Thanks apl. I already do that. The command line is just one of several ways to get the info into the program. It is not the "recommended" way however for the casual user it is the most convenient.

I was hoping it was as easy to manipulate the entire command line string as it is to manipulate $0, but if someone can suggest an approach - even if a degree of magic is involved, I'm willing to give it a go.

Thanks again.