Executing C functions w/ names passed as strings

[Sandra Ballarte]

	This might be a naive question, but I am having a problem 
trying to implement a query language that calls compiled C 
code.  This compiled C code should exist in a library of
functions (file.h).  The user enters the name of the so called
function and this is stored as a string.   

	How does one execute the named function within 
the query language (C) source code?  

	Is there a function that can evaluate and execute 
strings *and* return the results?

	I know about a function called SYSTEM which
executes compiled external functions whose names
are passed as strings.  *BUT* the results are not
returned!

	I would really appreciate any help from
anyone who can help.  I am sure there is a simple
solution, but I just can't find it.

	Please respond by e-mail.

	Thanks,

	Sandra Ballarte
	Queen's University, Canada

	email:  ballarte at qucis.queensu.ca