I cleaned the carb, it can prime, gas is in the reservoir, but fails to start. I installed a new plug and have clean gas. When I start, it catches, but then dies within a few seconds. It seems that it isn't getting any gas or perhaps no gas is being funneled into the engine... at a loss! Any suggestions?

I think you're correct that it isn't getting gas into the engine. There is probably still some varnish built up in the carburetor.

Hi,
Will post a picture of your carb from the manual. The part #40 is the main jet and has a hole in the side and one possible in the interior that determines fuel flow. Lesser known is that it has a diagonal hole that feeds the low speed circuit. Those low speed circuits are then fed through holes in #20 which is a jet, not an adjustment. It merely screws in and seats in the body. The jet #36 also has holes in it that can plug; it can be pushed out through the bottom by sticking a screwdriver in the venturi once the main jet is removed.
Peace,
Clarke

Is there a solvent that can be added to the gas to disolve the varnish?

Wouldn't try that,anything loose in t he fuel is going to settle in the carb bowl.