§ 19. Same—Devolution of powers.

In case of the absence, illness, or inability of the mayor, the president pro tempore, who shall be chosen by a majority of the council at its first meeting in September for a term of two years, or in his absence or inability, some other member of the council chosen by the majority of the council present at a regular meeting, shall possess the same power and discharge the municipal duties of the mayor during such absence, illness or inability; and when so discharging the municipal duties of the mayor during his absence, illness or inability, the said president pro tempore, or in the case of his inability, the other member of the council so chosen for the purpose, shall receive a reasonable compensation to be fixed and allowed by the town council.