Debian boot question

[Jes and guide dog Harley]

Hi all,
I just installed Debian today, but have a problem when I start the system. I can get to the log in prompt fine, and speakup does
beep at me when I hit the 4 and 6 keys on the keypad, so I know that's installed, however, I can't get speech output to my double
talk L T. I am using Debian version 2.2.17 potato, and Lilo is in the mbr of the hard disk. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
Jes