The message 1138872408.10699.8.camel@localhost.localdomain from Wayne Stallwood ALUGlist@digimatic.plus.com contains these words:
Welcome to the list Robert.
AOL
What distribution of Linux are you using at the moment ?
<horrid grin>
Mandrake.
</horrid grin>
Also regarding Windows XP, if your upgrade to your machine included significant parts that are essential to it's operation (Processor, Hard Drive or Main Board) then you would have qualified for an OEM copy of Windows XP rather than the full price one your friend bought...The OEM version is a lot cheaper, but can only be used on that machine.
But don't worry not only will you still save money by using Linux, you will probably end up with a more secure system and learn a lot more about your computer.
Probably?
I think that's a bit of an understatement, especially with XP.