On the valid event of the 4th field on the form:
thisform.text4.value = substr(thisform.text1,1,3) +
substr(thisform.text2,1,3) + substr(thisform.text3,1,3) +
substr(thisform.text4,1,3)
HTH
Mike
Here's to alcohol...the cause of ... and solution to ... all of life's problems - - Homer J. Simpson