The 12th Bengal Cavalry landed in Abyssinia in mid-February 1868 and served on guard duties on the Lines of Communication: 'Amongst all ranks of the Native Army the greatest spirit and zeal has been shown, and there has been the greatest anxiety to take part in the dangers of the expedition, so that when volunteers were called for, twice as many came forward as were wanted' (Secretary of State for India, Official Despatches refer).