i have ie 6 and outlook express 6. - win 98se

i have been receiving emails with attached files. i am unable to open them the normal way- (have to do a lengthy workaround)

the message: This file does not have a program associated with it for performing this action. Create an association in MY Computer by clicking View and then clicking Folder Options.

I know the extension is eml. i used to associate it in the past but now it is missing. and i am unsure what to do next.

thanks