I would have though civilian, although I do note his first marriage took place at Bellary, Madras - British Army base...I have two mentions of James in references provided for my GF Cyril (these came from my late fathers papers); the one you quote details of + "his father was Extra Assistant Resident and occupied a high position of responsibility in the Resident's staff...." This was signed by Lt Col Edward Lawrie IMS Retd in July 1902...Gordon