The Royal Madras Fusiliers had been part of the army of the East India Company Madras Presidency, European troops raised to supplement the Indian regiments of that state. The East India Company ruled three states in India until the 1850s, Calcutta, Bombay and Madras, and each was called a Presidency and had its own, not inconsiderable army. Many of these were disbanded after the Indian Mutiny but the European Regiments were assimilated into the British Army.

The 102nd arrived in Portland Harbour on board a troopship on the 23rd July 1874 and marched the next day to the Verne. There was some complaint of the "great heat" the men being in marching order with their bearskin headress, surprising for soldiers used to the south of India!

Public relations, it seems, were as important then as now and shortly after their arrival the Regiment staged a Grand Assault of Arms for an invited audience of local dignitaries, their wives and children. The event took place in the gymnasium of the Verne which was decorated for the day with the 102nd's badge, a Royal Tiger, and battle honours which included most of the famous battles fought by the British in their early days in India.

An assault of arms was the forerunner of the Royal Tournament where soldiers displayed their martial skills with accompanying music, in this case the regimental band under the direction of their German director, Herr Luouchwitz. The programme was organised by the Adjutant, Lieutenant Vetch, and Staff Instructor McKenzie and consisted of demonstrations of broad and single stick, mounted combat and bayonet and sword fencing followed by gymnastics, including the flying trapeze and vaulting. The highlight of the day was a display of sword feats by Staff Instructor McKenzie. As quoted in the local press:-