Answer: Mary Louise is characterized in a positive way through Dorothy Knerr's words.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characterization in literature simply means how a fictional character is being created. Characterization highlights and gives a detailed explanation about the character in a story
In the excerpt, Mary Louise is characterized in a positive way. Dorothy asserted that Mary was smart and that they could ask her about what was being discussed.
They wanted her opinion as Dorothy said "I'd like to hear what she says". This how's that she has positive words about her.