Married in England while serving in India

[Old Cove]

SS/738 Serjeant William Eade, ASC, was drowned when the SS Falaba was torpedoed in 1915. Before re-enlisting at the beginning of WW1 he had previously served 12+ years with the Hampshire Regiment (attested 14.11.1892). His pension record relating to this service records that he was in India from 10.12.94 to 2.2.03, but during this period he managed to get married in Bath (on 7 Jan 1902). I'm wondering why he was at home and for how long. The record shows that he 'extended his service to complete 12 years with the colours' on 24.9.01. Would this entitle him to some home leave and if so how long (he was a corporal at this point)? If not what else might bring him home temporarily without it being recorded as home service on his record?

Roger

[Khaki]

Did they have 'proxy' marriages back then, by telegram perhaps?? Maybe he didn't leave India !

khaki

[HERITAGE PLUS]

Is it possible that the Pension Record dates are incorrect? It was the 1st Batt. that served in India. The 2nd. Batt. following service in the South African War where station at Portsmouth 1902-03.

A possible inter battalion transfer waiting in England for the 2nd Batts return?

Dave

[Old Cove]

Did they have 'proxy' marriages back then, by telegram perhaps?? Maybe he didn't leave India !

Nice idea khaki, but I think he was definitely present. I have a copy of the marriage certificate and it all looks perfectly standard - no mention of a stand-in! Plus the Pension Record also says that the marriage took place at the Registrar's Office in Bath.

Is it possible that the Pension Record dates are incorrect? It was the 1st Batt. that served in India. The 2nd. Batt. following service in the South African War where station at Portsmouth 1902-03.

The record all seems to make sense other than this puzzle. He was definitely 1st Batt. He served in Aden after India and took part in the Somaliland Campaign of 1904, then Home from June 1904.