The “rubber box” or did Laura Keene indeed held Lincoln’s head?

[Jim Garrett]

Hi folks,

Just a little O.T., but one of the reasons I've always found the idea of Keene cradling the dying AL in her lap as improbable is the presence of Mary. She was such a notoriously possessive woman where her husband was concerned...would she have permitted a total stranger to take such liberties while she was present?

Or was she in such a state of shock she probably took no notice?(Assuming it even happened at all?)

She was hysterical and in shock. It may also be that the doctor had allowed Keene to "assist", and therefore Mary may have not wanted to interfere in any treatment. Overall, Mary is a person that should be more pitied than scorned.