‘Downton Abbey’ season 3 spoilers: What to expect in episode 7

Now that we are just a day away from Sunday night’s new “Downton Abbey,” it really feels like time to take one final look at the second-to-last episode of the season (at least if you don’t factor in the Christmas special). Bates will be back, Edith will face a tough decision, and Robert is going to have to learn to swallow his pride.

But what can you really expect to happen during this hour? Here’s what we can tell you. First and foremost, tensions between Robert and Matthew will be at a high, but then again, Robert has been at just about everyone’s last nerve lately with his arrogance and feelings about Ethel working at Isobel’s and talking to some members of his staff. He’s also been greatly opposed to baby Sybil getting a Catholic christening; and while we cannot confirm with 100% certainty that Tom Branson will win out in the battle of the religions, there will indeed be a christening this week. We will also meet Tom’s brother, and this will come with some issues of its own that may or may not be similar to what Tom himself faced earlier this year.

As for what is happening with the crew downstairs, it’s not going to be all roses for Bates upon his return, as this in itself will yield to a transition phase … and you also have to wonder how he is going to explain to Anna how he managed to get out of there. The love triangle for Alfred, Ivy, and Jimmy will continue, and the latter will also be spending a good bit of time with Mrs. O’Brien this week. Why? We can’t tell you that, but it will be interesting to watch.

Want to find out more about this episode?