For the next seven years Thomas and Ann Borrow moved about with the
West Norfolk Militia, which now marched off into Essex, a few months
later doubling back again into Norfolk. Then it dived into Kent and
for a time hovered about the Cinque Ports, Thomas Borrow in the
meantime being promoted to the rank of quarter-master (27th May
1795). It was not until he had completed fourteen years of service
that he received a commission. On 27th February 1798 he became
Adjutant in the same regiment, a promotion that carried with it a
captain's rank.

Whilst at Sandgate Mrs Borrow became acquainted with John Murray, the
son of the founder of the publishing house from which, forty-four
years later, were to be published the books of her second son, then
unborn. The widow of John Murray the First had married in 1795
Lieutenant Henry Paget of the West Norfolk Militia. Years later
(27th March 1843) George Borrow wrote to John Murray, Junr., third of
the line:


"I am at present in Norwich with my mother, who has been ill, but is
now, thank God, recovering fast. She begs leave to send her kind
remembrances to Mr Murray. She knew him at Sandgate in Kent FORTY-
SIX years ago, when he came to see his mother, Mrs P[aget]. She was
also acquainted with his sister, Miss Jane Murray, {5a} who used to
ride on horseback with her on the Downs. She says Captain [sic]
Paget once cooked a dinner for Mrs P. and herself; and sat down to
table with his cook's apron on. Is not this funny? Does it not
'beat the Union,' as the Yankees say?"