[TYPO3] Second cry for ideas - Can't update constants

[John Harrison]

Hi: 

Using the constant editor, I attempt to modify certain constants, e.g.
content.pageFrameObj or PAGE_Target (both under the Advanced tab). On
hitting 'Update', the displayed value returns to the default, i.e. the
software ignores my desired change. 

However, if I look at the TS constants on the 'whole template record', the
changes do appear there - even though they are ignored. 

I have checked in the Installation script, and all the key files are
writeable. So there must be another problem, but I cannot see it. I would
welcome any ideas.

I'm using Typo 3.8 atop MySQL 4.1.21, FWIW. I posted about this problem this
morning, but got no response.

Regards, 

John Harrison