GOT IT - I forgot I was using webmanager even locally as per some other tip about device connections being more stable - I put back on local and used the -h 127.0.0.1 and I am now seeing properties!!!
scripts for indi_setprops -h 127.0.0.1 "some action" are now working - back to dual cam imaging! - Jasem: see the wishlist entry - I posted my version of capture.cpp with markings for what to set in public versions - this is all good!