It was in 1946 calendar published by The Thos. D. Murphy Co. in Red Oak, Iowa. Was wondering if there was any actual story or event tied to it or if it was just a metaphor.
It's of course hard to say, just based on looking at the picture, what the publishers of the 1946 calendar had in mind. However, in 1942 a memoir/history was published by John E. Washington titled They Knew Lincoln, which for the first time tried to tell the stories of the African Americans who'd known Lincoln. Washington was able to talk to descendants, relatives of some of Lincoln's servants. It's now recognized as a classic, and happily is back in print.
Dozing in the background of the picture is William Slater, who features in Washington's book. Slater was Lincoln's usher and valet- really, served as the butler of the household., as well as acted as a trusted messenger when needed. Again, it's hard to really say, but it is notable that Washington's book and this picture are both affectionate portrayals of Lincoln and Slater.
