A game is drawn when only one piece is left on the board, or when only pawns are left, as it is then impossible to secure a double checkmate.
But should each partner have a piece, or one of them two pieces, the game should be fought out, as, with the assistance of their kings, they may secure a double checkmate.
The adversaries have the forlorn hope of either taking one of their pieces—in which case the game is drawn—or of securing a stalemate.
This latter event, unlike the former case given, in which one was checkmated before the stalemate, will be a victory for them, as one king is free to move.
It is as well for beginners, having reached that stage of the game in which only two pieces are left, to declare the game drawn, with the honours of war attached to those with the two pieces left, as the game in that event will probably last long enough to tire out the patience of all engaged. Some ten years ago the writers sat from six o’clock in the evening until half-past four the following morning over a game which had dwindled down to the above-mentioned dimensions, and had all but given up the task as hopeless ere the desired result was obtained.
The pieces may range all over the board, as in Single Chess, and are equally at home in partners’ squares as in their own.
RULES AND PENALTIES.
1. Absolute silence must be maintained. Should a player give vent to an exclamation of vexation when his partner is about to move a piece, the adversaries may claim a pawn from any of his squares which does not expose him to check.
2. A player checkmated may not indicate to his partner how to obtain his release.
3. No piece may be moved which will discover check to player or his partner.