Hi Derek [Replied to on the list because I think it marginally relevant[
Derek writes: > And, just for future reference, people may be a little more willing to > help you if you're a little more polite with your postings. OK, "polite" is eomething I associate with saying "Hi Derek" at the start - it's largely low-entropy noise and I don't care too much if it's not present. What you probably mean by "polite" is what I mean by "considerate." That is people check google and mail archives before asking a question that has been answered many times on this list. Or maybe by "polite" you mean what I mean by "intelligent." But I forgive those who are new to this stuff, have little or no experience of it, and need an answer desperately. I've been there. I've needed answers quickly even though I consider myself intelligent (oh, how self-delusion leads us astray) and TRY to be respectful when I ask others to give me answers. I also know many people in many countries whose grasp of English is far better than my grasp of their language. Strangely, I know the translations of "kisses" and "hugs" in many languages. :) Bottom line: if somebody is obviously doing his or her best to get an answer, I will respond if I can. If somebody is trying to get me to do hi9 or her homework for them I will flame. I think the person who asked was stuck, but I didn't have an answer... -- Paul Allen Softflare Support
