‘Downton Abbey’ season 4, episode 2 preview: Matthew’s letter; a fight; Robert’s stubbornness

Next week on “Downton Abbey,” the intrigue for the series is going to start almost right away with a metaphorical ghost from the past: Matthew, possibly arriving in letter form. (Warning: If you’re waiting to watch the American airing of the season unspoiled, stop reading now.)

The first preview for the next new episode teases what will be a few major events, but we appreciate first of all the series not suddenly pretending as though Dan Stevens was never a part of the show. We always find that to be incredibly infuriating, as many series pretend that a death never even took place and just jump into whatever is next.

Meanwhile, this episode will also present a struggle for Robert that should feel very familiar to many longtime fans: He prefers things to be his way rather than the changing times’, and it poses a problem when dealing with the estate. Was he trying to protect Mary during the premiere by keeping her out of matters related to the estate? Certainly by his logic, but he was also acting out of a stubborn desire to ensure that he was the one in control of what unfolds at the Abbey.

There is also going to be another trip to London, with Lady Rose joining in, that is going to end with some very grave circumstances: A fight of some sort. This event closed out the promo that aired following the premiere, and there is so little footage of it for now to really understand all of what is taking place.

What do you want to see take place on “Downton Abbey” next week? Be sure to share below! Meanwhile, click here if you want to read a full review of the premiere. We will have a video for the promo soon, and there will also be some other events worthy of discussion.

Photo: ITV, video via SpoilerTV