Unlikely Bonds: After the Tempest Chapter 8
War at DowntonSybil and Matthew
The war had cast a sombre shadow over Downton Abbey, as it had over the entire nation. The once lively halls now echoed with the weight of uncertainty, and the lives of those who called the estate home had been irrevocably altered.
Sybil Crawley stood in the garden, gazing out at the rolling green hills that had always offered her solace. But today, even the familiar beauty of the landscape couldn't ease the ache in her heart. The last leave before he went to the front had arrived, and Matthew would be leaving soon.
She heard the soft footsteps behind her and turned to find Matthew striding across the lawn toward her. In his uniform, he looked every bit the officer, the weight of duty and responsibility etched into the lines of his face.
"Sybil," he greeted her with a warm smile, but she could see the sadness in his eyes.
"Matthew," she replied, her voice tinged with both joy at seeing him and sorrow at the impending parting.
They stood there for a moment, just taking in each other's presence. Their relationship had blossomed unexpectedly amid the chaos of the war. Sybil had been drawn to Matthew's intelligence and integrity, and Matthew had been captivated by Sybil's passion and compassion. Their connection had deepened with each passing day, and now they stood on the precipice of something neither of them had anticipated.
Sybil cleared her throat, breaking the silence. "Matthew, there's something I want to talk to you about."
Matthew nodded, his expression attentive. "Of course, Sybil. What's on your mind?"
Sybil took a deep breath, her gaze steady. "I want us to get engaged."
Matthew's brow furrowed, and he took a step closer to her. "Sybil, you know I care for you deeply, but the war... it's a tumultuous time. I can't bear the thought of you feeling trapped or waiting for me while I'm away."
Sybil's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she reached out to touch his arm. "But, Matthew, we've found something special in each other. This war has shown us how fragile life can be. I don't want to waste any more time."
He sighed, his gaze never leaving hers. "I understand your perspective, Sybil, and I care for you more than I can express. But I can't make such a commitment when I don't know what the future holds. It wouldn't be fair to you."
Sybil felt her heart sink, but she respected Matthew's honesty. "I suppose I just want some certainty in a world that's become so uncertain."
Matthew gently cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing away a tear that had escaped. "I wish I could give you that certainty, but right now, all I can promise is that I'll write to you as often as I can. And when this war is over, we'll see where life takes us."
Sybil leaned into his touch, her heart heavy but understanding. "I'll hold you to that, Matthew Crawley."
He offered her a sad smile, his eyes filled with affection. "And I'll be counting the days until I can see you again."
They shared a bittersweet goodbye, a lingering kiss that spoke of all the words left unspoken. As Matthew turned to leave, Sybil felt a wave of frustration wash over her. She longed for a sense of purpose, a way to contribute to the war effort beyond waiting and worrying.
"Matthew," she called out to him before he could disappear inside.
He turned back, his eyes questioning.
"Perhaps I'll call on Cousin Isobel," she suggested. "She's been doing so much to help the wounded soldiers. Maybe there's something I can do, too."
Matthew's face brightened with approval. "That's a wonderful idea, Sybil. I'm sure Mother would appreciate your assistance."
With a final, lingering look, he turned and walked away, leaving Sybil alone in the garden. She watched him until he was out of sight, her heart heavy but determined to find her own way to make a difference in a world torn apart by war.
Leave
Matthew Crawley's return to Downton Abbey was a momentous occasion, not just for him but for the entire household. His two-week leave from the front lines of the war was a precious reprieve from the horrors of battle and a chance to reconnect with his family and loved ones.
As he stepped off the train and onto the familiar platform of the village, the air was filled with a sense of anticipation. The villagers who recognized him gave warm smiles and words of gratitude for his service. Matthew accepted their well-wishes with humility, but the sights and smells of war that clung to him were unimaginable to those who hadn't experienced it firsthand.
The journey back to Downton was a blur of emotions. The rolling countryside, once so serene, seemed to carry the weight of the world. Matthew's heart ached for those who couldn't share in this moment of respite—his comrades who still fought, the wounded soldiers he had left behind, and the countless lives forever changed by the war.
But as he finally approached Downton Abbey, the imposing façade of the estate standing tall against the horizon, a sense of peace washed over him. Here, in this haven of familiarity, he could momentarily set aside the horrors he had witnessed and the burdens he carried.
Inside the grand entrance, his family awaited him with open arms. Hugs and smiles were exchanged, and there was a sense of unrestrained joy in the air. But for Matthew, there was one person whose presence he longed for above all else.
Sybil Crawley appeared at the top of the grand staircase, her eyes searching the crowd until they locked onto his. Her face lit up with a radiant smile, and she descended the staircase with the grace and poise he had always admired.
Matthew rushed forward to meet her, and they collided in a fierce embrace, their lips meeting in a passionate kiss. The world around them faded into insignificance as they clung to each other, rejoicing in their reunion.
Later, in the privacy of the garden, Matthew took Sybil's hand and led her to a secluded spot beneath the shade of a towering oak tree. His fingers trembled slightly as he reached into his uniform pocket and retrieved a small ring box.
"Sybil," he began, his voice filled with emotion, "I've been carrying this with me for a long time now. And I've had a lot of time to think during these months away."
Sybil's heart quickened as she watched him, her eyes fixed on the box.
Matthew opened it to reveal a simple yet elegant engagement ring. "I want us to spend our lives together," he said earnestly. "Will you marry me, Sybil?"
Tears welled up in Sybil's eyes as she gazed at the man she loved more than anything in the world. "Yes, Matthew," she replied, her voice filled with tenderness. "I will."
They sealed their engagement with a kiss, and for a moment, the war and all its turmoil ceased to exist.
As they pulled away, Matthew looked into Sybil's eyes and said, "I want nothing more than to marry you, but I think we should wait until after the war. Everyone says it will be over by Christmas."
Sybil nodded, her heart filled with hope and determination. "A Christmas wedding it is, then."
Hand in hand, they walked back to the Abbey, ready to face an uncertain future together, knowing that their love would be the beacon that guided them through the darkest of times.
A Winter Wedding
As the war raged on, it became clearer and clearer that the war wasn't going to be over by Christmas. As man after man was killed before him, Matthew realised he didn't want to wait for his chance of happiness. He knew it was selfish of him, but he wanted Sybil. He didn't want to wait for the war to end. So, he gave Sybil and the family the go ahead to start planning the Christmas wedding they agreed upon during the proposal.
As the winter sun struggled to pierce through the frosty mist that shrouded Downton, Sybil stood in her bedroom, gazing at the wedding dress that hung before her. It was a masterpiece, carefully crafted from the fabric of her coming-out gown. Intricate beadwork adorned the bodice, shimmering like dewdrops on a winter morning. It was a dress fit for a Downton bride, and Sybil could hardly contain her excitement.
She turned her attention to the tiara resting on the vanity, a family heirloom passed down through generations. Its jewels sparkled with a timeless elegance that would adorn her on this most special of days. It was her way of honouring her family's traditions while embracing her new life with Matthew.
But despite the joy that coursed through her veins, there was an undercurrent of anxiety that tugged at Sybil's heart. It wasn't the wedding itself that concerned her; it was the uncertainty of war, the fear that Matthew might be sent into danger once more. She had spent sleepless nights dreading the letters that might bring news of his peril.
In the days leading up to the wedding, Sybil enlisted the help of both Anna and Edith to keep a vigilant watch for Matthew's arrival. She couldn't bear the thought of missing the moment he walked through the door. Her family understood her worry, but her sisterly concern also extended to Mary and Tom, who faced their own anxieties in these trying times.
Finally, on the much-anticipated morning of the wedding, the air outside was chilled and misty, casting an eerie atmosphere over the estate. The Crawley family hoped that the weather would clear, a symbol of hope amidst the sombre backdrop of war.
As Carson opened the grand front door, Matthew stepped inside, looking every bit the dashing officer in his uniform. Sybil's heart skipped a beat at the sight of him. She couldn't contain her excitement, rushing down the stairs and pausing for just a moment on the final step to present herself to her soon-to-be husband.
"Matthew!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with love and longing. They closed the distance between them, and their embrace was like a warm haven in the midst of the chilling mist outside.
Together, they proceeded to the family, who welcomed Matthew back with open arms and joyful smiles. It was a heartwarming reunion, and for a brief moment, the war felt a world away.
The week leading up to the wedding was filled with laughter, love, and celebration. Christmas with the family brought a much-needed respite from the struggles of the war, though the absences of some loved ones were keenly felt.
Finally, the day of the wedding arrived, and Downton was a hive of activity. Although the wedding wasn't as grand as it might have been in peacetime, it was perfect in its own way. Sybil and Matthew were content with the simplicity of their celebration.
Carson, despite the staffing challenges posed by the war, ensured that everything ran smoothly. Mrs. Hughes offered her unwavering support, reminding Carson that everyone understood the constraints they faced.
And then, as the sun began to set on their perfect winter day, Sybil and Matthew stood before each other, exchanging their heartfelt vows. In her beaded gown and with the family tiara gracing her head, Sybil looked radiant. Matthew's eyes shone with happiness, a stark contrast to the weary soldier who had returned home not long ago.
As they said their "I do's" and sealed their promises with a loving kiss, it was a moment of pure bliss, a glimmer of hope in a world overshadowed by war.
Soon after, Matthew and Sybil embarked on their honeymoon, leaving behind a party at Downton that continued with music and laughter. For that perfect moment, all truly was well with the world, and they cherished every second of their newfound happiness.
A Meeting in Leeds
It was a misty October day in 1916, and Mrs. Isobel Crawley was making her way through the streets of Leeds, her purposeful strides cutting through the cool air. She had just attended a general meeting at the Beckett Park Hospital, where discussions revolved around supply chains for smaller cottage hospitals admitting wounded soldiers from the front lines. As she walked, Isobel's thoughts were likely swirling with the issues discussed during the meeting.
In the distance, a familiar sight caught her attention—a red cross supply lorry parked near the factory gates. Figures moved busily around it, loading supplies and organizing. Isobel's curiosity piqued when she noticed a woman standing among the workers, and a second glance confirmed her initial impression: it was Mary.
"Mary?" Isobel called out, her surprise evident in her voice. Mary turned, her face first showing startlement and then recognition. A quick exchange of greetings followed, Mary addressing Isobel as "Cousin Isobel." Isobel expressed her surprise at seeing Mary in such circumstances, and Mary explained that she had coordinated the collection of supplies for the Red Cross from the factory workers.
Isobel's gaze took in Mary's appearance—a far cry from the poised and elegant young woman she had known before the war. Mary was dressed practically, wearing work trousers, sturdy boots, and a man's work coat cinched around her pregnant belly. A smudge of dirt marred her face, and her hair was hastily tied in a sweaty plait. Isobel managed to suppress her dismay, maintaining a neutral expression.
As the conversation continued, Tom Branson appeared on the scene, also dressed in work attire. Isobel noted his presence and inferred that he hadn't enlisted in the army. Tom greeted Mrs. Crawley politely and spoke to Mary, informing her that the lorry was loaded, and he needed to leave immediately to reach the coast by morning. A fervent kiss passed between Mary and Tom, and Isobel observed their parting with a mixture of emotions.
Mary explained that the red cross lorry was donated by the factory, and Tom had volunteered to drive it to the continent. The conversation shifted to news from Downton. Isobel relayed information about Matthew being a captain in the Army, to which Mary expressed her wish for his safety. Sybil's role as a nurse was mentioned, along with the fact that many men from the estate had been called up to serve.
"You have heard about Sybil and Matthew being married?" She delicately enquired. "Oh yes, Anna wrote all about it," Mary answered with a supply. "We did send Sybil a gift and card when we found out," Mary said, sadness could be heard in her voice.
Before long, one of the other women called Mary's name, signalling that it was time to go. Mary turned away, following the women down the street. Isobel watched her departure, her mind undoubtedly racing with thoughts about the changed circumstances of her cousin. As Mary walked away, Isobel's concerns deepened, particularly considering Mary's obvious pregnancy.
Continuing her journey to the train station, Isobel's thoughts were likely a mix of the meeting's discussions, her encounter with Mary and Tom, and the uncertain times that surrounded them all during those war-torn years.
Dinner at Downton
The candlelight cast a warm, golden glow across the dining table at Downton Abbey, but despite the elegant setting, there was an undeniable air of solemnity that hung over the room. It was an unusual gathering, with Sybil, Isobel, and the Dowager Countess Violet Grantham joining Robert, Cora, and Edith for dinner. The family was keenly aware of the world outside their walls – a world embroiled in the turmoil of war.
As the courses were served by Carson and the young footman William, the clinking of silverware against china was accompanied by a sense of unease. It was a stark contrast to the festive gatherings they were once accustomed to.
Sybil, seated beside her mother, couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at her. Her thoughts were with Matthew, her husband, who was now at the front lines. She absentmindedly traced the rim of her wine glass, her gaze distant as she recounted the latest letter from him.
"Matthew doesn't speak much about the war itself," she began, her voice carrying a tinge of concern. "But he writes about his fellow soldiers, their bravery, and how much he's looking forward to coming home for leave."
Across the table, Isobel nodded in agreement, her brow furrowed with worry. "Yes, I received a letter from him as well. He mentioned that they're enduring difficult conditions, but he's determined to do his part."
The Dowager Countess, usually the one to offer her wry observations, was uncharacteristically quiet. Her sharp eyes surveyed the table, taking in the weight of their collective thoughts. War had a way of tempering even her most acerbic remarks.
Amidst the concern, the meal continued in respectful silence, punctuated only by the gentle clinking of cutlery and the subdued murmur of conversation. The war had cast its long shadow, and each family member felt its impact deeply.
Sybil couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and anxiety for her husband, a sentiment surely shared by all families with loved ones at the front. The thought of his bravery and the sacrifices he was making only intensified her longing for his safe return.
Meanwhile, as the family gathered at Downton Abbey, there was a sense of eagerness and curiosity in the air. The mention of Lady Mary's recent encounter had piqued their interest, though Isobel felt apprehensive about broaching the topic. She knew that Mary's situation had changed dramatically, and she was unsure of how the family would react.
As they settled into the drawing room, Cora took the lead, asking with a mixture of hope and concern, "Isobel, did you happen to see Mary while you were in Leeds?"
Isobel hesitated for a moment before answering, her eyes darting around the room as if searching for the right words. "Yes, I did see her," she finally admitted, her voice gentle but hesitant.
Sybil's face lit up with curiosity. "How did she look? Was she well?"
Isobel's expression turned more thoughtful as she recalled the encounter. "She looked... different," she began carefully. "Certainly not as we remember her from before. But she seemed to be doing well."
The family leaned in, waiting for more details, eager to hear about Mary's life after all these years. Cora's gentle prodding continued, "And what was she doing in Leeds?"
Isobel took a deep breath, her gaze shifting from one family member to another. "She was at a factory, loading a Red Cross lorry with supplies." The information hung in the air for a moment, causing a ripple of surprise and concern to pass through the room.
Robert, always practical, voiced the question on everyone's minds. "Why was she loading a lorry, especially while heavily pregnant?"
Cora and Sybil exchanged worried glances, concern etched on their faces. "Lifting heavy boxes in her condition?" Cora's tone reflected her unease.
Edith, with her usual curiosity, wondered aloud, "Why was she at the factory in the first place?"
Isobel chose her words carefully as she continued to share the details of her encounter with Mary. "She organized the collection of supplies from the factory," she explained. "And the factory actually donated the lorry to the Red Cross."
Robert's brow furrowed, and he spoke with a mixture of confusion and worry. "But why would Mary take on such a task, especially when she's expecting?"
Isobel met his gaze, her own concern evident. "She didn't mention her reasons, but it seems she's quite involved with the Red Cross efforts."
Robert couldn't help but inquire about the one person who had been conspicuously absent from the conversation. "Did Mary mention Branson?"
Isobel nodded, bracing herself for Robert's potential reaction. "Yes, he was there with her at the factory."
The room seemed to hold its breath for a moment before Robert's anger broke the silence. "Branson! Allowing Mary to work in her condition?"
Cora's tone was worried as she said, "She shouldn't be lifting heavy things at this stage."
Sybil's expression showed a mixture of understanding and surprise. "I thought Branson would be conscripted. Did he mention anything about that?"
Isobel shook her head slightly. "No uniform," she confirmed. "He apparently volunteers to drive Red Cross lorries to the continent."
Robert's anger seemed to soften slightly at this revelation. While he still felt frustrated with Branson's involvement, the fact that he was volunteering for such a noble cause seemed to temper his initial response.
The family's conversation continued to buzz with a mix of curiosity, concern, and disbelief. Lady Violet, ever observant, turned her attention to the reliable source of information—Carson. "Carson, have you heard anything about this matter from Anna's or Mary's letters?" she inquired.
Carson, standing in his dignified posture, replied with his usual sense of responsibility. "Yes, my lady. Lady Mary did write to Anna expressing her worries about the war and her concerns over Mr. Branson potentially being conscripted." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "She also mentioned that she volunteers for the Red Cross after work."
Lady Cora, intrigued, questioned further, her brow slightly furrowed. "Working, Carson?"
Carson nodded. "Yes, my lady. Before the war began, Lady Mary had secured a job at a bookshop."
Edith, with a touch of amusement in her voice, exclaimed, "Mary working as a shop girl?"
Carson confirmed the surprising revelation, though he had chosen not to divulge Mary's employment before the war to avoid upsetting the family's sensibilities. "Indeed, my lady."
Lady Violet, her concern palpable, chimed in. "But how did Mary look, Cousin Isobel?"
Isobel took a breath, recognizing that this was the most startling part of her encounter with Mary. "Well, a bit disheveled, but she was working," she began. "However, she was sensibly dressed. She wore workmen's trousers and a coat."
The revelation hung in the air, causing a stir among the family members. Edith, in a rare show of agreement with her sister, added, "I wear men's work clothes when helping on the estate."
But the familiar point of contention resurfaced, as Lord and Lady Grantham interjected almost simultaneously. "Yes, but you're on the estate, not in public," her father reminded her.
Amid the debate, Sybil's curiosity led her to inquire about the living situation of her sister and Branson. Isobel's embarrassment was evident as she admitted, "I must confess, in my surprise at seeing Mary, I forgot to ask about that."
Isobel's honesty was met with understanding nods from Cora and Robert. She quickly concluded her account, offering a glimmer of reassurance amidst the uncertainty. "At the very least, Mary and Branson seemed to be in good health."
As the family absorbed the surprising details of Mary's life, their perspectives shifted and collided. The dynamics were changing, and the realities of the war seemed to be reshaping even the most conventional aspects of their lives. Lady Mary, once the embodiment of grace and elegance, now stood at a crossroads that challenged both societal norms and the family's expectations.
An Invitation to Tea
In the days that followed Mary and Isobel's unexpected encounter, two invitations arrived at Downton Abbey, each bearing its own unique significance.
Anna felt a sense of excitement as she held the envelope addressed to her. The elegant handwriting was unmistakable. She carefully opened the invitation and began to read.
"To Anna,
I would like to invite you to afternoon tea, if your duties allow, on next Tuesday. I realize this is not your usual half day, but your correspondence these last three years have been greatly appreciated, and I would love to visit with you in person.
Sincerely, Mary Crawley"
Anna's heart raced as she considered the invitation. She knew her interactions with Lady Mary had changed over the years, from servant and mistress to something more akin to friends. She carried the invitation to Mrs. Hughes, her trusted confidante and advisor.
Mrs. Hughes studied the invitation, her lips pursed in thought. "Well, Anna," she began, "you haven't worked for Lady Mary in quite some time. Your correspondence has been genuine and heartfelt, and it seems she values your friendship."
Anna nodded, her apprehension mixed with a sense of excitement.
Mrs. Hughes continued, "I don't see why you shouldn't accept the invitation. You've both been writing to each other for years, and it's not uncommon for friendships to form between people from different stations."
Anna sighed with relief, feeling validated by Mrs. Hughes' perspective. "Thank you, Mrs. Hughes. It means a lot to me."
The housekeeper's lips curled into a small smile. "You've earned this, Anna. Take next Tuesday afternoon off and enjoy your tea with Lady Mary."
Anna's smile mirrored Mrs. Hughes', and she nodded gratefully. It was an unexpected opportunity, a chance to step beyond the boundaries of servant and lady, to connect as friends who had shared their lives through letters.
As Anna looked at the invitation once more, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the tea that would soon bring together two women whose lives had intertwined in ways neither could have predicted.
The morning sun filtered through the windows of the dining room as Lord Grantham enjoyed his breakfast. The post had arrived, and Carson, true to his duties, approached the table to deliver it to his lordship. The Earl accepted the letters and began to sort through them.
"Sybil dear, there's one here for you too," Lord Grantham said, a warm smile on his face as he held out an envelope towards his youngest daughter.
Sybil's eyes widened with surprise as she reached for the envelope. The familiar handwriting immediately caught her attention, and her heart skipped a beat. She hadn't received a letter from Mary since the day her sister had left Downton Abbey in a whirlwind of scandal.
As her fingers delicately opened the envelope, a small gasp escaped her lips. A letter from Mary—directly addressed to her—was something she hadn't expected. Her father and sister Edith glanced at her curiously, sensing the significance of the moment.
Sybil's eyes scanned the words on the page, her heart racing with a mixture of emotions. Mary's words flowed across the paper, recounting how the chance encounter with their cousin Isobel had stirred memories of family and the life they had left behind. The revelation of Mary's pregnancy wasn't news to Sybil, thanks to Isobel's account, yet reading it in her sister's own words made it feel more real.
With each sentence, Mary's vulnerability and longing for reconciliation became clearer. She expressed her desire to have family close as her due date approached, acknowledging that she had missed them all more than she could say. The letter was an invitation—a lifeline extended across the chasm that had opened between them.
Mary was hoping that Sybil would consent to come for afternoon tea the following Tuesday. She even extended the invitation for Sybil to bring others along, as long as she informed Mary of the number so that she could make the necessary arrangements. Mary's desire for reconnection was palpable in every word.
Tears welled up in Sybil's eyes as she finished reading the letter. The bond between sisters was complex, a mixture of love and hurt, but the longing for each other was undeniable. She looked up, her smile radiant through the moisture in her eyes.
"Mary wants me to come for tea next Tuesday," Sybil announced, her voice a blend of excitement and emotion.
Edith's eyebrows shot up in surprise, and Lord Grantham looked thoughtful. "That's unexpected," he commented.
Sybil nodded, her heart still fluttering with the weight of the letter. "She's missed us, Father. She's worried about the baby, and she wants to mend things."
Edith pursed her lips. "I won't be going."
Lord Grantham sighed, seeming torn. "And I suppose I won't be attending either."
Sybil's determination remained steadfast. "Well, I'll speak to Mama, and I'll see what the rest of the family says. But I want to go," she declared, her gaze unwavering.
As the dining room buzzed with the conversation about the unexpected invitation and the possibility of reconciliation, Sybil held Mary's letter close to her heart, feeling a glimmer of hope that their fractured bond might finally begin to heal.
As the news of Mary's invitation to tea spread through Downton Abbey, it brought a mixture of surprise and anticipation. Sybil had made up her mind to attend, and she had informed her family of Mary's invitation. However, when Mr. Carson announced that Anna, the head housemaid, had also been invited to tea by Mary on the very same day, the atmosphere in the room shifted.
Lord Grantham and Lady Grantham exchanged a glance, their expressions clearly conveying their discomfort. The notion of sharing tea with their maid, even in the presence of their own daughter, seemed to breach the boundaries of their social structure. The idea was met with a sense of unease, and it was evident that they couldn't possibly entertain such a scenario.
Sybil, on the other hand, held a different perspective. She saw Anna as more than just a servant; she had worked alongside her, and now, as a nurse Sybil held a different view of maintaining rank then her parents. The division of class mattered less to Sybil than the chance to mend their broken family ties. She was determined to attend the tea, no matter the circumstances.
However, Sybil did have her own concerns about the upcoming tea. Three years of estrangement had left a palpable awkwardness between her and Mary. She was nervous about how their interactions would play out, especially given their history and the reasons that had driven them apart.
Additionally, Sybil was curious about Mary's current living situation. The last they had heard, Mary was living in a modest flat surrounded by working-class neighbours. Sybil was aware of the conditions in such accommodations and worried about how Mary was coping, especially in her delicate condition. She decided to ask her cousin Isobel Crawley to accompany her to the tea.
Isobel, with her practical and caring nature, readily agreed to join Sybil. She was genuinely interested in Mary's well-being and living conditions, particularly during pregnancy. Isobel had a special concern for working-class birthing mothers, given her background as a nurse and her empathy for those facing challenges.
Together, Sybil and Isobel were set to attend Mary's tea. Sybil penned a letter to Mary, informing her that she would be accompanied by her cousin Isobel, and that they both looked forward to the visit. With the arrangements set, the family coordinated their departure from Downton for the afternoon train to Leeds on the appointed Tuesday. As the day drew nearer, a mixture of excitement, apprehension, and hope filled the air, as the Crawley family prepared to come together once more.
End