Intelligent Dynamic MCs - HELP!

I want to make a portfolio. This portfolio will have buttons that when clicked will load external MCs that display the items in the portfolio. Pretty standard. So far.

I want to create one Button MC that will self-duplicate repeatedly to accomodate as many portfolio items as there are in the directory/list/whatever. The variables need to change with each button so that when clicked, they load the proper item MC. The goal is to make a portfolio that I can add to or subtract from without having to change the main SWF whatsoever.

Example for 3 portfolio items:

Button 1 exists in the main SWF without a specific external MC to load. It searches and finds the first external MC, claims it and then finds there is a second MC. It duplicates itself to create Button2. Button2 claims the second item and finds there is a third item. It duplicates itself to create Button3. Button3 claims the 3rd MC. Then it searches and finds no more external portfolio MCs, so it stops duplicating.

I can't rely on external MCs having sequential names, because they will likely be added and removed over time.

I'm fine on having MCs load other MCs, and although I would like to see some code, I have a grasp on duplicating MCs, but I have no idea how I might have the button MCs search for external MCs and duplicate to accomodate them.

I am very appreciative of any help anyone can provide. Thanks!