cat -n is already used to number lines (replaces old num command like cat -v replaces old see command). I am neutral on this discussion and only want to point out the facts. -- --steve kramer {allegra,genrad,ihnp4,utzoo,philabs,uw-beaver}!linus!axiom!smk (UUCP) linus!axiom!smk at mitre-bedford (MIL)