you a veil, if you like.
I hope you're not expecting ME to do it.
Not if you're busy, of course.
Good.
And Miss O'Brian? I've sent Anna to bed with a cold, so I need you to manage the young ladies.
What, all three of them? I'm not an octopus.
Why can't Gwen do it? Because she is not a lady's maid.
I am not a slave.
Just do it, Miss O'Brien.
Just do it.
I'll pay you the compliment that I do not believe you wish to inherit just because nobody's investigated properly.
No, but - Nor can Mary accuse you of making trouble when you will suffer most from a discovery.
You're right that I don't wish to benefit - at Mary's expense - from an ignorance of the law.
Putting it bluntly, do you think Robert has thrown in the towel prematurely? Good heavens! What am I sitting on? A swivel chair.
Ooh.
Another modern brainwave? Invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Why does every day involve a fight with an American? I'll fetch a different one.
No, no, no.
I'm a good sailor.
It will depend on the exact terms of the entail and of the deed of gift when cousin Cora's money was transferred to the estate.
That is all I ask, to understand the EXACT terms.
Is Daisy going to the fair tonight with the others? Why don't you ask her? She needs taking out of herself.
What's it to you? Nothing.
Daisy, I was hoping - Would you like to go to the fair with me, Daisy? There's a few of us going later on.
Do you mean it? MRS PATMORE: Daisy, don't let it get cold! Come on, come on, come on! You bastard.
Why is Sybil having a new dress and not me? Because it is Sybil's turn.
Can it be my choice this time? Of course.
As long as you choose what I choose.
Branson, you'll be taking Lady Sybil to Ripon tomorrow.
She'll be leaving after lunch.
Certainly, your ladyship.
Poor old Madam Swann.
I don't know why we bother with fittings.
She always makes the same frock.
What do you want? Something new and exciting.
Heavens, look at the time! Not a minute to change.
And Granny's invited herself for dinner.
Then, she can jolly well wait.
So, women's rights begin at home? I see.
Well, I'm all for that.
(ALL GIGGLE) I'm just off, Mr Carson.
According to the wine book, we should have six dozen of this.
But I'm beggared if I can find more than four.
Look again before you jump to any nasty conclusions.
Long time since you last took a night off.
You don't think I ought to stay? Certainly not.
Be off with you.
And Anna's in bed with a cold, so I'm afraid it's all down to you.
Go.
(LAUGHTER AND CHATTER) I wanted to have a go before I went home.
How about you? Thank you.
Thank you.
Is your father doing anything this evening? He's not coming to the fair.
Seriously.
We're having dinner with his family.
Could I look in afterwards? May I ask why? Your grandmother paid me a visit this afternoon, and I'm Well, never mind.
But I would like to see him.
Granny came to see you? Is it all part of the great matter? So, are you enjoying your new life? Yes, I think so.
I know my work seems very trivial to you.
Not necessarily.
Sometimes I rather envy you, having somewhere to go every morning.
I thought that may have been very 'middle-class.
' You should learn to forget what I say.
I know I do.
How about you? Is your life proving satisfactory? Apart from the great matter, of course.
Women like me don't have a life.
We choose clothes and pick halls and work for charity and do the season.
But, really, we're stuck in a waiting room until we marry.
I've made you angry.
My life makes me angry.
Not you.
I never put the Sauternes on ice.
Mrs Hughes goes out for one night and we all fall to pieces! We wondered if we could walk down to the fair.
I suppose so.
But don't be too late.
Where do you think she's gone? None of your business.
Like most of what goes on round here.
Well caught that man - though I say it myself.
Thanks ever so.
Yes? You've cheered up a bit.
He's so agile, in't he? He could have been a sportsman.
Who? Thomas, of course.
Really? Which sport did he have in mind? I ran into cousin Matthew in the village.
He wanted to call on you after dinner.
Apparently, Granny's been to see him.
Did you tell him she's coming here? I didn't know she was.
When he arrives, do your best to keep her in the drawing room.
Well, I'd like to see YOU try.
(CHUCKLES) CORA: Don't stay too long.
Let them have an early night.
Sybil, darling, why would you want to go to a real school? You're not a doctor's daughter.
Nobody learns anything from a governess.
Apart from French and how to curtsy.
What else do you need? Well, there's - Are you thinking of a career in banking? No.
But it is a noble profession.
Things are different in America.
I know.
They live in wigwams.
And when they come out of them, they go to school.
If you wait in the library, I'll tell Papa you're here.
Thank you.
(CHILDREN SCREAM AND LAUGH) (ORGAN WALTZ) (GASPS OF AMAZEMENT) Elsie? It is Elsie, isn't it? It is.
Though there's very few left to call me that, Joe Burns.
Well, I'm flattered that I'm one of them.
Where's Thomas? I let the servants go down to the fair, milord.
I didn't know we'd have any visitors tonight.
Well, that's all right.
They don't have much fun.
You should join them.
(CLEARS THROAT) So what did you say to Mama? I haven't spoken to her since her visit, but I have looked through every source, and I can't find one reason on which to base a challenge.
I could have told you that.
I'm not quite sure how to phrase it when I tell HER.
She shouldn't have put you on the spot like that.
It was unkind.
I'm afraid she'll think I've failed because I don't want to succeed.
She will think that, but I don't.
And nor will Cora.
Of course, it's impossible for Mary.
She must resent me so bitterly.
I don't blame her.
Yes, it must have been hard for you when Ivy died.
It took some getting used to.
What about your son? Do you see much of him? Peter? No.
I would have given him a share of the farm if he wanted it, but he's joined the army.
Well, I never! Aye, he seems happy.
But it's left me on my own.
Shall I take your plates, then? Thank you.
So, how's life treated you? Oh, I can't complain.
I haven't travelled.
But I've seen a bit of life, and no mistake.
I notice you call yourself missus.
Housekeepers and cooks are always missus.
You know better than anyone I haven't changed my name.
Well, I know you wouldn't change it to Burns when you had the chance.
You shouldn't have eaten with us.
The chauffeur always eats in his own cottage.
Steady on.
You can cut him a bit of slack on his SECOND day.
I'm waiting to take old Lady Grantham home.
Even then, Taylor never ate with us.
You're taking advantage of Mrs Hughes' absence.
What are you doing? I'm sorting the collars.
Removing the ones that have come to an end.
What happens to his lordship's old clothes? What's it to you? Clothes are a valet's perk, not a chauffeur's.
I get some, but mostly it goes into the missionary barrel.
(SIGHS) I know it's meant to be kind, but I can think of better ways of helping the needy than sending stiff collars to the equator.
I thought Anna might have come down for her dinner.
And show she's ready to start work again? Not a chance.
Is she still in bed, then? She is.
While I'm sat here sewing like a cursed princess in a fairy tale, and not down at the fair with the others.
Would you like me to ask Branson to bring the car round, milady? Where's Robert? He can't have been drinking port since we left.
He'd be under the table by now.
His lordship's in the library.
All alone? Oh, how sad.
No, he's - We can say goodbye to Papa for you, Granny.
He's what? He's with Mr Crawley, milady.
The question is, what do I say to cousin Violet? Don't worry about that.
I can handle her.
Really? Well, if you can, you must have learned to very recently.
(KNOCKING) Anna? Mr Bates? Can you open the door? I daren't.
No-one can open that door except Mrs Hughes.
Just for a moment.
I've brought you something.
I don't know what - Ssh.
(DOOR OPENS) (LOCKS DOOR) What I don't understand in all this is you.
You seem positively glad to see Mary disinherited.
You speak as if we had a choice.
Thank you, Branson.
I'm worn out.
Tell Lady Mary and Mr Crawley I've gone to bed.
Shall I tell them NOW, milord? No.
Wait until they ring.
I like this one.
Yes, sir? I ought to start back.
This is very late for me.
Aw, not yet.
It's a long time since I've had a girl to show off for at the fair.
So, I take it you never get lonely? Well, that's working in a big house.
Though, there are times when you yearn for a bit of solitude.
Oh! We have a winner! Ah, thank you.
Right, well, er something to remind you of me.
I don't need help to remember you.
(CHUCKLES) But what happens when you retire? I should think if I stay here they'll look after me.
Suppose they sell the estate.
Suppose there's a tidal wave.
Suppose we all die of the plague.
Suppose there's a war.
(CHUCKLES) What did I tell you? She's found her Romeo.
He might be her brother.
She hasn't got one, or we'd know.
Just a sister in Lytham St Anne's.
You know everything, don't you? Everything my foot! You're hiding behind him, but he's not what you think he is.
Oh, go home, William.
If you're gonna be such a spoilsport All right, I will.
Come back.
She didn't mean it.
I must go.
But it's been lovely to see you again, Joe.
Really.
And you know what I'm asking? You haven't asked anything yet.
But you know what it is? When I do.
I'm going to stop here at the pub until I hear from you.
Oh, and take your time.
I'd rather wait a week for the right answer, then get a wrong one in a hurry.
Think about it carefully.
I will.
I promise you that.
To break the entail, we'd need a private bill in Parliament? Even then, it would only be passed if the estate were in danger, which it's not.
And I mean nothing in all this? On the contrary, you mean a great deal.
A very great deal.
(DOOR OPENS) You rang, milady? Yes, Carson.
Mr Crawley was just leaving.
Do you know where his lordship is? Gone to bed, milady.
He felt tired after he put Lady Grantham into the car.
I bet he did.
Thank you, Carson.
I'm sorry.
I wish I could think of something to say that would help.
There's nothing.
But you mustn't let it trouble you.
It does trouble me.
It troubles me very much.
Then, that will be my consolation prize.
Good night, cousin Matthew.
Good night.
I hope I haven't kept you up too late? I'm afraid we've interfered with your dinner.
It's been rather a chop-and-change evening downstairs.
Lady Grantham got off all right? 'All right' is an optimistic assessment, sir.
It's very difficult, Carson.
For her, for Lady Mary.
For everyone.
It is, Mr Crawley.
But I appreciate your saying so.
Well, that's her greatness done and dusted for the night.
Will, have you had a good night? I'm off to bed.
Wait.
What happened? Nothing.
Doesn't matter.
How was your evening, Mrs Hughes? Very enjoyable, thank you.
The others are just behind me, so you can lock up in a minute.
Well, I'll say goodnight.
Goodnight, Mrs Hughes.
Good night.
(LAUGHTER AND CHATTER) Night, Mrs Hughes.
Good night, Mrs Hughes.
I was right when I said she was looking sparkly eyed.
I beg your pardon, Thomas? He can disapprove all he likes.
Mrs Hughes has got a fancy man.
Him, a fancy man? Don't be so nasty, Daisy.
It doesn't suit you.
I reckon there's a job vacancy coming up.
Miss O'Brian, do you fancy a promotion? Huh, very droll.
If she's got a boyfriend I'm a giraffe.
(KNOCKS) Leave me alone, Mr Bates.
I know you mean well, but let me be.
What chance did he have up against a champion? Well, you listen.
You filthy little rat.
If you don't lay off, I will punch your shining teeth through the back of your skull.
Is this supposed to frighten me, Mr Bates? Because if it is, it isn't working.
I'm sorry, but it's just not working.
Daisy? Chafing dishes now.
Right in front of you, Mrs Patmore.
Are you trying to trick me? Anna's still not well.
O'Brien, you'll need to dress the girls this morning.
All we know about Lady Mary, and here I am waiting on her hand and foot! Will we do anything with that? Maybe, but not yet.
What do you look like? Daisy, what do you think he looks like? Do your buttons up.
Well, go on, then.
What do you want? I've got a message for Lady Sybil.
From her ladyship.
Thank you, O'Brien.
I'll manage now.
Odious woman.
What does Mama want? I just said that to get rid of her.
This came today.
I knew they would want to see you.
It's your reference what's done it.
How am I going to get there? They won't let me take a day off.
You're going to be ill.
They can't stop you being ill.
What? No-one has seen Anna for a whole day.
They won't notice if you vanish for a couple of hours.
The only one who never sticks up for me in all this is you.
Why is that? You are my darling daughter, and I love you.
Hard as it is for an Englishman to say the words.
Well, then.
If I had made my own fortune and bought Downton myself, it should be yours without question.
But I did not.
My fortune is the work of others who laboured to build a great dynasty.
Do I have the right to destroy their work? Or impoverish that dynasty? I am a custodian, my dear, not an owner.
I must strive to be worthy of the task I've been set.
If I could take Mama's money out of the estate, Downton would have to be sold to pay for it.
Is that what you want? To see Matthew a landless peer with a title but no means to pay for it? So, I'm just to find a husband and get out of the way? You could stay here if you married Matthew.
You know my character, Father.
I'd never marry any man that I was told to.
I'm stubborn.
I wish I wasn't, but I am.
(BIRDS TWITTER) Will you have your own way, do you think? With the frock.
Only I couldn't help overhearing yesterday.
And from what her ladyship said, it sounded as if you support women's rights.
I suppose I do.
Because I'm quite political.
In fact, I brought some pamphlets that I thought might interest you.
About the vote.
Thank you.
But please don't mention this to my father.
Or my grandmother.
One whiff of reform, and she hears the rattle of the guillotine.
It seems rather unlikely, a revolutionary chauffeur.
Maybe.
But I'm a socialist, not a revolutionary.
And I won't always be a chauffeur.
Mrs Crawley.
How nice.
You're busy.
We can come back later.
Molesley? What are you doing here? Are you ill? Poor old Mr Molesley.
How's it going? The solution doesn't seem to make it any better.
My imagination's running riot.
I've got erysipelas, your ladyship.
Oh, I am sorry.
Mrs Crawley tells me she's recommended nitrate of silver and tincture of steel.
Why, is she making a suit of armour? But I take it there's been no improvement? Not really.
And you're sure it's erysipelas? That is Mrs Crawley's diagnosis.
What it is to have medical knowledge.
It has its uses.
Mm.
I see your father has been making changes at home.
He has, milady.
He's got no use for the herb garden now my mother's gone.
And you've been helping him? I have.
Grubbing out the old rue hedge? How did you know that? Because this is not erysipelas.
This is a rue allergy.
If Molesley wears gardening gloves, it'll be gone in a week.
Please don't think we're ungrateful for your enthusiasm, Mrs Crawley, but there comes a time when things are best left to the professionals.
But I - And now I really, I really must go.
Good day.
Thank you, your ladyship.
(CHUCKLES) I hope cousin Violet has recovered from last night.
Whatever she says, my mother is as strong as an ox.
It's high time she let go of her scheme for upsetting everything.
Time we all did.
I can't deny I'm pleased to hear it.
Are you beginning to see a future here, then? In a way, this business has forced me to recognise that I do want Downton to be my future.
I'm glad.
You must have thought me an awful prig when I first arrived.
Not a prig, just a man thrust into something he never wanted or envisaged.
I could only see the absurdity of the whole thing.
I'm sorry.
Well, there are absurdities involved, as I know well enough.
Possibilities, too.
And I was blind to them.
I was determined not to let it change me.
It was absurd.
If you don't change, you die.
Do you think so? I'm not sure.
Sometimes I think I hate change.
At least we can comfort ourselves that this will still be here.
Because we saved it.
Thomas is lovely, in't he? He's funny and handsome.
He's got such lovely teeth.
He's not for you, Daisy.
Course not.
He's too good for me.
I know that.
No! He's not too GOOD.
What, then? He's not the boy for you, and you're not the girl for him.
In't that what I just said? (SIGHS) And why would he be, when he's seen and done so much, and I've been nowhere and done nothing? Perhaps, Thomas has seen and done more than is good for him.
He's not a lady's man.
Well, in't it a blessed relief? Daisy! Thomas is a troubled soul.
I don't know what you mean, Mrs Patmore.
Oh.
Nothing.
I don't mean anything.
Except, if I don't get the ice cream started, they'll be dining at midnight.
Golly, my corset's tight.
Anna, when you've done that, be an angel and loosen it a bit.
Mm.
The start of the slippery slope.
I'm not putting on weight.
It didn't shrink in the draw.
Are you coming down? I don't know why we bother with corsets.
Men don't wear them, and they look perfectly normal in their clothes.
Not all of them.
She's just showing off.
She'll be on about the vote in a minute.
If you mean do I think women should have the vote, of course I do.
I hope you won't chain yourself to the railings, and end up being force-fed semolina.
What do you think, Anna? I think those women are very brave.
Hear-hear.
How did you get on with your dressmaker? Find anything? I did.
And she says she can have it done by Friday.
I'm sorry I couldn't come, but I didn't want to put Matthew off.
EDITH: Were you pleased with the work on the cottages? I think they're making a very good job of them.
You must all go and see.
CORA: You'll restore a few every year? It was Matthew's idea.
Old crips was rather reluctant, but I'm pleased we went forward.
I suppose it's worth it.
Of course it is.
Because of the people who will live in them.
Matthew's conscience is much more energetic than mine.
Excuse me, I'm going to bed.
I've rather a headache.
Of course.
Should I bring you something for it? No, I'll be perfectly fine.
If I can just lie down.
Mary.
(SOBBING) Oh, my darling.
What is it? You heard him, 'Matthew this, Matthew that, Matthew, Matthew, Matthew!' Oh, Mother, don't you see? He has a son now.
Of course he didn't argue with the entail.
Why would he when he's got what he always wanted? Your father loves you very much.
He wouldn't fight for me, though.
Because he knew he couldn't win.
You're no better.
What? You don't care that Matthew gets everything, because you don't think I'm worthy.
Mary! I wish you'd just admit it.
I'm a lost soul to you.
I took lover with no thought of marriage - a Turk! Oh, think of that! Oh, my dear! (SOBS) Don't worry, Mama.
You can go down now.
Everything will look better in the morning.
Isn't that what you usually say? I say it because it's usually true.
Papa will wonder where you are.
Don't quarrel with Matthew.
Why shouldn't I? Because one day you may need him.
Oh, I see.
When I've ruined myself, I must have a powerful protector to hide behind.
(PLAYS WISTFUL TUNE) I'd tell you off .
.
but I like to hear you play.
Where are they all? Busy, I suppose.
Haven't you got anything to do? Yes, I have.
Of course I have.
You mustn't let Thomas get you down.
He's just jealous.
Everyone likes you better than him.
Not everyone.
Then, she's a foolish girl, and she doesn't deserve you.
Though, why am I encouraging you? Forget all that for 10 years at least.
You're a kind woman, Mrs Hughes.
I don't know how this house would run without you.
I don't, truly.
Stopped flannelling and get on.
Before I betray you to Mr Carson.
Is there anything more thrilling than a new frock? I suppose not, milady.
You shall have one, too.
I thought this would be suitable for your interview.
I won't be wearing it, milady.
Of course you will.
We have to make you look like a successful, professional woman.
What is it? What's happened? Well, I won't wear it because I'm not going.
They've cancelled the appointment.
They found someone more 'suited for the post.
' And better qualified.
This time.
Let's face it.
There will never be anyone less suited for the post or worse qualified than I am.
That isn't true.
You'll see.
We're not giving up.
No-one hits the bull's-eye with the first arrow.
I've put out the Rundle candlesticks for dinner tonight.
Oh.
I'm sorry.
I'll come back later.
No, stay.
Please.
I've got something I'd like to talk to you about.
If you've a minute.
Before I first came here as head housemaid, I was walking out with a farmer.
When I told him I'd taken a job at Downton, he asked me to marry him.
I was a farmer's daughter from Argyll, so I knew the life.
He was very nice.
But then I came here, and I did well, and I didn't want to give it up, so I told him no and he married someone else.
She died three years ago, and last month he wrote asking to see me again.
And I agreed, because all this time I've wondered.
Go on.
I met him the other night.
We had dinner at the Grantham Arms, and after, he took me to the fair.
And he was horrible and fat and red-faced, and you couldn't think what you ever saw in him? He was still a nice man.
He IS still a nice man.
Well, he was a bit red-faced, and his suit was a little tight, but none of that matters.
In the real ways, he hadn't changed.
And he proposed again and you accepted? In many ways, I wanted to accept.
But I'm not that farm girl any more.
I was flattered, of course, but .
.
I've changed, Mr Carson.
Life's altered you, as it's altered me.
And what would be the point of living if we didn't let life change us? You won't be leaving, then? (KNOCK ON DOOR) You'd better come.
Mrs Patmore's on the rampage.
She wants the key to the store cupboard.
You know how angry she gets she hasn't got one.
Nor will she have, not while I'm housekeeper here.
Leaving? When would I ever find the time? MRS PATMORE:.
.
I have to go cap in hand to Mary Queen of Scots! Whatever is holding Sybil up? She was going on about her new frock.
We'd better go in without her, or it's not fair on Mrs Patmore.
Oh, is her cooking so precisely timed? You couldn't tell.
I think her food is delicious.
Naturally.
Good evening, everyone.
Why should you be burdened with Mary's secret? There's a rumour in London that you are not virtuous.
I wish you'd just come out with it.
With what? Whatever it is you're keeping secret.
Isn't it possible I should win the thing on merit? The appropriate answer to that is: 'Yes, dear.
' Maybe I'll shine by comparison.
Maybe you will.