These coins are in active circulation here and their use is rapidly extending. English coins of a tout price go straight into a shop and are collected apparent without a word. But the Chinese don't seem to use and change it for cash much. According to the information given to me the circulation of the 10¢ and 5¢ coins is likely to go on and to increase. It will no doubt spread all over the empire.
I found all sorts of people eagerly accepting these small coins. I was told yesterday in reply to questions that mandarins and bagmen on their travels carry large quantities of these coins. Even the copper coins with the Canton mint coins pass readily here at least - I have noticed a beggar on receipt of a few cents, use them freely along with other coins.
There is no distinction being made by the shopkeeper. Upah Hiangsha told me that these coins are carried away to Singapore. I have not learned yet what is the daily output of the Mint, and I have not succeeded in getting to it - but I hope to do so soon. If you give me your London address I will send...