you first save the file to whatever ... then at the debian prompt type metamail <filename> ... then it will work as pine does (ie do you wish to see this file or sdave it to disk) thanx for all the help guys and gals:) -- __o /\ Michael Mifsud -- `\ < /\/ \_ On parole from Uni Of Wollongong Penitentiary -- ___( )/( )___/ jmm28@uow.edu.au