try and find out in person, not on the internet ask some slightly probing questions on the subject of relation ships. hopefully this should build up your courage to possibly say something some othertime (or if your feeling real brave, say something then) but dont try to do something inportant like that with anything less then a phone conversation (i know, thats hard. but its true)

You don't, because its stupid and impersonal. If you want someone to like you, play hard to get for a week then you'll get a feel for where you stand.