It's infinitely fascinating for Cora to watch Violet get suited up for war.
Abandoning their tea they march to the hospital with purpose, although Cora's role is strictly observational.
Later, alone in their room, Cora acts out the afternoon for Robert and despite himself he nearly weeps with mirth. His wife's impression of the Dowager is eerily accurate.
She collapses beside him in giggles, settling with her head on his belly, and when she catches her breath asks, "Do you think it was always my destiny to be your mother's lieutenant?"
Robert's pained expression merely tickles her all the more.