What is Walter's experience in the army like in Part Two, Chapter Twelve?

In Part Two, Chapter Twelve, Walter joins the East African Mounted Rifles. The British forces are gathering for an attack on the Germans at Taveta. Walter is frustrated by inaction. Since he joined, there has been little or no fighting, and he is no closer to being able to reclaim his farm. General Tigne wants information from Walter because of his knowledge of the area. When Walter tells the general that his plan cannot succeed, the general ignores Walter and dismisses him.