November - Part 2

At tea, Cora is reading a children's book out loud while the three older children sit and listen attentively. Robert is reading a periodical. On one couch, Mary is holding Roger, and on the other, Edith is holding Viola while Bertie looks on.

Mary says, "Bertie, perhaps you should hold the baby."

Bertie is so good with the other children that Edith does not think a baby will present a challenge for him. But she concurs, "Yes, now that you mention it, Mary, that is a good idea. Here you go, darling!" She hands Viola over to Bertie, who at first seems surprised by the concept, but quickly accepts the duty. He begins interacting with Viola, and gets her to giggle by making faces at her and gently saying "boo!" every so often.

Something about the baby play catches Marigold's attention. She gets up and walks over to where Edith and Bertie are sitting, and squeezes herself in between the two adults. She is looking curiously at Viola; she is a little jealous of Edith and Bertie's attention to the baby. Suddenly, she says, "BOO!" at the baby, as if to mimic Bertie, but more forcefully. Viola is startled and her lower lip starts to tremble and then she begins to cry.

Edith says, "Bertie, why don't you walk with her a little to calm her down while I talk to Marigold." Bertie does as directed, with Marigold looking up and following with her eyes. Edith counsels her daughter, "Marigold, dear, you must be gentle with babies. You frightened the poor thing. You do not like to be frightened, do you?"

Marigold looks up at her mother and says, curtly, "No." She does not like to be in trouble, and she feels like she is, when she was just doing the same thing that Bertie did.

Henry comes in to the library about this time, and greets Mary with a little kiss. Mary says, "Darling, please take Roger and keep Bertie company walking around with them a little." Henry takes Roger and joins Bertie in the other part of the room. Viola has mostly calmed down by now.

Mary goes to sit with Edith and Marigold. Marigold looks warily at her Aunt Mary, fearing that she will be in more trouble for frightening the baby.

Mary gently takes Marigold's hand, and says, "Marigold, dear, I know you did not mean to scare Viola."

Marigold looks up at her aunt and looks relieved that someone understands. Mary gently asks her niece, "You know that there will be a baby in your house in a little while, too?"

Marigold nods.

Mary continues, "Sometimes, your parents will be spending time with the baby, when you may want them to spend time with you. You must be very nice about telling your parents, and you may need to wait. Do you think you will be able to do that?"

Marigold says, "I can try."

Mary adds, "You will have a great job, being the big sister to the baby in your house. It might be hard, learning what to do and what not to do. I know, because I am a big sister, too."

Marigold looks curiously at her aunt. "You are?"

Mary says, "Yes, I am! I am the big sister to your mother." Mary puts her hand on Edith's arm as she says this. Marigold looks between the two women. Mary adds, "And it took me a very long time to learn how to be a good big sister. I still make mistakes." She cocks her head to the side a little as she is saying this.

Marigold asks, "You do?"

Mary smiles and admits, "Oh, yes."

Edith interjects, "We all make mistakes, Marigold dear. We just have to try to learn and not make them again. Alright?"

Marigold says, "Ok." Then she gets up and goes back to where the other children are.

Edith turns to Mary and says, "Thank you, Mary. That was very sweet of you."

Mary smirks in a teasing but nice way to her sister, "It is only fair that I help, really. She's got Crawley in her, and I sense that perhaps she is aptly named." At Edith's questioning look, Mary says, "'Mari'-gold?"

The two sisters begin laughing together. All the other adults in the room look at the two in wonder.

Barrow comes in and says, quietly, to Edith, "Excuse me, Lady Hexham. Mr. Branson and Miss Edmunds are pulling in the drive now, m'Lady."

Tom and Laura are greeted by Edith and Bertie in the hall. The footmen start to get the portfolio and case from the car. Tom leaves Laura in Edith's company and goes into the library.

Seeing that Edith is showing more now, Laura exclaims, "Edith, look at you! It is incredible what a difference just a few weeks makes. Are you feeling well?"

"Quite well, thank you. How was your journey?" Edith asks.

Laura replies, "No problems at all. I was able to get some things done on the train so it wasn't a complete loss of time."

"Thank you for doing this," Edith says.

Laura responds with a smile, "Not to worry-you are the boss, after all."

Edith is torn about how to treat Laura now that she is here. The trip is primarily on the premise of work and convenience for Edith. She does not want to make Laura feel out of place with all of the family gathered, especially with the children. So she says, "Here, let me take you upstairs and show you to your room." Edith leads Laura upstairs to the room that used to be hers. "Here you are." Andy comes in with Laura's suitcase in one hand and the portfolio in another. He puts the portfolio by the bed and the case on a stand. As he opens the case, Edith says, "Ah, thank you, Andrew." Turning back to Laura, she says, "He will unpack for you. Is there anything you need?"

"No, I do not think so, thank you. Well, maybe a breadcrumb trail to help me find my way." Now that she is here, Laura is a little agog at staying in the big house. When she was here for the wedding, she had been only in the main floor rooms where the reception had taken place, and had stayed at a little place in the village. With all of the other people in attendance, the spaciousness of the house had not been as apparent.

Edith laughs. "There are plenty of people around to help; I know you won't be too shy to ask." Edith looks to be thinking of something, and gestures toward the doorway, "Actually, Sybbie's room is right there; I'll have Tom come get you for dinner when he tucks her in, if you don't mind."

"Thank you-that would help!" Laura seems relieved. Edith leaves the room. Laura takes off her hat and coat, puts both on the bed, and heads into the bathroom to freshen up.

Andy has finished with the clothing and shoes and unpacks the gramaphone records to the top of the dresser, and Laura's book to the bedside table. He sees the hat and coat on the bed and puts them away in the wardrobe for her. As he is leaving the room, Mrs. Hughes comes in with a tea tray, which she sets down on a table. Laura comes out of the bathroom about this time. Mrs. Hughes says, "Miss Edmunds, Lady Mary suggested you might like some tea after your journey. Please let us know if there is anything else you need."

Laura smiles and says, "Thank you." Mrs. Hughes departs. Laura is amazed at the efficiency of the service in just the few minutes since she arrived. She pours herself some tea and looks around the room, curiously taking everything in.

Before dinner, Tom knocks on Laura's door. Laura opens it; she is dressed in the same frock that she had on when Tom took her to dinner at the Criterion. Tom notices, but simply smiles and says, "I wanted to give you a few minutes' warning-I am about to say goodnight to Sybbie, and then we can go downstairs."

Laura says, "Oh, well, I am ready, shall I just join you now?"

Tom replies, "If you'd like." They walk to Sybbie's room together.

Sybbie is sitting up in bed reading when Tom and Laura come in. Tom introduces Laura to Sybbie, "Sybbie, darlin', this is Miss Edmunds. You may remember her from Aunt Edith's wedding."

Laura extends her hand to shake Sybbie's. "It is a pleasure to see you again, Miss Sybbie."

"'Nice to see you, too," Sybbie replies. She looks nervous for a minute, thinking of all of the titles that Carson has been teaching them. "Should I say 'my lady'?"

Tom snickers, "No, 'Miss Edmunds' is enough."

Sybbie remembers some of the courtesy tips that Carson has been teaching them, about giving compliments when they are sincere. She says, "That is a very pretty frock, Miss Edmunds."

"Thank you, Sybbie." Laura smiles at the girl, thinking about how sweet she is. "I see you are reading; reading is one of my favorite things to do."

Sybbie thinks for a moment and says, "I like to read, but I also like to do lots of other things, like help in the shop and play outside with George and Donk."

"Your father has told me what good helpers you and George are in the shop. I think that is wonderful. I like to do other things, too, like walk in the park, write, and listen to music." Laura says.

Tom says, "Miss Edmunds is here to work with your Aunt Edith tomorrow, so you'll see her around."

Sybbie looks at Tom curiously at the statement, then asks Laura, "You work with my Aunt Edith?"

Laura responds, "Yes, for the magazine. We can show you tomorrow, if you'd like."

Sybbie smiles and says, "Yes, please."

Tom leans over and kisses Sybbie on the forehead, "Goodnight, darlin' We don't want to be late for dinner." He takes the book from Sybbie and sets it on her bedside table. "And you need to get to sleep."

"G'night, Daddy. G'night Miss Edmunds."

Laura and Tom leave the room, turning off the light as they go.

At before dinner drinks, Tom and Laura chat with Robert and Cora, while Mary and Edith confer separately. Bertie and Henry are their own separate twosome. Henry says, "It is good you could make it, Bertie. Mary thought it would be just Edith and Marigold."

Bertie says, "It works out since it is a shorter trip: we've got a hunting party letting the place upon our return. I like to be on-premises during those events. I am looking forward to going to York with you tomorrow and getting some errands done." Bertie looks at Henry, then casts a glance over at Tom and Laura. "Besides, something tells me you and I need to keep an eye on things." He gestures only slightly with his eyes to Mary and Edith. "Who knows what those two are scheming."

Around this time, Mary and Edith share a small laugh together as Henry looks over at them. Henry chortles, and says, "Yes, I am not sure what is more dangerous, Mary and Edith as enemies, or as friends."

After dinner, Baxter is helping Cora change for bed, and Cora says, "Baxter, please do not think I am being critical, but you seem distracted today."

Baxter says, apologetically, "Oh, I am sorry, my Lady! I didn't realize…"

Cora laughs a little, "You haven't done anything wrong! It seems like a good sort of distraction."

Baxter takes a breath and sighs, still not sure what, if anything, she should say. She is quite confident now of the mutual affection between her and Molesley. They were both so caught up in the kiss last night that they parted without saying another word. Tonight was similar after dinner. Again, Molesley took her hand as they left the house, and again he asked if he could kiss her, and she in turn replied by kissing him. And then he left to go to his cottage. Two days is hardly a pattern, but she thinks they are both happy to know that the night before had not been a fluke. Neither has said anything about what the next progression might be. It took both of them so long to get to this point that Baxter does not mind. It is almost as if they are so relieved that their feelings are reciprocal that they are just basking in that. So she is honest with her employer, "My Lady, I hope you don't mind when I say that it is simply being happy here."

The next morning, before heading to the agent office to work with Mary, Tom stops in to walk Sybbie downstairs and say goodbye to her. "You be good for Mr. Carson and Mr. Molesley, darlin'."

Sybbie says, "I am always good, Daddy." Then she asks something that has been bothering her since last night, "Daddy, if Miss Edmunds works for Aunt Edith, why did she have dinner with the family rather than downstairs?"

Tom shakes his head, thinking of the other discussion about dinners upstairs versus downstairs. "Miss Edmunds is also a friend of Aunt Edith's, and mine, too. Besides, we can invite anyone we'd like to dine with us. Goodbye now." He kisses her forehead and opens the door of their classroom just as Mary and Edith are about to leave after having dropped off George and Marigold. Sybbie's look shows that she is thoughtful about something as she enters the room.

At the morning lesson, Carson has decided to do something a little different since Marigold is here. She is younger, and he wants to include her, but most of their recent topics would be beyond her understanding. He has the three children sit at the table, which has nothing atop it at the moment.

"Good morning children. Today our lesson will be about being considerate and gracious. Sybbie, do you recall what we mean by those words?"

Sybbie responds, "Yes, Mr. Carson. They mean that we think about the feelings of other people, and try to be kind."

"Very good. George, can you give an example for Marigold's sake of being considerate?"

"Yes, Mr. Carson. If we are to meet with someone, we should be on time."

Carson nods, "Very good, Master George. Miss Sybbie, can you give Miss Marigold an example of being gracious?"

"Yes, Mr. Carson." Sybbie turns to Marigold and says, "When we are playing a game together, if I lose, I should not make a fuss about it. And if I win, I should not make the others feel badly."

"Excellent, Sybbie. Miss Marigold, being considerate and gracious sometimes means we have to act kindly even when we may not feel like doing so. I have these cards, and we will practice."

Carson places one playing card, face down, in front of each child on the table. "When I tell you, I want you to turn your cards over. Whoever has the highest card will be the winner. I would like the winner to say something kind to the losers, and the losers to say something to congratulate the winner. Do you understand?"

All three of the children nod in acknowledgement.

"Very well, you may turn over your cards."

George's card is a king, Marigold's is a ten, and Sybbie's is a three. Marigold pouts a little upon seeing that she did not win.

Sybbie is used to Mr. Carson's games, so she says to George, smiling, "Aren't you the lucky one!"

George says to Sybbie and Marigold, "I hope you two have better luck next time."

Marigold is not happy that she did not win, but Sybbie did not win either; her card was even lower than Marigold's. But Sybbie was nice to George. And George did not brag that he won; he was nice to her and Sybbie. Marigold thinks she understands what Mr. Carson means now. She also remembers yesterday when Aunt Mary told her about learning to be nice when she is a big sister. She turns to George, smiles, and says, "It is nice that you won, George."

Mr. Carson smiles, and says, "Well done, Miss Marigold. Let us do that again."

A little before lunchtime, Tom and Mary come in the house together, and Mary heads upstairs to check on the twins in the nursery. Tom enters the library where Edith and Laura are working together. The portfolio is fully open and is like a makeshift large desktop on the coffee table. Tom watches the two women working for a little while. They are working on a layout, and Laura is taking notes while Edith shifts pictures and documents around.

When it seems like they are at a pause in their work, Tom observes, "Well, now, you two have been at it all morning! Time for a break?"

Edith sighs and says, "Yes, actually, now is a good stopping point." She stands up, as does Laura after she finishes with a note. Edith continues, "I am really happy we have been able to get so much done! We will be finished well before tea at this rate."

All three walk out of the library.

Tom says, "It is a pleasant day outside, would you like to show Laura a little of the grounds before lunch? I can join you for a little bit before I head to the shop."

Edith says, "That is a splendid idea, Tom." Laura and Edith start up the stairs to get their coats. As they are walking down the stairs after they have both gotten their coats and hats, Edith says, "Oh, sorry, but I just realized I want to check with Mary on something-you go on without me and I will see you at lunch."

Laura continues down the stairs.

As they begin their walk outside, Laura takes Tom's arm, as she had done at the park in London. It is a very natural instinct already when she is walking with him; as such, neither attaches any significance to it. They walk by the garage and other outbuildings, Tom tells Laura about how much has changed here since he first came.

Robert and the three children are completing their walk before lunchtime. Robert is happy with the changes that Tom and Mary are making. It may have taken him until these years, but he sees that the improvements they are putting in place, envisioned initially by Matthew, are for the good. The tenants all seem to be happy and thriving, and the farming operations are going well.

The children are chasing each other around Robert for the most part, but Sybbie stops when she spies Tom and Laura walking arm-in-arm from a distance. She points, "There is Daddy!" and begins running to meet the couple. Since Robert does not know of the potential relationship between Tom and Laura, he ascribes no special meaning to their walking together at first.

Sybbie shouts as she gets closer, "Daaaaaddddyyy!" Tom breaks from Laura and picks Sybbie up, swinging her about in the air with the momentum of her approach. Tom, Sybbie, and Laura laugh with delight. Tom puts Sybbie down and keeps one of her hands in his as they walk toward the house. He says, "Darlin', I think you are growin' up-I'll not be able to pick you up like that for very long."

Sybbie says, "That's alright. You can still hold my hand."

She looks at Miss Edmunds and does not want her to feel left out. Daddy had been escorting her like Mr. Carson had showed George, and now she does not have an escort. So Sybbie says, "You, too, Miss Edmunds." She reaches out her hand and Laura smiles and takes it.

Soon, the intercept path with Robert, George, and Marigold occurs on the way to the house. Robert is holding the hand of one child on each side. Sybbie says, "George, you can be Miss Edmunds' escort now."

George looks uncertain for only a split second, then understands what Sybbie is saying and breaks off from Robert and takes Laura's hand.

Robert says to Laura, "Well, it's good to see that Edith didn't keep you cooped up all morning!"

Laura laughs, "Well, she did, but Tom rescued me for a bit. I do love walks."

Robert says, "Well, this is the most beautiful place to do so. Oh, I know it is home to me, but wouldn't you agree, Tom?" Robert looks over at Tom for corroboration.

Tom says, "I will agree about it being home, and being pretty. Ireland and America have their own beautiful spots, too."

Marigold chimes in, "It is pretty at my castle, too!"

All three adults chuckle at that, and Robert says, "You are correct, Marigold. We all see beauty in different places."

Sybbie adds, "And in people, too! Miss Edmunds was very pretty in her frock last night."

Laura is a little embarrassed by the unexpected compliment, but smiles and says, "Thank you, Sybbie."

George looks up at Laura and corrects Sybbie, "I think Miss Edmunds is pretty now, too." He has a self-satisfied smile that suggests he is fairly happy about being escort to a pretty woman.

Tom and Robert see that Laura is even more embarrassed about being the focus of such attention, but Tom says, "I think we can all agree on that!"

There is a tone in Tom's voice that makes Robert look, and he sees an admiring glance between Tom and Laura that tells him more than he expected.

Meanwhile, Edith is in the nursery with Mary while she nurses and feeds the twins. Edith holds Roger having his bottle while Mary finishes with Viola. Edith says, "I let Tom and Laura go off on their own for a walk before lunch. I must admit I am still a little unsettled about the situation."

Mary looks at her sister in curiosity, "In what way?" Mary has not come to any conclusion yet about the couple. They seem to have similar interests, but Mary has not seen them together for more than a couple of minutes. Uncharacteristically, she has decided to reserve judgement for now.

Edith takes a deep breath and says, "Well, neither has said anything to me yet. I can understand them not wanting to in one way. I am in the middle in a sense, being Tom's sister-in-law and Laura's employer. If nothing develops, or worse, if something does but then collapses...that might make things uncomfortable."

Mary looks at her sister and does not voice what she thinks Edith's real concern is. It is not the time yet, since the relationship may be nothing more than friendship. Instead, Mary says, "Sybil and Tom kept their relationship secret from the family until they had decided to marry. Perhaps that is just Tom's way. After Miss Bunting, I wouldn't blame him for staying quiet until there is something to tell."

Edith looks over at Mary and says, "I think the situation is different. But I will respect their privacy."

Mary puts Viola up on her shoulder and begins to rub her back. Instinctively, Edith does the same with Roger. Mary is amused, saying, "It looks like you are more than ready for a newborn again."

Edith smiles, and says, "I hope so." She thinks a minute and then asks, "Is it difficult? I cannot imagine loving another child as much as I love Marigold, but I already feel like I love this one…" Edith looks down at her small bulge as she says this.

Mary smiles at her sister, understanding the question, since she recalls wondering the same about George and the twins. Mary thinks that this pregnancy is undoubtedly different for Edith-she should have none of the fear and shame that she must have felt with Marigold. But Mary checks herself from saying that; there is nothing to be gained by pointing that out. "Of course you do. Having enough love is not hard at all." Mary thinks again about how difficult it must have been for Edith with Marigold. If she is honest, it was likely worse than Mary faced when Matthew died. At least Mary was surrounded by family and staff who were here to help. She considers how she should continue, then decides on simply, "Edith, it will be different; but hopefully only in positive ways."

For the afternoon lessons, for part of the time Molesley has the children practice their hand on the chalkboard. He has Sybbie and George work on one side, while he works with Marigold on the other. She stands on a little stool so she can reach high enough. He has her make large lines, circles, swirls, and loops with the chalk. After a while, she turns to him and says, "Mr. Molesely, these are silly drawings."

Molesley is patient with his youngest charge. He takes the eraser and clears the board of her work. Then, he says, "Miss Marigold, sometimes you have to learn how to do one thing before you can do another. Let me show you something." He takes her hand, which is still holding the chalk, and guides it to write on the board, "There are certain lines, curves, loops, and circles that when we put them together, make something very special." One the board, in rough cursive due to the way it was formed, is the name 'Marigold'. "That is your name, Marigold." The young girl looks at it and seems to recognize it, and smiles.

When it is a little before tea, Molesley brings Marigold, George, and Sybbie to the library where Edith and Laura are wrapping up their work. Marigold heads over to Edith and gets a little hug in greeting. Mr. Molesley knows that all parents like to hear about how their children are doing at school, so he approaches Edith and says, "She is beginning to recognize numbers and letters already, Lady Edith."

Edith is indeed happy to hear that, thanks Molesley, who departs, then gives Marigold another hug. The children look over the portfolio that is still open, with papers and pictures spread out. Sybbie asks, "May we see your work now, please, Miss Edmunds?"

Laura and Edith smile and Laura gestures at the papers spread out, and says, "Of course! Here are all sorts of articles and pictures that will be in one of our coming magazines. Your Aunt Edith and I decide what to put where, and it will look something like this after it gets printed." She holds out a copy of an earlier edition of The Sketch for Sybbie to flip through.

George is looking at all of the papers and over Sybbie's arm at the magazine in her hands. George says, "It is like one of our puzzles!"

Edith laughs and says, "Yes, George, that is right. Miss Edmunds is very good at putting the pieces of our magazine together."

Laura adds, "And your Aunt Edith is very good at figuring out what puzzle pieces to use."

Laura packs up the portfolio and papers but allows the children to keep looking at the magazine. She takes her leave to bring the portfolio upstairs.

Suddenly Sybbie says, "There is Daddy in this picture! And Uncle Henry, too!" Sure enough, the edition she is looking at is the one that included a section on the Grand Prix race. The article focused on all of the behind-the-scenes preparation and teamwork that went into the race, which included a number of women as well as men. A small inset article recalled Dorothy Levitt and introduced some of the female racers of Europe, and suggested that wasn't it time for England to have more female racers?

Edith had been pleased with that edition. They had received positive letters from readers about how much they enjoyed something different like that. There were a few complaints that they should stick to women's concerns and events, although not many. But now Edith cannot help but wonder if Laura's interest in covering the race was personal as much as professional. She immediately chastises herself for second guessing what ended up being excellent work.

Cora and Robert enter the room, followed by Mary and the nanny with the twins. Cora and Robert each take one of the babies and sit down to spend time with them. Marigold smiles and appears to want to make up for yesterday by going and giving Viola a kiss on the cheek, then Roger, too. George gets a hug and kiss from Mary. Andy brings in the tea service.

Laura comes back in the room carrying an armful of gramaphone records. "Edith, I thought I would bring these down now so they are ready for later. Where is the gramaphone so I can put them nearby?"

George looks up at Laura, and then asks his mother pleadingly, "May we listen to some music, please?" His look is so desirous that Mary does not want to deny the simple request. She asks, "Miss Edmunds, would you mind? We can have someone bring the gramaphone in here so we all can enjoy some music during tea."

Laura looks pleased to be able to contribute something to the festivities. "What a lovely idea! Of course I do not mind." She puts the records on a side table while Mary leaves the room, and Sybbie and George begin looking at them. A few minutes later, Mary comes back in followed by Barrow with the gramaphone. He sets it up for them.

Sybbie does not know what she is looking for when she is scanning through the records, but some words catch her eye. She exclaims, "Here is one about tea! Let's listen to that."

Laura laughs and says, "Alright."

Soon, the melody and a lilting voice singing Tea for Two are filling the library. George walks up to his mother, bowing slightly with one arm crossing his front, "May I have this dance, please?"

Mary smiles and takes his hands and they begin to sway together. She says, "Has Carson been teaching you about dancing?"

George says, "Yes!"

Marigold reaches up for her mother's hands and they begin dancing, too. Sybbie looks around and assumes Laura is to be her partner, so she takes her hands and they join in the fun. Cora and Robert are still holding the babies, but each stands up and sways a little with them, standing close to each other still, and smiling broadly.

During the song, Tom, Henry, and Bertie enter the library. Each has about the same reaction upon witnessing the scene: smiles play on faces, and each looks to his own partner and child, including Tom at Sybbie and Laura.

Henry declares, "It looks like they have started the party without us!" All of the dancers look toward the gentlemen who have just arrived, adding a little laughter to their smiling faces.

Tom turns to his companions and adds, "If they don't need us, maybe we should just head to the pub." Henry and Bertie shrug in agreement and the three turn as if to leave.

Sybbie chastises, "Daddy!" Then she runs over and grabs Tom and pulls him to join her and Laura in the dance. Henry walks over and join Mary and George, and Bertie to Edith and Marigold, exchanging kisses in greeting. When the song ends, Laura, Sybbie and Tom pick another record to play.

Henry leans over and says to George, "The proper thing to do at a party is to make sure all of the ladies get a little of your attention. I think it is Miss Edmund's turn for you."

George smiles in understanding, then walks over and asks Laura to dance. She says, "Of course!" takes his hands, and they begin swaying together. Tom begins to dance with his daughter. Robert hands Viola to the nanny so that he can dance with Marigold, leaving Bertie and Edith as the last pair.

Mary and Henry have begun dancing, and Mary looks slyly at her husband and says, "Teaching George how to be as charming as you?"

Henry replies, "George is already charming, if you hadn't noticed." Henry's dancing guides Mary away from earshot of the other pairs. He leans to his wife's ear and says, "Bertie told me today about how you and Edith planned this little gathering. Let's not force Laura and Tom together too obviously." His look at Mary is a little scolding, but smiling.

Mary smirks back, "Do you honestly expect me to believe you hadn't guessed? I shall be disappointed if so."

"Guessing is one thing, getting confirmation another. I thought you said you would stay out of it…?" Henry recalls their discussion in the hospital.

"I believe I said that if given an opportunity to help, I would do so. We just provided a time and place for them to meet. What they do now is up to them." Mary says all of this with a confident but rationalizing tone of voice. Then she turns coy, "Is it any different than my arranging with Evelyn for a dinner with friends?" She is referring to Henry taking advantage of the opportunity to walk Mary home and profess his love for her.

Henry responds, "Yes, darling, it is different." The song ends, and Henry and Mary see that George is politely thanking Laura for the dance. They go select another record, then George approaches Sybbie and asks if he can have the next dance. Sybbie smiles and they begin dancing. Tom looks on, smiling.

Henry remarks, "You see, George is a quick learner. Let's be good role models for the children." Henry leaves Mary's side and asks Laura to dance. Bertie and Robert switch partners. Tom comes over to Mary, "I guess it is us next." He says this with a chuckle and holds his hand out and Mary takes it so they can begin to dance.

Mary gives Tom a reproving look, "Don't say it as if it is a chore! The children are enjoying this more than I thought they would."

Tom acts surprised, "So this was your idea? I thought it might have been Laura's."

Mary shakes her head, saying, "Laura brought the records down, and George asked to play them now. I don't think it was anyone's idea other than George's to start dancing."

Tom snickers, looking over at George and Sybbie dancing. Both children are smiling and trying not to giggle too much at each other.

Henry tells Laura, "Thank you for bringing the records. We have a few here, but the collection could stand an update."

Laura says, "You are welcome. You could pick up a couple while in London."

"Good idea. Let me know if you would rather take the train than ride back with me. I can understand if you want to read or get some other work done."

Laura counters, "Oh no! With my bags, I will appreciate the lift much more."

As the song ends, the sound of the gong can be heard. The children all look disappointed that their little party is ending, Marigold especially. She laments, "I didn't get a turn to dance with George!"

Cora says, "I think we could manage one more song, don't you, everyone?" Nobody is going to protest the suggestion of the lady of the house. Marigold smiles, "May we hear the tea song again?" Laura heads over to the gramaphone to put the first one back on. Mary discreetly takes the baby from Cora and she and the nanny head out of the room.

George approaches Marigold, Henry moves to be partners with Cora, Bertie takes over with Sybbie, Robert asks Laura, and last, Tom and Edith.

Edith is a little uncomfortable with Tom, but she tries to hide it. Talking about Marigold is safe. "Between the time with her cousins and this little party, Marigold will want to visit more often!"

Tom says, "We would love to have you here more often; that is not a secret. I think even Mary misses you."

Edith questions that remark, "You mean she misses having someone to belittle on a daily basis?"

Tom is sincere when he says, "Edith, you can't say that it's not better between you two...I can tell."

Edith confesses, "I am sorry; it is. I know that Mary is trying; I am, too. It is just hard to break old habits."

As Robert and Laura dance, Robert says, "This little impromptu soiree takes me back to the old days when we might have a dance every week to attend."

Laura says, "My Lord, if you'll excuse me for saying so, I find having occasions like this less frequently makes them that much more special when they do occur."

Robert looks at Laura and says, "Robert, please. You make a good point. Forgive an old man's reminiscing."

Laura smiles and says with a laugh, "You are not old, and having pleasant memories is something you should cherish. I will cherish the memory of this visit."

Now that Robert suspects something between Tom and Laura, he would like to get to know her. After Miss Bunting, he has become protective of what he sees as Tom's maturity. He is aware of Edith's friendship with Laura in addition to their work at the magazine. He assumes at least that will continue, so he smiles back and says, "Why, let's hope Edith allows this to be just one of many."

The song ends, and everyone breaks up to head upstairs.

A similar routine from the night before occurs, with Tom getting Laura before going to say goodnight to Sybbie. Laura's frock this evening is fancier than the one from the day before. It has beadwork and embroidery about the neckline; long, full, sheer sleeves that flare slightly from the elbow to the wrist; a double-layered skirt, the top layer being sheer and scallop-edged with similar embroidery as the neckline; and the drop waist is accented with a scarf-like belt edged in beads. It is still not nearly as elaborate or expensive as one of Mary's or Edith's, but its medium green shade compliments Laura's coloring well. Tom's appraising smile when Laura opens the door speaks more than his words, "You look lovely! I take it you are ready…?"

As she enters the hallway with him, Laura laughs and says, "Tom, for someone who is good at words on paper, I think you need to practice verbal skills."

Tom looks amused and puts on a face of being slightly offended as they go to Sybbie's door, "But you do look lovely!" He opens Sybbie's door and adds, "Here, we will ask Sybbie her opinion. Sybbie darlin', how would you describe Miss Edmunds tonight?"

Laura walks into the room and does a little pirouette so that Sybbie can see her fully.

Sybbie's eyes are wide at how pretty Miss Edmunds is in the frock. Mr. Carson has been teaching them lots of new words and ways of giving compliments to people. Sybbie thinks that her father is testing her about these so she thinks a little before she says with evident feeling, "Oohh, Miss Edmunds, you look exquisite!"

Tom's eyebrows raise in surprise that his daughter just showed him up, and he sheepishly laughs with Laura. Laura walks over to the bed and gives Sybbie a hug and kiss, saying, "Thank you, Sybbie! Thank you!"

Sybbie notices the interaction with Tom and Miss Edmunds, and wonders if there is something she is missing. But the gratefulness from Miss Edmunds is genuine, and Sybbie likes that she made her happy with the compliment. She will have to tell Mr. Carson that now she knows what he means when he says that sincerity and positive comments can make everyone feel better.

It is typical these days for Mary and Henry to be the last ones down before dinner, due to checking on the babies. Cora and Robert are gathered for drinks with Violet when Tom and Laura come in. Cora gestures for Laura to come sit with her and Violet, and Laura obliges.

Cora says, "Miss Edmunds, thank you for playing the music earlier with the children. I hope you didn't mind." Cora is pretty sure that Laura had fun with the dancing, but she feels obligated to say something.

"Oh, not at all! That was terribly fun. When Edith said we would be working here, I had no idea it would be like being on holiday!" Laura is effusive in wanting to reassure Cora.

Violet comments, "Miss Edmunds, I enjoy the magazine very much; not just due to the Agony Aunt column. We can get so caught up in our own day to day routines that it is refreshing to have something that reminds us to step back and reflect on new ideas."

Cora is surprised that such a statement just came from her mother-in-law, and her face reflects this. But she cannot think of something to say.

Laura is quite amused at this exchange, and happy to meet the formidable dowager countess Tom has described. Edith has told her that several family members know of Spratt's double life, including the Dowager Countess, but she is not sure about Lady Cora. Laura says, ambiguously, "We at the magazine appreciate your indulgence, Lady Violet."

Violet sees Cora's look, and says to Laura, "My daughter-in-law here thinks of me as outdated."

Cora scolds, "Violet, please. I am sure Miss Edmunds doesn't need to see us bicker."

Violet says, "Then she should never have come for a visit."

Dinner was delicious but uneventful, even with Violet attending. After the dowager leaves, The rest gather in the hall for music, dancing, and after-dinner drinks. Henry and Mary choose the first song, and soon a crooning voice begins to sing It Had to be You while everyone pairs off.

Tom approaches Laura and speaking softly, asks, "May I have the first dance with you? George is not here now."

Laura laughs, "Yes, you may. But my dance card is not completely free-I have not yet had Bertie as a partner."

"Far be it from me to try to usurp the turn of a marquess!"

Robert says to Cora, "This is an appropriate song for all of us, isn't it?"

Cora looks a little confused, but chuckles and says, "Well, at least the married couples! And perhaps some others, too."

Robert gives Cora an inquisitive look. She continues, "I think it may be only a matter of time before there is another wedding in the house."

Robert looks over at Tom and Laura, saying, "Do you think…?"

Cora sees the direction of Robert's gaze and says, "Goodness! Have I missed something?"

Robert acts equally confused, asking, "Who else did you mean?"

Cora explains, "Baxter and Molesley! Here I was hoping we hadn't overwhelmed Miss Edmunds. I hadn't even noticed that Tom was being especially attentive other than that she is an attractive single women here."

Robert is a little pleased that he is privy to something before Cora. He teases his wife, "Well, my dear, it seems being around the house more has given me an advantage over you for once."

At the next change in song, Bertie does indeed request the dance with Laura. Bertie tries to make small talk by asking if she is enjoying this working visit.

Laura responds, "I told Lady Cora that it is like being on holiday! If I didn't love work so much, it would be quite a letdown to go back to the office. Is it this lively at Brancaster?"

Bertie shakes his head and says, "Oh, every so often when we let the place out for hunting and such there are big parties. That is how Edith and I met, you know."

Laura says, "Yes, Edith told me."

Bertie continues, "Day to day dinners are not nearly so grand."

Laura asks, "But still formal."

Bertie snickers and says, "My mother wouldn't have it any other way. Edith either, for that matter."

Laura says, "Oh, I don't know about that! We had a lovely picnic dinner at her flat with Lady Rosamund that was far more fun than formal."

Bertie says, "Yes, I heard. Thank you for your help, there, by the way. I know Edith appreciated it."

Edith and her father are dancing together. Robert decides to seek confirmation of his suspicions. "I see that Tom and Miss Edmunds get along well…"

Edith looks at her father and says, a little bitterly, "Has he said anything to you? If there is something up, which there may very well be, neither has sought my counsel."

Robert is surprised at Edith's tone. "If you are expecting that Tom would seek your approval, then you do not know him very well."

Edith still shows her frustration, "I do not know what to expect these days. I thought I was getting to know Laura, but I suppose I was wrong about that, too."

Robert is patient with his daughter, "Edith, in just over a year's time, you have turned around a magazine business, gotten married, moved and helped establish the household of a marquess, delivered babies to your sister, and are now expecting one yourself. Don't worry about what you may not know...be as proud of your accomplishments as I am."

Edith looks thankfully at her father, almost choking up at his words, "I always want to make you and Mama proud, Papa."

Robert kisses his daughter's forehead and says, "We are, dear, we are."

A little while later, after several song changes, Laura walks over to the gramaphone to put on the next one. She looks around at everyone ready to dance with their respective partners, and asks Tom, who has come over to help her, "Are we partners for this dance?"

Tom looks around and answers, "It looks like it."

She puts on a lively tune, and announces, "Everyone must do the Charleston!"

She takes Tom's hand and leads him to the center of the room. Everyone snickers and looks around at each other, but all try to comply by following Laura's lead. Cora and Robert give up very quickly, and at first they look on with big smiles, then decide to leave such activity to the younger set, and start up the stairs together.

The remaining three couples are laughing by the middle of the dance, during which at least Laura and Tom alternate between partner and singles Charleston moves. When the song finishes, Edith says, "I am not sure that was the best idea in my state! I think that is the end of me. Good night, all." She turns to Bertie and they join hands to head upstairs.

Mary says, "One more, but a little slower tempo to close the night." She heads over to the gramaphone and selects another record. As she and Henry begin this last dance, Mary notes that Tom and Laura seem very comfortable with each other. There does not seem to be any hesitation or shyness. She cannot hear what they are discussing, but whatever it is, they are enjoying each other's company. To Mary, that means more than anything they have said to anyone else. After the song finishes, she and Henry say goodnight, leaving Laura and Tom alone.

Tom helps Laura gather her gramaphone records to bring upstairs. Tom says, "I hope you enjoyed the visit. Mary as much as Edith wanted to make sure it was not all work for you."

Laura laughs, "And not you as well?"

Tom looks over at Laura and pauses. For the first time between them, there is an awkward moment. Laura looks up at his gaze and says, softly, "You would like to kiss me, wouldn't you?"

Tom replies, "Yes, I would. But,... I won't."

Laura looks at Tom, questioningly.

Tom says, "You aren't sure if you want me to."

Laura smiles a little, nodding slightly to acknowledge him. She says, "Am I such an open book?"

Tom smiles, "Perhaps, but one I don't mind reading."

Laura has another flash of discomfort, but shakes it off, saying, "I hope you don't take it the wrong way."

Tom picks up the stack of records and they begin to ascend the stairs. Tom smiles and says, "Laura, I like you and I enjoy spending time with you; I assume it is mutual?" Upon hearing those words she has heard before, Laura smiles, takes Tom's arm as they ascend, and answers, "Of course!"

It is raining lightly as the two cars prepare for departure early the next day. The footmen put Laura's bags on the back of Henry's car, and the Pelhams' on theirs. Inside the hall, the children give Marigold hugs goodbye.

Bertie makes a point to approach Mary and quietly say, "Mary, I didn't want to leave without thanking you for, well, being better with your sister. Oh, I know it is not only one sided...but still, it means a lot to Edith."

Mary smiles and says, "I will appreciate us all looking toward the future rather than the past."

Bertie says, "Well said."

Mary looks at Marigold, smiles and says, "You may have a handful in your future. Let's hope for a baby brother for Marigold, shall we?"

On the drive back to Brancaster, Marigold has drifted off to sleep on Edith's lap. Bertie notices that Edith is rather quiet.

Bertie remarks, "What is bothering you?"

Edith is frank, "This whole thing with Tom and Laura. They obviously enjoy each other's company, but did you notice how reserved they were whenever we were around?"

Bertie shows his frustration with his wife and comments, "No, I did not. They were no more detached than any other two singletons in a similar situation would have been. What did you expect they would do?"

Edith voices her concerns again, "But are they each looking for something that is not there? I just don't see how anything could develop. She lives in London and he out here. I do not see either of those changing."

Bertie looks at wife shrewdly, "You mean you do not want to see either of those to change? At least, not Laura leaving London. Where The Sketch is."

Edith looks at her husband, who has come to know her very well, and sighs heavily. "Yes, you've guessed it. Nor would I want Tom to leave Downton. He is too valuable to Papa and Mary, not mention Henry."

On the drive to London, Henry says, "I am not a betting man, but if I were you, I would expect that this type of arrangement will occur again. Especially as Edie gets nearer to term."

Laura says, "Oh, I wouldn't mind at all! Perhaps I will need to go up to Brancaster when she is very close, and for a bit after. I would not expect there to be a party each time."

Henry laughs and says, "No, that's true. I suppose she could hand the reins over to you completely for a month or two."

Laura continues, "I could handle it, but I think she and I do well together."

Henry observes, "That is as Tom and I are. And frankly, as Tom and Mary are with the estate."

Laura says, "Yes, I can see that. He fits in well here, doesn't he?"

Henry looks over at Laura, who seems pensive. "I understand from Mary that it wasn't always so. It took him some time to figure out what type of life he wanted for Sybbie and himself."

Laura looks over at Henry, "I understand your influence has made a difference."

Henry shrugs, "Probably."

Laura asks, "Was it hard for you, giving up your life to move to Downton?"

Henry wonders if there is some meaning behind Laura's inquiry. He replies, "Yes and no. At the time, the idea of not having a life with Mary was worse." He smirks a little and continues, "Finding something to occupy my time was a challenge. Believe it or not, I really had not intended on racing again." Laura laughs with him. Henry continues, "When Tom and I decided to go into business together, things started to fall into place nicely for both of us."

Laura continues to be thoughtful, "I think it is easier for men. Society expects you will find occupations for yourself. Women are supposed to be content with domestic life."

Henry scoffs, "You sound like a Crawley sister!"

Laura smiles but adds, "Forgive me if I sound contrary, but Mary and Edith work because they want to, not because they have to."

Henry says, "That is only partially true. But it is true that they are both happier because of their work. You seem the type that would not be happy without your work either. I suspect you could have easily married, yet you did not chose that path."

Laura demurs, "Actually, I have never had a marriage proposal." She states this as a matter of fact, not regretfully.

Henry laughs, "I stand corrected!" He is intrigued that Laura does not seem uncomfortable talking of marriage, yet it is almost as if it is an abstract concept to her. One to be observed, but not to participate in. He thinks that is what he was like not too long ago, so he says, "I understand-I never thought I would marry until I met Mary."

Laura says, "It is obvious you love and respect each other very much."

Henry nods, saying, "Mmm. I cannot say how it happened. Neither of us were really looking, and it is no secret that Mary resisted."

Laura comments, "That is what Edith said, about herself and Bertie."

Henry looks sideways at Laura, wondering how much she knows about why Edith resisted, and the truth about Marigold. It is not his secret to tell if she does not know. He adds, "Which gets us back to the original point: Edie has had to make more changes to be with Bertie in Brancaster. But I don't think she sees it as sacrifice, other than needing to travel to keep up with the magazine. She is still true to herself, who she is."

Laura comments, "Do you know, I think you are the only one I have heard refer to her as 'Edie' rather than Edith."

Henry laughs, "That's likely the racing team influence; it is a lot less formal than at the Abbey."

Laura laughs with him, "The formality was less daunting than I had expected. But even so, living like that daily would be tiring. Not too mention having to worry about a wardrobe!"

After dropping Laura off at her flat, Henry heads to his own and catches up with Gibson. He has been thinking about letting the flat out, like Edith has done with hers. He looks at the boxes of Charlie's things that he still has not gone through. He decides that today is not the day either, so heads to the track early to meet with Clarke.

Several hours later, Henry is satisfied that three of the four car prospects are good enough to purchase. He also drove two completely different new cars for the column. One is more like his own car, a sportier coupe, while the other is a nicely finished but more staid, well, family car. The dichotomy of the driving experiences amuses Henry. Rather than write two articles, he decides that he will do one that includes both cars and discusses choices, sacrifices, and being true to who you are even with your car purchase.

That evening, Henry meets for dinner with Carlisle. After confirming the plan for the column, Henry thanks Carlisle for allowing the change in dates from the original plans.

Carlisle says, "Not to worry. The timing works; one day more and it would not have. As a matter of fact, I am attending a hunt up at Brancaster."

Henry is surprised, but says, "Ah, yes, Bertie mentioned there was a big party letting the place."

"Yes, a number of our financiers will be there. Got to keep on good terms with them, you know. It will take most of the day to get up there, though." His tone clearly indicates he is not enamored with the travel.

Henry laughs and says, "Edith and Bertie usually break up the trip and visit us along the way. It helps a little."

Carlisle says, "Whatever Edith is doing is working-The Sketch is an excellent piece of journalism."

Henry says, "I'd pass along the compliment to her, but you'll likely see her first up at Brancaster."

Carlisle says, "Yes, actually, I hope to. It's good to make alliances in this business."

As they are finishing dinner, Henry says, "Thank you again, for your discretion in printing the circumstances of twins' birth."

Carlisle laughs and says, "You are welcome, but don't ascribe more to me that I deserve. I am your friend, but a businessman first and foremost. Thankfully, the two aligned."

Henry asks, "How so?"

Carlisle feels he has a reputation to uphold, so he smiles and and says, "Henry, I hate to tell you that it was mostly a business decision. I take the long-term view when it makes business sense to do so. Right now, readership interest is growing related to cars and women's topics. The birth story is a women's topic, but it would have been news for perhaps a week or two, but that is it. Your column has been an incredible success, for both the paper and the automotive industry sponsors. Why would I want to upset you and jeopardize that in the long term?"

A/N: As replied to Rosie80: We started this only focusing on Mary and Henry and Tom, for our own amusement, and added other characters when they were part of the new-business-and-pregnancy-and-postpartum story we originally devised. When we started revising it to post it here, it got a life of its own and grew. As much as we think Fellowes messed up with Mary and Henry's reconciliation, we have a lot more respect for the complexity of keeping stories alive for all of the characters (although this is not our full-time jobs). We also noted that there are sooo many other good works here and on other sites about the downstairs characters (and Robert/Cora), but not as many about Mary/Henry. We know we are in the minority in liking the couple, but that's ok.