Here's a breakdown of what we know:
* The "wife" in the story is actually a mother, referred to as "Darzee's wife." She plays a crucial role as a caring parent and observer of events. We see her panic when her chicks are endangered, her concern for Rikki-Tikki, and her admiration for his heroism.
* She provides a different perspective: While Darzee is mostly focused on the immediate threat of the cobras, his wife is aware of the larger picture and the importance of Rikki-Tikki's role in protecting their family.
* She encourages and supports Rikki-Tikki. She praises him for his bravery and even gives him a special gift, showing that she recognizes his contributions to their safety.
Despite the limited focus on the wives, their presence in the story is significant. They are not just background characters but active participants in the narrative, offering valuable insights and contributing to the overall theme of bravery and selflessness.
Perhaps the lack of detailed characterization is a reflection of the story's time period, where women's roles were often seen as secondary. However, their actions and observations show that they were integral to the family dynamic and contributed to the story's success.