One minor, niggling thing: wouldn't it be better to use ++$key instead of $key++? ++$key iterates before assignment, whereas $key++ iterates afterwards. I can imagine situations where either one would be preferable, and maybe it makes no difference since you are using it as a key to a hash.

Just my $.02.

--
tbone1, YAPS (Yet Another Perl Schlub)
And remember, if he succeeds, so what.
- Chick McGee