Andrew Johnson Autograph Endorsement Signed. On April 23, 1865, just nine days after the death of President Lincoln, Leopold Becker, former captain of the 24th Illinois Volunteer Regiment, sent this one page, 7.75" x 9.75" letter to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton applying "for a Clerkship in your Department." Three days later, the new president, Andrew Johnson, placed his endorsement on the verso of the integral blank: "Respectfully referred to the Hon: Secretary of War. [signed] Andrew Johnson Wash.n City April 26.1865." Unfortunately for Capt. Becker, he died eight days after Johnson placed his endorsement. Folds show light soiling.