These papers comprise letters and the will and codicil of Lord James Cavendish, the 1st Duke's third son, the 2nd Duke's brother and the 3rd Duke of Devonshire's uncle.
They include one letter to the 3rd Duke concerning a recommendation (CS1/284/0) and one letter incorrectly filed with these from the 3rd Duke's brother (also Lord James Cavendish) concerning weather at sea near the Lizard (CS1/284/3).
There are also papers related to his will and the codicil added in 1747 that his son-in-law Richard Chandler (married to his daughter Elizabeth) should receive the surname Cavendish if he inherits on the failure of Lord James's son to produce issue (CS1/284/1-2).
The majority of the letters are from Lord James Cavendish to Mr James Gisborne and concern local and government affairs and politics, he having been the Member of Parliament for Derby for most of his career. He also writes of his movements, those of friends and colleagues and personal news including that of his wayward son (CS1/284/4-25).