The eighth section was then read as follows:

VIII. That in case the electors of captains, subalterns, or field officers of brigades, regiments, or battalions, shall neglect or refuse to make such election after being notified, according to law, the governor shall appoint suitable persons to fill the vacancies thus occasioned.

A discussion ensued thereon, between Messrs. Root and Van Buren, in which the former was in favour of striking it out, and the latter explained the reasons for retaining it.