Positive:
* Loving: Mary deeply loves her husband Patrick. This is evident in her actions throughout the story, particularly her initial reaction to his news.
* Devoted: She is entirely devoted to her husband, putting his needs and desires above her own.
* Caring: She cares deeply for Patrick and his well-being, as shown by her concern for his mood and her willingness to provide him with comfort.
* Domestic: Mary embodies the traditional image of a 1950s housewife, focused on household tasks and caring for her husband.
* Charming: She is portrayed as attractive and charming, able to manipulate others with her seemingly innocent demeanor.
Negative:
* Manipulative: Mary uses her perceived innocence and charm to deceive others, including the police.
* Deceptive: She hides her true nature and intentions behind a facade of normalcy.
* Murderous: This is the ultimate adjective describing Mary's act, though she conceals this nature for much of the story.
* Calculating: She carefully plans and executes the murder, demonstrating a cold and calculated side.
* Unpredictable: Despite her initial portrayal as a sweet and harmless housewife, Mary's true nature is revealed to be unpredictable and dangerous.
Other:
* Passive: Initially, Mary appears passive and submissive, accepting her husband's decisions without question.
* Fragile: She projects an image of vulnerability and weakness, which she skillfully uses to her advantage.
* Intelligent: Despite her seemingly docile nature, Mary is intelligent and cunning, able to outsmart the police and escape detection.
It's important to note that the portrayal of Mary Maloney is complex and open to interpretation. Some readers may see her as a victim of circumstance, while others might view her as a calculating and manipulative murderer. The story invites readers to consider the complexities of human nature and the potential for darkness even in seemingly innocent individuals.