Two people in US speaking about kidnapping of child of Charles Lindbergh

The speaker expresses deep concern over a situation involving a missing boy, hoping for his safe return. The sentiment is one of empathy and prayer for the boy's mother, highlighting the emotional impact of the situation.

In what ways can the phrase 'think it's simply dreadful' be interpreted in the context of the text?

What implications does the speaker's prayer for the mother reveal about their relationship?