When I do an archive search the DATABASE OUTFILE file that I receive has as the first column the item number. Something one of my list's subscribers said this morning raised the question in my mind: at what point is that item number assigned? I guess that in turn relates to how the archive file is created. When LISTSERV distributes each new posting does it forward a copy to the archives and assign the next available item number to it? Inquiring minds want to know. If that is how it works (oversimplified though I am sure the above description is), would it be possible for listserv to assign the item number BEFORE distribution and then to include it as part of of the distributed message? That should facilitate identifying and retrieving previously posted messages. Judith Hopkins, Listowner of [log in to unmask] Internet: [log in to unmask] Bitnet: ulcjh@ubvm