Cat's paw letter opener

The New York Public Library has Charles Dickens' letter opener on display; the handle was crafted from the preserved paw of Dickens' favorite cat, Bob.

While looking for more information on this, I encountered a strange anecdote: "The kitten would snuff out Dicken's candle in order to gain his attention." I'll bet that was interesting.

Via Wired and Neatorama.