Follow up on my "starter"...
Yes, as Bartamos said, it was the classic low battery symptom.
No, the fuel pump didn't buzz nor did lights work when I pressed the starter button.
My first meter check showed 12.3v, then 12.86v after a partial charge. The starter turned at 12.86v.
Thank you Stovebolters. Another mystery solved.
Gratitude,
Don