[trubydooby]

Okay, first, where would I go to find out if the Mac I have purchased from a private seller is not stolen? Then what can I do to get it started? I don't have start up or restore disks and it will turn on, but won't get past the sign on/password screen. Any help would be great.

[sashasquash]

That does sound suspicious. I just did a quick google of "report a lost computer" and it came up with a bunch of databases you could check. If you don't know how to find your computer's serial number, look here: Locating your PowerBook’s serial number

Someone here knows better than me, so I hope they chime in, but I don't think you'll be able to get beyond the password screen without a password without completely reloading everything. What does the seller say about the password protection? It's their responsibility to sell you a product that you can use. Paypal can help you return it if you need to.

Good luck!
Sasha