re :Whenever I open an email the folder pane disappears.

Do you use a double click to open emails ? If yes, Sounds like you are opening emails in a new tab. In which case, the focus will be on the email you opened.

You get back to see the Folder Pane and Message List by selecting the folder tab - usually the one at the top on far left.

If you enable the 'Message Pane' then a single click will open the email and display the contents in the Message Pane in which case the Folder Pane is always visible.

Toad-Hall -

It works exactly as you describe. My brain is getting older and more forgetful. I think that's my problem.

You're right, I've always double-clicked to open an email in a new tab and don't use the Message Pane.

Thanks for the wake-up call.

Bob