Downton Abbey Series Finale

As the final opening bell rings its difficult not to become a little teary with nostalgia as we say goodbye to characters we’ve followed six seasons and nearly thirteen years of fictional time.  Fellows has made good on his overall thesis of change from the Edwardian to the “modern era.”  The characters have changed substantially too. Thomas was once the predatory, scheming footman who’d do anything to ascend in position.  We’ve lost wonderfully spirited characters like Sybil and Matthew.  Edith had emerged from a wallflower in her sister’s shadow to an independent woman of power.  And Mary who has tossed suitors like salad aside has finally married the man of her dreams for the second time.  Throughout the story, the Dowager has remained the pillar of the family’s values.  But even the Dowager has softened a bit with age as she offers Isobel and Mary advice about pursuing love at all costs.  D.C., we will miss your quotes the most.  So without further ado, let’s get started on our last hours at Downton.

The entire family is taking a walk on the grounds, including the children and their nurses and nannies.  Edith mentions to her parents that she’d like to send Marigold to school in London. (The custom was for girls to have home tutoring only.) Edith accepts she’s a “spinster” and has decided to make her home base London.  Isobel asks if Marigold has any other relatives who would need to be informed of this decision and Edith says no.  Did Gregson have no other kin?

Lunch is served al fresco but Henry leaves the table, brooding and smoking.  Mary is worried he’s still upset about the death of his friend noting, “These things tend to linger.”  Henry states he no longer feel responsible for Charlie’s death but it has stolen his passion for racing.

In the servant’s hall, Thomas formally thanks Anna, Andy and Baxter for saving him from his suicide attempt.  Anna suggests that he find out how he became so depressed in the first place.

Isobel goes to visit the Dowager who has been ill.  Isobel reports that Larry had invited her to tea and she had accepted but then his wife cancelled the engagement. Isobel is perplexed.  The Dowager advises her, “Never let tenderness be a bar to snooping!”  The Dowager always gets to the truth and suggests Isobel find out the truth for herself.

Mrs. Hughes discusses Anna’s eventual maternity leave.  Anna states she’d like to work as long as possible.  She appears to be about six months pregnant.  Carson enters and is uncomfortable with all this “lady talk.”  Anna exits.  Carson thinks it’s improper to have a pregnant ladies maid.  Mrs. Hughes points out that it used to be ladies maids were always unmarried but that is no longer the case.  Mrs. Hughes points out the position of “ladies maid” will soon be obsolete.

The family continues to enjoy the outdoors as cocktails are served on the lawn. Edith asks her new brother-in-law for a lift to London as she has business there the next day.  He agrees.

In the servant’s hall Daisy and Ms. Patmore are hard at work. Ms. Patmore tells Daisy Andy obviously likes her.  Daisy responds rudely, “I could do a lot better!” Frankly, I’m tired of her continually rude and clueless behavior towards others.

At dinner in the dining hall, Cora mentions she has another meeting in her new role as hospital president.  Carson’s hands shake and he spills the wine he was pouring for Lord Grantham.  He’s shocked and embarrassed.  Thomas eyes him thoughtfully as the others clamor to clean up the mess.

Andy approaches Ms. Patmore with a question, “Does Daisy like men?” (That would explain a lot!)  Ms. Patmore is flustered by the implication of the question so Andy clarifies Daisy seems to “busy” to be interested in having a personal life.  Ms. Patmore states Daisy has had her heart broken a few times. (By whom? She married William out of sympathy and the others were crushes?)  Andy thinks Daisy finds him not worthy of her.  Ms. Patmore thinks that’s not true.

Thomas opens a letter containing a job offer.  Anna congratulates him.  Thomas informs them it’s just on the other side of York and he would still be close to Downton.  Carson adds, “You deserve it.”  Molesley is headed to the village Baxter invites herself along.

At the Dowager’s cottage, Spratt chides Denker for polishing her nails noting the Dowager won’t like it.  Denker is unafraid of his or the D.C.’s criticism.  Edith has come to see Spratt.  She encourages him to sit down, as they are “editor and columnist.”  Spratt sits down awkwardly.  Edith says she’d like to expand his column and admires the work he has done so far.  Denker attempts to listen through the door.

Molesley and Baxter make their way through the village discussing the merits of shampoo.  Mr. Dawes happens upon them with good news for Molesley.  Dawes reports a teacher is retiring and his cottage and position will soon be available if Mr. Molesley is interested.  Dawes leaves them to think about it.  Baxter encourages Molesley to take the position and make “a sensible choice.”

Henry drives Edith to London.  Edith tells him about Mr. Spratt being the true author of the ladies advice column but urges him not to tell Mary.  Henry wonders why. Edith observes, “Your Mary is not my Mary. Let’s hope it stays that way!”  In other words, Henry is privy to the best part of Mary while her sister is not.

Ms. Denker insists Spratt to tell her why Lady Edith came to visit him.  He refuses and Denker cackles about “honesty.”  Obviously, she will use the secret she has about Spratt’s nephew to make him do her bidding.

Down in the kitchen, Andy invites Daisy to walk down to the village with him and she refuses.  Mrs. Hughes instructs Ms. Patmore to make sandwiches for the children so they can have an outdoor picnic.  They both notice Carson’s hands continue to shake.  Carson is embarrassed.

Robert and Mary pay a visit to the Dowager.  The Dowager notes it’s sad that Bertie is “out of the picture.”  Mary has an idea on the subject but doesn’t tell the others. Robert makes excuses for Cora’s absence.  The Dowager knows it’s related to the hospital and quips, “Don’t be mysterious, it’s the last resort of people with no secrets!”  Robert admits Cora has a hospital meeting.

Mrs. Hughes visits Carson in his office; she asks him why he is hiding his condition. Molesley interrupts by stating he has a job offer including housing.  Carson is grime Molesley is quitting, noting, “Only me and Andrew stand in the way of Armageddon!” Carson is always subtle.

Isobel pays Lord Merton a visit.  She states she was worried about him.  Lord Merton reports he’s been experiencing some strange symptoms and sought out medical advice.  He tells her he has been diagnosed with anemia.  Isobel knows his condition is annoying but treatable.  Lord Merton elaborates he has pernicious anemia. (Pernicious anemia is an inability for the gut to synthesize vitamin B-12. In this era, the condition caused a myriad of symptoms including tingling and swollen tongue. Treatments were being pioneered in the 1920’s but unfortunately a cure was not discovered until 1934. It won the Noble Prize for medicine.) He is philosophical about his terminal condition.  He does regret not marrying Isobel but is glad for her friendship.  Isobel is touched.

Henry helps Edith by taking her luggage up to her flat.  He tells he is considering quitting racing but is scared to tell Mary.  Edith assures him Mary will support his choice and he needs to find something else to do.  Edith is happy she’s received an invitation to the Ritz.

In the servant’s hall, Anna opens a big package.  It’s a hairdryer she’s ordered for Lady Mary.  Daisy is baffled and declares she’s never changed her hairstyle.  Carson was about to protest the monstrosity but holds his tongue because it’s for Mary. Thomas announces his departure date.  Ms. Patmore notes they’ve been together a long time.”  No one wants to admit they’ll miss Thomas.  As Daisy leaves, Andy tells her she doesn’t need to change her hair.  Daisy is rude; “You’re a fashion expert now!”  Oh Daisy, you don’t deserve a nice bloke.

Edith and Aunt Rosemund make their way into the Ritz.  Rosemund asks how Henry is adjusting to living at Downton.  As they make their way inside, Bertie is waiting for them. Aunt Rosemund excuses herself.  Edith looks nervous.  Bertie tells her this was Mary’s idea.  Bertie orders champagne.  Edith begins, “You broke my heart. What’s changed?”  Bertie replies he’s changed.  Edith is upset that he hasn’t been in contact with her by letter or phone.  Edith observes, “You still have a mother.”  Bertie apologizes and says he can’t live without her.  He asks her to marry him.  Edith hesitates and wonders if he will tell his mother the truth about Marigold.  Bertie thinks it’s best if they don’t tell his mother the secret.  What will Edith do?

Baxter works late in the servant’s hall.  She tells Thomas there was a late telephone call to the house from Lady Edith. (Did she say yes?) Thomas looks at his future employment as an opportunity to try to be someone else.  He advises her to stop letting Peter Coyle and her past continue to have power over her.  Thomas says this is his parting wisdom for her.

Robert burst into the bedroom to give Cora the good news regarding Edith’s engagement.  The family has been invited to their estate to meet Bertie’s mother. Robert says the plan is to keep the secret regarding Marigold.  Cora notes she has a meeting at the hospital that day but Robert insists she cancel it for the sake of “Their second daughter who has had so little happiness!”  Even in this moment of jubilation it’s still “Poor Edith!”

The servant’s hall is a buzz with the news of Edith’s engagement.  Carson notes Thomas should say goodbye to the family before their journey because he will be gone when they return.  There is an unspoken sadness in the hall.

Isobel goes to visit the Dowager and inform her of the sad news regarding Lord Merton.  Isobel is shocked at the depth of her own reaction to the news stating it’s made her “desperately upset.”  The Dowager observes that is because she is in love with him.  Isobel voices her opinion that love seems a ridiculous emotion at their age but wonders why she turned Lord Merton down.  Isobel asks the Dowager if she ever found love again after Prince Kraugin.  The Dowager is silent on the subject.

The motorcars roll up to the front of the house ready to be loaded up for the trip to Bertie’s new estate.  Baxter tells Molesley she is cutting of all contact with Peter Coyle.  He is thrilled.  Thomas tells Baxter he appreciates how she had faith in him when he had no faith in himself.  Thomas bids farewell to Mr. Bates who notes, “I’d rather part friends then enemies.”  The men shake hands.  Thomas stands before Lord and Lady Grantham. Lord Grantham observes, “We’ve had some adventures!” Thomas thanks them both and adds, “I came here as a boy and I leave as a man.” Branson is the last to bid farewell to the footman noting, “There have been too many goodbyes.”

Daisy looks at her reflection in the bottom of copper frying pan.  She is dismayed by her ugliness. (Only on the inside!)  Andy interrupts the cooks and quickly hustles upstairs.  Ms. Patmore observes, “You despise any man who takes a fancy to you!” Ms. Patmore recalls how Daisy liked Alfred when he was in love with Ivy but when he turned his affection towards her, she rejected him.  Daisy doesn’t like hearing the truth.

The Grantham’s marvel as they approach the castle belonging to the new Lord Hexam.  It makes Downton seem like a cottage as it has crenulated walls and multiple turrets.  Robert exclaims to Cora, “It’s quite something!”  The Grantham’s are lead inside where they take tea in the museum like setting.  Edith enters behind them looking elegant but nervous.

Back at Downton, Mary, Henry and Branson enjoy a small dinner with the elders away.  Henry announces he is giving up racing.  Carson makes another blunder serving due to his shaking hands.  Mary is quick to excuse them and wishes Mrs. Hughes to be informed so she can see to him.  Mary promises to check Carson later. What about summoning Dr. Clarkson?

Mrs. Hughes pours her husband some tea and suggests he seek medical attention. Carson says he already knows what’s wrong with him, even though it doesn’t have a name.  He states the “palsy” ended his father and grandfather’s career as a butler. (This is likely Parkinson’s, which was first described in 1817 by Dr. Parkinson in his “Essay on Shaking Palsy.”  Unfortunately, understanding of the cause and brain structures involved did not evolve much until the mid-20^th century.  Even today, there is no cure but treatment.)  He fears he’s “done for.”  Mary comes downstairs and assures Carson, “There is no shame in being tired.”  She tells the old butler that she is dear to her.  (I guess marriage does really soften Mary up!)

Branson and Henry share a drink upstairs.  Branson observes women don’t understand that a man is what he does.  Henry wants to still be “worthy” of Mary.  Branson suggests he consider entering business, perhaps near Downton.

Cora and Robert have a tense cocktail hour with Bertie’s mother.  Robert makes some innocent remarks regarding the estate and Bertie’s mother thinks they mean to push her out of the estate so Edith can take over.  Bertie tries to reassure Edith things will be okay with his mother but she is understandably worried.  Bertie’s mother tells the Grantham’s that Bertie will have work to do to “restore the moral center of the county.”  She hints at Lord Hexam’s homosexuality but Bertie stops her from making this information explicit.  His mother warns him, “You can’t afford to take a foot wrong.”  Robert exclaims, “Golly.”  Quite the understatement!

Isobel has accompanied Lord Merton to an appointment with Dr. Clarkson.  Dr. Clarkson agrees with Lord Merton’s diagnosis.  Isobel assures Lord Merton that “We’ll deal with it.”  Mrs. Grey appears (Larry’s new wife formerly Ms. Crookshank) insists Isobel leave her father-in-law alone.  Isobel states plainly that she wanted her as a nurse if Lord Merton was going to live but now that he’s dying she wants Isobel out of the picture.  Mrs. Grey responds with a “Good Day!” which really means something far more vulgar.  Lord Merton sheepishly goes home with her.

Mary interrupts Henry in the bedroom where he is reading a book.  She suggests they go for a walk.  He states he wants to be a worthy husband for her.  To her credit, Mary states Henry is already worthy.  Henry notes her love motivates him and they kiss.

Edith walks on the castle walls as her father joins her.  She asks her father, “Am I doing the right thing?”  Robert notes that Bertie must love her because he came back.  Edith notes that her “secret” started out with only her aunt and mother knowing, and now half household knows the truth.  Edith fears the truth will find Bertie’s mother’s ears eventually.  Robert implores her to take a chance and questions if her real hesitation is feelings she still has for Michael Gregson.  Edith tells her father she loves Bertie.  Robert urges her to “not make things more complicated.” (He wants her to be a Marquesas’!)

The staff that have remained at Downton for the weekend say their final goodbyes to Thomas.  Thomas thanks Carson for being his mentor.  Molesley wishes him good luck.  Lady Mary brings down the children to bid him farewell.  Thomas lifts Master George and makes him promise to be good.  Sybie says, “He never was!”  Thomas leaves emotional but resolute.  Once alone, Daisy mentions to Ms. Patmore that she feels strangely sad because of Thomas’s departure.  She adds, “To think I was sweet on him once.”  Ms. Patmore scoffs, “You never were much of a judge in that department!”

Edith seeks out a private meeting with Lady Pelham.  She begins, “There is something I think you should know.”  The audience is not privy to the rest of the conversation but it appears Edith is prepared to tell her future mother-in-law about her daughter. Will it be the end of her and Bertie forever?

Thomas leaves Downton with all his possessions in two suitcases.  He walks up to a small brick estate with white hydrangeas in front.  His new life begins now.  Inside, his new employer, Sir Mark, informs him there is a staff of three, including Thomas. Thomas seems surprised and Sir Mark scoffs, “It’s not 1850 you know!”  Will Thomas be happy here?

Daisy goes down to visit Mr. Mason’s farm to find Andy working on the roof in his undershirt!  Daisy calls up to him they could have walked down to the farm together but Andy notes she always rejects his offers.  Mr. Mason is pleased with Andy’s work but would like Daisy to consider moving to the farm.  Daisy seems to notice Andy for the first time as he works on the roof.  Mr. Mason observes, “You could do worse!” Daisy is annoyed that everyone is telling her that, at least the people who love her Ms. Patmore and Mr. Mason.

Bertie’s mother confronts her son pointedly, “I know you know!”  She goes on to refer to Edith as “damaged goods” and clearly “out of the running” to become his spouse.  Bertie replies, “I won’t be dictated to, but we should probably bring this to an end.”  It appears Bertie WILL be dictated to after all. I t’s not unexpected but disappointing.

Isobel pays a visit to Lord Merton’s estate only to be turned away at the door by Mrs. Grey.   She states Lord Merton is not well and she will not permit her entry. S he adds her signature, “Good Day!” which means anything but those words!

Sybie and George play with Branson and Henry at the agent’s office.  It’s nice that George will finally have a father figure.  Branson continues to encourage Henry to find a new passion.  Henry states he has a plan but wants to keep it secret from Mary at present.

Isobel and the Dowager have tea.  Ms. Denker slithers in to spread innuendo about how Mr. Spratt seems “very busy” lately.  The Dowager, accustomed to Denker’s gossipy ways refuses to engage her ladies maid.  Isobel recounts her terrible treatment by Larry’s new bride.  The Dowager advises her, “If reason fails, then try force!”  Isobel has a strong ally in the Dowager.

Carson and Mrs. Hughes speak privately about his condition.  Carson notes his “palsy” is growing worse.  Molesley interrupts them to inform Carson he’s decided to take the teacher’s cottage in the village.  Carson is perturbed Molesley didn’t ask for the family’s permission in the matter.  Molesley offers to come and help occasionally, as he’s able.  Carson notes the “livery” belongs to the family.  Mrs. Hughes excuses her husband’s rudeness because he is not feeling well.  But when Molesley asks how he’s doing Carson says stiffly, “Never better.”  It’s hard to Carson to admit there are things even he can’t control.

Before dinner, Edith tells Robert and Cora that she has told Lady Pelham the truth about her daughter.  Robert is upset and wonders if it was really necessary.  Cora however is proud of her daughter.

Thomas stands stiffly in the dining room with Sir Mark and his wife.  It is a far cry from the action at Downton.  After the couple decides they are skipping the cheese coarse, they are finished with dinner.

A grand dinner has been laid at the Hexam estate with many nobility in attendance. Bertie stands to make the engagement announcement but his mother cuts him off. Robert whispers to Lady Pelham that if she is going to stop the proceedings, she better do it now.  Lady Pelham raises a toast to Lady Edith and announces their families are to be joined.  The Grantham’s look shocked and relieved.

Ms. Patmore and Daisy discuss Andy.  Mrs. Hughes bids them farewell for the night. Ms. Patmore alludes to her friends “perfect and carefree” life.  Mrs. Hughes notes her life has never been carefree.

After dinner, Robert admits to Edith he’s amazed that Bertie’s mother accepted the engagement given Edith’s past.  Lady Pelham overhears this and says, “I’m afraid I’ve given you the wrong impression.”  She states she’s happy to have a daughter-in-law with brains and breeding.  She thinks it took Edith great courage to be honest. Cora agrees.  Lady Pelham thinks their marriage will be a great success.  Now that’s all settled, Bertie urges Edith to “Bally well kiss me!”  The young couple kisses in front of their parents.

The Dowager and Isobel arrive at Lord Merton’s estate to confront Mrs. Grey and Larry.  As usual, Mrs. Grey tries to block their entry into the home.  The Dowager pushes past her with Isobel.  Lord Merton hears the commotion and is surprised to learn Isobel has attempted to visit many times.  Isobel instructs Lord Merton to pack his things and that she is coming to live with her!  Larry is flustered and forbids his father to leave.  Lord Merton states, “I love you, you’re my son but I never liked you! Take my home!”  Mrs. Grey is indignant, arguing they are “kidnapping” her father-in-law. (While she and Larry were keeping him from the woman he loved!)  Isobel declares, “Oh, and I intend to marry him!”  Lord Merton says “Marvelous!”

Edith returns to Downton to be greeted by Mary and Branson.  Edith asks Mary why she pushed Bertie to get back together with her, especially since all she’s done is make her life miserable for years.  Mary doesn’t have a firm answer but states, “We’re blood, let’s make the most of it!”  Maybe being in love is the only time Mary has empathy for others.

Downstairs, Daisy and Ms. Patmore discuss Lady Edith’s marriage and new title. Andy comes in and Daisy thanks him for helping Mr. Mason.  Andy notes he’s not doing it for her and plainly states he knows she doesn’t like him.  He exits.  Ms. Patmore notes, “Don’t tell me know that he’s gone off you, you’re sweet on him!”

Molesley informs Baxter that he’s decided to take the teacher’s cottage in the village but hopes she’ll come to visit him.  Baxter promises to stay in touch.  Ms. Patmore begins preparing for Edith’s wedding, three months hence!

About three months later, it’s Christmastime at Downton.  Rose and Atticus Aldridge have made the journey across the Atlantic but without their baby.  They insist their nanny wouldn’t let them bring the child for fear of English disease. (Or a weak excuse for two month vacation without a baby, I thought Rose was the honest one!) Branson is eager for news from America.  Rose is excited her father is coming for the wedding but he has been delayed.  Mary suggests they have tea.  Rose wishes to go downstairs to visit with the staff.  It seems she’s still a rebel. 

Once downstairs she shows the staff photographs of her baby girl who has been named after her husband’s mother and Cora. (Snubbing her difficult mum.)  Anna reports she’s due in ten days and Rose beams being a mother is “such fun.” (Especially if you have a full time nanny and a nurse.)  Rose asks after Thomas and Daisy informs her he has a new position but he’s bored there.  Carson enters to break up the party wondering if Ms. Patmore expects Lady Mary to get her own tea!

Spratt works alone on his column when Ms. Denker enters to annoy him.  She asks him what he’s doing.  She states he probably resents her because she’s so “attractive and exotic.” (On what planet madam?)  She informs him she knows he is a writer and attempts once again to use this information to blackmail him.  Her tactics and character have become very tiresome.

Dinner with the family is a grand affair with all the guests who have gathered for the wedding.  Isobel has married Lord Merton who could not attend the dinner due to feeling poorly.  Mary asks Isobel if she regrets having given Lord Merton’s estate to his evil son Larry.  Naturally, Isobel doesn’t care about material things.  Cora regrets she has a hospital meeting, which will prevent her from seeing to the final details of wedding preparation.  Robert is unhappy with this.  Edith assures her mother she has the preparation under control.  Henry has mysterious meeting in York.  Robert requests more claret, but Carson is unable to pour it for him.

Thomas informs Sir Mark he will be away to celebrate New Year’s at Downton.  Sir Mark is prickly about the cook bringing him tea. Thomas tries hard be patient with the old crab.

Shrimpy is delighted to see Rose finally arriving after dinner.  Cora and Edith discuss her new career as a hospital administrator.  It’s clear where Edith gets her independent streak.  Branson, Atticus and Henry bond and Henry hints he’s on the verge of “reinventing himself.”  Robert asks Mary about Carson’s behavior at dinner. Mary decides to take her father downstairs to speak to the beloved butler himself.

Carson admits to Lord Grantham the truth about his health.  Carson apologizes and submits his resignation, as he can no longer perform his duties.  Mrs. Hughes implores Mary to talk some sense into her husband.  Mary becomes emotional and insists he continue to live in their cottage at Downton.  Carson offers to stay on to interview and train his replacement.  The matter is sadly settled.

Isobel notices her husband exiting an appointment at the hospital.  Lord Merton reveals he hasn’t really been feeling that ill and is having Dr. Clarkson run tests again to see if he is really terminally ill.  Did his evil son have the doctors in London give him a false diagnosis?  It wouldn’t surprise this viewer.  Dickie cautions his wife not to get her hopes up.

The library is bustling with tea and guests.  Rose asks to “borrow” her Uncle Robert for an urgent errand in the village.  Atticus looks perplexed.

Mary accompanies Branson and Robert into town.  They show her their new enterprise, “Branson and Talbot Motors.”  Mary is guided on a tour of the showroom for used motorcars.  Mary notes, “So, you are to be second hand salesmen.”  Branson warns her “not to be snobbish.”  Henry hopes to sell new cars in time.  Henry worries she is ashamed of him but she reveals she’s both proud and pregnant!  Henry is over the moon at the news.  Mary warns they need to keep it a secret for now so as not to “steal Edith’s thunder.”  Mary is becoming a better sister by being married to Henry.

Cora is conducting a public meeting regarding the hospital’s services.  Rose and Robert watch from the back as Lady Grantham handles questions competently.  Rose advises her uncle, “If you want to keep her, you have to let her go.”  Robert absorbs the words and witnesses his wife as a leader of the community.

Daisy shares with Ms. Patmore that she’s concerned about how she has nothing to wear for Edith’s wedding.  Daisy asks for time off to see to her hair.  Ms. Patmore grants her a break but warns her to be ready to work the next day.  Daisy heads upstairs, arousing the curiosity of Anna.  Daisy sneaks into Lady Mary’s bedroom and “borrows” the hairdryer.

Ms. Denker is bursting to share gossip about Spratt to the Dowager.  The Dowager is curious rather then upset to learn Spratt is an author.  The D.C. asks which publication he works for and Denker is eager to show him the column from Lady Edith’s magazine.  Denker assumes the Dowager will fire him and urges her “not to be too hard on him.”  The Dowager is amused and laughs out loud at Spratt’s article. She informs Denker, “Spratt stays.”

Once alone, Daisy wields scissors and begins to hack her long hair off.  She smiles as works.

The wedding day has arrived.  In the kitchen, Daisy wears her hair covered but it sticks out strangely.  She informs Ms. Patmore she can’t go to the wedding.  The others ask about her hair and she removes the cap to reveal a matted mess.  Andy laughs but Ms. Patmore scolds him.  “It’s for you she’s made a fool of herself!  No wonder you’re on your own, you don’t understand women!”  Poor Andrew, Daisy is the hardest thing he's ever tried to read.

Edith shares a moment with Mary and her mom.  She exclaims, “I can’t believe this is happening, to me!”

Downstairs, Anna fixes Daisy’s hair and blows it dry using Mary’s hairdryer.  Andrew sees her and exclaims, “You look like Clara Bow!” (Silent film star.)  Andy finally speaks to Daisy directly. “I think we’ve been out of step, let’s not be anymore.”  It’s not a marriage proposal but it’s a start.  Daisy beams.

The whole family has gathered in the church, awaiting the bride.  Henry and Mary can’t help whispering about their baby on the way.  The Dowager sits next to Rosemund who asks if Edith will “live happily every after.”  The Dowager notes, “They’ll be happy enough, which is the English version of ‘happily ever after.’” Rosemund wonders why the English are so reserved and the Dowager replies, “It’s probably the weather.”  Dr. Clarkson informs Lord Merton his tests have confirmed he has anemia but not pernicious anemia!  Isobel is relieved and smiles at her new husband.  Anna sits with Thomas and asks him how he’s getting along with the new staff.  Thomas admits there aren’t many to get along with.

Edith walks down Downton’s stairs in a beautiful tea length ivory gown.  When her father sees her he gasps at her beauty.  He tells her, “You’ve always surprised me.” He asks her to “Let him be proud for a minute.”  Edith smiles, “If you’re proud of me, take all the time that you like.”  Robert takes her by the arm to escort her the church.

At the church, Henry whispers to Mary he hopes she can maintain a friendship with her sister.  Mary states, “We are friends, we’re sisters and sisters have secrets.”  Even on Edith’s wedding day the show seems to be razor focused on Mary.  Branson introduces himself to Laura Edmunds whose surprised she received an invitation to the wedding.  Branson assures her “We like strong women around her.”  There is a spark of interest between them.

Edith walks into the church and all eyes are on the beautiful bride.  The ceremony goes off without a hitch but when the question is asked “Are there any here who object?” there seemed to be a long pause before the minister continued.  But, the ghost of Michael Gregson is gone.

At the reception, Robert says to Cora, “I feel a great sense of achievement.”  Robert says he’s proud of Cora and her work at the hospital.  Cora notes she would still do it without his approval but it’s “sweeter with it.”

In the kitchen, Anna complains she doesn’t feel well.  The staff rushes around working and gossiping.  They seem to think that Bertie’s mother doesn’t know the secret about Marigold.  Daisy tells Andrew she has decided to move to the farm and “lots of other things” leaving the door open for them to have a future together.

Upstairs at the reception, Carson is unable to pour the champagne.  Thomas notices and immediately steps in to help.  Robert figures that Thomas would be the ideal replacement for the ailing butler.  Thomas readily accepts.  Carson says, “I’ve trained him myself.”  Thomas will be Carson’s legacy and has finally achieved his dream of being head butler at Downton. (For as long as that position lasts.)

Anna is assisting Lady Mary when her water breaks.  Mary springs into action and insists her maid take to her bed while she gets assistance.  Henry runs downstairs and alerts Mr. Bates his wife is in labor and Dr. Clarkson is attending to her.  The news spreads throughout the reception that Anna is laboring in Mary’s bedroom.  Carson finds the timing most improper.

The Dowager informs Spratt that she knows about his column for the magazine. Spratt looks nervous.  The Dowager continues she will seek his advice in the future in the subjects of fashion.  She adds, “Who knew we had an expert in the basement.” The Dowager acknowledging the contributions of the staff, it is a new day indeed! Spratt takes the opportunity to gloat to his nemesis stating, “The Dowager likes to be unpredictable.”  Spratt does seem to understand women.

In the kitchen Daisy tells Ms. Patmore and Mr. Mason she has decided to move down to the farm.  Mr. Mason is ecstatic.  Ms. Patmore notes she will be spending more time at the farm as well.  Maybe Ms. Patmore will finally become a married lady after all and learn the “mysteries of the world” like her good friend Mrs. Hughes.

The crowd upstairs has gathered for a toast to the newly weds.  Shrimpy addresses the boisterous crowd.  Branson continues to flirt with Laura Edmunds.

Edith and Bertie are dressed to leave for their honeymoon and descend the grand staircase.  Edith has a brief moment to address Mrs. Pelham.  Edith says she hopes she will not disappoint the stern woman.  Bertie’s mother instructs her to simply love her son.  The crowd urges Edith to throw her bouquet and Ms. Edmunds catches it.  This is an auspicious omen for Branson.

Lord Grantham and Carson overlook the lavish party like proud fathers.  Robert muses the world is changing and so Downton must change with it.  Carson tells His Lordship, “I pray for your good fortune in the new year.”  He seems to mean it with all his heart as he bids his life’s work in service goodbye.

Anna has given birth to a baby boy.  Mary reveals her pregnancy to her parents. Robert toasts Mr. Bates and their new family.  Anna apologizes for “using” Mary’s bed.  Mary is gracious about letting Anna recover a little while in her room.  Robert wonders what his mother would think this situation.  Cora notes the Dowager is more adaptable and stronger then they know.  Robert tells his wife that the future is unknown but he feels they have a good chance of living out their golden years enjoying the gifts of comfort and family.  

The Dowager seeks out Cora and essentially forgives her for all the drama regarding the hospital.  The Dowager says, “It’s your kingdom now.”  The Dowager notes Cora has done a good job with managing Downton and the family.

The clock ticks down to midnight on New Year’s Eve.  In a darken car on the road, Bertie and Edith kiss.  Thomas pours more champagne for the guests and Mrs. Hughes begins a chorus of “Auld Lange Syne.”

Lady Isobel reflects we drink to the future and but its not as if we have a choice to go back.  The Dowager wonders, “If only we had a choice.”  Properly, the Dowager utters the final words of the series and snow swirls around the majestic estate.

The ending was sweet and fitting and neatly tied up the threads of the Downton tapestry.  Even though this season seemed very repetitive and heavy handed at times, it was an enjoyable farewell.  There were certainly characters and plots, which could have been edited.  Denker and Daisy bored me to tears.  It would have nice to see Branson develop his own relationship, rather then spend all season playing matchmaker for Mary.  I had hoped Michael Gregson would reappear because he seemed to be Edith’s true soul mate.  We missed Lady Isobel’s wedding and had too see Larry’s nasty wife far too many times.  Still, I think Downton will stand the test of time with Dame Maggie Smith delivering an excellent performance. Perhaps there is room for a spin off series; it would be interesting to explore the Dowager’s earlier years and her relationship with the Russian prince.  Another series could explore the story of Robert and Bates in the Boer war.  Like life, the possibilities are endless. Bravo to all the cast and production team that let us become immersed and obsessed with the lives and times of this fictional family.