title: Convert any record to a string and back?
body: <p>How can I convert any <code>record</code> type to a single <code>String</code> and back? Perhaps load the record into a stream and read it as a String? The records I'm using won't have any special types included - they're just using simple things like <code>String</code>, <code>Integer</code>, <code>PChar</code>, <code>DWORD</code>, and <code>Array of [String]</code>, etc. and nothing like classes or functions.</p>
  
  <p>This string will further be saved into various places, such as a flat text file, database record, sent over the network, etc. The string contents may be transferred by other means between each of these, such as copying the string from a text file and saving it to a database record. The general idea is that the string will be compatible enough to save anywhere, move it around, and load it back in to its original state. I do understand I need to be able to recognize what <em>type</em> of record it is and assign it accordingly, and that part I don't need help with.</p>