...20.K to Q sq.
21.K to K 621.K to B sq.
22.K to Q 622.K to Q sq.
23.Kt to R 523.K to B sq.
24.B to Q 7: ch.24.K to Kt sq.

If 24. ... K to Q sq., then 25. Kt to B 6, checkmate.

25.K to B 625.K to R 2
26.Kt to B 426.K to R 3
27.K to B 727.K to R 2
28.B to B 828.K to R sq.
29.Kt to R 529.K to R 2
30.Kt to B 6: ch.30.K to R sq.
31.B to Kt 7, checkmate.
END GAME WITH TWO KNIGHTS.

With two Knights alone no mate can be forced, except through incorrect play on the part of the defence. Consequently the remaining with two

Knights should be avoided. If the player has the option to change off pieces, he should keep Bishop and Knight rather than two Knights.

General Observations.

A good system for the student is to practise one Opening only, attack and defence alternately, till it is thoroughly well mastered, and so on with every other Opening. The student should not get into the habit of playing with one colour only, or he will find himself at a disadvantage when he cannot have his favourite colour. He must not make a move without carefully weighing the possible replies. If he finds a good move, let him still try to find a better one. When his opponent makes a move, he must try to discover the object of such move, whether it is immediately menacing, or only indirectly so. In the first case, a suitable defence must be found; in the latter case, he may profit by the respite to bring a piece into play.

The first principle is to develop the pieces quickly, and never to commence an attack with insufficient forces. If a player is able to bring more pieces into play than his opponent, it is obvious that he must be stronger. The Opening correctly played is frequently half the battle won.

Avoid useless checks. Avoid useless exchanges. Bear in mind that it is disadvantageous to be left with two Knights only, as mate cannot be given with them. If the player has the better game, he should avoid remaining with a Bishop of different colour from a like piece of his opponent, as Bishops of different colour frequently lead to a draw.