I was staring at tens of hours of download lost, and searched on "linux
Kernel". Having calmed down I found comp.os.linux.setup and posted there.
I was going post an apology then but thought that would only compound my
mistake.
Thank you Roeland th Jansen, who did take the time sent me a private email,
I've recovered the system, and am indebted to you.
Again sorry,
Roffey.
Merlin : Most like-minded people would simply ignore HELP!!! but it takes a
real arsehole to post a self-righteous preaching note to those who know
already not to respond. I wonder why you work on linux.