s matter was
brought before the board at its session held February 18, 1903, and it
was believed by the members that if such a statement could be obtained
it would be helpful in the development and organization of woman's work
in connection with the board. As all arrangements had previously been
planned in Washington to have the work done if desired by the board, the
secretary was instructed to write to Hon. John R. Procter, president
United States Civil Service Commission, and ask for statistics. In order
to procure the data from all the departments, it was necessary to have
an Executive order from the President. Mr. Procter made this request,
and the President graciously issued the following:

Executive Order.

The HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS:

The board of lady managers of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition
desires a statement prepared, showing the work performed by
women in the departments, together with their official
designations, salaries, etc. It is requested that so far as it
will not inconvenience public work, such information may be
supplied.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT.

WHITE HOUSE, _March 21, 1903._

It may be said that the occupations in which women are now engaged in
the Departments, where their duties range from those involving mere
manual labor to skilled professional service, represent many of the
lines in which women are now so active everywhere. The salaries vary
from $240 to $1,800 per annum.

It is believed that the citation of a few examples of the high positions
of importance and responsibility now held by women, compiled for the
information of the board of lady managers, may be a source of
encouragement to others by showing what natural ability, backed with
determination and industry, may accomplish. The following memoranda has
been taken at random from but four of the Departments:

_Department of State_.--Miss ---- went into the service in 1893,
and was detailed to assist the Secretary of State, who was
engaged in negotiating reciprocity treaties. She served in the
capacity of confidential clerk to four Secretaries and one
Assistant Secretary of State. Served as stenographer and
typewriter in the Consular Bureau of the Department of State,
and was later confidential stenographer to the Third Assistant
Secretary of State, and assisted in the preparation of the
correspondence with the Alaska boundary question.

Another