In fact, he was then within reach of a well-watered river, along which he could have travelled right up to the main dividing range of the northern coast.

But Sturt was baffled in the most depressed area on the surface of the continent, where rivers and creeks lost their identity in the numberless channels into which they divided before reaching their final home in the thirsty shallows of the then unknown Lake Eyre.

There was neither sign nor clue afforded him; his men were sick, and any further progress would jeopardise his retreat.

There was nothing for it but to fall back once more; and, after a toilsome journey, they reached Fort Grey on the 2nd of October.
Sturt's last effort had been made to the west of north; he now made up his mind for a final effort due north.

Before starting, however, he begged of Browne, who was still suffering, to retreat, while the way was yet open, to the Darling.