As always, Critical Notes are after the breakdown.
ONE
Downton becomes a hospital. Isabelle directs the maids how close the bed frames should be. Cora wonders where the family will actually sit now, but Isabelle’s in charge it seems. In comes the Doctor and Sybil, helping, as they discuss why only officers will be at Downton.
The Dowager, with Carson, defends the practice to Sybil. Rest is needed, not tension. And Edith, eager to help and be supportive, is told by Isabelle to get out of the way.
TWO
At the servant’s table Carson thanks staff for their help. With O’Brien’s adamant opinion, Carson reiterates that chain of command will be sorted soon. Isabelle won’t always be the dominant voice. Lang leaves the table suddenly.
Violet finds Mary. How does Lavinia know Richard Carlisle? Mary seems unconcerned. Well, the Dowager is going to London for the day and she’ll have Lavinia to tea.
In the kitchen Patmore wonders if she’s now to run a canteen. The officers will eat with the family? I think that’s what Carson told her. Daisy reads a letter from William that says he’ll come home for a night before shipping out. Branson receives a mysterious letter, but the focus goes back to Daisy and her concern that William might have “plans”.
THREE
Anna running an errand in the village sees, well, that’s Bates. He went behind the tree very quickly. Hard dolly in on Anna, and then she runs toward where he was. He’s gone, though.
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