[Dave S]

The question only makes sense, has any context at all, if Wilson's wife was known to be who she was, by the person asking the question.

Well duh, Rove admitted that he told Cooper. So of course he knew enough to confirm with Libby. Recall that Rove released Cooper from protecting his identity as source just before Cooper was about to go to jail.

[oceanview]

told Cooper? or said "I heard that too". any reporter asking about "Wilson's wife" knew her status, its the basis for the question.