I've seen those on several of the old Cadillac carbs I've got as well. I've always figured they were some sort of an early bowl vent, but never really gave it much thought.
I'm sitting in my doctor's office right now, so can't look at one to see exactly what's underneath it, meaning, does it sit above the fuel in the bowl, or is it located over the idle by-pass passage, i just don't recall.
Would be nice to know for sure what it's purpose is.
Rick