Try this:
PSS ID Number: Q230187
Article last modified on 10-24-2000
:4.0,4.01,4.01 Service Pack 1,4.01 Service Pack 2
=============================================---------------------------------------------The information in this article applies to:
- Microsoft Windows 98
- Microsoft Outlook Express version 4.01 Service Pack 2 for Windows 98
- Microsoft Outlook Express versions 4.0, 4.01, 4.01 Service Pack 1, 4.01 Service Pack 2 for Windows 95
- Microsoft Outlook Express versions 4.0, 4.01, 4.01 Service Pack 1, 4.01 Service Pack 2 for Windows NT 4.0
---------------------------------------------
SYMPTOMS
========
When you view the properties of an e-mail folder in Outlook Express, the
properties may indicate that the folder contains e-mail messages even though
there are no messages in the folder.
CAUSE
=====
This issue can occur if the index (.IDX) file associated with the folder is
corrupt.
RESOLUTION
==========
To resolve this issue, follow these steps:
1. Back up the IDX and MBX files associated with the Outlook Express\Mail folder.
NOTE: The default location for these files is <Windows>\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook Express\Mail, where <Windows> is the drive and path where Windows is installed.
2. Quit Outlook Express.
3. Delete the IDX file for the folder that you cannot view correctly in the <Windows>\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook Express\Mail folder.
4. Open Outlook Express.
The Index files are created when Outlook Express starts.
NOTE: If you move new messages into the folder before you correct this issue, the
IDX and MBX files may be synchronized and you may not be able to retrieve the
messages using this process.