These letters are written from Lord John Cavendish to family members mostly or individuals known to the family. He writes to his brother, William Cavendish, when he is Lord Hartington. He also writes to Dr Newcome, once the family's tutor and Lord Shannon, his brother Lord Hartington's cousin by marriage as well as his other brothers.
The letters to Lord Hartington in 1755 concern news from their father who cannot write himself owing to his poor health. He writes that the 3rd Duke does not approve of the subsidy treaties but that he does not wish his opinion to have any influence or an effect on the Royal family. He also writes that their father's eyes have been bad and that his health seemed to improve in the afternoon after a bad morning [written six days before he died].
He writes to Lord Frederick concerning George Lyttelton becoming Chancellor of the Exchequer and his father's ill-health in November 1755.
A few years later, he writes to one of his his brothers [George MP for Derbyshire or Frederick MP for Derby] about riding to Fulham in his Grace's chaise and talking but not being able to talk "straight forwards" upon the bill related to the separate Royal courts being pushed through Parliament.
To Dr Newcome he writes in 1764 concerning his nephew (who has just become the 5th Duke of Devonshire) and his education and Lord John's intention to live on at Devonshire House for the sake of his nephew's upbringing. He writes wishing Dr Newcome's input in appointing a tutor for his nephew and asks about Mr Newcome, Dr Hinchliffe and Mr Wood, chaplain at Chatsworth.
To Lord Shannon he writes in 1770 asking him to recommend someone he believes to be suitable to fill the coorperation at Bandon after the death of Mr G Conner, on behalf of the 5th Duke who knows too little to go by any recommendations he should receive. He also thanks Lord Shannon for the advertisement by James Tallow who has offered himself as a candidate for the next vacant parliamentary seat.
CS1/428/12 is missing.