Q: This item is made of tin, I think. The lid opens but fits pretty tightly when it’s closed. What is it?

 

A: You have a silent butler. Back when most people smoked, it was a handy way to empty the ashtrays after a party. The hostess just dumped the contents into the silent butler and carried it to the trashcan. The silent butler usually has a handle to make it easier to carry. Your silent butler is pretty enough to leave out until needed, but it’s impractical to use without a handle. Since there is no longer a need to empty ashtrays at a party, the silent butler sells for $10 to $50.