Reading then sending new parts of a log file

[Scott David Daniels]

Chuck Connors wrote:
> Hey guys.  I'm trying to work up a little program that will send any
> new lines written to a file (log file from my home automation
> software) to me via instant message.  I've gotten the instant message
> sending part figured out using xmpppy.
> 
> I've done a few things with Python in the past but I am in no means
> more than a beginner/hacker.  Can someone tell me what commands/
> modules/etc exist for monitoring and parsing a file for new
> information that I can then send to my IM sending function?  I am not
> asking for anyone to write the code but merely a push in the right
> direction.
> 
> Thanks!
What OS and version, what Python and version.

--Scott David Daniels
Scott.Daniels at Acm.Org