This is 100% true, and also has the best love scene imo (the one on the train) in all of period dramas (cry and weep, P&P). Perfect amount of restrained affection that resolves beautifully the tension of the piece.
Every few days there’s someone asking what the top period drama is for male yearning and every time the top answer is North & South. No one’s done it better, no one’s going to do it better.