Leading a mission in Australia, at Sydney University, brought an unexpected outcome. John Stott was asked to explore the idea of becoming Archbishop of Sydney! The Australians sent telegrams to urge him to let his name go forward. He was very reluctant. His father had just died and he did not want to be so far from his elderly mother. The work at All Souls was proving very fruitful. In addition, the Australians had a very gifted candidate in Sir Marcus Loane. John felt Marcus Loane was their man. He wrote a careful letter then also sent a telegram, in as few words as possible:
WILLING NOMINATED BUT UNLIKELY ACCEPT IF ELECTED SUPPORT LOANE
Marcus Loane was elected, and John Stott became the more sure that he should not be in such a role.
