Andrew Scarborough

Robert and Carson are dismayed when a Labour government comes to power in the general election of 1924; Lady Mary receives another proposal from Tony Gillingham.

Mary's past catches up with her when an unwelcome visitor delivers an ultimatum, and news about the running of Downton Hospital sets Violet on the warpath.

Rosamund comes up with a plan to help Edith, but Violet, Edith's grandmother, sees right through it; Isobel is the object of someone's attention, while Mary asks Gillingham for a very big favor.

Change is in the air when an exciting opportunity for Alfred creates tension between Ivy and Daisy, Isobel appeals to Violet's charitable nature, but it does not come without a struggle, and Branson considers a new future for himself and baby Sybbie.

With the house recovering from the night's dramatic events, Robert is faced with a very difficult decision; as Daisy continues to struggle with her studies, Mrs Patmore has an idea that might solve everything.

Violet learns about Mary and Tony from Spratt; Mary tells Violet she plans to wed Tony, but admits to Tom that she has no such intention.