HOPE DIAMOND WORN AT McLEAN DINNER

Famous Gem Seen for the First time in Public Since It Changed Owners

A NOTABLE GATHERING

Guest Members of Diplomatic Corps Entertained by Metropolitan Singers.

Special to The New York Times

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 2.—Mrs. Edward B. McLean wore the Hope diamond tonight. The occasion was the brilliant reception in the Walsh mansion on Massachusetts Avenue, given to her husband’s uncle and aunt, Ambassador and Mme. Bakhmatlef.

It was the first time the famous gem was worn in the United States and the first time that its new possessor has worn it in public. Besides this world-famous jewel Mrs. McLean wore the famous Star of the East diamond, which weighs 98 carats, and which is regarded as one of the most valuable stones in the world.

The reception to the Russian Ambassador and his wife was held at the residence of the late Thomas F. Walsh in the ultra-fashionable residential section, where Mr. and Mrs. McLean, the hosts, make their home, Mrs. McLean being the only daughter of Mr. Walsh and the heir to the fortune left by her father.