Ep 3. Season 6, Episode 3

After five seasons of heart-warming drama and enthralling storylines, Downton Abbey returns for its sixth and final season. The entire cast and crew return for one last hurrah, promising fans an explosive and thrilling finale. Season 6, Episode 3 continues the saga of the Crawley family and their entourage in the 1920s.

The episode starts off with the staff of Downton still reeling from the news of Carson's retirement, and it seems as though they're lacking a sense of direction without their beloved butler around. There's a sense of anticipation in the air as the family members await the arrival of Bertie Pelham, who will be staying at the Downton estate for a weekend hunting trip. Lady Mary is dealing with the aftermath of Edith's secret becoming public knowledge, and she's unsure of how to approach the situation with Henry Talbot. Meanwhile, Edith is still struggling with her emotions and trying to adjust to life as a single mother.

Elsewhere, the hospital in Downton faces closure as its funding is cut. Violet Crawley is determined to do everything in her power to prevent it from happening, and she enlists Isobel Crawley's help in the fight. The two formidable women start working together, but soon they realize they'll need a miracle to make a real difference.

Over in the Servants' Quarters, Carson's replacement, Mr. Barrow, is finding that he has quite the uphill battle to climb if he wants to earn the respect of the staff. It seems like none of them are willing to accept him as the new butler, and he's starting to understand just how much work Carson's shoes are to fill.

As the hunting weekend progresses, we see the family members and their guests indulging in some boisterous and competitive shooting. There's a sense of camaraderie in the air as they enjoy each other's company, but things take a turn when an unexpected guest arrives at Downton. Lady Mary is forced to confront her feelings for Henry Talbot when he shows up unannounced, and the two of them have a conversation that could change everything.

Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the Servants' Quarters as Mr. Barrow begins to feel the sting of isolation. He's starting to realize that he's not as liked as Carson was, and it's taking a toll on his work. However, there's someone who seems to be willing to befriend him, and it's none other than Mrs. Baxter. The two of them start to develop a tentative partnership, and it's clear that they both need someone to confide in.

As the episode progresses, we see some of the tension in the family members' relationships starting to dissipate. Edith and Mary have a heart-to-heart, and we see them finally starting to understand each other's perspectives. Tom Branson is back, and he's brought his daughter Sybbie with him. It's clear that he's still struggling with the loss of his wife, and we see him opening up to his cousin Mary.

Finally, the episode comes to an unexpected conclusion, as the news of a family member's accident sends shockwaves through Downton Abbey. The Crawleys are faced with yet another obstacle, and it seems as though they'll need to band together to overcome it. Season 6 Episode 3 ends with a sense of uncertainty as the family members come to terms with this new turn of events.

Overall, Season 6 Episode 3 of Downton Abbey is everything fans have come to love about the show. It's heart-warming, dramatic, and character-driven, with plenty of new challenges and twists along the way. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this episode is sure to keep you hooked until the very end.