Rule XXIX calls for Senate consideration of treaties to be conducted in secret unless a majority votes to lift the “ injunction of secrecy,” which it usually does. Standing Senate Rules XXI, XXIX, and XXXI cover secret sessions for legislative and executive business (nominations and treaties). (such as nominations and treaties) were not opened until 1929.
The Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention met in secret. The United States Senate has the authority for meeting in closed session, as described in the Standing Rules of the Senate.
