Downton Abbey, Season 6, Episode Two

What did you think of last week’s final premiere episode?  I was happy to see the major plotlines outlined; Carson and Hughes’s wedding, Edith’s future but a little annoyed at redundant plots such as Violet and Isobel at odds and Ms. Denker up to her usual nonsense. We must take the bitter and the sweet and hope for happy endings.

The episode opens with a morning montage including the servants ironing the newspaper and readying breakfast. (The newspaper ironing recalls the first season’s opening, which brought news of the Titanic disaster.)  Upstairs, Mary and Robert share news from America.  Tom is opening a business and Rose hints at a return to England in the summer.  Mary deduces Rose may be pregnant. Edith scoffs at this, “You’ve added one and one to equal fifty three!”  There is to be a meeting of the hospital board.  Carson alerts Lord Grantham a man is downstairs wishing to speak to the agent.  Mary is the acting agent and agrees to meet the man. Robert asks how the wedding planning is evolving.  Carson replies they have yet to work out the details. Robert suggests they use the “Servants Hall” for the reception.  After Carson leaves, Mary asks to speak about the matter latter with her father.  She likely wants more for her favorite male staff.

Ms. Patmore contemplates buying jarred horseradish instead of making it from scratch. (The end of the world, surely!)  Mosley asks Daisy if there has been any news regarding Mr. Mason and his eviction.  Daisy blames her outburst for harming Mason’s chances of retaining his farm.  Ms. Hughes and Carson need to leave Downton for the day and plan to go together.

Mr. Finch meets with Mary in the library.  She informs him she is the new agent and he mumbles something about the changing world.  He asks for her support to host a “Fat Stock Show” to be given by the Downton Estate.  The man expresses its important for the “surviving” estates to compete with the larger county competitions.

Ms. Hughes and Carson walk away from the main house as he tells her of Lord Grantham’s offer to host their reception in the “Servants Hall.”  Ms. Hughes doesn’t want the reception to be at Downton stating she’d like to “get away” on her wedding day.  Mr. Carson feels conflicted, he’s fiercely loyal to the family and wants to be sure the Crawley’s especially Mary are present.  Ms. Hughes is firm, “I don’t want to be a servant on my wedding day, tell Lord Grantham no thank you.”  The art of martial compromise has begun between these two strong personalities.

At the Dowager’s home, Robert, Dr. Clarkson and Isobel conduct a meeting of the local hospital board.  The main issue is whether they can afford to remain independent and private.  The Dowager wants to keep the hospital in her and Downton’s control.  Isobel feels a relationship with the County could bring more advanced care to their hospital.  Robert doesn’t dare voice his opinion but the Dowager seems to count on her son’s endorsement of her ideas.

Downstairs, the servants finish their meal and discuss their plans for the day.  Andy wants to explore the woods, but declines Thomas’s offer of companionship. (Again, Thomas is made to appear the aggressive homosexual when it is unclear if Andy prefers males or females.)  Thomas asks when the decisions will be made regarding staff reductions.  He’s told to “not wait” to look for a new employer.  Thomas is convinced the family plans to terminate him.

In the village, Molesley pops in on the local school.  Is he still hoping to become a teacher?

Edith receives an irate call from Mr. Skinner at the publishing house.  She will have to go to London the next day to handle ongoing issues with him.  In the library, Dr. Clarkson lobbies Cora for support to retain control over the hospital.  Robert makes it clear he can see both sides of the argument but it’s unclear whether he supports his mother or Cousin Isobel.

Little George and Marigold are shown into the library to the delight of their mothers. Robert asks Mary what Mr. Finch wanted and she tells him of the “Fat Stock Show.” In order to research the topic, a plan is made to visit the pigs on Mr. Drewe’s farm. Edith is concerned to let Marigold go without her.  Mary thinks her sister is simply being snobbish.  Cora offers to accompany the Marigold in Edith’s absence.

Mosley finds Daisy alone in the kitchen.  He reveals his errand at the school. He informs Daisy he spoke to the headmaster about her writing her exams.  He even procured some old exams for a reference.  Daisy touched by Molesley’s gesture but wishes there was more she could do to help Mr. Mason.  Mosley cautions her, even with some educations they are “just servants.”  Secretly, both these characters aspire for more in life.

Anna assists Mary in getting ready for bed. (Can I just add how much I love Mary’s hair this season?) Anna mentions she heard the children would be visiting the Drew’s farm the next day. Mary prods Anna for the reason for her discontent. Anna reveals she has had several miscarriages and fears she will never have children. Mary excuses Anna for the night to wallow in her sadness.

Isobel runs into Lord Merton in the village.  He reveals he post his own letters, how independent of him!  Lord Merton reveals he is to be on the new board at York County hospital.  He explains how the partnership will bring better services to the village.  Currently, “If someone in the house pricks their finger, they go to London. But what of the people for whom that is not an option?”  Lord Merton questions Dr. Clarkson’s expertise on new technology such as the x-ray machine.  Isobel says, “So the battle lines have been drawn and now we fight it out!”  Lord Merton, obviously still very much in love with Isobel states he’s glad they are to be on the same side. Isobel makes haste to the hospital.  Lord Merton calls to her in parting, “It will be ‘Wigs on the green’ before we’re done!” (“Wigs on the green.” Is an Irish expression dating back to the eighteenth century meaning a bitter fight is expected and wigs may end up on the lawn.  In other words, the poop will soon hit the oscillating device.)

Mosley and Ms. Baxter confer about the Mr. Mason situation.  Ms. Baxter can only offer to speak to Cora regarding the matter.  She doubts Cora would want to help Daisy since her outburst reflected poorly on her household.  As Mosley leaves, Thomas adds to Ms. Baxter that it’s unwise to concern herself in the family’s affairs. He closes the newspaper he had been reading and states there is a listing for an assistant butler at a nearby estate.  Andy enters looking for some oil to help wind the clocks.  Thomas offers his assistance only to be rebuffed by young Andy. Thomas sighs and says aloud, “There is nothing to keep me here!”

The Drew pigs delight the children.  Mary takes her time speaking with Mr. Drewe and inquiring about the pigs while Cora looks tense and wants to leave before Mrs. Drew returns.  But Mrs. Drewe arrives at the pigsty and fusses over her adopted daughter a little to long for Cora’s comfort.  Mr. Drew tries to curb in his wife’s outpouring of emotion for the little girl.  Everyone, except Mary and young George look uncomfortable about the encounter.

Thomas asks for the afternoon off to go to a job interview at the other estate.  Carson remarks, “You don’t let the grass grow!”  Ms. Baxter expresses she would be sadden if Thomas were to leave the house.

Robert waits for the “pig party” to return in the library.  Lady Mary informs him the children enjoyed the visit.  Off-handedly, Mary offers Carson the use of the family’s hall for their wedding reception.  Carson notes he’ll have to discuss the matter with Ms. Hughes.  Mary asks, “Why would Ms. Hughes feel differently?” (Because she doesn’t want to feel like a servant on her wedding day!)  Robert advises Carson, “There is no point in arguing with Lady Mary.”  This is true.

Downstairs, Anna cries alone.  Mr. Bates comes in and offers his support, “Being married means never having to cry alone.” (Mr. Bates needs to start a romantic greeting card company. He’s a poet.)  He asks if she would consider adoption but Anna knows Mr. Bates wants his own child.  She fears she won’t be enough if they can’t have a family.  Mr. Bates says gently, “We are one person who can’t have a child.”  He’s trying the best he can to shift the burden off his beautiful wife.

In London, Edith gets an earful from Mr. Skinner as Aunt Rosemund looks on from outside the office.  Edith leaves, telling her aunt the man is impossible and she wasted her time coming to London.  Edith tells her aunt about the visit to the Drewe farm.  Rosemund opines that Edith needs to tell Mary the truth about Marigold at some point.  Edith changes the subject to the upcoming family feud regarding the hospital.  Aunt Rosemund knows her mother will want Robert to be on her side, even if it means opposing his own wife.

Thomas meets with the head butler at the Ripon estate.  Thomas describes his service at Downton, starting as a footman, serving in the war and finally rising to his current position as under-butler.  The man asks him pointedly why he wants to move now. Thomas states vaguely it’s the right time to move.  The man states in this house he’ll be a footman, valet and occasional chauffeur.  The man observes Thomas looks “soft” and asks if he’s married. (Does he sense Thomas is a homosexual?) Thomas offers his service profession as a reason for his bachelorhood.  The man seems to view this reasoning a little outdated for 1925.  This conversation is further foreshadowing of the demise of the estate system and lifestyle affecting both the gentry and the service employees.

Anna helps Lady Mary ready for dinner. Mary states that she has been thinking of their recent conversation and she wants to help Anna. Mary confides she was having difficulty becoming pregnant and she saw a doctor in London, had a small “blockage” removed and “George was the result.” (Sounds like endometriosis.) Anna resists the suggestion, fearing her condition is hopeless.  Mary recounts the many things Anna has done in Mary’s service over the years, from dragging bodies across the house to hiding forbidden birth control.  Anna reluctantly agrees but doesn’t want to tell her husband yet for fear it would give him false hope.  Mary is hopeful, declaring to her lady’s maid, “This will be our next moment.”

In Cora’s room, Baxter works on her Ladyship’s hair.  The maid brings up the subject of speaking to the new owners of Mr. Mason’s land.  Cora doesn’t believe she can do anything to help undo Daisy’s outburst.  Baxter requests Cora allow Daisy to speak to her on the subject.  Robert enters the bedroom and is brought into the conversation. Baxter exits quickly. Robert asks his wife what really happened at the Drewe’s farm.  Cora sighs, “Mrs. Drewe wanted to swallow (Marigold) whole!”  Robert wonders whose idea it was to go to the farm and Cora admits it was Mary’s.  Robert wishes Edith would tell Mary the truth but Cora understands her middle daughter’s reluctance.  Cora offers another idea, what if the Drewe’s were to move. Robert protest their family had been residents for a century, but agrees to speak to Mr. Drew.

In the kitchen, Thomas tells Baxter about his disastrous job interview, complaining about the expectation of being valet, chauffeur and butler.  Thomas wonders if they might expect him to cook and garden as well.  Baxter seems relieved that Thomas didn’t get the job.  Mosley questions Baxter’s concern about Thomas. (One can’t tell if he hates Thomas or has designs on Baxter.)  Baxter lets Daisy know she can speak with Lady Grantham about the Mason matter.  Daisy becomes worked up again, stating she’s mad at the whole system and her Ladyship is part of it!

In London at Aunt Rosemund’s flat, she and Edith share a port and discuss Edith’s poor meeting with her editor. The butler brings in a notice that Mary is coming to London tomorrow for “appointments and shopping.”  Aunt Rosemund suggests the sisters go shopping together, Edith doubts Mary would like to spend time with her. Rosemund remarks how she’s enjoying the new cook, but doubts she’ll stay on long. (More hinting at the decline of servants.)  Edith has decided to maintain Gregson’s flat in London, but admits she’s not sure she could live there alone, since she’s never lived independently.  Aunt Rosemund offers her some advice, “Be aware of being too good at it. (Living alone) You might find it hard to give up.”

Carson approaches Ms. Hughes about Mary’s plan to have their wedding reception in the main hall. Ms. Hughes answers as predicted.  She states, “It’s grandeur is not who WE are, it’s not OUR way.”  She wants her wedding day to be about them as a couple, not their employer.  Carson is resigned to her refusal and says he’ll deliver the news to his Lordship.

Anna tells Mr. Bates she’s going to London, but doesn’t mention the real purpose of the trip. He offers the rest and change of scenery might do her some good.  He suggests she “put her feet up” which brought to mind an old-fashioned idea about the best position to assume after relations when one is trying to conceive.

Cora comes down to breakfast instead of eating in bed.  She mentions she’s off to church and then to the hospital to meet with Dr. Clarkson and the Dowager Countess. She adds, she’s happy Isobel will be present as well so that she will have an ally she can rely on.  Robert protests but is still unable to take a stand against his mother’s wishes.  Robert asks Carson if he’s told Ms. Hughes about the wedding reception.  Mary chimes in, “I hope she’s pleased!”  Carson admits Ms. Hughes is unsure whether the venue is “appropriate.”  Mary protests that Mr. Carson has served the family for fifty years and he has every right to use the house for the occasion.  Cora offers, “Ms. Hughes sees it differently.”  Mary, used to always getting her way responds, “You will have the reception here if it’s the last thing I do!” Insisting others do your bidding doesn’t seem very lady-like to me.

Dr. Clarkson and the Dowager show Cora around the wards of the hospital.  Isobel follows them, telling Cora the two tried to sell her the same pitch to keep things as they are.  The Dowager insists, “Ours are the true facts!”  Cora is quite capable of making her own decisions. “It’s not the right way forward to go backward!”  The Dowager takes offense, asking if she thinks Dr. Clarkson isn’t qualified to lead their hospital.  Cora argues about the progress made in medicine since the war and she’d like to see that at their hospital.  Isobel is content with Cora’s support and both ladies leave the room to let their opponents, “Nash their teeth alone.”  Privately, Dr. Clarkson wishes he had Robert’s support for keeping the hospital under local control.

Lord Grantham arrives at Mr. Drew’s farm to discuss the ongoing tension over little Marigold. His Lordship suggests the Drewe’s consider moving, but Mr. Drewe shifts the blame to the Grantham house, wondering why Marigold came to the farm.  Robert admits Edith was away.  Robert suggests this idea is his wife’s concern over Mrs. Drew.  Ever the peacemaker, Robert adds he just wants everybody to be happy.  Mr. Drew promises he can manage his wife. (Sounds a little ominous.)

Ms. Hughes asks Carson how did his Lordship respond to the decline in the offer to use the main hall at Downton for their reception.  She can tell Carson didn’t advocate for her wishes.  Ms. Hughes says, “Can’t contradict the blessed Lady Mary! I want my wedding day my way. I know it will be your way for the next thirty years but the wedding is mine!”  She storms out of the room in full Scottish fury.

Lady Cora is sewing when Baxter asks if she can speak with Daisy, who’s waiting outside the room.  Cora begins by stating she feels there is nothing she can do for Mr. Mason, decisions were probably made at the time of sale of the estate. Daisy touts Mr. Mason as being an experienced farmer and that any estate would be happy to have him as a tenant.  Cora asks if Mr. Mason would be willing to move, thinking about a possibly vacancy of the Drewe farm.  Daisy responds Mr. Mason would be willing to relocate.  Keeping her thoughts to herself, Cora tells the assistant cook she’ll see what she can do to help.

Mary and Anna meet with the London gynecologist who informs Anna her problem is “cervical incompetence.” This means she can become pregnant but has miscarriage because her cervix can’t support the weight of the developing fetus.  He informs them he can help by stitching her cervix when she becomes pregnant once again.  Anna is buoyed by this revelation.

Robert and Cora speak in their opulent bed.  He informs her them Mr. Drewe will not consider leaving.  Cora informs him Edith and Mary will be returning to Downton together, a rare occurrence.  Mary has two days to finish preparing the “Fat Stock Show.”  Robert speculates it will be a good way for the farming community and the house to “See we are on the same side.”  Cora muses, “I wish your mother could see we are on the same side.”  Robert confesses, “Mama is a law unto herself!”

Downstairs, Carson gives directions to the staff for the day of the Fat Stock Show.  Thomas wants to skip the affair if he doesn’t have to work.  Mr. Bates notices a change in Anna’s demeanor since she’s returned from London.  Carson asks Andy to assist with tea following the show, to Thomas’s annoyance.  Ms. Hughes says bitingly to her fiancé, “You’ll be there of course for Lady Mary and her pigs, that’s what matters!” Someone should inform Carson of the first rule of marriage, “Happy wife, happy life!”

The Fat Stock Show commences.  The Drewes arrive in a truck; most of the household is there to enjoy some free time.  Thomas watches Andy play a game and goes to join him. Andy quickly leaves Thomas alone.  Ms. Patmore tells Thomas to “Get a clue.”  Thomas is undaunted by Andy’s constant rejections.

Mr. Mason, Daisy and Molesley observe the livestock.  Despite his troubles, Mr. Mason says he’s not worried over his future.  Mrs. Drewe looks longingly at Marigold. Lord Merton chats with Lady Mary a moment regarding the hospital.  Mary seems to think Lord Merton may be able to change the Dowager’s mind about the idea.  She adds, “It’s what we’re (women) are known for.” (Lord knows Mary’s changed her mind a time or two.)

Robert says hello to Mrs. Drewe.  Carson decides to put his foot down on the plan for the reception.  He states, “The idea is sorted.  Mary and the house mean a great deal to me.”  Meanwhile, Mary has won first place for “her” pig.  Edith says, “Well done us!”  As she looks down however she notices Marigold is no longer with her.  The word spreads quickly and the crowd begins to search for the little girl.

Robert finds Mr. Drewe who confirms his wife is also missing and their truck is gone.  Robert calls off the search offering that Marigold was taken to the Drewe farm for her own safety.  Mary is upset, “Who will drive ME back home!”

The nervous Grantham’s arrive at the Drewe farm.  Mr. Drewe insists on dealing with his wife alone.  He finds her holding Marigold in the living area.  Mrs. Drewe tells him, “She was bored, and no one was paying any attention to her so I took her home.”  Mr. Drewe carefully approaches her and picks up Marigold with hardly a whimper from the child.

Mr. Drewe delivers Marigold into the grateful arms of her mother.  He tells Robert they will start looking for another tenancy.  Robert thanks the Drewe for all he has done for their family.  Mr. Drewe notes, “We made a plan but we forgot about emotion, it trips you up every time.”  The Drewes stare out the window as the family leaves with the girl they used to love and care for as their own daughter.  While appreciating the love Mrs. Drewe has for Marigold, we were lead to believe earlier they had five other children and were struggling to maintain their farm.  Her actions seem bizarre in the larger context, but this is Downton and there must be drama.

 Looking ahead to next week it appears the wedding is on, despite Ms. Hughes objections over the reception.  It seems that Anna may be in a family way again. Edith may have a new man in her life and Thomas seems more certain he’ll be sent packing soon.  This final season may provide some satisfying if somewhat predictable conclusions to many of our favorite characters lives, but some deaths and tragedies can be expected as well because drama never sleeps at Downton. Cheerio ‘til next week.

AHS Hotel Episode 11, Battle Royale

Hope you all had a nice holiday, now it’s time to forget about peace and love and get back to the horror and vampires lurking around the Hotel Cortez.  The last installment left several questions; is the Countess dead, who will Ramona eat now that the vampire kids have been consumed?

The episode opens a minute ahead the drama in the Countess’s penthouse.  Liz and Iris load two guns apiece resolved to finally kill the Countess.  Liz implores Iris to be sure she doesn’t survive this attack.  As they enter the room the bullets fly but Donavon stands in front of his lover shielding her from a fatal wound.  Distraught, Iris goes to her dying son.  He implores her, “Don’t let me die here, I don’t want to be trapped with all her other lovers.”  Liz is frustrated because the Countess has fled, but helps Iris drag her son outside.  Bleeding to death in the street, Donavon whispers “Mom, Thank you.”  Its all Iris ever wanted, to be needed by her only son. Iris cries but Donavon is at last free from the Hotel and the Countess.

With vampire speed, the Countess escaped the massacre and now lies bleeding in a dark room with Sally. Thanks to years of using herself as a human pincushion, Sally is able to stitch up the Countess’s multiple bullet wounds.  The Countess is surprised she is helping her at all. Sally, ever tearful, explains, “You can’t leave me, everyone always leaves me.” The Countess assures her she’s not going to die. Sally begins telling a story about her sad and desperate life.

In 1993, she met and played with some famous musicians. (Who were probably just using her for her dope connections.)? In the studio, the couple can’t concentrate on the making music because they’d rather be making love. Sally joins them to get high and have a party at the Hotel Cortez. Liz was at the reception desk and asked them for an extra deposit. They banter a bit about rock versus grunge and then head upstairs for an orgy of sex and drugs. Sally initiates them into her world, injecting them over and over. Finally, she has an idea for them to “stay together” and sutures herself to her new lovers.  The drugs were more then they could handle and both man and woman are foaming at the mouth, dying of overdose.  Ms. Evers pops in and cheerfully does nothing to help. Muttering about fecal stains, Ms. Evers exits the room after posting the “Do not disturb” sign.  Sally lies for days with the corpses until “creature” arrived and began to torture her to the point on insanity.  Sally ripped herself free from the sutures and “has been here ever since.”

The Countess scoffs, “You have serious abandonment issues!” Sally smiles, “That’s where you come in.” Sally demands the Countess help her get John back to the hotel. The Countess is weak, and fears she won’t recover without vampire blood.  She asks Sally to bring Donovan to her, so she can feed off him to heal.  Sally informs her Donavon is dead.  The Countess seems genuinely distraught.

Scarlet has rejoined her serial killer father and vampire mother and brother at their old house.  Scarlet is uneasy with her long lost brother and what he did to the family dog.  Alex tries to explain, “As long as we take our medicine, we’ll be healthy.”  The girl asks the obvious next question, “How?”  John assures his daughter he’ll take care of it. (Don’t ask for the details!)  The adults further impress on their daughter that Holden’s existence has to remain secret.

Sally has found an alternative to Donavon’s blood and brings the Countess two of her children. The Countess protests that taking their blood will kill them. Sally affirms there is no choice; her children will die soon anyway either from starvation or at the hands of Liz and Iris.  The children climb into their mother’s bloody embrace and tell her its okay.  The Countess weeps as Sally accesses the children’s veins.

Liz presents Iris with a coffee can containing Donavon’s remains.  She explains she was able to cremate him using the hotel’s furnace.  Iris is fearful the Countess is still alive; Liz assures her she will soon die.  Iris asks for a moment alone with her son’s remains.  Iris tearfully talks about her son’s mean and stubborn attitude, confessing she acquired those traits from her.  She pours out some cremains on the comforter, rubbing them into the fabric. (Will this cause Donavon to haunt the hotel?)

The Countess rises from bed; the bodies of her children lie lifeless.  Sally asks how she’s feeling. The Countess says simply, “Leave me alone.”

Ms. Evers knocks on Iris’s door and exclaims, “Looks like you’ve had a little accident here!”  Iris is covered in Donavon’s cremains but instructs the maid to clean up the mess with the vacuum.  Ms. Evers asks if she’ll be wanting the cremains back in the container, and Iris says no.  Iris walks up to the roof of the Cortez.  The wind gently blows the ashes from her face and body.

Coming back inside, Iris and Liz discuss what to do about the prisoner Ramona.  Liz insists that they need her to help finally kill the Countess. As the duo enters the darkened floor, they find the bodies of the vampire children.  Liz is shocked and shines her tiny CSI flashlight on the nearly dozen children and the body of Will Drake. Finding the Ramona’s cage empty, they start to run for the exit only to see Ramona in front of them.  Ramona is angry with Iris for locking her up and can’t wait to make her dinner.  Liz pleads for calm, explaining they are working against a common enemy.  Ramona states she “Ate something that didn’t agree with her.” (Her face appears to sport measles, damn you anti-vaxers!) Ramona doesn’t want to feed on “baby aspirin.”  Liz promises her she’ll find her a fresh meal.

Liz and Iris wonder how they will fulfill this promise as they descend to the lobby.  Waiting there is Queenie! (Oscar nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe)  Liz and Iris rush to greet her, Liz carries a baseball bat behind her back.  Queenie explains she’s there to win big on the “Price is Right!”  Liz recognizes her from CNN on a program about her and her coven.  Iris says, “I hope you didn’t have to marry Satan to join!” Queenie scoffs, “That’s actually ignorant and offensive, we were born this way!” (Cue Gaga anthem.) Queenie goes on to explain she is from an ancient bloodline. At the mention of blood, both Liz and Iris become giddy and lead her up to her room.

Queenie senses the room’s dark history and asks for another room. Iris lies and says they are almost at capacity but they’ll see what they can do, advising her to “freshen up.”  Reluctantly Queenie enters the bathroom to wash her face. Out of the bathtub comes ravenous Ramona, “When was the last time you saw a dermatologist, bitch?” Ramona goes to hurt Queenie only to discover she’s only hurting herself.  Queenie informs her, “You don’t know who you’re messing with, I’m a human voodoo doll!” (Nice to see these season 3 actresses reunited.)  Queenie proceeds to beat herself up, all the while causing damage to Ramona.  Ramona thirsts for the witch’s blood, believing it will make her strong.  Suddenly a dagger is plunged into Queenie’s heart by Mr. March.  He cheerfully explains her magic will not work on him because he’s a ghost.  Ramona asks who he is and what he wants.  He explains he needs Ramona to kill the Countess, in the hotel so she will be forced to dwell there forever, with him. He adds Ramona is the only one strong enough to kill the Countess. Ramona agrees while feasting on the witch.

John returns home, with groceries including a live terrified man in the trunk of his car.  John asks, “Have you taken any drugs in the last thirty days? I’m a cop, I could test you!”  Leaving the man behind, John finds his house empty.  He calls out and notices a hotel key dangling from a fixture.

John returns to the dark halls of the Cortez with his gun drawn.  He finds Sally sitting on the bed of his old room. He demands to know what she has done with his family. She denies having done anything, as she is bound to the hotel claiming it was March. Sally reminds John he promised March he’d do one last kill, ironically to represent the commandment, “Thou shall not commit murder.” John wonders where he’ll find a murderer. (In the mirror!) Sally laughs saying it won’t be so hard. His family’s safety depends on it.

Ramona has been revived by Queenie’s blood and looks splendid in a black evening gown borrowed from Liz.  Ramona feels strong and refuses Liz and Iris’s offer of weapons.  Iris informs her the Countess has never been weaker.

The Countess gingerly makes her way back to her suite. She steps over the broken glass, shattered in the attempt on her life. She finds her reserve blood and goes to pour herself a glass. Ramona appears in the doorway behind her. The Countess coos, “Its not the Shamilar that gives you away, it’s your blood. You’re the only woman whose blood smelled like walnuts.” (I’m allergic to walnuts myself!) The two vampires size each other up, flirting while calmly discussing the imminent demise of the one of them.  Ramona finally confesses it’s hard to stay angry with her while she is in the same room with her old lover.  The Countess offers, “Kill me, but screw me first.” The music plays and we assume the former lovers have one last time together.

The Countess has dressed in a long white coat complete and two bags to leave the Cortez.  As the elevator opens, John is waiting for her with a pistol.  He fires, killing her and ruining a super awesome coat.

John goes to the “trophy” room where he proudly displays his latest acquisition, the Countess’s head.  March comes behind him admiring his completion of the “Ten Commandment” murders.  Sally appears behind John, ready to kill him and seal him to the hotel forever.  March stops her, threatening to sick his “creature” on him if she continues to try and hurt John.  March needs John alive to do his further bidding. John resists both ghosts, demanding to be taken to his family.

Mr. March and Ms. Evers await the Countess.  March is concerned she will have difficulty adjusting to her new ghostly form and asks Ms. Evers to with him provide the Countess “ballast.”  March is upset his faithful maid has prepared chipped beef on toast for her first ghostly meal.  The Countess arrives, dressed beautifully in black but she admits to feeling “passionless.”  March assures her she’ll adjust and now that he has succeeded in capturing her, he’s ready to forgive her for turning him into the police.

The Countess denies having told on him, explaining if she wanted him dead, she would have simply killed him.  Ms. Evers makes a startling confession; she was the one who informed the police of his crimes.  She knew he would never be taken alive and wished to die beside him.  Ms. Evers gets down on her knees as she confesses her love for March.  At the end of her speech, she asks March to "Give me a word so that I may be happy!" He gives her two, "Get out!" She removes her pinafore and declares, "I feel strangly free."

The Countess watches the desperate woman with detached amusement.  She asks, "What will you possibly do?" Ms. Evers replies, "There are more stains in heaven and earth then are dreamt of in your philosophy." Having had the last word,  the maid has leaves.  March looks lovingly at the Countess, ecstatic that she must remain with him forever.  A single tear rolls down her face.

It’s near the end of the season and very little remains to be resolved.  With the Countess now a ghost, who will run the hotel?  Perhaps Ramona will take over? John resents being March’s puppet, but how can he and his family break free of the Cortez.  The Hotel remains its own character, with the power to pull and destroy all who enter.  Sadly, the world will never see Queenie win the “Showcase Showdown.” Will only the ghosts survive, who knew their power trumped all other super-naturals?  And will our dirty cop finally be caught? At least “Battle Royale” returned to the fun campy horror complete with cheesy dialogue which makes the series a fun abet sloppy ride to the finish.

Downton Abbey, Season 6, Premiere

The lavish melodrama enters its final season with pomp and popularity, almost unprecedented for a PBS show.  Viewers will return to see the final waltz of the characters we love and love to hate.  Just when it seems all the plots have been played out and resolved, Julian Fellows beacons us to consider the life of the gentry and servants for one last time.

The episode opens with the pageantry of a traditional English foxhunt.  Lord Grantham is in command in his bright red jacket.  Mary joins the men in her black riding uniform riding as the men do rather then side saddle, as her father would wish. Lady Cora informs Robert a board meeting of the hospital is coming up and he should be present.  A mysterious woman comes to the door; Carson instructs her to follow the hunting party.

Down in the kitchen, Ms. Patmore is entertaining little Marigold and George.  There is discussion regarding the upcoming nuptials between Ms. Hughes and Mr. Carson. After a moment spent looking at the hunting party, the inside story continues when Ms. Patmore follows Ms. Hughes upstairs.  The cook senses Ms. Hughes is nervous about something.  Ms. Hughes confesses she’s worried about her “wifely” duty as an inexperienced lady of a certain age.  Ms. Patmore confesses she’s a virgin too, and this conversation is very uncomfortable for both women.  Ms. Hughes is rather embarrassed to imagine being naked let alone making “the beast with two backs” despite her love for him.  She hopes Carson may not require this part of matrimony, and she wants Ms. Patmore to ask him!  (Quite an immature way to handle a mature subject, but they both hail from the Victorian era.) As Ms. Patmore heads back downstairs, she encounters Anna crying. Anna denies anything is wrong.

The hunt continues, or the riding of horses continues followed by the hounds.  The mystery woman watches Mary intently, and suddenly Mary falls from her horse.  The mystery woman smiles and makes eye contact with Mary.  Mary is muddy but unhurt.

In the drawing room, Edith speaks on the phone to the editor of her London paper. She confides to her mother she is disliked, as she is a female boss.

The board of trustees for the local hospital meet, including, Dr. Clarkson, the Dowager Countess and Lady Isobel.  The subject is whether to merge with the County hospital in York.  The Countess is against the idea; it will weaken the Grantham’s power over the hospital.  Lady Isobel thinks it will improve patient care and is willing to sacrifice her leadership position at the hospital for the betterment of the people.  The Dowager and Isobel have something to feud over for the season. Lord Merton supports Lady Isobel, but she openly scoffs at his support. (Poor Lord Merton.)

Lord Grantham and Mary return from the hunt.  The mystery woman approaches and introduces herself as Ellen Bereven, a chambermaid from a hotel in Liverpool.  This was the same hotel where Mary and Tony spent a week canoodling before she cast him off.  Ms. Bereven asks for one thousand pounds to keep this information secret.  Mary is upset but confidently asks her to go away, “You’re not the first person to try and blackmail me!”

Down in the kitchen, Thomas expresses fatigue from having to have entertained the little ones.  Mosley remarks how lucky Marigold is to have been plucked from the life of a farmer’s daughter to one of wealth.  Anna wonders if being wealthy is any guarantee of happiness. (Mary certainly is a good example of this!)  Anna is called upstairs to Mary.

Lord Grantham speaks to Carson about the “future staff requirements.”  Carson informs the Lord two maids have recently quit: one to get married and one to work in a store.  Carson reminisces about the “good old days” when their staff was much larger.  Lord Grantham notes they must “Keep up with the times.”  It seems he has finally learned what Branson was trying to impress upon him about saving the estate through change.

Lady Mary confides in Anna regarding the blackmail.  Her plan is to do nothing fearing if she consents to the demands, the woman will only come back for more. Anna confides the Mr. Green matter is still not completely resolved.  It weighs on her, but Mary senses Anna is upset about something else as well.  Anna remains mum.

In the kitchen, Ms. Patmore awkwardly asks to speak to Carson later.  She assures him it’s “Nothing bad!” His curiosity is peaked.  Bates and Anna share a private moment.  Anna breaks down when Bates mentions “All the children who need a home and all the homes, which need children.”  She confesses she’s had two miscarriages since they began trying to start a family. (As a modern woman, I can’t imagine not sharing this information with my husband.)  Bates lovingly assures her he could never be disappointed in her.  It’s a sweet moment for Downton's most tragic couple.

Upstairs at dinner Robert shares news of Branson and Cybil from Boston.  The Dowager theorizes he must feel like a “fish out of water” there.  Isobel disagrees, noting that because of the large Irish Boston population, he is rather “A fish IN water.”  It’s another opportunity for the women to argue, and soon the hospital is mentioned.  Mary notes the two women are in a “tug of war, and Dr. Clarkson is the rope.”  Poor Dr. Clarkson, will Isobel ever recognize how much he cares for her?

Ms. Patmore and Carson enter his office for the “talk.”  Ms. Patmore tries to suggest the taboo topic by asking him about, “The terms in which you intend to live.”  Carson thinks the subject is about what his habits are and he replies, “He’s not too old to change.”  Ms. Patmore suggests, “So you intend to share your way of life?”  Carson, not knowing what she means, agrees.  Ms. Patmore declares, “Good!” blushes furiously and leaves.

Robert has a conversation with his mother.  He wonders how long they can keep up the estate staff, noting wages have tripled since the end of the war and most estates are cutting back.  The Dowager is dismayed, “Why should people lose their lively-hoods simply because it has gone out of fashion?” (Meaning the service staff.) Robert wonders if they could find other work outside of service.  He knows he will have to make some cuts soon.  This conversation highlights the Fellows major theme for the series, the dying of the landed estate class.

In the library, Edith looks stunning in a gold gown, complete with a gold tiara.  She discusses the vacancy of Mr. Gregson’s former flat, and considers living there herself.  Mary, predictably, makes a sarcastic remark to her sister.  Robert asks what’s wrong, but receives no answer. (Has he not realized how much his daughters hate each other?)

Ms. Denker serves the Dowager back at her home.  The Dowager confides in her maid about the discussion she had with Robert regarding staff cuts.  Ms. Denker assures her she will keep this information secret.

In Downton’s kitchen, Ms. Beveren has returned, this time claiming to have a message from the Dowager Countess to be hand delivered to Lady Mary.  Ms. Hughes asks Ms. Patmore how her discussion went with Carson.  Ms. Patmore admits she wasn’t able to talk about the matter with him. 

Anna shows the blackmailing-maid up to Lady Mary’s chambers.  Lady Mary is horrified at the woman’s return, but asks for privacy.  Ms. Beveren swipes some toasts from Mary’s breakfast tray and declares, “You’re lot’s finished, our lots coming up!”  Mary still refuses to give her money and asks Anna to show her out.  Anna takes the woman out by the arm.  Anna clearly doesn’t get paid enough for dealing with Mary and her dirty laundry.

Dr. Clarkson speaks with Lady Crawley about the hospital matter.  He observes Lord Merton is on her side in support of the merger.  Dr. Clarkson is against the idea. Isobel insists the health of the patients comes first in her decision.

Andy informs the Bates Sergeant Willis has come regarding the Green case.  He tells them a woman claimed Mr. Green had assaulted her, and she pushed him in from of the bus to his death.  However, they still need to confirm the witness’s statement before the Bates will be exonerated.  Anna falls into despair again.

Carson and Robert share news about another estate which is being sold and its contents auctioned off. Mr. Mason, Daisy’s father-in-law, is a tenant of this estate and is unsure whether he’ll be allowed to remain on his land.  Carson implores Lord Grantham to have a word with the owner, Lord to Lord, to help the father of their former footman.

Carson and Ms. Hughes have a stunted conversation about the wedding date.  She states there is no hurry.  Ms. Denker arrives in the kitchen to taunt Downton’s staff about the proposed layoffs.  The staff are upset, especially Andy who was the last one hired and fears he’ll be the first to leave.  Ms. Patmore wonders why the Dowager has a “new maid.”  This unsettles the crafty Ms. Denker.  Thomas asks Carson privately what he knows about the coming changes to the staff.  Carson is mute.

Mr. Mason arrives to speak to Lord Grantham. Lord Grantham offers his sympathies but the new owners have already taken possession of the estate.  Robert is nostalgic as the families were good friends of the Crawleys.  He plans to go to the estate sale to perhaps procure a memento from their shared past.  Cora tells Robert the dispute between his mother and Lady Isobel is heating up. Robert notes, “No one stops her.” Cora smiles, “Yet.”

Ms. Denker is back at the Dowager’s home.  She shares the “secret” with Mr. Spratt regarding the rumored layoffs.  Ms. Denker relishes planting fear in the stuffy butler, stating, “The Lady will always need to dress.”  Implying his job may be in jeopardy.

Mary and Anna discuss the blackmail problem.  Anna encourages her not to give in to the woman, believing scandal is preferable to blackmail. (Having had experienced it with the late Mrs. Bates.) Anna offers her support, saying, “We’ll get through this together.” Despite their class differences, Anna and Mary are true friends.

Carson attempts to find out what Ms. Patmore was trying to say the previous night. He fears Ms. Hughes has changed her mind about the marriage.  Ms. Patmore still can’t speak about S-E-X.  She looks away and says, “She doesn’t want to appear ridiculous!”  She tries to tactfully elaborate about what Mr. Carson expects of Ms. Hughes in terms of performing “wifely duties.”  She asks whether he wants a “full marriage” or a companionship.

As the Bates leave Downton for the night, the subject of children comes up again.  Mr. Bates assures Anna having her is enough.  Anna is bitter and disappointed in herself. It is hard for her to not feel like a “failure” if she can’t become a mother, a feeling both ancient and modern.

Mr. Carson responds to Ms. Patmore, stating he does want a “full marriage.”  He thinks Ms. Hughes is “beautiful” but more importantly, he loves her.  Pained, he says if she doesn’t wish to marry him, so be it, but he loves her.  It’s a moving speech that should have been given to Ms. Hughes!

The Countess writes a letter while Spratt hovers nearby.  He asks if she will give him a timely notice, if she decides to terminate his employment.  The Countess wonders where he heard of this idea.  Spratt reveals Ms. Denker informed all the Downton staff earlier.  The Dowager smiles and says, “Leave it to me!”

Daisy asks Ms. Patmore if she can attend the estate sale with Mr. Mason.  Mosley informs Carson, “That maid is here again.” Carson goes to Ms. Beveren and advises her to make an appointment with Mary.  The impertentent maid shows herself into his Lordships library.  Scandalous!

Aunt Rosemund takes stock of Mr. Gregson’s former flat with Edith. She discusses the pros and cons of staying in London.  All Edith wants is a “bit of happiness.”  She confesses she doesn’t really know what she wants to do with her life but there seems to be a greater freedom if she were to live independently with her daughter in London.

Carson informs Mary upon her return that Ms. Beveren had paid a visit, and is still there! Mary goes to find the maid and her father in the library.  Robert hands the woman a check and she leaves.  Mary promises to pay her father back the thousand pounds.  He informs her, he only paid the woman fifty pounds, and got a signed confession regarding her blackmail.  If she appears again, he will give the confession to the police and she will be arrested.  Mary is impressed at her father’s Machiavellian thinking.  Her father confesses he’s disappointed in Mary but realizes she’s no longer a “debutant in her first season.”  He also did it to avoid upsetting Tony and Mabel; people Mary didn’t even consider part of her problem.  Robert tells Mary he hopes someone will come back into her life romantically.  He realizes his daughter is capable of running the estate.

Ms. Hughes apologizes to Ms. Patmore for putting her in the middle of her intimate problem.  She asks if Mr. Carson was vulgar about the topic, the cook replies, “Mr. Carson wouldn’t be vulgar if you put him on a seaside postcard!”  (A grand mental image of Carson in a twenties bathing costume made me smile.)

Edith tells her father she may be spending less time with them in the country.  He approves of her work in London and her striking out on her own.

Ms. Baxter and Thomas discuss the staff reductions.  They both feel vulnerable.

Lady Isobel stops by the Dowager’s home to see if she is going to the estate auction. Violet declines the invitation, thinking it would be depressing to look upon a mountain of items for sale.  Isobel can’t resist a jab, “We differ when it comes to the importance of things.”  Violet counters, “Does it ever get cold up there on the moral high ground?” Isobel wants peace when it comes to the hospital issue.  The Dowager recalls the Mallerton estate and how they loved to entertain royalty.  The Countess looks at Ms. Denker and adds, “I shall miss you!” This throws the maid into a panic and she hurries away.  Isobel is confused; is Violet really thinking of letting her lady maid go?  The Dowager confesses, “Sometimes its good to rule by fear!”

A parade of shiny cars makes its way to the Mallenton estate.  Edith says something in Latin roughly like, “All life is change.”  Mary chides her sister, “Will you be this philosophical when it’s our turn?”  Robert offers condolences to the Lord of the manor.  Mallerton admits he hung on until there was nothing left.  (Clearly he’s trying to warn the Crawley’s to not make his same mistakes.)

Mr. Mason and Daisy tour the house.  As a tenant, Mr. Mason only had seen certain parts of the house on special occasions.  He looks at some of the objects and describes their history to her.  Daisy becomes enraged and approaches the new owners about her father-in-law’s plight.  Robert and Cora try to stop her, but her outburst probably has cost Mr. Mason any hope of continuing his tenancy on the estate.  The former owner Mallerton reflects all this estate lifestyle will be over in twenty years. (This is fairly accurate, after the Second World War, most of these estates were sold off.)

Back home in the kitchen at Downton, Daisy realizes the gravity of her mistake.  She fears she will be terminated.  Sgt.  Willis has arrived, this time to inform the Bates, that along with the confession, a witness has confirmed the woman’s story. The Bates thank Baxter and Mosley for their help. Carson suggest Robert break out some champagne to celebrate the matter.  The Robert and Cora join the staff for a toast in the kitchen.  It is explained the woman will go to prison, but not receive the death penalty.  Mr. Bates dances with Anna, stating how happy he is to be safe, free and with her.

Robert and Cora snoop around the kitchen and look at the new refrigerator.  Robert remembers the cook hiding biscuits for him.  Carson approaches Robert and asks what he should do about Daisy; her offense is grounds for dismissal.  Robert doesn’t want to damper the party and advises Carson to punish her, short of firing her.  Cora adds he must, “Control her!” Cora tells Robert “Your mom is wrong about the hospital.”

Carson goes to Daisy and tells her she should feel “small, immature and foolish.” He adds Lady Crawley has given her a second chance.

Finally, Ms. Hughes and Mr. Carson speak. Carson is crestfallen at the thought she has changed her mind about marrying him. Ms. Hughes confesses she’s concerned she won’t please him. Mr. Carson assures her she does please him. Ms. Hughes says, “Then you can have me, warts and all!”

The foundation has been laid for the final chapter.  The episode foreshadows the possible demise of Downton, and the separation of the family.  Strangely, Robert seems to have embraced the idea of the changing times.  He blesses both his daughters in their quests to become managers in their own right. However, tiresome elements have carried over from previous seasons.  The old threats of scandal and blackmail continue to plague Mary.  The older ladies Isobel and Violet thrive on making each other miserable.  And, Daisy and Ms. Denker continue to say and do things without thinking.  The costumes and the cinematography do allow one to overlook these flaws.  I’ll take the final season of Downton, “warts and all.”