diff --git a/include/prototypes.h b/include/prototypes.h
index 4c10f0f3..c76c63e5 100644
--- a/include/prototypes.h
+++ b/include/prototypes.h
@@ -666,7 +666,7 @@ extern void shp_missdef(struct shpstr *, natid);
 extern double shp_mobcost(struct shpstr *);
 extern void shp_set_tech(struct shpstr *, int);
 /* snxtitem.c */
-extern int snxtitem(struct nstr_item *, int, char *);
+extern int snxtitem(struct nstr_item *, int, char *, char *);
 extern void snxtitem_area(struct nstr_item *, int,
 			  struct range *);
 extern void snxtitem_dist(struct nstr_item *, int, int, int, int);
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/arm.c b/src/lib/commands/arm.c
index e689e87b..4393e4ba 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/arm.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/arm.c
@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ arm(void)
     char buf[1024];
     char prompt[128];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &pl)) {
 	if (!player->owner
@@ -138,7 +138,7 @@ disarm(void)
     struct sctstr sect;
     char buf[128];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &pl)) {
 	if (!player->owner)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/army.c b/src/lib/commands/army.c
index a55b82d7..c3037606 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/army.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/army.c
@@ -59,7 +59,7 @@ army(void)
     }
     if (c == '~')
 	c = 0;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_LAND, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_LAND, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     count = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &land)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/carg.c b/src/lib/commands/carg.c
index 342739e1..28869b13 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/carg.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/carg.c
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ carg(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct shpstr ship;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nships = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &ship)) {
@@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ lcarg(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct lndstr land;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nunits = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &land)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/cede.c b/src/lib/commands/cede.c
index 4af9da16..bcc1b63a 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/cede.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/cede.c
@@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ cede(void)
 	return RET_SYN;
     if (snxtsct(&ns, p))
 	is_sector = 1;
-    if (snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, p))
+    if (snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, p, NULL))
 	is_ship = 1;
     if (!is_sector && !is_ship)
 	return RET_SYN;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/coun.c b/src/lib/commands/coun.c
index 24be3468..7b56cbc5 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/coun.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/coun.c
@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ coun(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct natstr nat;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
     pr("  #   last access                         %sstatus     country name\n",
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/decl.c b/src/lib/commands/decl.c
index 386fe0ae..b7ed5ebc 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/decl.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/decl.c
@@ -85,7 +85,7 @@ decl(void)
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     who = player->cnum;
     if (player->god) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/fina.c b/src/lib/commands/fina.c
index 0bbae079..fca4f886 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/fina.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/fina.c
@@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ fina(void)
 	pr("Loans are not enabled.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LOAN, "*"))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LOAN, "*", NULL))
     	return RET_SYN;
     (void)time(&now);
     pr("\n");
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/flee.c b/src/lib/commands/flee.c
index 04c24b1f..965f9477 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/flee.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/flee.c
@@ -59,7 +59,7 @@ flee(void)
     }
     if (c == '~')
 	c = 0;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     count = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &ship)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/foll.c b/src/lib/commands/foll.c
index bc09f9e4..c81694b0 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/foll.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/foll.c
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ foll(void)
 	pr("The SAIL option is not enabled, so this command is not valid.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     cp = getstarg(player->argp[2], "leader? ", buf);
     if (cp == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/fort.c b/src/lib/commands/fort.c
index f42843fa..8630bed8 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/fort.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/fort.c
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ fort(void)
     char *p;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     p = getstarg(player->argp[2], "Amount: ", buf);
     if (p == 0 || *p == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/hard.c b/src/lib/commands/hard.c
index dc8498ad..2f3bb167 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/hard.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/hard.c
@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ hard(void)
     long cash;
     struct natstr *natp;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     if ((p = getstarg(player->argp[2], "Increase by? ", buf)) == 0
 	|| *p == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/land.c b/src/lib/commands/land.c
index 3985c09b..46ccad45 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/land.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/land.c
@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ land(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct lndstr land;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nunits = noff = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/laun.c b/src/lib/commands/laun.c
index 940144af..01d03c05 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/laun.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/laun.c
@@ -62,7 +62,7 @@ laun(void)
     struct plchrstr *pcp;
     int retval, gone;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &plane)) {
 	if (plane.pln_own != player->cnum)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/ldump.c b/src/lib/commands/ldump.c
index 5b985104..291fc0c8 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/ldump.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/ldump.c
@@ -49,7 +49,7 @@ ldump(void)
     struct natstr *np;
     time_t now;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
     nunits = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/ledg.c b/src/lib/commands/ledg.c
index 6bc0febd..6a6be7bf 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/ledg.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/ledg.c
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ ledg(void)
 	pr("Loans are not enabled.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_LOAN, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_LOAN, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     pr("\n... %s Ledger ...\n", cname(player->cnum));
     nloan = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/load.c b/src/lib/commands/load.c
index b677d3ea..d245ba21 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/load.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/load.c
@@ -102,7 +102,7 @@ load(void)
 
     noisy = isdigit(*p);
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_SHIP, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_SHIP, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     load_unload = **player->argp == 'l' ? LOAD : UNLOAD;
@@ -237,7 +237,7 @@ lload(void)
 
     noisy = isdigit(*p);
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_LAND, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_LAND, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     load_unload = player->argp[0][1] == 'l' ? LOAD : UNLOAD;
@@ -370,8 +370,10 @@ load_plane_ship(struct sctstr *sectp, struct shpstr *sp, int noisy,
     }
     sprintf(prompt, "Plane(s) to %s %s? ",
 	    load_unload == LOAD ? "load onto" : "unload from", prship(sp));
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE,
-		  p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf)))
+    p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf);
+    if (!p)
+	return RET_SYN;
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     if (!still_ok_ship(sectp, sp))
@@ -505,8 +507,10 @@ load_land_ship(struct sctstr *sectp, struct shpstr *sp, int noisy,
     }
     sprintf(prompt, "Land unit(s) to %s %s? ",
 	    load_unload == LOAD ? "load onto" : "unload from", prship(sp));
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND,
-		  p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf)))
+    p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf);
+    if (!p)
+	return RET_SYN;
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     if (!still_ok_ship(sectp, sp))
@@ -767,8 +771,10 @@ load_plane_land(struct sctstr *sectp, struct lndstr *lp, int noisy,
     }
     sprintf(prompt, "Plane(s) to %s %s? ",
 	    load_unload == LOAD ? "load onto" : "unload from", prland(lp));
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE,
-		  p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf)))
+    p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf);
+    if (!p)
+	return RET_SYN;
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     if (!still_ok_land(sectp, lp))
@@ -958,8 +964,10 @@ load_land_land(struct sctstr *sectp, struct lndstr *lp, int noisy,
     }
     sprintf(prompt, "Land unit(s) to %s %s? ",
 	    load_unload == LOAD ? "load onto" : "unload from", prland(lp));
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND,
-		  p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf)))
+    p = getstarg(player->argp[3], prompt, buf);
+    if (!p)
+	return RET_SYN;
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     if (!still_ok_land(sectp, lp))
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/look.c b/src/lib/commands/look.c
index f064b8d0..92a635e2 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/look.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/look.c
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ do_look(short type)
     if (CANT_HAPPEN(type != EF_LAND && type != EF_SHIP))
 	type = EF_SHIP;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     if ((bitmap = malloc((WORLD_X * WORLD_Y) / 8)) == 0) {
 	logerror("malloc failed in do_look\n");
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/lost.c b/src/lib/commands/lost.c
index 3925e83f..8e410e68 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/lost.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/lost.c
@@ -44,7 +44,9 @@ lost(void)
     struct loststr lost;
     time_t now;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LOST, player->argp[1] ? player->argp[1] : "*"))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LOST,
+		  player->argp[1] ? player->argp[1] : "*",
+		  NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     prdate();
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/lstat.c b/src/lib/commands/lstat.c
index e1e96172..34af6a49 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/lstat.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/lstat.c
@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ lsta(void)
     struct lndstr land;
     struct lchrstr *lcp;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nunits = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/lten.c b/src/lib/commands/lten.c
index 3aaba712..6e982fdf 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/lten.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/lten.c
@@ -69,8 +69,7 @@ ltend(void)
     if (!(ip = whatitem(player->argp[1], "Transfer what commodity? ")))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&tenders, EF_SHIP,
-		  getstarg(player->argp[2], "Tender(s)? ", buf)))
+    if (!snxtitem(&tenders, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2], "Tender(s)? "))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&tenders, &tender)) {
 	if (!player->owner)
@@ -95,8 +94,7 @@ ltend(void)
 	    return RET_FAIL;
 	}
 	if (!snxtitem(&targets, EF_LAND,
-		      getstarg(player->argp[4], "Units to be tended? ",
-			       buf)))
+		      player->argp[4], "Units to be tended? "))
 	    return RET_SYN;
 	if (!check_ship_ok(&tender))
 	    return RET_FAIL;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/marc.c b/src/lib/commands/marc.c
index f497f446..0e97c29d 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/marc.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/marc.c
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ march(void)
     double minmob, maxmob;
     int together;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni_land, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni_land, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     lnd_sel(&ni_land, &land_list);
     lnd_mar(&land_list, &minmob, &maxmob, &together, player->cnum);
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/mfir.c b/src/lib/commands/mfir.c
index 398b3b7f..7ca3a35d 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/mfir.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/mfir.c
@@ -111,11 +111,7 @@ multifire(void)
 	pr("Ships, land units or sectors only!\n");
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
-    if ((ptr = getstarg(player->argp[2], "Firing from? ", buf)) == 0
-	|| *ptr == '\0')
-	return RET_SYN;
-
-    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, type, ptr))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, type, player->argp[2], "Firing from? "))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     while (nxtitem(&nbst, &item)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/mine.c b/src/lib/commands/mine.c
index 74f44113..c33a558e 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/mine.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/mine.c
@@ -52,7 +52,7 @@ mine(void)
     int shells;
     int mines_avail;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     mines = onearg(player->argp[2],
 		   "Drop how many mines from each ship? ");
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@ landmine(void)
     int total_mines_laid;
     char prompt[128];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &land)) {
 	if (!player->owner)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/miss.c b/src/lib/commands/miss.c
index abf9d16f..6e4f4fe0 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/miss.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/miss.c
@@ -57,7 +57,6 @@ mission(void)
     struct empobj *gp;
     int num = 0, mobmax, mobused, dist;
     struct nstr_item ni;
-    char prompt[128];
     char buf[1024];
 
     if ((p =
@@ -69,9 +68,7 @@ mission(void)
 	pr("Ships, land units or planes only! (s, l, p)\n");
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
-    sprintf(prompt, "%s(s)? ", ef_nameof(type));
-    p = getstarg(player->argp[2], prompt, buf);
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     if ((p =
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/mobq.c b/src/lib/commands/mobq.c
index fcd8cf5f..19dff813 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/mobq.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/mobq.c
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ mobq(void)
 	pr("The SAIL option is not enabled, so this command is not valid.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     oldmq = player->argp[2];
     if (oldmq) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/mora.c b/src/lib/commands/mora.c
index 455e73a1..79d07d84 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/mora.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/mora.c
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ morale(void)
     char mess[128];
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &land)) {
 	if (!player->owner || land.lnd_own == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/name.c b/src/lib/commands/name.c
index 493c72f2..9e5d2861 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/name.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/name.c
@@ -49,7 +49,7 @@ name(void)
     struct nstr_item nb;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nb, &ship)) {
 	if (!player->owner)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/navi.c b/src/lib/commands/navi.c
index 122c8ac5..ab6b5e19 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/navi.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/navi.c
@@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ navi(void)
     double minmob, maxmob;
     int together;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni_ship, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni_ship, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     shp_sel(&ni_ship, &ship_list);
     shp_nav(&ship_list, &minmob, &maxmob, &together, player->cnum);
@@ -199,7 +199,7 @@ do_unit_move(struct emp_qelem *ulist, int *together,
 	     */
 	case 'M':
 	    do_map(bmap_flag, leader->ef_type, player->argp[1],
-		player->argp[2]);
+		   player->argp[2]);
 	    skip = 1;
 	    continue;
 	case 'f':
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/ndump.c b/src/lib/commands/ndump.c
index 08b9a4d6..c9f0098c 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/ndump.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/ndump.c
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ ndump(void)
     time_t now;
     int nnukes;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
     if (player->god)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/news.c b/src/lib/commands/news.c
index db162d0a..6abf9d67 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/news.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/news.c
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ news(void)
     char num[128];
     char *verb;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NEWS, "*"))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NEWS, "*", NULL))
     	return RET_SYN;
     memset(page_has_news, 0, sizeof(page_has_news));
     memset(sectors_taken, 0, sizeof(sectors_taken));
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/nuke.c b/src/lib/commands/nuke.c
index 848727b1..18705158 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/nuke.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/nuke.c
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ nuke(void)
     struct nukstr nuk;
     struct plnstr plane;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nnukes = noff = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &nuk)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/orde.c b/src/lib/commands/orde.c
index 4bda521d..d4373d05 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/orde.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/orde.c
@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ orde(void)
     char buf[1024];
     char prompt[128];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (!player->aborted && nxtitem(&nb, (&ship))) {
 	if (!player->owner || ship.shp_own == 0)
@@ -357,7 +357,7 @@ qorde(void)
     struct nstr_item nb;
     struct shpstr ship;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nb, (&ship))) {
 	if (!player->owner || ship.shp_own == 0)
@@ -419,7 +419,7 @@ sorde(void)
     struct shpstr ship;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nb, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nb, (&ship))) {
 	if (!player->owner || ship.shp_own == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/payo.c b/src/lib/commands/payo.c
index 10944e95..c7414863 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/payo.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/payo.c
@@ -52,7 +52,7 @@ payo(void)
 	pr("Tradeships are not enabled.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nships = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/pboa.c b/src/lib/commands/pboa.c
index 9f911b63..0a9c936a 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/pboa.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/pboa.c
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ pboa(void)
     struct nstr_item np;
     struct plnstr plane;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &plane)) {
 	getsect(plane.pln_x, plane.pln_y, &sect);
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/pdump.c b/src/lib/commands/pdump.c
index 6c21a65f..5465e488 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/pdump.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/pdump.c
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ pdump(void)
     int n, i;
     time_t now;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
 
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/plan.c b/src/lib/commands/plan.c
index 136896ec..b841573c 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/plan.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/plan.c
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ plan(void)
     struct nstr_item np;
     struct plnstr plane;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nplanes = noff = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &plane)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/powe.c b/src/lib/commands/powe.c
index 55046a5c..9376ca0c 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/powe.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/powe.c
@@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ powe(void)
 
     if (player->argp[i]) {
 	if (player->argp[i][0] == 'c') {
-	    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[i + 1]))
+	    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[i + 1], NULL))
 		return RET_SYN;
 	    while (nxtitem(&ni, &nat)) {
 		if (nat.nat_stat == STAT_UNUSED)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/pstat.c b/src/lib/commands/pstat.c
index 5106d0f3..8d5c0d16 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/pstat.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/pstat.c
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ pstat(void)
     struct nstr_item np;
     struct plnstr plane;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nplanes = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &plane)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/rada.c b/src/lib/commands/rada.c
index b8f55250..3e488bee 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/rada.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/rada.c
@@ -90,7 +90,7 @@ radar(short type)
     case NS_LIST:
     case NS_GROUP:
 	/* assumes a NS_LIST return is a unit no */
-	if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, cp)) {
+	if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, cp, NULL)) {
 	    pr("Specify at least one %s\n", ef_nameof(type));
 	    return RET_SYN;
 	}
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/rang.c b/src/lib/commands/rang.c
index 96ff29a6..964d4af0 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/rang.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/rang.c
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ range(void)
     char *p;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_PLANE, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &plane)) {
 	if (!player->owner || plane.pln_own == 0)
@@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ lrange(void)
     char prompt[128];
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&np, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&np, &land)) {
 	if (!player->owner || land.lnd_own == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/reje.c b/src/lib/commands/reje.c
index be104878..6bc0af58 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/reje.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/reje.c
@@ -80,7 +80,7 @@ reje(void)
 	pr("That's not one of the choices!\n");
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[3]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[3], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &nat)) {
 	if (nat.nat_stat == STAT_GOD) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/repo.c b/src/lib/commands/repo.c
index aec2dd7b..2401928b 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/repo.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/repo.c
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ repo(void)
     struct natstr nat;
     struct nstr_item ni;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_NATION, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
     natp = getnatp(player->cnum);
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/retr.c b/src/lib/commands/retr.c
index 5c56219f..c116a886 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/retr.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/retr.c
@@ -83,7 +83,7 @@ retreat(short type)
 	type = EF_SHIP;
     rflagsc = type == EF_SHIP ? shp_rflagsc : lnd_rflagsc;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     nunits = 0;
     if (player->argp[2] != NULL)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/sabo.c b/src/lib/commands/sabo.c
index 7911dfc8..45445e48 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/sabo.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/sabo.c
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ sabo(void)
     double odds;
     int dam;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &land)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/sail.c b/src/lib/commands/sail.c
index 0f1fa0f8..19fa6a81 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/sail.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/sail.c
@@ -144,7 +144,7 @@ sail(void)
 	pr("The SAIL option is not enabled, so this command is not valid.\n");
 	return RET_FAIL;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     cp = player->argp[2];
     if (*player->argp[0] == 'u' || (cp && !strcmp(cp, "-")))
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/scra.c b/src/lib/commands/scra.c
index 9c95c2b3..5de18625 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/scra.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/scra.c
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ scra(void)
     sprintf(prompt, "%s(s)? ", ef_nameof(type));
     if ((p = getstarg(player->argp[2], prompt, buf)) == 0)
 	return RET_SYN;
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     if (p && (isalpha(*p) || (*p == '*') || (*p == '~') || issector(p)
 	      || islist(p))) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/scut.c b/src/lib/commands/scut.c
index 8dd892d7..fa305768 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/scut.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/scut.c
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ scut(void)
     sprintf(prompt, "%s(s)? ", ef_nameof(type));
     if ((p = getstarg(player->argp[2], prompt, buf)) == 0)
 	return RET_SYN;
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, p, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     if (p && (isalpha(*p) || (*p == '*') || (*p == '~') || issector(p)
 	      || islist(p))) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/sdump.c b/src/lib/commands/sdump.c
index a70ade8d..24307c46 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/sdump.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/sdump.c
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ sdump(void)
     int n, i;
     time_t now;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
 
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/set.c b/src/lib/commands/set.c
index 62feb357..96a5eb14 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/set.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/set.c
@@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ set(void)
 	pr("You can sell only ships, planes, land units or nukes\n");
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &item)) {
 	if (!player->owner && !player->god)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/shi.c b/src/lib/commands/shi.c
index 05d8c018..ccf013bf 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/shi.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/shi.c
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ shi(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct shpstr ship;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nships = noff = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/sona.c b/src/lib/commands/sona.c
index 35579ee1..5f3f5bf8 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/sona.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/sona.c
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ sona(void)
     static signed char **vis = NULL;
     static signed char *visbuf = NULL;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     if (!radbuf)
 	radbuf = malloc((WORLD_Y * (WORLD_X + 1)));
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/sstat.c b/src/lib/commands/sstat.c
index 0498e1b1..e177ad46 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/sstat.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/sstat.c
@@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ sstat(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct shpstr ship;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nships = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/stop.c b/src/lib/commands/stop.c
index cd3d9654..414d4840 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/stop.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/stop.c
@@ -157,7 +157,7 @@ start_stop_unit(int type, char *arg, int off)
     int nunit;
     struct nstr_item nstr;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, type, arg))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, type, arg, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     prdate();
     nunit = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/strv.c b/src/lib/commands/strv.c
index 3e53ad70..61f41f38 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/strv.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/strv.c
@@ -170,7 +170,7 @@ starv_ships(char *range)
     int nship = 0;
     int s;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, range))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, range, NULL))
 	return;
 
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &ship)) {
@@ -218,7 +218,7 @@ starv_units(char *range)
     int nunit = 0;
     int s;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, range))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, range, NULL))
 	return;
 
     while (nxtitem(&ni, &land)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/supp.c b/src/lib/commands/supp.c
index 491b3c68..8c1a3e6a 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/supp.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/supp.c
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ supp(void)
     struct nstr_item ni;
     struct lndstr land;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     nunits = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/tend.c b/src/lib/commands/tend.c
index dcf04475..fd02c9ee 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/tend.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/tend.c
@@ -80,8 +80,7 @@ tend(void)
 	return RET_SYN;
     }
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&tenders, EF_SHIP,
-		  getstarg(player->argp[2], "Tender(s)? ", buf)))
+    if (!snxtitem(&tenders, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2], "Tender(s)? "))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     while (nxtitem(&tenders, &tender)) {
@@ -127,8 +126,7 @@ tend(void)
 	    break;
 	}
 	if (!snxtitem(&targets, EF_SHIP,
-		      getstarg(player->argp[4], "Ships to be tended? ",
-			       buf)))
+		      player->argp[4], "Ships to be tended? "))
 	    return RET_SYN;
 	if (!check_ship_ok(&tender))
 	    return RET_SYN;
@@ -213,7 +211,7 @@ tend_land(struct shpstr *tenderp, char *units)
     struct nstr_item pni;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&lni, EF_LAND, units))
+    if (!snxtitem(&lni, EF_LAND, units, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     while (nxtitem(&lni, &land)) {
@@ -229,8 +227,7 @@ tend_land(struct shpstr *tenderp, char *units)
 	    continue;
 	}
 	if (!snxtitem(&targets, EF_SHIP,
-		      getstarg(player->argp[4], "Ship to be tended? ",
-			       buf)))
+		      player->argp[4], "Ship to be tended? "))
 	    return RET_SYN;
 	if (!check_land_ok(&land))
 	    return RET_SYN;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/torp.c b/src/lib/commands/torp.c
index 91034f54..b0ce4bef 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/torp.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/torp.c
@@ -62,13 +62,10 @@ torp(void)
     char *ptr;
     struct nstr_item nbst;
     char buf[1024];
-    char *p;
     int ntorping = 0;
     char prompt[128];
 
-    if (!(p = getstarg(player->argp[1], "From ship(s)? ", buf)))
-	return RET_SYN;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_SHIP, p))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nbst, EF_SHIP, player->argp[1], "From ship(s)? "))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nbst, &sub)) {
 	if (sub.shp_own != player->cnum)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/tran.c b/src/lib/commands/tran.c
index b2da0d09..259e64eb 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/tran.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/tran.c
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ tran_nuke(void)
 
     weight = 0;
     count = 0;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_NUKE, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &nuke)) {
 	if (!player->owner)
@@ -156,7 +156,7 @@ tran_plane(void)
 
     weight = 0;
     count = 0;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     /*
      * First do some sanity checks: make sure that they are all in the,
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/trea.c b/src/lib/commands/trea.c
index 2eda9192..ac1c2da4 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/trea.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/trea.c
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ trea(void)
     struct nstr_item nstr;
     int ntreaty;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_TREATY, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_TREATY, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     pr("\t... %s Treaty Report ...\n", cname(player->cnum));
     ntreaty = 0;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/upgr.c b/src/lib/commands/upgr.c
index 3216f7fc..510f08f7 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/upgr.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/upgr.c
@@ -87,7 +87,7 @@ lupgr(void)
     int rel;
     long cash;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     natp = getnatp(player->cnum);
     cash = natp->nat_money;
@@ -170,7 +170,7 @@ supgr(void)
     int rel;
     long cash;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     natp = getnatp(player->cnum);
     cash = natp->nat_money;
@@ -252,7 +252,7 @@ pupgr(void)
     int rel;
     long cash;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     natp = getnatp(player->cnum);
     cash = natp->nat_money;
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/wing.c b/src/lib/commands/wing.c
index f0264d63..51226f05 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/wing.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/wing.c
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ wing(void)
     }
     if (c == '~')
 	c = 0;
-    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&nstr, EF_PLANE, player->argp[2], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     count = 0;
     while (nxtitem(&nstr, &plane)) {
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/work.c b/src/lib/commands/work.c
index cf6dc769..8c33d39c 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/work.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/work.c
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ work(void)
     coord donex = 0, doney = 1;
     char buf[1024];
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1]))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, player->argp[1], NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
     p = getstarg(player->argp[2], "Amount: ", buf);
     if (p == 0 || *p == 0)
diff --git a/src/lib/commands/xdump.c b/src/lib/commands/xdump.c
index 6b9f0444..d4713ba9 100644
--- a/src/lib/commands/xdump.c
+++ b/src/lib/commands/xdump.c
@@ -129,7 +129,7 @@ xditem(struct xdstr *xd, int type, char *arg)
     if (!ca)
 	return RET_SYN;
 
-    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, arg))
+    if (!snxtitem(&ni, type, arg, NULL))
 	return RET_SYN;
 
     xdhdr(xd, ef_nameof(type), 0);
diff --git a/src/lib/subs/plnsub.c b/src/lib/subs/plnsub.c
index 02cf8139..bb582a27 100644
--- a/src/lib/subs/plnsub.c
+++ b/src/lib/subs/plnsub.c
@@ -70,12 +70,9 @@ int
 get_planes(struct nstr_item *ni_bomb, struct nstr_item *ni_esc,
 	   char *input_bomb, char *input_esc)
 {
-    char buf[1024];
-
-    if (!snxtitem(ni_bomb, EF_PLANE, input_bomb))
+    if (!snxtitem(ni_bomb, EF_PLANE, input_bomb, NULL))
 	return -1;
-    if (!snxtitem(ni_esc, EF_PLANE,
-		  getstarg(input_esc, "escort(s)? ", buf))) {
+    if (!snxtitem(ni_esc, EF_PLANE, input_esc, "escort(s)? ")) {
 	if (player->aborted)
 	    return -1;
 	pr("No escorts...\n");
diff --git a/src/lib/subs/satmap.c b/src/lib/subs/satmap.c
index 3e37dceb..9c812499 100644
--- a/src/lib/subs/satmap.c
+++ b/src/lib/subs/satmap.c
@@ -145,7 +145,7 @@ satmap(int x, int y, int eff, int range, int flags, int type)
     if ((type == EF_BAD || type == EF_SHIP) &&
 	(flags & P_S || flags & P_I)) {
 	if (type == EF_SHIP)
-	    snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, selection);
+	    snxtitem(&ni, EF_SHIP, selection, NULL);
 	else
 	    snxtitem_dist(&ni, EF_SHIP, x, y, range);
 
@@ -190,7 +190,7 @@ satmap(int x, int y, int eff, int range, int flags, int type)
     if ((type == EF_BAD || type == EF_LAND) &&
 	(flags & P_S || flags & P_I)) {
 	if (type == EF_LAND)
-	    snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, selection);
+	    snxtitem(&ni, EF_LAND, selection, NULL);
 	else
 	    snxtitem_dist(&ni, EF_LAND, x, y, range);
 
diff --git a/src/lib/subs/snxtitem.c b/src/lib/subs/snxtitem.c
index e1446444..2c7dc6c5 100644
--- a/src/lib/subs/snxtitem.c
+++ b/src/lib/subs/snxtitem.c
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@
  * instead.
  */
 int
-snxtitem(struct nstr_item *np, int type, char *str)
+snxtitem(struct nstr_item *np, int type, char *str, char *prompt)
 {
     struct range range;
     int list[NS_LSIZE];
@@ -59,13 +59,16 @@ snxtitem(struct nstr_item *np, int type, char *str)
     coord cx, cy;
     int dist;
     int flags;
-    char prompt[128];
+    char promptbuf[128];
     char buf[1024];
 
     np->type = EF_BAD;
     np->sel = NS_UNDEF;
     if (str == 0) {
-	sprintf(prompt, "%s(s)? ", ef_nameof(type));
+	if (!prompt) {
+	    sprintf(promptbuf, "%s(s)? ", ef_nameof(type));
+	    prompt = promptbuf;
+	}
 	str = getstring(prompt, buf);
 	if (str == 0)
 	    return 0;