There are some of the so-called tobacco-boxes which no doubt were in reality used only for snuff in the days when snuff was taken in larger quantities than it is to-day. A collection of snuff-boxes includes many varieties, among which are some of metal. Some of the boxes made of wood and of shagreen are decorated with tiny brass studs, producing a very pleasing effect. The snuff-boxes were shaped according to popular fancy, and some of the more eccentric patterns were local in their use. In Scotland the curled-shaped mull was a favourite. In connection with snuff-taking it must be remembered that in the earlier days snuff as prepared now was little known. Those addicted to the habit had to prepare their own snuff. For that purpose there came into vogue snuff-rasps of iron enclosed in cases, which, although they were in some instances of boxwood or carved pearwood, were now and then of metal. Incidentally this early home preparation of the snuff produced from a small plug or twist of tobacco gave rise to the popular trader's sign of the "Crown and Rasp" over a tobacco shop. As intimated in another chapter, many of the tobacco and snuff-boxes served a dual purpose, and not infrequently formed part of the tinder box, an essential in early days. Handles and Handle-plates. The condition of the metal-work upon old furniture and other curios is a factor in its beauty and in its value too. The handles and handle-plates should be of the same period as the antique, and hinges, lock-plates, handles and their plates, ball feet and castors should be _en suite_. Indeed, it is better to substantiate a well-made reproduction rather than to admit the use of a later style. The want of harmony in the "brass furniture" of antiques, although all portions appear old, is somewhat puzzling at times. It is explainable in that in early Victorian days when much that was then old was repaired the village shopkeeper and even the cabinet-maker had little regard for the preservation of the old style. To restore meant to them to repair, and where necessary to introduce the _then_ prevailing materials notwithstanding their obvious inappropriateness.