In these letters the author writes to his fellow Member of Parliament concerning what has passed in Parliament. His first letter, almost ten years earlier than the rest concerns the Jacobite rebels leaving Derbyshire and the decision to arrest suspected Jacobites.
Most of his letters provide Lord Hartington with information on debates and other matters relating to the House of Commons during Lord Hartington's absence from the House, whilst Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He writes of matters concerning Lord Hartington's role in Ireland and gives advice for him to stay there between the sessions. He writes about letters he has received from other political figures of potential importance to Lord Hartington.
He also mentions: discussing Irish affairs with Lord Hartington's father the 3rd Duke of Devonshire; the death of Luke Gardiner; discussions with Henry Fox; post vacancies, promotions and recommendations; the advantage gained over the French at Lake Sacrament/ George; troops in New England and New Hampshire; the subsidies treaties including the Russian treaty being opposed in the House; the performances of the various speakers in the House; accounts he has received from affairs in the House of Lords; the affair of Mr Morres...; suggestions of tillage on corn or a grant to the Dublin Association; removal and resignation of government post holders; letter from Byng informing them of a sinking ship the captured off America from the French.