If I failed in that great object, I have one consolation in the retrospect of my past services.

My path among savage tribes has been a bloodless one, not but that I have often been placed in situations of risk and danger, when I might have been justified in shedding blood, but I trust I have ever made allowance for human timidity, and respected the customs of the rudest people." Sturt's health and eyesight had been greatly impaired by his last trip, but although he was for a time almost totally blind, he still managed to discharge the duties of Colonial Secretary.

He was at last pensioned by the South Australian Government, and soon afterwards returned to England.
He died at his residence at Cheltenham.

Though the Home Office had treated him disgracefully during his life, and ignored his services, he lives for ever in the hearts of the Australians as the hero and chief figure of the exploration of their country.

When he was on his death-bed, in 1869, the empty title of knighthood was conferred upon him.