Once SQL starts the good ol' TDS stream, I'd presume that the records are correct (i.e. SQL won't return rows to you that aren't in the right order). Is it not possible to break up the stored proc. into smaller units? What kind of app is this for? Cheers, Simon "Sign up for a chance to be among the first to experience the wrath of the gods.", Microsoft's home page (24/06/2002)