If it's the CHAIN ...isn't the slipping i describe, going to happen All the Time / All gears ?
compared the 7th cog , w / others during cleaning other day , and Nope,
. . . No really obvious wear
To reiterate (NB see my earlier post):
Your chain is slipping/skating on the second smallest sprocket (8sp cassette), which is the one you have acknowledged is the one you use most.
You have ridden over a thousand miles.
It's NOT the chain alone. You could measure the chain but it'd make no difference.
The chain and the cassette have worn together. Once they wear beyond a certain point (and you can't tell this by looking at the cassette - the wear is not "obvious" - or measuring the chain) when you put power down on the sprocket you use most the chain will jump/slip/skate. This is the sign that both need replacing. No amount of cleaning will then make a difference.
By all means ride on, avoiding the use of that dysfunctional sprocket. In early course another sprocket will start slipping.
If you just change the chain for a new one, most of the sprockets will slip (probably).
Changing the cassette and chain is a quick easy job. You will need a 6-8sp chain the correct length (NB a chain tool to cut it to that length or ask your LBS), a quick link (6-8sp), a new 8sp cassette of similar range (eg 12-28t), a cassette lockring tool, a chain whip and a 10" adjustable spanner.
Send yourself two internal memos for riding your rejuvenated drive train: 'I must try to use my gears more and not sit on one sprocket all the time'. 'I must try to pedal quicker ie rpm and not grind in too high a gear (eg small sprocket) otherwise my 70 year old knees will give up on me quicker.'
HTH