Switzerland, Siam

To qualify for the U. S. diplomatic service, to achieve a "Third Secretaryship" of an embassy or legation, are not feats which demand more than mortal powers.

But Berne, Switzerland, a quiet town a few hours from magnificent scenery, overnight from livelier capitals, is a choice appointment. Last week, Miss Lucille Atcherson of Columbus, Ohio, was assigned to Berne to serve under Minister Hugh Gibson* and Second Secretary Alan Winslow.* As another "first woman," Miss Atcherson became an object of interest. It was learned that her father was a reputable local officeholder; that she was graduated from Smith College, was Secretary to the President of the University of Chicago; and, since passing her diplomatic examinations, served in the Latin-American division of the State Department. She is 31. (She was not, as erroneously reported, a hail-fellow student of Ohio State University, nor Secretary to President Thompson of that Institution.) She did post-Armistice work in France, was decorated.

Republican Committeewoman Lucy Patterson of Winston-Salem, N. C., signified her desire to be made Minister to Siam to succeed the Harding appointee (Minister Brodie of Oregon) whose resignation has not yet been accepted. Airs. Patterson, wealthy, ran for Congress in 1922. A Confederate veteran, Major Stedman, defeated her.

*Assigned to duty at the forthcoming Geneva Arms Conference.