Dumb mistake - sorry! The missing /usr/lib/python1.5/config files are in the devel rpm (currently python-devel-1.5.2-13.i386.rpm). After installing this rpm, the build and install went without a hitch. Dan -- Daniel A. Graham Duke University Professor and Director Durham NC 27708-0097 of Graduate Studies daniel.graham@duke.edu Department of Economics (919) 660-1802