A majority of the corporate authorities constitutes a quorum to do business, but a smaller number may adjourn from time to time and may compel the attendance of absentees. The "corporate authorities" refers to the Mayor and the Aldermen. When no quorum is present the Mayor shall, at the request of a majority of those present, issue a written order to the Chief of Police directing him to go out and bring in the absent members. Any member who stays away after being so summoned to attend shall forfeit to the City two dollars ($2.00), to be deducted from his or her salary. For persistent and continued refusal to attend, an Alderman may be expelled from Council and his or her office declared vacant.