"As I seem to do, I do not post the actual code as it is part of a far larger operation which would just lead to confusion. This was screwed up. I did not copy and paste. I typed it anew with errors."

Please don't do this, before posting run the code you claim to have a problem with, post the exact output as part of your problem. How do I post a question effectively?.

Hello, tultalk. It's good to see you recognize that posting the whole hot mess of code was only going to add confusion. It's also good to see that you've realized that not posting actual code, data and results also confuses the issue.

There is an additional hidden advantage to providing the oft-requested Short, Self-Contained, Correct Example:

It forces you to restructure the problem. This often causes the mistake to reveal itself to you, as you suddenly toss out a handful of assumptions made whilst writing the original code.

It's not only helpful in getting good answers from Perlmonks. It's also helpful in not needing to even ask for help.