Well (respectfully) that is an explanation without an answer<s>.

Three things:
1. As far as I can see, a read only, uni-directional cursor has no
need of a DB_KEY.

2. It should be controllable by the developer.

3. If IBO is going to return a hidden field for its own benefit, that
I did not request in my SQL, then it should not impact properties like
FieldCount. It should stay hidden.

Just my 2 cents.

Clive