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Chris,
Most lead/acid batteries, wet or sealed, will store well when charged ( the preferred method ) for significant lengths of time. Unlike some other rechargeable batteries (e.g. Ni-Cd) which are recommended to be discharged prior to storage. In other words, unless you are intending to store the things for, say, 12 months or more, there is no need to worry about them provided that they are fully charged at the time of moth-balling.
Charging two batteries in series should not be a problem - assuming that the charger used is not too small. Charging them in parallel (i.e. two banks in series which are in turn in parallel with another similar set) I'd be a bit wary about. The reason for my concern is that, should the two sets not be identical, you could find that one set is always (or at some time) trying hard to charge its mate). This can be overcome by constructing or purchasing some form of regulator/balancing device. I think that you will find that these are often used in situations where an 'active' battery is used in parallel with a back-up set of cells.
I am not an expert, Chris, so do a bit of research. There is a company in Sydney - Master Instruments - which specialises in batteries in many forms. It might be worth a 'phone call.
Cheers
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