Vallance was noted at six feet two inches for being tall for his time. But his position was not centre-back. It did not exist at the time. He was a full-back, mostly on the right. He was also a rower, at one point Scottish long-jump record holder, and a talented artist. But even his extensive sporting and other prowess were not enough to keep him in the game or, indeed, in Scotland. In 1882 he accepted a position to work in the tea plantations of Assam in Northern India and was on his way.   

However, even someone of his physique and fitness could not there withstand the scourges of fever and dysentery and he was forced to return home after a year. And, through he went back to Rangers and football, he was never the same, so much so that after the 1883/4 season he hung up his boots. However, it was by no means the end of his association with the club with which he had become synonymous. In 1883 he had been elected club president and remained in position for six years. He also changed trades, starting in the wine and spirits business and from that later in life becoming a successful restauranteur.