DOWNTON ABBEY Season 3 Discussion Thread - SPOILERS WITHIN — Page 2

So...... that new footman that O'Brien was very protective of. Why do I sense possible familial relations between those two?

I might be misreading your question, but it was established early in the episode that it was her nephew. Or do you mean you think they are doing it?

Updated On: 9/17/12 at 09:50 PM

I did miss the nephew part but the soap part of me was thinking that she was being more maternal than anything else which is a real change to O'Brien all things considered.

She became so protective of Cora after causing her miscarriage at the end of season 1, and was very compassionate to Mr. Lang when she recognized that he was shell shocked (like her brother had been). So I think that O'Brien has proven herself to be very maternal and protective of people she cares about.

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Probably a little of both. She's already tried to get Thomas to teach him how to be a valet.

I live for Maggie Smith. I honestly wonder if I could ever like Penelope Whilton in anything she ever plays again. Between The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and DA, I cringe when she opens her mouth.

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My New favorite catch phrase

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I loved it too, a definite return to form!

Pure speculation on my part, but I think Thomas will fall for O'Brien's nephew or engage in some sort of nocturnal activity with him...I feel it in my waters! He's due some fun in that department.

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I liked this description of tonight's episode:

"The Dowager launches a charm offensive, which, inevitably, has more offence than charm.

It's weird that it's not up on my normal site, but PB got it up there fast!

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Love all of the Matthew and Mary scenes with them lazing so comfortably in bed together.

Maggie had me laughing out loud with just her facial expressions in the last ten minutes.

Shirley was marvelously brusque.

Matthew needs a good slap.

And I guess from the discussion about Cora's brother, that we're going to see him before long. Any thoughts on casting?

Episode two was equal parts amazing and devastating.


semi-spoilerish plot discussion below---


































The Edith/Anthony scenes were so sweet - I was never sure if he was just being polite or if he actually cared about her.

Martha Levenson leading the gang in group sing and munchies was glorious.



I, too, wish Matthew would wise up and stop clinging to his views on "honor" - he's in a position to help the woman and family he's come to love - also, staff would have to be drastically cut and he can help avoid this.

Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Patmore attempting to go about business as normal when they are both in possession of such a secret was great television. Mrs. P is so hilariously dramatic!

Phyllis Logan has some gut wrenching scenes ahead this season, I feel. What an actress!

Can't wait until the next installment.

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Updated On: 10/15/12 at 10:56 PM

Really? I thought everyone loved Bates. It would be a twist if it turns out he really did kill his ex wife. However, they mentioned last season that she had been having an affair. I suspect it was her lover who killed her,but that is just a guess.You may get your wish but I think it would be more tragic if turns out Bate is in fact guilty afterall.Some people feel Thomas is somehow involved but I can't see how.

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Look at the times also. Nowadays if ANYONE was in Matthew's position they would feel no guilt taking the money. Back then men were gentlemen and they took honor very seriously.I have a feeling Edith's new husband is going to save Downton. Either he helps out or he dies and leaves everything to Edith who in turn saves the family.This could lead to tension between Edith and Mary.Then again, who knows?Maybe they end up buying a smaller estate.

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