Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826 . A MANUAL OF PARLIAMENTARY PRACTICE / From The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: Volume 2
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SECTION VI.

QUORUM.

   
A majority of each House shall constitute a quorum to do business; but a
smaller number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the
attendance of absent members, in such manner, and under such penalties, as each
house may provide.-Const. U. S. Art. I. Sec. 5.

In general, the chair is not to be taken till a quorum for business is present;
unless, after due waiting, such a quorum be despaired of, when the chair may be
taken, and the House adjourned. And whenever, during business, it is observed
that a quorum is not present, any member may call for the House to be counted;
and being found deficient, business is suspended.-2 Hats. 125, 126.




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The President having taken the chair, and a quorum being present, the journal
of the preceding day shall be read to the end, that any mistake may be
corrected that shall have been made in the entries. Rules of the Senate, I.