What is causing this starting issue with my 1992 Dodge pickup?

My veh is a D150 pickup, 2wd, with a 3.9 v6.  I have the following issue with
the first start of the day.  I turn the key to the on position and notice that the
check engine light does not illuminate.  Shortly thereafter, and with the key
remaining in the on position, I start hearing a clicking noise coming from the
relays on top of the drivers side fender.  The clicking starts getting louder
and then the check engine light starts coming on and flickers in sequence
with the clicking.  Then the clicking slows as does the flicking of the check
engine light until a few seconds go by and the clicking stops and the check
engine light stops flicking and stays on.  I then turn the key to run position
and the engine starts.  If I had turned the ignition to the run position prior to
the end of the clicking and steady illumination of the check engine light, the
engine would crank but not start.  Additionally, this only occurs during the
first start of the day.  During all subsequent starts of that day, the check
engine light comes right on when the ignition is turned to the on position.  I
have replaced the relays and lock cylinder/ignition switch.  All ideas are
welcomed.