She didn't get an Oscar for her performance, but Mrs. Mamie Washington of Santa Monica is real showfolks. At 4:30 in the morning on the day of the Academy Awards, Mrs. Washington arrived at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium with her two babies—21 months and 9 months—and grabbed a front-row seat in the grandstands outside the door. Her vigil was relieved by her mother, who turned up periodically with nourishment and fresh diapers.
Such loyalty, such dedication, is bound to be properly awarded. It was as if all Hollywood had gathered to pay Mrs. Washington solemn tribute. It must have...