I agree that Prudie misread the letter and getting married only 10 months after meeting a man is a short time. I still think Prudie's advice applies. The widow is at an age and has the experience to know what she wants out of life. Her friends should congratulate her on her new found happiness, not condemn her for it. And if everything doesnt work out for her in a few years or a few months, so what, at least she took a chance at happiness.