Final answer:
Teddy's mother in the excerpt serves as a motherly figure and caregiver, expressing gratitude towards Rice for saving her family and ensuring his well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the story excerpt provided, Teddy's mother is depicted as being extremely grateful and tender towards Rice, the character who saved her life and that of her family. Teddy's mother, by expressing profound gratitude and ensuring that Rice is well cared for, takes on the role of a motherly figure and caregiver. She not only acknowledges the heroism of Rice but also shows nurturing behavior by ensuring he has enough to eat and a place to rest, exemplifying maternal attributes of care and concern for others.