Dan;

On 544s and later, Brakelights are an Ignition Powered function, but I just checked the wiring diagram (at: http://www.sw-em.com/444LS%206V%20Wiring%20Diagram.gif ), and indeed on a 6V 444, they are Battery Powered...that means, as others have pointed out, likely a failed pressure sensing Brakelight Switch (welded contact). This is actually an unusual failure mode for the switches...much more common is their failure to close, not to stay closed. See: http://www.sw-em.com/hydraulic%20brake%20light%20switches%20notes.htm

Confirm welded contact by removing wires...if Brakelights then go OFF, Brakelight Switch is definitely the cause.

Options: Replace Switch (but many around here have had bad experiences with these switches...even new replacement ones...)

Upgrade to a Pedal Position Sensing Mechanical Switch.

See: http://www.sw-em.com/safety_bulletin_4.htm

BTW, If you call this straightforward failure an "electrical goblin", what are you going to do when you have a real tricky problem?

Cheers