THE OPENINGS.
A game of Chess consists of three phases: the Opening; the Middle game; and the End game. It need not, however, pass through all three stages, but may come to a conclusion at either of them.
The Opening is the development of the pieces. A quick and judicious development of the forces is half the battle won. From a mistake in the beginning of a game—assuming both players to be of equal strength—it is difficult to recover. The Openings, therefore, should be studied carefully.
The Middle Game is entirely a matter of practice, and its proper management can only be acquired by experience. Both players are here thrown upon their own resources, as the analysis does not reach beyond the opening.
The End Game is a study in itself, and one which will repay the most careful attention. There are certain positions which occur frequently at the end of a game; these have been systematically arranged by eminent specialists, and may be committed to memory; but the larger number (like the Middle game) depend upon ingenuity and individual skill.
The Openings are divided into Open Games—i.e., where White plays 1. P to K 4, and Black replies 1. ... P to K 4; and Close Games—i.e., where White's first move is any other than 1. P to K 4. The Open Games will be first dealt with.
The first opening which we shall describe is the Giuoco Piano, "the slow, or steady, opening," so
called because it is a quiet strategical development of the forces.
The game is presented to the reader just as if it were played over, and explained by the professor over the board. The reasons for each move are given in language adapted to the perception of the student who plays a game of chess for the first time.