cont.
The hierarchy of the RCC and its faithful Carsons are the "Last Hurrah" of pre-twentieth century aristocratic Europe.
 
Carson: "Why does everyone talk as if we don't live in the modern world?"
Mrs. Hughes: "You don't agree with that, then?"
Carson: "No! Does the King not live in the world of today?  Does Mr. Sargent not paint modern pictures?  Does Mr. Kipling not write modern books?"

Carson: " I don't know. Screaming in the servants' hall, singers chatting to his lordship, and a footman cooking the dinner.  What a topsy-turvy world we've come to." 
Mrs. Hughes: "I think it's exciting. We're catching up, Mr. Carson. Whether you like it or not, Downton is catching up with the times we live in."
Carson: "That is exactly what I am afraid of."

From: Fellowes, Jessica "The Wit and Wisdom of Downton Abbey"