Look in your CD in a folder called Extras, you will find a file called SpaceEmpManual.zip. I it you have a .pdf file and a text file. At least this is in my SE4 CD...
There is also a manual included in the install, in the Manual subfolder of the se4 folder. It is not the normal manual at all, but a HTML document with different information and such. Check it out as well.
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Creator of the Star Trek Mod - AST Mod - 78 Ship Sets - Conquest Mod - Atrocities Star Wars Mod - Galaxy Reborn Mod - and Subterfuge Mod.