OK this is strange: I go into about:config (firefox 32.0.3 running under Windows XP SP 2), and the value is locked at 26794 - if i try to modify it the modify box comes up, but no matter what number i enter it stays at 26794.

ALSO, i am using CUSTOM SETTINGS for privacy and i have checked off CLEAR HISTORY WHEN FIREFOX CLOSES, then under settings i check off CACHE and BROWSING AND DOWNLOAD HISTORY to be cleared, BUT after i close firefox and return, my history is not cleared. The only way i can delete history is to manually enter it and delete it. IDEAS???