The easiest method by far is to install the ImportExportTools add-on. You can then export your mail -- individual messages or all messages in a folder -- in a range of common formats: plain text, pdf and so on.

I will try this as soon as I can find the time, and thank you sincerely. It sounds like a logical, simply solution to something which has actually been a big problem for me. My job dictates that I must save "everything" for long periods, clogging up my system with huge amounts of probably-never-to-be-used-again email, though not being able to find one critical piece could be very important.

Is the add-on an extra charge?

Is it Manchester, England, by the way? I have a friend in Doncaster (near Leeds), though I live in Colorado most of the year.

Some add-ons invite you to make a small donation to the author for using them. I don't know about this one because it doesn't work on my computer (Linux), it's meant for Windows I think. And yes, Manchester England -- the original one ;-)

Thank you once again.

Would love to see Manchester. My wife had a relative for quite a while in Bath and, as I said, I know someone in Doncaster. Also, I will be meeting with a student in June who attends University of South Wales, so many connections in the British Isles.

Sincerely, "foolonthehill"