http://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=BH18940105.2.47
The part about Napoleon is interesting. It seems to imply that the violet scented snuff may have used as a sort of secret handshake between his political supporters.
Yes, I liked the story about the Violet snuff, too. Cool. I just got a couple of tins of Toque Violet, as it happens. A lovely snuff. Too bad the Napoleonic wars are over.
I was at Dr Johnson’s house in Lichfield recently, but didn’t see his snuff box. Have to look more closely next time. Potato snuff boxes are news to me.