When it is found necessary for the public service to put a member under arrest, or when, on any public inquiry, matter comes out which may lead to affect the person of a member, it is the practice immediately to acquaint the House, that they may know the reasons for such a proceeding, and take such steps as they think proper.--2 _Hats._ 259. Of which, see many examples.--2 _Hats._ 256, 257, 258. But the communication is subsequent to the arrest.--1 _Blackst._ 167.
It is highly expedient, says Hatsell, for the due preservation of the privileges of the separate branches of the Legislature, that neither should encroach on the other, or interfere in any matter depending before them, so as to preclude, or even influence, that freedom of debate, which is essential to a free council. They are, therefore, not to take notice of any bills or other matters depending, or of votes that have been given, or of speeches that have been held, by the members of either of the other branches of the Legislature, until the same have been communicated to them in the usual Parliamentary manner.--2 _Hats._ 252; 4 _Inst._ 15; _Seld. Jud._ 63. Thus the King's taking notice of the bill for suppressing soldiers depending before the House, his proposing a provisional clause for a bill before it was presented to him by the two Houses, his expressing displeasure against some persons for matters moved in Parliament during the debate and preparation of a bill, were breaches of privilege.--2 _Nalson_, 743. And in 1783, December 17, it was declared a breach of fundamental privileges, &c. to report any opinion or pretended opinion of the King, on any bill or proceeding depending in either House of Parliament, with a view to influence the votes of the members.--2 _Hats._ 251, 6.
$The times, places, and manner of holding elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by law make or alter such regulations, except as to the place of choosing Senators.--_Const. U. S._ Art. I. Sect. 4.
Each House shall be the judge of the elections, returns, and qualifications of its own members.--_Const. U. S._ Art. I. Sec. 5.$
The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature thereof, for six years; and each Senator shall have one vote.