In case of a vacancy in the office of register of deeds, the same shall be filled by the appointment of a qualified elector of the county. If the vacancy occurs on or after May 1 of the second year of the term, the person so appointed shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term and until a successor is elected and qualifies. If the vacancy occurs before May 1 of the second year of the term, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall serve until a successor is elected and qualifies at the next general election to serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Nomination and election of such successor shall be in the same manner as nomination and election of a county register of deeds for a regular term. In the absence or inability of the register of deeds to perform the duties of his office, the deputy shall perform the duties of said register during the continuance of such absence or inability. Appointments hereunder shall be made in the manner provided by law for filling vacancies in the office of member of the house of representatives.