Woodrow Wilson actually said...
In accordance with the provisions of Section 179 of the Revised Statutes, as amended by an Act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the Government, approved August 5, 1882 (22 Stats., 238), the Chief of Staff, United States Army, is authorized and directed to perform the duties of Secretary of War during the illness or temporary absence from the seat of Government of the Secretary of War, whenever during such illness or absence the Assistant Secretary of War is also absent.
09/28/1917