PBS' Downton Abbey continues to draw interest for its fourth season, which won't be coming out in the U.S. until early 2014.

The program recently released a 10-second teaser for its upcoming installment. Although the footage doesn't reveal too much from a visual standpoint, it does feature the likes of Dowager Countess (Maggie Smith).

A set of doors reveal a white light, as the countess gives a mystery person the following message:

"You have a straightforward choice before you. You must choose either death or life," she said.

While none of the characters are shown, she seems to be relaying the respective message to Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), who will be grieving the death of her hubby Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens), who died abruptly in a car accident to end season 3.

Mary had given birth to a baby boy when Matthew unsuccessfully attemped to commute to his wife's side. What was supposed to be a momentous occasion clearly turned tragic. The unideal scenario will serve as a focal point for its fourth season.

Two lead actors set to make their exit from show?

Downton Abbey is set to launch in the U.S. on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014, and run until Sunday, February 23, 2014. Be sure to keep checking back for more of the latest details on the TV series. The latest scoop on the upcoming season can be viewed below.

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Downton abbey, PBS, Television, ITV