 He was promoted first lieutenant in 1825, transferred to the 84th Foot in 1827, transferred to the 87th Foot as Captain in 1833, brevetted major in 1841, and promoted major in 1846.He fought in the Syrian campaign of 1840-1, and was military secretary in Mauritius and Gibraltar.Robe was appointed as Governor of South Australia, being sworn in on 25 October 1845.