See http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=257643 "WD97: Spelling,
Grammar Not Available in Word Running on Window 2000 or Windows XP".

David wrote:
Recently I did a re-install of everything, XP SP2, programs, the lot, including Word 97. Now I find that the
Spelling/Grammar tab in Options is grayed out. I have tried using the original CD to repair the installation but that
didn't change anything.

Any suggestions much appreciated.

David