Xp will not load a 16-bit program

Hello,
I am trying to load and setup a program in windows xp pro.
All I get is a window pop up saying.

16 bit windows subsystem

C:\windows\system32\autoexec.nt

The system file is not suitable for running MS-DOS and windows applications.
Choose 'close' to terminate the applications.

Close or ignore

I am trying to load the program I hit install and get the error.
The program has a setup launcher(setup.exe) by Stirling Technologies Inc.

If anyone knows how to help please let me know.

thanks
jlind