Thanks to this link: http://www.honda.co.uk/owner/PreludeManual/index.html I think I have enough info to track down my problem.

Short version: The A/c light comes on, but no compressor or condensor fans. All the relays are OK, all the wiring and grounds seem OK, and as I said in my previous post, the previous owner had jumped directly to the compressor so the air was on all the time.

This forum is a great resource to have!! I've already fixed my master relay/hot starting problem, now if I could just stop the rust on the rear fenders!!!