Ian, you should be looking for an HTML editor.  I use Editplus--in its html
mode it does all those things. Textpad is my main plain-text word
processor, versatile enough but not too bloated.  More than you need
though. But they aren't freeware.

Many text editors have an optional html toolbar--turn it on and you should
have the buttons you've so plaintively asked for.  After all, they are a
form of formatting, that's why you won't see them in a plain-text editor.

So look for something with html capabilities. The usual Notepad
alternatives won't do it.

Don Penlington
Free computer tutorials at: http://www.geocities.com/donaldpen/
Also Fractal Galleries,  free icons,  poetry,  and beautiful Queensland beaches.

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