This article discusses Cora's plan for Lady Edith and her daughter Marigold in Season 5 of the television show Downton Abbey. Cora, the Countess of Grantham, comes up with a plan to protect her daughter's secret by bringing Marigold back to the estate.

In Season 5, viewers discover that Lady Edith has secretly given birth to a daughter named Marigold, following a brief affair with Michael Gregson, a newspaper editor who went missing in Germany. Lady Edith is torn between her love for her child and the social consequences of being an unwed mother.

Cora, understanding the gravity of the situation, devises a plan to protect Lady Edith and her daughter. She suggests that Lady Edith brings Marigold back to Downton Abbey and pretends that she is the daughter of one of the tenants. By doing so, Cora hopes to shield Lady Edith from judgment and allow her to raise Marigold in a loving environment.

Cora's plan is met with mixed reactions from the family. Lady Violet, the Dowager Countess, initially opposes the idea, believing that it will only bring scandal to the family. However, Cora and her husband, Lord Grantham, believe that it is crucial to keep the family together and support Lady Edith.

As the plan unfolds, Lady Edith introduces Marigold as the daughter of a tenant farmer who tragically passed away. Cora, along with Lord Grantham and the rest of the family, play along to maintain the secret. While some members of the household suspect something is amiss, the majority fall for the ruse.

The main challenge arises from Mr. Drewe, the farmer who has taken Marigold in as his ward after the death of his wife. He becomes deeply attached to the child and repeatedly asks Lady Edith if he could adopt her. Lady Edith, torn between her love for Marigold and her fear of being exposed, consistently refuses his offers.

Eventually, the secret starts to unravel. Mrs. Drewe begins to suspect the true identity of Marigold, which worries Lady Edith immensely. Things come to a head when Mrs. Drewe confronts Lady Edith about Marigold's true parentage, forcing Lady Edith to confess.

Despite the challenges and risks, Cora's plan ultimately brings Lady Edith and Marigold closer to the family. The love and support they receive at Downton Abbey help them weather the storm. Cora's role in the plan showcases her loyalty and dedication to her family, as she goes to great lengths to protect Lady Edith and secure a safe and loving environment for Marigold.