Navy Department,
_Washington, September 20, 1881._

The officers and men of the Navy and of the Marine Corps of the United
States are hereby notified that President Garfield died at Long Branch
on the 19th instant at 10 o'clock and 40 minutes p.m. Under the
Constitution and laws of the Government Chester A. Arthur, then
Vice-President, duly took the oath as President of the United States,
and has entered upon the duties of that office. As President and
Commander in Chief of the Navy of the United States he will be obeyed
and respected by all persons connected with this Department. It is
becoming that at a time when the heart of the nation is heavy with grief
a proper expression should be given to the respect and affection so
sincerely and universally entertained for the memory of the wise,
patriotic, and noble Chief Magistrate who has departed this life under
circumstances so distressing. To this end the officers of the Navy will
see to it that all honors and ceremonies befitting the occasion are
observed by their respective commands in accordance with the regulations
of the service.

The offices of the Department will remain closed for all business during
the time the remains of the President shall lie in state at the Capitol.

WILLIAM H. HUNT,
_Secretary of the Navy._


[From official records, Navy Department.]