Well, it's been a long day.
Transferred a few files onto a disc and proceeded to re-install windows. Used the single disc provided. Installed but ended up with half screen size and no modem - and probably no other things. Re-installed with Compaq factory restore discs (7) and worked fine. Installed Norton Antivirus 2004 as first thing. Re-installed email program. Norton popped up while I was typing this to inform me of a virus removal. Funny, four years with a desk top PC and no vruses. A month with this laptop and viruses all over the place.
Richard, I notice you spend a lot of time in this forum helping others far less knowledgable and offer excellent advice, patiently.
If there was a PPRuNe award for this, you should get it. Thanks again. If I am ever in Naples, Florida or you are in YVR - all the rounds will be on me.