[comp.text] Query: Real multi-line underlining/strike-through in troff

mcg@omepd (Steven McGeady) (11/13/87)

I would like to prepare a document with changes noted by underlining
added or changed text, and deleted text being marked with a strike
through it (a ruling character overstruck through the line).  I am
familiar with marginal change bars, and these are not desirable in
this application (a "red-lined" legal document).

I am trying to define two macros that act as follows:

	.MB	
	.\" begin changed text
	This is
	multi-line text (that may span page boundaries)
	that is changed
	.MX
	.MD
	.\" begin deleted text
	This is text
	that was deleted.
	.MX

The exact format of the macros is not important, they could work
like '.ce' (i.e. .MB 1000 ... .MB 0 to end) or there could be different
termination macros.  The important issue is that it work correctly
across page boundaries, and not otherwise affect formatting (i.e.
not require that changed or deleted text cause a line break).

A detailed perusal of the troff reference manual leads me to believe
that this is possible using diversions and a separate environment,
but, while being an experienced troff user, this level is beyond me.


Any hints would be greatly appreciated.  Please mail your comments
directly to me.

S. McGeady

mcg@omepd.intel.com
tektronix!ogcvax!omepd!mcg
intelca!mipos3!omepd!mcg