The first twelve years of his service were passed on topographical duty with this party under Major G. Strahan, R.E., and in the Mysore Party under Majors G. Strahan and H.R. Thuillier, R.E. From the very first he showed special aptitude as a plane-Tabler, and was soon recognised in the department as an accomplished surveyor.
"Memoir of William Watts McNair"
J. E. Howard