Rose, in episode 5 of "Downton Abbey" Season 5, is going to meet a new man called Atticus. This "handsome stranger" is likely to sweep her off her feet. In the last episode, Rose learned that her parents are divorcing. She asked her father to give her the "blank cheque," the freedom to choose her husband, so that her marriage does not end up like her parents. The introduction of Atticus holds promise of a new love. There is also the possibility of another new love story.

In the last episode, Lord Merton proposed to Isobel. He told her that he is not proposing because he is lonely but because he has romantic feelings for her. The lady said that she would think about his proposal. Violet, however, will try to stop Isobel from taking a wrong decision [like accepting Lord Merton's proposal], she will bring Doctor Clarkson to complicate things. However, according to the synopsis of the episode, things do not go as planned. There is a possibility that Isobel may accept Lord Merton's proposal.

Lady May and Lord Gillingham's story is unlikely to get a happy ending. In the last episode, Lord Gillingham refused to accept Mary's decision to reject his marriage proposal. He could not believe that Mary is rejecting him after their secret Liverpool trip. He was sure about their feelings for each other. Lord Gillingham was determined to make Mary accept his proposal.

It looks like Charles Blake may help Mary get out of this situation. According to the synopsis of the episode, "... in London, Charles Blake surprises Mary with a cunning plan to help her get exactly what she wants."

Also in episode 5, Simon Bricker once again arrives in Downton. It looks like Robert is not present when he returns to discuss the painting with Cora. Bricker has been showering Cora with attention and is also making her feel appreciated. This has annoyed Robert and if he catches Bricker flirting with Cora, that is likely to put an end to Simon's visits to Downton. The synopsis indicates that Bricker's flirting may cross the line in episode 5.

Meanwhile, it looks like Tom and Sarah are going in different directions in episode 5 of "Downton Abbey" Season 5. The last week episode saw Tom telling Sarah that he loves Robert and the family and he wanted her to be a little considerate. But, Sarah and Robert ended up having another round of argument at the dinner table. Robert stormed off after saying that Sarah is no longer welcome. The synopsis says, "Branson makes a difficult decision about Sarah Bunting."

Also in episode 5, Inspector Vyner will be returning with "some ominous words of warning for Anna," according to the synopsis of the episode.