If I recall correctly, up until a few days ago OE6 would periodically
compact my message folder automatically when it exited. Now that doesn't
appear to be happening. I get a message asking me if I want to compact
them. I've not knowingly change anything except for a recent run of MS
Update. There may have been a change because of that.

Can anyone shed light on this?

I am running XP Home SP2 with all current updates.

Thank you.