I think it must be the file you receive that's wrong, your Hlg at this stage, is just reading the file.
It could be that the creator has a bug with his map or oob, try it with one of the standard HLG scenarios.
When the creator makes the file, he must follow some exact steps.He must first select fow etc..in game options, he selects the map and oob's in "solo mode", then goes back to the main menu selects "play pbem" then "Create pbem". The game will then open with the options and maps selected previously. He makes his initial deployment and gives his first orders, then hits"P"
The game closes and then he sends his first file.
I've only just woken up, so I hope I remembered right.