"Downton Abbey" is nearing its end. Season 6 episode 4 continues the drama as it sees both Mary (Michelle Dockery) and Anna (Joanne Froggatt) run into a sudden emergency on their way to London. At the same time, as per the official synopsis from PBS, the episode will also see the return of two characters from the series' past.
Mary and Anna will be rushing to the hospital right as Anna begins labor. Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle) is more than delighted to learn about his wife's pregnancy but things get tense as the doctor begins Anna's surgery. The doctor also promises Mary to do everything possible in order to save the child.
As Mary deals with Anna's labor problems she will also run into Henry Talbot (Matthew Goode), the racecar driver and Mary's old friend. Henry will not be alone as he will also be accompanied by his aunt, Lady Shackleton (Harriet Walter).
Henry's intention is to court Mary while Lady Shackleton was invited over by Violet (Maggie Smith), who wants to gain Lady Shackleton's favor in regards to the hospital merger. The episode will see Violet explain that she believes the merger should not happen, believing that the government should allow the locals to continue governing themselves.
Unfortunately for Henry, it appears that his efforts to woo Mary will go in vain.
The other surprise return is that of Gwen (Rose Leslie). She is now married to Mr. John Harding (Philip Battley) and is no longer a housemaid, now risen above the ranks. The preview trailer for the episode shows her visiting Lady Rosamund (Samantha Bond), a visit in which Thomas (Robert James-Collier) will attempt to embarass her.
Despite this, the rest of the family will congratulate Gwen for her achievements and will not look down on her for her humble beginnings.
"Downton Abbey" season 6 episode 4 airs on PBS this coming Jan. 24.
