Here's an update.
I have a qualified success.
I checked the timing it was about 5 deg retarded,
assuming that the BB in the flywheel is TDC.
I reset it to the BB (0?) and the idle sped up.
I slowed it down and adjusted the mixture for smooth idle.
This also cured the sneezing on throttle tip-in.
I still have a slight hesitation on throttle tip in, but smooth idle and much more torque just off-idle, making for smoother starts.
I'm using a Motormite #42054 grommet in the vent hole on the block, a Fram FV184 PCV valve, and running the hose around behind the engine to the manifold with a tee to feed the vacuum line to the wiper.

Thanks for all the input along the way, guys.

regards,
Leon