Preparations are underway for a concert at Downton, to keep spirits up among the convalescing men.
Violet quizzes Mary about her match with Carlisle, but Mary won’t be drawn. She is determined to move on from Matthew. The tension continues between Cora and Isobel who both take an active role in running the busy convalescent home.
After the near disaster of the General’s visit, Branson has promised Carson not to stage any more protests so that he can stay at Downton. But what are his true motives for wanting to stay?
Robert receives a letter from Carlisle, which causes him concern forcing an uncomfortable conversation with his eldest daughter. In the servants hall Thomas is enjoying his position as Sergeant in charge of the hospital and revels in the fact that he is no longer under Carson’s control.
Robert talks to Anna about Bates’s return to the area and resolves to visit his former valet. In the village Mrs Bird and Molesley find themselves at a loose end and decide to do their own bit for the war effort. In the servants’ quarters Mrs Hughes makes a shocking discovery that ends in tears for one member of staff.
Downton is being prepared as a convalescent home for wounded officers and Isobel Crawley is driving Cora up the walls. O’Brien is eager to ensure that Cora is recognised as the mistress of Downton and suggests she needs an ally in the hospital – Thomas. A suggestion that doesn’t go down well below stairs.
The first convalescent group arrive, as does Matthew, who is home on leave. Matthew suggests he bring his General, Sir Herbert Strutt to inspect the new convalescent home.
Elsewhere, new housemaid Ethel flirts with a young officer, Major Bryant, incurring the wrath of Mrs Hughes in the process.
Violet is certain that Mary is still in love with Matthew and is determined to undo Matthew’s engagement. Together with Rosamund she discovers that Lavinia is hiding a secret from Matthew and is somehow acquainted with Sir Richard Carlisle. She is determined to discover how.
In the village Anna believes she sees Mr Bates while below stairs William visits Daisy the night before he heads off to active duty. A random remark causes Mrs Patmore untold heartache and Branson is wrong-footed when the results of his army medical come back.
