Throughout this period the Cavendishes controlled one seat at Derby. Robinson wrote about the borough in his survey for the general election of 1780: ‘The Devonshire family certainly have this place if they were to exert themselves, but they have hitherto prudently given up one and probably may do so again.’ The 4th Duke of Devonshire had considerable influence in the choice of the second Member, but the 5th Duke was usually concerned with one seat only. Shortly before the by-election of 1772 Lord George Cavendish wrote to the Duke of Portland:1

His Grace had received letters from both candidates which he had answered to this purpose, that it would be disagreeable to him to the last degree to decide between two gentlemen to both of whom he wishes so well to, that for his part he rather wishes to follow than to lead and must be governed by the inclination of the town, and wishes for peace above all things.

In 1780 it was with reluctance that the Cavendishes agreed, at the request of the corporation, to allow their candidate to stand on a joint interest with Edward Coke.2