Several cars pull up to the Abbey front entrance, at which the family, other than Henry who is at the shop, and staff await, lined up to greet the arriving guests. Barrow is in the butler position, while Carson stands where a tutor or governess would, dressed accordingly. Carson nonetheless has assured Barrow and Robert that he will assist with the party in whatever ways are needed when he is not with the children. The three men see this event as a hand-off, and each feels a different mix of pride and sadness, and also correctness.

Once the drivers have opened the doors, from the cars alight many people at once. Evelyn Napier assists Millie Bradford from the first car, then holds out his hand for the next woman. She is medium-dark-skinned, in attire that is not coarse but less fine than Millie's. And she is largely pregnant. Out of the second car comes a couple of about Robert and Cora's age, the man of whom, after helping his wife, assists a younger man with crutches as he exits the car. The younger man is missing his right leg from about the knee, but appears to get along well with the crutches. From the other cars come an assortment of people, both light- and dark-skinned, and judging not from their attire, but more from their bearing, of all stations.

"Welcome!" Cora greets Evelyn and Millie warmly with polite pecks on the cheek. To Evelyn, she asks, "Is your father's car delayed?"

"He may come tomorrow if he is feeling up to it," Evelyn responds.

"It is delightful to see you again, Miss Bradford," Robert welcomes the woman with a handshake and light peck on the cheek

"Millie, please!" Millie chastises her host as she greets him and Cora.

Evelyn sets an informal tone for the scene when he says, "Let us introduce everyone: Millie's parents, George and Susan Bradford, and her brother, Frank Bradford." Each in turn greets Robert and Cora, then Mary with George, and Tom and Sybbie, before meeting the staff. Other Bradford family members, cousins to Millie and Frank, are in company and are likewise introduced.

Millie warmly takes the arm of the darker-skinned pregnant woman, and leads her and a man toward Cora and Robert. She says, "These are Mr. and Mrs. Long, Abraham and Penelope, but they go by Abe and Penny. Abe is the best horseman in our county, and Penny has been in our employ and my dearest friend since we were both young." The dark-skinned couple smile brightly and shake hands with Robert and Cora, who smile likewise and say, "Welcome to Downton Abbey."

Such introductions of the Bradford's staff continue, including Mr. and Mrs. Potts, the Bradford's houseman and cook, respectively, and Mr. and Mrs. Tierney, who are Frank's personal assistant and the Bradford's housekeeper, and their school-age son, John. George and Sybbie provide the last with enormous smiles and handshakes of welcome. It is unusual for them to have what they consider such an exotic visitor of their age.

Carson assists Barrow and Andy as they begin to see to the bags, and Mr. Potts and Mr. Tierney immediately join them. The boy hesitates at first, but then follows his father, taking a small valise and carrying it inside after the men. Mrs. Hughes gestures for Mrs. Potts and Mrs. Tierney to follow her to go inside via the servants' entrance. Mrs. Potts picks up a large sack and takes it with her as she follows the head maid.

Mr. Long and Penelope, still held by the arm by Millie, hesitate momentarily, unsure of where to go. Millie notes this and asks Robert, "Would it be possible for someone to show Abe to the stables?"

Tom says, "I'll be happy to, and introduce him to Mr. Pease and Mr. Lynch." He nods and the two head off.

The rest, including Millie still holding Penny by the arm in a sisterly and almost protectionist way, enter the house. It is obvious from her face that Penny is awed by the Abbey. All of these new places and grand old houses they have seen and stayed in, she feels like pinching herself if it is real sometimes. They are like the castles in children's picture books. At Branksome and this place, the surrounding land is more like home than London was, so she feels a little less nervous. Her husband will be with horses and that will make him relax, and as long as Millie is nearby and happy, Penny will be untroubled.

Cora and Robert engage Frank and the rest of the Bradfords on the way into the drawing room, while Mary and the children stay with Millie and Penny. Both Mary and Cora have noted the married couples amongst the Bradford's help. They did not think of this possibility when they were planning the sleeping arrangements.

Mary says, "Millie, I apologize for not inquiring earlier about particulars for lodging for your staff. I will have Barrow and Mrs. Hughes move the married couples to other rooms. Our staff quarters are normally separated by gender."

Penny and Millie chuckle, and Millie answers, "Do not worry-I am sure things will be acceptable as they are. Penny will be staying with me, so having her husband with the other men is excellent. It will be alright for the Tierneys and the Potts for a couple of nights. The Potts could certainly use it!"

Mary looks curious about the last statement. Millie continues laughing lightly and explains, "They have been married for ages and are always complaining about each other's snoring or kicking or cold feet. It will do them good to miss each other's presence. Every now and then, my father takes Mr. Potts on an overnight errand for a few days, and it works like a charm!"

Mary is amused by the story, curious about the more relaxed relationship between the Bradford family and their staff. She is relieved that no changes should be needed in rooms after all, until George pleads, "May I please have John stay in my room? Marigold will stay with Sybbie again, and I would like a guest, too."

Mary is speechless for a moment, taken off guard by the question. It is unusual for Mary to be at a loss in front of others, her normally cool demeanor always being able to handle most situations. But she never expected such a request. Apparently Carson's lessons have worked better than she could have imagined.

Mary collects herself enough to reply to her son, "Georgie, you must think of the guest first, not yourself. The boy may be more comfortable staying with his father."

Millie and Penny see George's imploring face and Mary's discomfort with the request in front of the two women. Millie attempts to help Mary by interjecting, "John's parents would be the ones to decide, Master George."

Sybbie has been listening and watching the exchange. She feels a little guilty for being able to have Marigold as her roommate when she visits, knowing George feels left out. Subtlety of the type Mary and Millie just used is still unknown to the young girl. She does not see the responses from the women as the intended hindrances or avoidance tactics; she merely thinks of them as tasks to be done. So she asks, "Aunt Mary, may George and I go to find them and ask? Mr. Molesley is not here for our lesson yet."

Mary is caught again by this request. She almost replies that the adults should work things out, but pauses, still unsure. The hopeful and expectant look on George's face means that she would have to ask the Tierneys herself or lie to George later about having done so, since he will surely ask. In spite of Millie's apparent understanding of her predicament, Mary has already seen that the Bradfords do not live by the same class and racial constraints as are the norm at Downton, that George does not even realize he is asking to ignore. Millie in particular has an obvious, intimate friendship with Penny.

Mary has a flash of memory, ...if this was a better world…

She gives a questioning look to Millie, who gives the slightest of shrugs, leaving this up to Mary.

"Alright, children, you may seek and ask. But, Georgie, do not pressure the boy," Mary admonishes lightly, as George and Sybbie turn to go upstairs to find Mr. Tierney.

After the children have gone, Millie says, "If you'd like, Mary, I will go find Mrs. Tierney and intervene on your behalf."

Mary is impressed with Millie's offer, but subtly shakes her head, "That will not be necessary. It is good for George to interact with new people. He has had a rather isolated life so far, I am afraid."

Millie smiles warmly at Mary's decision, "Thank you." She pauses, then adds, "I am beginning to see why Evelyn was so besotted with you."

"Ah, there're the beauties!" Mr. Long exclaims when he sees the Branksome horses in the Abbey stable yard with some of the Abbey mounts. He whistles and begins to walk over to the fence. Three of the horses therein turn their heads toward the noise, then begin walking toward the man. He reaches up and caresses the snouts of each lovingly. It is amusing to Tom that the horses appear to be like siblings vying for his attention.

Tom goes into the horse barn and returns with Mr. Pease and Mr. Lynch. In spite of their initial unease upon learning that Mr. Long is black, the latter are pleased to see that Long has such a good rapport with the Branksome horses.

After the introductions are made, Long asks, "Are the others in the barn?" One can see he would like to check on all of the Branksome mounts.

Pease replies, "Yes, Mr. Long, this way, please." As they proceed inside, Pease asks, "How long have you been in England?"

Long responds, "Almost three weeks now. More'n a week in London, then some time at Evelyn's place."

Tom is amused at Long's use of Evelyn's first name without any honorific. The Virginia groom gives loving attention to the Branksome horses that are in the stalls.

Lynch remarks, "The horses seem to know you already."

Long takes it as a compliment, and smiles, saying, "They sure do. Mr. Williams at Branksome let me help there. Don't know what I'd do with myself all day if I couldn't."

Tom makes sure he has eye contact with Lynch and Pease first before he says, "These fine men will welcome your help here, too, I would think."

Pease says, "Certainly!" He chuckles, "There's always work to be done with horses."

Mr. Long smiles and nods in gratitude, then walks toward the area where the rakes and shovels are stowed, "If it's alright, I'll start with the stalls." He begins to take off his jacket and tie.

Pease glances at Tom and scoffs, "You've only just got here! And don't think you have to do only the lowly work, Mr. Long."

Mr. Long shrugs and says, "Work is work, and gives a man solace to know he's filled his day. Some's messier than others, I'll grant y'all that. The horses don't know the difference, and they're the ones that matter."

In the servant hall, Mrs. Potts puts down the apparently heavy sack near the entrance to the kitchen, and Mrs. Hughes does the introductions to Mrs. Patmore and Daisy and the other kitchen help.

Mrs. Patmore says, "If it's alright, I've got some questions on the hog roast Friday." Mrs. Patmore gets a paper from her desk and the two cooks take seats next to each other, with Daisy and Mrs. Tierney sitting on the other side of the table. Mrs. Hughes heads into her office to let the others confer.

Mrs. Potts says, "Yes, ma'am."

Mrs. Patmore continues, "I understand your husband will be doin' the pig?"

"Yes, ma'am. He is usually the pit master at home," Mrs. Potts says with a smile.

Mrs. Patmore nods in acknowledgement and says, "'At's fine. Now, 'bout the other things…"

Mrs. Potts interjects, "I hope you don't mind I'm hopin' to help, ma'am. This is your kitchen and I wouldn't like strangers elbowin' their way into mine. You jes' give me sometin' to do and I'll be happy." She looks a little sheepish, then adds, "But ... Mr. Bradford and Miss Millie are mighty particular about their pies an' biscuits; I should at least supervise those."

Mrs. Patmore chuckles, "'S funny you should say that...I'm wonderin' about timin' and oven space, y'see. Here's what I'm thinkin: We can do the beans overnight, then the biscuits right after breakfast...it weren't listed but bread'll be done risin' so that'd be next, and the ovens'll be free fer the pies to finish right before serving."

Mrs. Potts frowns a little, and says, "I'd do it the other way around, ma'am. I was even thinkin' if y'all want to, we can get the pies done tomorrow."

Mrs. Patmore looks surprised, but says, cautiously, "I s'pose they'd do alright in the cold cellar. We'll still have to warm them before servin'."

"Nah-with the beaten sweet cream, they're best cool or at room temperature. The biscuits we'll want to serve pipin' hot straight outta the ovens," Mrs. Potts states.

Daisy and Mrs. Patmore share frowns. Daisy thinks a moment, then asks, "Mrs. Potts, it just says 'Assorted Pies'-what kind are ya thinkin'?"

Mrs. Potts gestures to the sack she had brought in, and says, "Now, don't y'all worry-I brought the sweet potatoes and pecans; thought it'd be easier that way. We figured y'all have got sugar and cream and eggs and vanilla and such."

Mrs. Patmore and Daisy look confused, and then Daisy says, "Ohhh, y'mean the pies are sweet, fer the puddin', er...dessert? We thought since the menu had biscuits that they'd be savory 'uns."

Mrs. Potts nods her head and says, cautiously, "Pecan, sweet potato, and cream pies." She does not understand the question.

Mrs. Patmore understands only that there is some confusion, then says, "Tell ya what, Mrs. Potts. It's my kitchen, but yer mistress' and Lord Evelyn's party, and we want it to be nice for them. Let's go over the menu, and you can let us know what we need ta do when."

The drive from Brancaster to Downton is long, and even though Marigold has done it many times already, she does grow bored. Edith tries to time it during naptime, so that the girl can sleep in the car most of the way. But Marigold doesn't nap as long nor as regularly as she used to. Bertie and Edith take turns reading to the girl, but even this cannot fill the entire drive. On this trip, Marigold is in the back with Bertie and Edith and little Robert while the Nanny and Marlowe are in front, with Marlowe driving.

Even though she is happy about seeing her cousins again, Marigold complains, "Why do we always have to go to Donk's?! Why can't they come to our home again!" Marigold liked it when everyone was at Brancaster. She would like Sybbie to come visit sometime. Sybbie has not seen Marigold's castle yet.

Edith answers, "I will ask Grandmama Cora about when they will come again. You know how Mummy needs to come here often to work in York. We need to have the magazine ready to be printed and sent to all of the people who like to read it and look at the pictures in it. You like looking at the pictures with Mummy, don't you?"

Marigold smiles and nods, "Yes."

"Someday, if you do well in your lessons, you will help with the magazine. You may even be in charge of it!" Bertie proclaims.

Marigold says, "I helped at Mummy's office already!"

Edith chuckles, "Yes, that was a big help, Marigold. What Daddy means is that you will get to decide what pictures and stories to put in the magazine, but only if you work hard on your reading and writing and numbers."

Marigold sighs. She does not mind her lessons, but she much prefers watching Mr. Marlowe draw pictures of suits and frocks. He lets her put colour on them sometimes, and always gives her suggestions on what colours go well with others as she does so. Marigold's mind wanders about what drawings she would select to be in the magazine of the ones Mr. Marlowe has done recently.

Before they depart their bedroom to say goodnight to the children and go down for dinner, Henry embraces Mary, and says, "Is this is a first at Downton, to have someone of colour quartered as if a family member or honoured guest?" He snickers and adds, "That is, I don't think we should count your Turkish friend."

Mary scoffs, "Oh, hush!" Then she adds in a teasing tone, "Besides, Kemal was only slightly swarthy, not dark." They begin to walk toward the nursery first.

Henry chuckles, "How coincidental that Evelyn is the one who brings such novelty to the house on both occasions. But honestly, I am very proud of you, darling, for letting George have John stay with him. Do you think Matthew would have agreed?" Henry picks up a drowsy Roger and gives him a kiss goodnight, while Mary does likewise with Viola.

In between their swapping places with the twins, Mary considers for a moment, then says, "I don't know, to be honest, but I think so. He was much more interested in character over anything, and he tended toward an open-minded viewpoint unless someone was shown to not merit it. He always thought our staff worthy of respect, once he got used to the idea of having more than a cook and a charwoman. The Bradfords have given us no reason to think anything other than favorably of theirs."

Henry says as they leave the nursery to head to George's room, "Then Matthew's spirit should be pleased."

Mary reaches up to caress Henry's cheek, "Thank you for thinking of him, darling. I did, when I realized I did not want to lie to George, even about such a little thing."

Henry nods, "I agree with that choice. Although we are all guilty about Father Christmas…"

Mary rolls her eyes at Henry's point as they enter George's bedroom.

Mr. and Mrs. Tierney are in George's room, saying goodnight to John, looking a little nervous.

There is a small bed that has been brought into George's room for the guest. It is obvious that George is excited about having a roommate, although John himself seems slightly timid about the situation. The parents visibly relax when they see Mary and Henry make no fuss about the arrangement, other than to warn George teasingly not to stay up all night talking. The parents kiss their respective boys goodnight, then depart. While Mary and Henry proceed downstairs to await dinner, Mr. Tierney heads to Frank's room and Mrs. Tierney to the servant hall.

After only a short wait, George hops out of bed and sits on John's bed. "I am ever so happy that you can stay in my room! Would you like to meet my Guinea pig? Her name is Ginnie."

John props himself up on his elbow, still shy, but George seems so eager and sincere it is infectious for the young visitor. He says, "Yes, sir, please."

George fetches Ginnie from her cage, and brings her over to John's bed. By now, John is sitting up. George places the little animal on the bed between the two, so they can both pet her. George says, "I got her from Father Christmas."

"She's soft," John says, "Like a cat."

George says, "There're cats about the barns here, but not inside the house."

John nods, "Same as at our home." He pauses and says, "I miss bein' home."

George looks sad for his new friend, and tries to think of something to help. "You're with your family, and it must be a great adventure to travel to new places. My Mummy and Henry say that they will take me on trips outside of England one day."

John says, "It has been excitin', and it is nicer in the country than in the big city, but I am ready to go back."

George says, "Maybe someday, I can come and visit you in Virginia."

There is a short break in the conversation, each silently petting Ginnie. Then John asks, "Why do you call your Pa 'Henry'?"

George says, "My real father died when I was a baby, and Henry is my stepfather."

John says, "They say my real father and my ma used to fight all the time, so he left. I don't remember him. I call my stepfather 'Pa' because...well, he is."

George is amazed that he and John share the circumstance of not having their real fathers in their lives, but having stepfathers who mean much to them. To George, this provides an instant bond with the boy. George shrugs, "He has always been 'Henry' to Mummy and me and everyone."

John thinks about earlier today. Tea, which is one thing John is getting used to and wishes they did at home, was served outside and everyone from the Bradford's party was included. John saw Mr. Talbot greet and play with George when the man came home from his work. John also recalls Mr. Talbot's face when he said goodnight to George. John smiles, "He's yer Pa, tho. I can tell."

"Is the riding going well, Lady Mary?" Anna asks as she takes Mary's riding gloves and hat.

"Yes, it is," Mary answers. "Evelyn was not joking when he said the Americans are capable riders. They are an interesting group. Mr. Long, their groom, has such a way with horses. Even ours seem to want his attention!"

Anna chuckles with her employer. She cannot relate to a person having a way with horses, but supposes it is like Phyllis and Mr. Marlowe having a talent for clothing, and Anna being particularly skilled with hair and accessories, especially hats.

Anna smiles while helping Mary out of her riding jacket, and remarks, "Their other staff are always downstairs, wanting to help out wherever. Barrow and Mrs. Hughes appreciate it, but don't know what to make of it. Mrs. Tierney is acting like one of the maids, constantly cleaning. The cook, Mrs. Potts, might be trying on Mrs. Patmore's patience-she is constantly humming while she is working like she is the happiest person in the world!"

Mary says, "Millie has Penny by her side whenever possible, it seems. I take it they are quite close." She continues, "Mama is showing the Bradfords around the village; I have plenty of time before tea, so I am going to surprise Henry by getting his racing things displayed."

Anna nods in appreciation of Mary's gesture for Henry's sake. "That should get the visitors talking, seeing all of his trophies and awards." Anna also wonders if Mary has another motive than simply surprising her husband. She has heard that Charles Blake and possibly Tony Gillingham will be attending the ride tomorrow.

"That was my thought," Mary says. "I am hoping it will bring out his satisfaction in his achievements, rather than making him miss racing. That's all I need, for him to be even more sulky."

Anna looks surprised at Mary's statement, and says, "Lady Mary, he's doing well, if you ask me."

Mary rolls her eyes.

Mary sits on the bed and raises one leg for Anna to pull off her boot. Anna does this, puts the boot down, and awaits Mary's other leg. Anna begins to pull on the second boot, but then stops abruptly, putting her hand on her midsection, "Ahh!"

Mary drops her leg, and says, "Anna, is it the baby?"
Anna looks frightfully at Mary, and nods. She remembers what it feels like.

Mary reaches to put her other boot back on and says without hesitation, "We're getting you to the hospital straightaway."

Edith and Laura return to their office, both laughing and in good spirits. Laura says, "Well that was a nice lunch and diversion, but now it is time for us to get back to work! Please thank Mr. Marlowe again for his advice at the dressmaker...that was above and beyond when he was there for you."

Edith smiles, "He enjoys helping anyone look lovely! But I will relay the message." She removes her coat and hat, and says, "The layout is coming along nicely. Are you sure you will have time to compile whatever we learn from Miss Bradford into a piece for Tessa?"
Laura says, "I believe so. I hope to work on it immediately after Sybbie and I talk to her tomorrow morning while I am still at Downton. That way, if I have questions, I can ask."

"At least until she departs for Branksome in the evening," Edith states. Her mind wanders to the coming wedding, and she muses aloud, "I wonder if they will manage to not see each other until the ceremony."

Laura laughs, "Surely nobody cares about such old customs anymore?"
Edith looks with surprise at Laura, "Actually, we do! Mary is convinced she doomed Matthew by allowing him to kiss her the night before they wed."

Laura rolls her eyes, "Oh, please…"

Edith chastises, "Scoff all you want, but if things keep progressing with you and Tom, we'll insist on it."

Laura stops laughing, and looks very uncomfortable. She haltingly says, "Edith ...Tom and I...we're just friends."

Edith does not stop smiling, at first thinking Laura is just being coy, and starts to tease, "So you say now! I used to say that about Ber-" But then she sees Laura's face, and says, gently, "You are serious?"

Laura shrugs and says, "We talked about it….and it is better if there is no romance." Laura takes a deep breath in and says, "But such talk will not get us any further on the work for today! Let me put up my coat and I will meet you in the work room."

Laura goes to her office, leaving Edith feeling like there is an unfinished conversation that should be had.

Mary stands as Isobel comes into the hall to talk to her.

Isobel says, "Mary, Anna is alright, and she has not lost the baby yet. The nurse is getting her ready for the procedure. That may take a little time, and there is no reason for you to stay." Isobel knows that there is the large party at the Abbey, since she had not too long ago given a tour of the hospital.

Mary breathes a sigh of relief, saying "You'll ring if there is any change, if there is anything that we need do…"

Isobel nods, "Yes, of course." She guides Mary to leave, and they encounter John Bates coming in.

"Isobel, Mary: where is Anna? I came as soon as I could…," Bates says, a little red in the face from the exertion of walking as quickly as he could to the village. After the morning ride, Bates saw to his Lordship, then had gone out to assist with the tent and other preparations for the outdoor event of the next day. It had taken a short while for the message to get to him that Anna was being taken to the hospital.

Isobel smiles and says, "Dr. Clarkson will do the procedure on your wife shortly, Mr. Bates. Please, have a seat. Can I get you some tea while you wait? I'll come and let you know when you can see Mrs. Bates."

Mrs. Potts, Mrs. Patmore, and Daisy are all working at the large the kitchen table together. Each has a bowl and is mixing dough lightly with a fork, then they turn it out onto the table. Mrs. Potts is humming softly as she works. Mrs Patmore and Daisy share a look of bewilderment, rolling their eyes and smiling to themselves. The three begin rolling out the pie dough and pressing it into the numerous pans that are at the ready. Once that task is done, they put the crusts on large trays to the side while they prepare the fillings. Mrs. Potts puts a large bowl of sweet potato mash on the table, then gets from her large bag a sack of pecan halves. She asks, "Who wants to do which pie?"
Daisy and Mrs. Patmore shrug and shake their heads. The head Abbey cook says, "I've made cream pie before, but never sweet potato or pecan pie. If you got a recipe, we can follow it."

Mrs. Potts scoffs, smiling, and points to her head, "'S in here. Alright, we'll figure it out. Do y'all have bourbon? What with Prohibition, we can't get a good bottle anymore, but it sure adds a fine touch to pecan pie."

Daisy and Mrs. Patmore look at each other, then Mrs. Patmore says, "Daisy, go ask Mr. Barrow; I am sure there is something we can use."

Daisy departs to do the errand, and Mrs. Potts says, "We can start the cream and sweet potato pies in the meantime." She begins to hum again as she starts adding spices and eggs to the sweet potatoes, and Mrs. Patmore begins cracking and whipping some eggs.

After a short while, Daisy returns carrying a clear bottle of light brown liquid. She says, "'Tis whiskey. Mr. Barrow said to put it on his desk when we are done."

The other pies are just going into the oven. Mrs. Potts looks at the clock and says, "'At's good. We can arrange the pecans and make the sugar mixture while these others bake. Daisy, why don't you pour us a bit so we can test it." She takes a small pot of melted butter from the stove and brings it to the table.

Daisy and Mrs. Patmore glance at each other again. Mrs. Potts sees their hesitancy, and says, "There's all kinds o' whiskey-you need to know how it tastes so you use the right amount."

This is exactly the type of advice Mrs. Patmore has given the other cooks from time to time on other types of ingredients. Daisy gets three small glasses and pours a small bit of whiskey into each. At Mrs. Potts' lead, the three women each take a glass, give a cheers motion, and tip the drink into their mouths. Daisy gives a little gasp of surprise, coughing slightly at the new taste, but Mrs. Patmore and Mrs. Potts are unfazed, appearing to savor the liquid. The two older women smile at each other, and Mrs. Potts asks, "What d'ya think?"

Mrs. Patmore says, "'S not too smoky nor peaty...how much do you figure we'll need?"

Mrs. Potts smiles as she reaches for the bottle and pours a little more into each glass, "For that many pies, there might not be much left in the bottle by the time we're done." She and Mrs. Patmore drink the second sip similarly to the first, and Mrs. Potts adds, "This is much tastier than anythin' we've had for a while. It'll be a fine addition to the pie."

She reaches into the bag of nutmeats and starts arranging some in concentric circles in one of the piecrusts. "You two can start arranging the pecans in the crusts, like so. I'll make the sugar filling. "

Mrs. Patmore and Daisy start doing as told, while a humming Mrs. Potts starts to whip some eggs and sugar with vanilla and a small dollop of molasses, then adds a little flour and milk before she stirs in the butter and some of the whiskey. As she carefully pours the liquid over the arranged pecans, so as not to mess the designs, Mrs. Patmore observes, "Why, 'ats like treacle tart, only with pecans."

Daisy says, with a snicker, "And the whiskey." None of the women have drunk enough to be impaired, but Daisy has noticed that she and Mrs. Patmore have been softly humming while they were arranging the nuts.

Mary is in the red room with Barrow, who has brought in two of the boxes from Henry's flat. She gestures to a different box in which are some trinkets cleared from one of the display shelves in the room, and says, "These can go into a closet for now; we'll find new homes for them after this weekend." Barrow takes that box with him and leaves the room.

Mary begins taking out the larger trophies and placing them on top of the shelf in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. She places the framed certificates on the shelves, adorning the spaces around them with ribbons or smaller trophies. As the box begins to empty, she sees what is a small unframed photograph lying in the bottom. She picks it up out of the box and her face registers surprise when she looks at the image. This turns to confused, extreme displeasure when she reads the words on the back.

Mrs. Hughes enters the pressing room where Penny is using the iron on some clothing and Mrs. Tierney appears to be ironing some linens. Seeing the latter, Mrs. Hughes exclaims, "Mrs. Tierney! What on earth are you doing?"

Penny smiles and answers for the other woman, "I needed to press the Bradfords' clothing, and she's keeping me company. I hope it's alright." She shrugs as she keeps on working.

Mrs. Tierney says, "We asked, and your girls brought those napkins in to do, and it's no bother for me while I'm here."

Mrs. Hughes is momentarily dumbstruck. Mrs. Tierney has a neat pile of napkins folded and pressed, to Mrs. Hughes' exacting standards no less. She cannot help but declare, "Mrs. Long, Mrs. Tierney, we are very appreciative, but you are our guests!"

Mrs. Tierney counters, politely, "Beg yer pardon, ma'am. We are here as both guests and help. I'll admit Penny is better'n me in launderin', but I can do napkins!"

Penny laughs, "I have to be, what with all the horse and farmin' clothes needin' care!" She glances over and sees that Mrs. Hughes is a little unsettled still. She asks, "It is alright, isn't it?"

Mrs. Hughes looks down and shakes her head lightly in bewilderment. The Bradfords' staff have done nothing but help out wherever they see a need in the twenty four hours or so that they have been here. She looks up at the women and says, "Please, you do not have to prove anything to us."

Penny and Mrs. Tierney stop ironing for a moment, then Penny says, "Mrs. Hughes, thank you for that, but we are not trying to. This has been a thrilling time away for us, but we are here for Millie's sake, not our own. If it eases your mind, we are just doing what helps comfort us while we are not home."

Mrs. Hughes visibly relaxes at this admission, but begins to protest lightly once more, "But…"

Mrs. Tierney interrupts Mrs. Hughes, "The Lord gave us each our own gifts, and the grace to have satisfaction from using them. Don't you sleep better knowing that everything in the house is in order before you leave for the night?"

Mrs. Hughes smiles slightly in defeat, "Yes... I suppose I do."

"'At's like me, only I am not at home so I gotta do whatever I can. Penny here loves knowing that everyone-the help included-looks as spiffy as can be. And you've seen Mrs. Potts in the kitchen...she's like your Mrs. Patmore or Daisy."

Mrs. Hughes snickers lightly, "That is so." She pauses briefly, before saying, "I do not want to be ungrateful...please, only do what you feel you must do for your own sake, and Miss Bradford's and Lord Evelyn's."

Penny and Mrs. Tierney smile and nod, then go back to the ironing.

Edith sits in the front passenger seat while Henry drives back to Downton. She brings up what Laura mentioned briefly, "Henry, has Tom said anything to you about him and Laura?"

Henry glances over, "Such as…?"

Edith continues, "Today, Laura told me they have decided to be just friends-no romance."

Henry looks perplexed. He says, "Well, now, that's news... they still have coffee or lunch every time he is at the shop."

This information makes Edith even more confused. It was clear that Laura did not want to talk about it today, but Edith decides that she will try to bring it up again before she heads back to Brancaster.

Henry sees that Crawley-woman resolve in her face, and says, "Edie, I hope you are not planning on interfering…"

Edith attempts a look of innocence, "Whatever do you mean?"
Henry snickers, "I can tell...you just decided something."

Edith chuckles and sighs, "I just want to find out what happened. It was not so long ago that they admitted to liking each other."

Henry inquires, "You know them fairly well: what do you think?"

Edith pauses before she answers, thinking about the various times she and Laura have talked about love and romance. Laura had said when she was younger, she avoided relationships intentionally, for fear of getting hurt, like her sister-in-law did when her brother died. Edith thinks she got over that-Laura said she found that men did not support her career.

Edith says, "I don't know. I suppose I assumed when they started being more friendly that it would progress. But she is not used to interacting with men who don't mind her work."

Henry adds, "Or, who are not only interested in an illicit liaison."

Edith's eyes widen, "Oh, I hadn't heard that!"

Henry shrugs, "She and I have had several rides to and from London together."

Edith ponders, "But that history should have nothing to do with Tom."

Henry relates, "About Tom… he's as much told me that he is happy, with Sybbie at Downton, that he is not looking to replace Sybil."

Edith declares, "That is ridiculous! He and I have talked about him not moving on like Mary and I have, but I did not get the sense it was because he did not want to."

Henry nods, "That is what I would have thought, even if it would take some time. But your news about him and Laura ... Here we have two people who appear to be a good match, but for some reason…"

Edith finishes Henry's sentence, "They are not letting it happen. Why not?"

Henry shakes his head, and says, "Who knows?'

Edith says, "Well, you were right, I have decided something: I am going to try to find out."

Henry enters the red room, and approaches his wife, saying, cheerfully, "Barrow said you haven't been in for tea. What has so distracted-Heavens, what's this?" He sees Mary's work with his racing memorabilia, and appears pleasantly surprised. Then, he sees Mary's distraught face. Obviously, there is something that is bothering her. "What is it, darling?" he asks, worry in his voice.

Mary looks at Henry with hurt and anger, "Why did you not tell me? You said there were no others before me! I would have understood, I think, but … her of all women...why the lie?"

Henry looks flabbergasted, "I do not understand..."

Mary scoffs disgustedly, "Oh, don't pretend! Is that why you drifted apart from Philip? Because she chose him?"
Henry still looks confused, and says, "What are you talking about?"

Mary nearly shouts, "Muriel!" She pauses, then a different look of horror replaces the existing one, "Or are you lovers now? Your pretend dislike of her is well played, if so. It certainly convinced me."

Henry nearly laughs in disbelief and says, 'Are you suggesting that there is or was something between Muriel and me? That is preposterous!"

Mary flashes the photograph of Muriel for Henry to see, "Then why do you have her photograph, on which she so delicately wrote, 'My darling, I will love you always'?"

Henry sees the picture and takes a deep breath in, then sighs out. He has his head bowed, shaking, then he says, calmly, "I have not lied to you. There is nor ever was any love between Muriel and me."

"Oh, please, spare-" Mary begins to say with intense distaste in her voice.

"Stop! Stop fighting!" George is at the doorway, having come to look for Mummy and Henry for tea. He did not hear nor understand all of the words of the argument, but heard enough of it to become anxious about the tone in the voices. It was not the same as when Great Granny Violet and Granny Isobel disagreed; this sounded truly awful. He has never heard that tone from his mother and Henry before. He turns and runs away, initially colliding into Barrow, who had come back to dispose of any more empty boxes from Mary.

Barrow sees the surprised and unhappy looks on both Lady Mary's and Mr. Talbot's faces, the near-empty box of things from Henry's flat, and the photograph of Muriel in Lady Mary's hand. He immediately understands and begins to say, "Lady Mary, Mr. Talbot is an honou-"

Henry puts up a hand, "Please, Mr. Barrow, say no more." He turns to Mary, adding, "My wife needs to trust the word of her husband, not because someone else tells her it is alright to do so."

Barrow appears hesitant, then nods at Mr. Talbot, turns, and leaves.

Mary is confused now, and concerned for George. She makes as if to leave, saying, "We can discuss this later, after I've seen to George."

Henry stops her by saying, "There is nothing to discuss! Muriel has never meant anything to me! Surely you have more faith in me than this?"

Mary is furious. At the situation, that George saw them arguing and it upset him, that Barrow may know something and she does not, and that Henry is not disclosing anything about why the photograph was among his things, simply denying any relationship. Her patience over the last month has worn thin, and she retorts hotly, "Faith? Trust the word of my husband? The man I married may have been poor in wealth but rich in spirit and self confidence. You...you're a monied shell of him. Someone who does not trust his own wife to help him through his trials. How do you expect me to have confidence in you when you don't even have confidence in me or yourself?!"

Mary's words are like a slap, and Henry's face falls in dismay. Seeing it, Mary instantly regrets her words, but, of course, like always, she cannot unsay them. And her regret does not unseat her anger.

Henry looks at her evenly. He is more disappointed than angry, and his words are calm, "Because we vowed to each other that we would."

At a loss for a response, Mary briskly leaves the room.

Concerned for the boy, Barrow has followed George to his room and found him, sitting on his bed, hugging Ginnie, sniffling. The butler sits next to the boy, and wants to put an arm around him, but hesitates for propriety's sake. Barrow says nothing, to let George speak first, if he wants to.

George takes a deep breath in and says, "I did not like to hear them fighting."

Barrow nods and says, "'S never pleasant to hear sharp words, Master George."

"John says that his real father left because he fought too much with his mother," George relates to Barrow. The boy looks up tearfully at the butler, his friend, and says, "I do not want to lose another father."

Barrow takes his handkerchief and dabs at George's eyes, and says, "Things will get sorted out, Master George."

At George's concerned, questioning face, Barrow adds, "Your mother, she only gets angry like that with people who she knows will love her anyway."

George looks up curiously, confused. "Why?"

Barrow snickers, and shakes his head, "I don't know, Master George. 'At's just how she is."

This time it is Mary who is listening from the doorway.

John Bates holds Anna's hand as she lays in the hospital bed, gently caressing it with his fingers. He smiles, and says, "Dr. Clarkson and Lady Isobel seem optimistic. How are you feeling?"

"Tired, John. Where is Jack?" Anna's first concern is for their son.

John reassures his wife, "Nanny Shelley said not to worry, Anna. Jack will be fine. He is in capable hands."

Anna smiles, in her heart knowing she can trust the nanny, but still missing her son already. John can see this in her face, and he adds, "The doctor said you should stay here for a couple of nights, but I'll bring Jack in tomorrow morning."

"Tomorrow? Will you bring him by tonight?" Anna pleads.

John says, "I'll check with the doctor first. He said you need to rest." Bates knows that Jack will be confused if he sees his mother in this hospital bed, not being able to go to their home and put him to bed like every night. The boy will not understand, and will be distraught. And that will upset Anna, which is the opposite of what she needs right now.

"I'll rest easier being able to say goodnight to our son," Anna says firmly.

John knows that voice, and repeats, just as firmly, "I'll check with the doctor first." He kisses his wife, then gets up to leave.

Some of the people who will be attending the Friday ride and hog roast have arrived, and are gathering with everyone before dinner. Violet sits with Cora, and Charles Blake approaches the pair. Greeting the two ladies with light pecks on the cheek, says, "Lady Cora, Lady Violet, you are looking well!"

Violet nods in acknowledgement, and says, "I had heard you would be best man at the nuptials, Mr. Blake, and possibly attend the predecessor events."

Cora smiles and adds, "It has been some time since you last visited. I trust it is your travels and other work that has kept you busy?"

Charles nods, and says, "Yes, there are areas beyond York that are in worse shape, and the government needs to know about them as well."

Violet harrumphs lightly and says, "The government is getting what it wants with so many estates being forced to sell."

Cora gives Violet a scolding look, but takes the opportunity to excuse herself to greet other newcomers.

Blake counters the dowager, "Mismanagement and holding on to old ways is the culprit, not the government. Your granddaughter knows better; that is why the Grantham estate has a future. If people like Mary were involved with other estates, they'd be on better footing, too."

Violet declares, "There is more to it than that. The government imposes exorbitant death duties, forcing estates into a position of having to sell. I have heard that the Shackleton estate may be sold for a fraction of the value assessed after the former earl's death."

Blake shrugs, "My point remains. Lord Philip and his wife were not managing things with an eye toward the future like his parents did. A few years ago, I could have told Mary that the Shackleton estate was at risk."

Violet straightens, and purses her lips, annoyed that Blake did not attempt to help the Shackleton estate, rather than merely observe its troubles. She looks evenly at Blake, so that her secondary meaning is clear, "A few years ago, Mary was not interested."

Henry and Mary come into the drawing room together, but none other than themselves, and possibly Barrow, know that this is only for appearances sake. Tension is still high between the two. Each is too stubborn, too sure of his or her own sense of the situation, to be the first one to approach the other to begin to make amends. They had even bid goodnight to the children separately. This had been noticed by George, of course, but since Henry had been the later of the two, he discounted the disagreement to the boy, saying that they just needed a little time to work things out.

It is not lost on Henry that his wife looks even more stunning than normal. He is ill at ease with the suspicion that this is not due to her wanting to appeal to him, to make up for her earlier behaviour, but rather to shine for her former suitors.

As the pair approach and greet Blake and the dowager, Henry gives a kiss on the cheek to Violet and Charles rises to greet the couple, "Mary! You look extraordinary as always!" He takes Mary's hand and gives her cheek a peck in greeting. Then he turns to Henry, and says, "You are a lucky fellow, Talbot! You won a dazzling gem a number of us sought."

Henry merely chuckles and looks at Mary with a questioning glance as he smiles and takes a sip of his drink.

Ever observant, Violet notes Henry's lack of response, and says, "Mary herself found a diamond in the rough."

Mary adds, "Don't be too jealous, Charles. Even the most precious jewels have faults upon close scrutiny."

Henry chortles, and says, "Sometimes the sparkle comes from the setting, the other stones that surround it."

Charles laughs lightly, enjoying the banter, having no idea that he is feeding a fight. He says, "Some rocks are meant to be set with others, and others do better as solitaires. I think Mary shines enough to be either."

Violet gives Mary a concerned look, and says, "Regardless of the setting, even the most brilliant of diamonds need cleaning now and again, lest we not appreciate their splendor."

Edith and Bertie arrive, and after seeing all of the gathered, Bertie whispers to his wife, "Why, you would think the wedding was to be here and now!"

Edith snickers, "Dear, first, this is for Evelyn, who has been more of a friend to the family than Mary deserves, not to mention Henry. Second, this is not nearly the full complement of guests: the county hasn't had a wedding like this since ours - anyone who is anyone here or in London will be there. These events at Downton are for her family's sake."

Bertie chortles, "So that they will know we will not eat Millie up in one swallow?"

Edith smiles, "I suppose. I understand Millie as much as Evelyn wanted to show her family she has friends already."

Bertie questions, "Does she?"

Edith looks surprised, "Of course! Mama already thinks highly of her, as do Mary and Laura. I haven't had any time with her, but I am sure we'll get along, when I am here."

Bertie catches Edith's last comment, and asks, "Do you miss it so much?"

Edith turns to her husband in surprise, "Bertie! What a silly thing to ask! I love being with you in Brancaster even more!"

Bertie smiles lovingly at Edith, "I am happy to hear that, dear, because I intend on keeping you a very long time."

Edith says, "By the way, Mama says she will talk to Papa and settle things before we leave Sunday."

Bertie looks both relieved and concerned, "I take it that means she hasn't even broached the topic yet...?"

Edith looks pained, "So I suspect."

In the red room after dinner, Henry chats with Robert in one part of the room while Blake speaks with Evelyn in another. Blake glances at Henry's racing mementos, and shakes his head. He says, disappointedly, "I know you and he are friends, but who would have thought Mary would choose a race car driver?"
Evelyn sees through Charles' belittling of Henry as simple jealousy. Evelyn recognises it having felt it many times over the years about suitors of Mary. He says, "Charles, it was never merely about an occupation...if that were the only criteria, she would have never even considered you."

Charles looks at his friend and former coworker questioningly, "And you as well?"

Evelyn explains, "To some extent. Although, Henry is much more exciting a man than I ever was in Mary's eyes."

Charles ponders, "But, out here in the country...I mean, really, Mary could have been a great lady with an exciting, cosmopolitan life in London with one of us by her side."

Evelyn looks at Charles, and chuckles, when he says, "And, that was precisely the issue."

Charles looks questioningly at Napier.

Evelyn continues, "Beyond his good looks and sharp air, Henry had what none of the rest of us could offer Mary."

Charles asks, "What was that?"

Evelyn answers, "Absolutely nothing."