Library /sys$common/syshlp/mailhelp.hlb EDIT, Qualifiers, /READ  *Conan The Librarian (sorry for the slow response - running on an old VAX)

    The /READ qualifier indicates that neither a journal file nor an
    output file will be created. If you do not specify an existing
    file and you are using the EVE editor, Mail creates a new file.
    If you do not specify an existing file with the /READ qualifier
    and you are using the EDT editor, Mail displays "Input file does
    not exist" and returns you to the MAIL> prompt. When you use
    the /READ qualifier, enter the QUIT command to end the editing
    session. If you enter the EXIT command, you are prompted for a
    file specification.