Jim,
I dont think it is the right track to automate Outlook one can with little coding rather easy build an Outlook-like interface. As a matter of fact I have something in my 'half-done' directory. I could show you something, would have to translate some captions and headings first from Dutch into English. Just in case you are interested just let me know maybe my half-work helps you to start. Meanwhile not very clear to me what your remarks are about

< listing on top right, and file contents display on bottom right.

My outlook2003 nor 2007 dont give me a clue to your requirements

Meanwhile,
regards,
Koen