American fans of the British TV series Downton Abbey are still recovering from the tragic season three finale, but it's time to pull ourselves together as the show returns to the States Jan. 5 on PBS at 9 p.m. EST.
Last season there had been many emotional ups, like Matthew and Mary's long-awaited big day, and downs, including multiple untimely deaths. But the complex characters and sharp-tongued dialogue — especially when it comes out of Lady Violet's mouth — continue to make the series stand out. The women of Downton, both upstairs and down, have plenty of wise and witty words to say on life, love, and being a woman. To celebrate the premiere, check out some of our favorites from season three now.
"You know, the trouble with you lot is that you're all in love with the wrong people."
"You’ve obviously read too many novels about young women admired for their feistiness."
"With good friends like you, I enjoy my life as it is, and I wouldn’t want to risk things by changing it."
"Darling, this isn’t 1850. No one expects me to hide indoors until the baby is born."
"No one can accuse me of being modern, but even I can see it’s no crime to be young."
"No man’s wanted to squire me since the Golden Jubilee. Even then, he expected me to buy the drinks."
"What I see is a good man, m'lady. And they're not like buses. There won't be another one 'round in 10 minutes time."
Daisy: "You've still kept me here with a dishonest representation."
Mrs. Patmore: "Oh dear, have you swallowed a dictionary?"
"Some animals adapt to new surroundings. It seems a better choice than extinction."
Matthew: "I doubt I'll get used to taking you to bed with your father watching."
Mary: "He's so relieved we're getting married, he wouldn't mind if you carried me up naked."
Matthew: "Careful, I might try it."
Matthew: "You looking forward to the wedding?"
Mary: "What do you think?"
Matthew: "I'm looking forward to all sorts of things."
Mary: "Don't make me blush."
"Come war and peace, Downton still stands and the Crawleys are still in it."
Cora: "You don't have to give money after every conversation."
Martha: "No, isn't that what the English expect of rich Americans?"
"I know mine was a wild runaway marriage, darling. And yours is the one that everyone wanted. What's so thrilling is that this is every bit as romantic."
Mr. Carson: "Alfred has embarrassed the family. He forced Mr. Matthew to appear downstairs improperly dressed."
Miss O'Brien: "Oh! You make it sound quite exciting."
Martha: "Oh dear, I'm afraid the war has made old women of us both."
Violet: "Oh, I wouldn't say that, but then I always keep out of the sun."
"An aristocrat with no servants is as much use to the county as a glass hammer."
"Do you? Because if you try to find one more excuse, I'll have to beat you about the head."
Isobel: "No, no, I prefer it. I've ridden in the front seat many times."
Violet: "Well, aren't you the wild thing."
Cora: "You are being tested. And you know what they say, my darling. Being tested only makes you stronger."
Edith: "I don't think it's working with me."
Anna: "What would you like me to get you?"
Edith: "A different life."
Lady Violet: "Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute is no for wit."
Sybil: "Well, you started it."
"No, I'm a useful spinster, good at helping out. And spinsters get up for breakfast."