***SPOILERS***
Set several month after the end of episode 8, the family is going to the Highlands to visit Shrimpy (Marquess of Flintshire and cousin to Robert) and his family. We have already been introduced to his daughter Rose (portrayed by Lily James). Despite encouragement to stay behind as she is 8 months pregnant, Mary insists on going with the family. Some of the servants go as well (Anna, Bates, O'Brien). However, most of the servants stay behind to clean up the manor while the family is gone. In addition, Tom Branson stays behind as he is not invited. This separation allows for the dual storyline format, where the events of one does not truly effect the other. The servants work hard, but do get to enjoy a faire. Where we see Mrs. Patmore get woo'ed. We also see (dare I say it) nice side to Thomas. However, the relationship between Branson and Edna was just difficult to believe. While introducing the difficulty in faces in his new place in the world is important and understandable, the interaction with Edna is harder to believe. It is as Mrs. Hughes said, he did not discourage her either and I just did not find it believable. Call me a romantic.
Now the episode was generally overflowing with happiness and love. Yes Shrimpy obviously does not have a good relationship with his wife, but that just goes to show Robert how lucky he is. Plus Mary being pregnant is a very joyous occasion. We had just seen her in episode 8, telling Matthew she had gotten surgery to fix whatever was effecting her ability to conceive. However, her choice to go with the family left me constantly worried about her. I was sure something would go wrong. After all things are just too happy. And I know Christmas episodes usually leave you more desperate for the second half of a season.
Instead the story moves to more love. Edith has again found a man inappropriate for her, but this time its even more so. He has a wife that is declared insane, but he is unable to divorce her. Poor Edith, will they not just let her find love with someone she can marry? Anna and Bates show us again why they are the representation of a perfect relationship (now that he's not in jail anymore). Over all, everything is happy. Mary gives birth and it's a boy. There is finally an heir!!! All is well, the special has less than a minute left in it. What could possibly go wrong?
Matthew Dies. He has just met his son and is driving home excitedly and gets into a car accident with a van. And he dies! All the cheerful and lack of true plot movement of this episode makes sense as it has left you so lethargic that it is impossible to be prepared for the image of Matthew dead.
