Well, gents, last night I left the charger on the battery (of course) and a bit ago had time to inspect and clean the battery posts and cable ends. When I tried to crank her, that starter jumped to life, but there was no ignition. I gave her a shot of starter fluid and with the next try, for a second or two, the turn-over rhythm quickened a bit. There was still no real "ignition" action then, or with subsequent attempts. But that's a concern for another day, hopefully the weekend. The electrical connection issue is settled and I thank one and all for input. I wouldn't have thought that cleaning such that didn't even look dirty or corroded would cause such a difference!
