Peter T formulated the question :
"Bruno Campanini" wrote in message
On the other hand, *why* do you want it to be unrolled?

Why you ask me that?

You seem reluctant to give a reason. Is this homework to find a less elegant
non-recursive alternative as an exercise?

Here's a Google search that'll get you started:
https://www.google.com/search?q=stri...+non-recursive
Really I don't need that.

Why not? I found several potential solutions in a few minutes.
Oh... you are a very clever man, congratulation!
Why don't you read accurately before writing?

I don't need any practical solution, it's only a matter of
principle.
I would be able to convert that particular algorithm into a
non-recursive procedure, but I'm unable to do so.
Then I put here the question.

Have I satisfied your curiosity?

Bruno