Computer won't respond to single user or "C" command when booting up

The machine goes straight to the regular log-in screen. To repair, I have to redesignate my start-up disk. And I can't use applejack as I can't get into single user mode. I also tried to zap the PRAM, one of my favorite activities when I had an original I-Mac and was running OS 9, but I couldn't do that either. It does eject a CD while booting up when I hold down the right button on the mouse.
I've repaired the disk, repaired permissions, run the maintenance scripts, and checked my preference files. I've also redone keyboard set-up. I haven't done a hardware check.
I'm using a Macally ikey keyboard but the same thing happens with the apple-delivered keyboard that came with the machine. (I spilled coffee on the latter so its only partially functional.)
Any suggestions?
Thanks.

Replace the keyboard with another MacAlly, or Apple wired keyboard.
Don't drink near your keyboard.
Use the startup manager:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=106178
Limping along with a keyboard that has been shorted is only asking for something wrong to be typed at the wrong time.

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