The members thus drawn shall constitute a committee to try and determine the contested election, and for that purpose shall hold their meetings publicly at the place where the general assembly is sitting, at such times as they may designate; and may adjourn from day to day or to a day certain, not more than four days distant, until such trial is determined; shall have power to send for persons and papers, and to take all necessary means to procure testimony, extending like privileges to the contestant and the incumbent; and shall report their judgment to both branches of the general assembly, which report shall be entered on the journals of both houses.