Downton Abbey, Season Two, Episode Seven

This show is one of my favorites. As always, there is lots of conflict and I have become invested in all of the characters, even those that are creating the conflict. As always… There will be spoilers. Lots and lots of horrible, wonderful spoilers.

Episode Six left us with the news that Mrs. Bates is dead. In Episode Seven, we find out that Mrs. Bates wasn't murdered, but committed suicide. However, all the evidence is starting to look like Bates killed her and made it look that way. Anna believes he is innocent and, as a viewer, I believe that Mrs. Bates is evil enough to set Bates up that way. But I am still not sure if Bates killed her or Mrs. Bates is using her suicide to screw him over once again. I can't wait to see how this resolves.

As everyone else adjusts quickly to life after the war, Lord Grantham becomes more depressed as he searches for a purpose for his life. His days are aimless and at one point, he comes on to the new housemaid...I hated this scene. It felt so out of character for him. He is a good man who loves his wife and I hope they leave that storyline alone in future episodes.

And since I’m sure you’re all curious about the scheming footman… Thomas's schemes have gotten bigger. In this episode, he spends all his money buying cooking supplies, because they are in high demand everywhere. He is devastated to learn that he was sold flour that was mixed with plaster dust and an assortment of equally useless products. He now has nothing, except debts and no idea what to do about it. I really enjoyed this story line, because I felt he got what was coming to him, but at the same time I was able to feel real sympathy for him. I also thought the scene where he destroys all of his products was beautifully acted.

Other moments worth mentioning: Matthew can walk! I adore Lavinia, but I so want Matthew to end up with Mary. It broke my heart when Lady Mary was mean to Carson, he adores her and has since she was a child. Ethel breaks into the house and ruins a luncheon with the dead major's parents. I seriously hope this plot line is done.

Because it is more important than the scheming footman moments, the Love Report: Lady Mary now realizes what a horrible person Sir Richard is, but is in too deep to get out of it. Besides, Matthew has recovered and decided to marry Lavinia as soon as he is well enough to walk down the aisle. I can't wait to see how this is resolved, but for the time being, the most important thing is that Lady Sybil said yes to Branson. They run away to elope, but Mary and Edith stop them and bring her home. I think it left Branson a bit broken hearted, but she does still intend to marry him, she is just going to tell her parents first and do it in the daylight.

Only two episodes left and knowing that I will get to the end is killing me a little bit.