jmichel / schur.institut.math.jussieu.fr wrote: >point. But, since my last post, further thought has led me to a solution >(if you like it it can be in the FAQ, Dave). The API from IO that I use >is just for now .read and .seek but I may want to use other methods >eventually. The solution to share code is > > 1- Derive a class from String that has methods .read and .seek . I say > derive a class because I need to add an instance variable 'current > pointer' and it seems cleaner to have this in a new class. But since > instance variables can magically appear maybe I need not derive a > class. I can just do: Perfect. And I agree that it should be a distinct class. I would propose IOString as the name. Perhaps we persuade you to contribute what you end up with to the RAA (Ruby App Archive) so others can benefit from it, and extend it. Kevin