Cora Crawley quotes from Downton Abbey

Lady Mary Crawley

People like us should lead the fight to keep tradition going.

Isobel Crawley

If you mean we can never change, I can't agree.

Nor me. Accepting change is as important as defending the past.

Lady Mary Crawley

The role of houses like Downton is to protect tradition. That's why they're so important to maintain.

They didn't try to stop me, but it doesn't mean they won't come after us. Unless Papa can persuade them otherwise.

Tom, how could you have left her all alone to fend for herself?

It wasn't like that. We thought this might happen and we decided what to do. The question is: What now?

You mustn't travel anymore. Not before the baby's born.

But Tom wants it to be born in Dublin.

Tom Branson

She's so beautiful. Oh, my darling, I do love you so much.

I just want to sleep really.

Of course you do. You've earned it. She's a wonderful baby.

Mama.

Yes, my darling?

Tom is thinking of taking a job in Liverpool and going back to being a mechanic. But it wouldn't be right for him. He needs to move forward.

Lady Mary Crawley

Sybil! She can't hear me. Sybil! Sybil, it's Mary! Can you hear me!?

It looks as if...

It look as if what!?

This is eclampsia.

It cannot be. Sir Philip, you were so sure!

Matthew Crawley

This is unbelievable. Somebody do something!

The human life is unpredictable!

But you were so sure!

You're very good to play.

Tom Branson

Don't know why I made such a fuss about it. Can I ask you something?

Of course.

Tom Branson

If I were to say I'd live with you while Sybbie's little, that we wouldn't move out until she's older, would you mind?

I should be delighted. And I know it's what Sybil would want.

Tom Branson

I think you're right.

We knew things we awkward between them. but now that I'm here, I don't think Susan handles it very well.

But it's so complicated with a young daughter who's so full of new ideas. She thinks you're fighting her when all the time you're just frightened and...I'm sorry.

We all miss her. Every single day.

Your ladyship! I didn't see you there.

Obviously not.

I was just--I was just having a game with Miss Sybbie.

I want you to pack tonight and leave first thing in the morning.

But your ladyship--

Please put Master George back into his crib. You are not to touch the children again.

Mrs. Hughes

Oh, I thought it was Nanny West ringing.

No. Mrs. Hughes, Nanny West is leaving. Can you find her a bed for the night and ask one of the maids to sleep with the children?

But, your ladyship, I was only joking!

Please, Miss West, I prefer not to discuss it. Except to say that your values have no place in a civilized home. Now Mrs. Hughes, I will wait here while Nanny West packs. You will fetch a maid and prepare a room. You understand me? Miss West is not to be left alone with the children, not for one minute.

It turns out Miss West is quite unsuitable as a nanny. She's leaving today.

What?! Not another one!

Lady Rose McClare

What's a group noun for suitors?

What do you think, a desire?

Lady Rosamund Painswick

A desire of suitors. Very good.

Lady Mary Crawley

If you're going to talk nonsense, I have better things to do.

You're back. I can't believe it.

If you knew how many times I'd imagined this scene.

She's just rung up and asked herself for tea!

Do people think we're a public house on the Great North Road?

I must remember to organize a car to meet Charles Blake and his friend. They'll be here at tea time.

Do people think we're some sort of hotel who never presents a bill?

You've already made that joke.

Who was that on the telephone?

Simon Bricker.

Oh God. What does he want?

I shall answer without commenting on your tone. He wants to have the painting photographed for his book.

Edith is obsessed with that child.

She's a dear little thing.

So she is. But as a matter of fact, there is something about her.

About Marigold? What?

I don't know. A sense of déjà vu. Can't quite put my finger on it.

I've realized today what it is about Marigold that keeps catching my eye.

Oh, yes? What's that?

She reminds me of Michael Gregson. Just tell me if I'm wrong.

You're not wrong. Don't tell Edith you've guessed.

Why not? It certainly makes things a little clearer than they were.

Just don't, not yet. Mary doesn't know either nor Tom. Please let it be Edith's secret a little while longer.

Very well. I must say it's an unusual sensation to know there's a secret in this house I'm actually privy to. But I'll be silent if you wish.

And you'll love her? Your new granddaughter?

I think, and perhaps to my surprise, I rather think I will.