from 1881, he served in the technical branches of the army in connection with the development of artillery and the manufacture of ordnance. he was made captain inspector at woolwich arsenal in 1885 and inspector of stores in 1888. promoted major in 1892 he was appointed superintendent of the woolwich royal gun factory in 1899 and also of the royal carriage factory in 1907. he held both positions until his retirement from the army as a colonel in 1912.