Document signed by Chester A. Arthur, while serving as twenty-first President of the United States (1881-1885). Neatly handwritten document, addressed to “the Senate and House of Representatives” is dated December 13, 1883 from the “Executive Mansion”. It is a request from the Secretary of War for “5000 copies of Annual Report of the Chief Signal Officer for the fiscal year of 1882, and… a draft of a joint resolution for the purpose”. Signed in thick black fountain pen, “Chester A Arthur”, with a great flourish. Written on plain lined paper measuring 8x13”. The paper itself has tanned with age around the borders but is not brittle. There is a pinhole in each corner and a bit of tape only on the back. Excellent condition.