ñ 1. C.J. Feather

Christopher John Feather was born on 24th March 1947 in Chester. A languages graduate, he was for many years a schoolmaster. Since 1967 he has composed over 1600 problems, mostly helpmates, a field in which he is the leading British exponent and an acknowledged expert. In 1994 he published Black to Play, the first attempt at developing a systematic theory of the modern helpmate. Much of his work has been published in home-produced pamphlets with names like Moultings, Pluckings and Broodings.

A Schach-Activ 1984 H#2 2 solutions

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Capture of white force is one of the commonest of paradoxical ideas shown in helpmates and composers continue to seek original motivations for the captures. Here the f-pawn will move to open a guard on a flight, but it also opens an unwanted guard on the king’s destination square, a fact which the knight must anticipate by removing the troublesome white piece. 1.Sxh4 f4 2.Ke1 Qc1 1.S3xh2 f3 2.Kxe2 Qd3

B Problemkiste 1992 H#2 (b) Qe2>f4

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: An example of an idea known as the Zilahi theme, where a piece which is captured in one solution mates in another solution. The capturing piece must clear a path for the queen while staying on the half-pin line to avoid an unwanted pin. a) 1.Qxf1 Qb2 2.Sc5 Rxd4 b) 1.Qxg4 Qd6 2.Bc3 Bxd3

C Rochade-Europa 1996 H#2 2 solutions

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Another original motivation for capture of white force and a fine solving challenge. 1.Kb4 Rc3 2.Bxe2 Sxe2 1.Kc5 Bf3 2.Bxd3 Sxd3

D Shakmatnaya Kompositsya 2001 H#2 3 solutions

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: An original cycle of selfblocks, captures and shut-off mates. 1.Qxe5+ Kxa7 2.Qh2 Sd2 1.Rh7 hxg5 2.Rh2 Sc3 1.Bf4 dxc5 2.Bh2 Sa3

E Moultings 5 1991 H#3 2 solutions

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Another example of the Zilahi theme. The white pieces move into position while a black piece takes a three-sided trip to selfblock at e2. Perfect economy. 1.Rxh3 Bd7 2.Rh2 Sf5 3.Rd2 Bb5 1.Bxf5+ Se6 2.Bg4 Rh4 3.Be2 Rd4

F Moultings 9 1992 H#3 b) Pf5-f7

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: The queen must ensure access for the king, but simply moving on to a pin-line fails because White, in guarding squares, will unpin. a) 1.Qxe8 (Qe7?) Sxe4 2.Kxe4 Be5 3.f3 Sf6 b) 1.Qxc7 (Qd6?) Sxf4 2.Kxf4 Re5 3.Rf3 Sd5

G Rybak-Murdzia Tourney 2000 H#6

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: A humorous problem in which the Black queen and bishop travel down the diagonal, to allow the advance of the white king, then back up again to block flights. 1.Bh1 Ke2 2.Qg2+ Kd3 3.Bb8 Kc4 4.Ka7 Kb5 5.Qa8 Ka5 6.Bb7 Sb5

H Schach-Echo 1978 SH#8

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qa6 2.c1R 3.Rd1 4.Rd3 5.Qxc4 6.Qf7 7.Rd8 8.Rf8 gxh3 1.Qa8 2.c1B 3.Be3 4.Bf2 5.Qxg2 6.Qg7 7.Bc5 8.Bf8 c5 Well-matched solutions in which the piece gained by promotion provides a shield to allow the queen to self-pin before selfblocking.

I British Chess Magazine 1970 sh#27 Equihoppers Equihoppers jump over a piece to a square an equal distance beyond the hurdle.

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Because they need the co-operation of another piece in order to move, equihoppers are well suited for help-play. The move order in I is cleverly forced; for example 1.d5 is illegal as the white king would be placed in check. 1.Eh4 2.d5 3.Ef8 4.Ed8 5.Exd2 6.Ed8 7.d4 8.d3 9.d2 10.d1Q 11.Qxg4 12.Qxb4 13.Qf4 14.b4 15.b3 16.b2 17.b1B 18.Bxg6 19.Bh5 20.g5 21.g4 22.g3 23.g2 24.g1E 25.Ee7 26.Qf8 27.Bf7 Kc6

J diagrammes 2003 (in memoriam P. Monréal) h#2 2 solutions Circe; Locusts The locust hops over an adverse man to the square immediately beyond, capturing the hurdle. The square it lands on must be empty. For a definition of Circe see the introductory article on Fairy Chess.

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: To quote Chris: “ I like the locust's power to fire a battery from immediately behind the king, and the corresponding possibility of neutralising the check by playing a piece to the same square (f2 in this case). I hope that this problem has that elusive quality of humour. In fact I was amazed to find that it could be made to work, and laughed aloud when it did!” 1.Rh3 f3+ 2.Le3xf3 (WPf2) f4 1.Rh4 f4+ 2.Le4xf4 (WPf2) f3

ñ 2. C.M. Fox

C.M. Fox, who died about 70 years ago, was an influential figure in the early development of the BCPS, Britain’s leading helpmate composer and perhaps the second most important British figure (after T.R. Dawson) in unorthodox composition at the time. Therefore it seemed appropriate to me that he should feature on this BCPS web site. However, it is impossible to write anything about him without its being overshadowed by Dawson’s 1936 monograph C.M. Fox, His Problems, a comprehensive account which may be consulted in the BCPS library and is also reprinted, along with four other booklets by Dawson, in the 1973 Dover book Five Classics of Fairy Chess. This reprint, indispensable to enthusiasts of the unorthodox, can sometimes still be found in libraries and second-hand book shops.

I cannot do better than quote Dawson’s own tribute to Fox, incidentally a good example of the writer’s sentimental, archaic style which was so much at variance with the strongly experimental character of his chess composition. But first, a few words about the label “fairy chess”, still in use in some circles to refer to unorthodox problems, although that category no longer includes ordinary helpmates. Readers who are uncomfortable with the “fairy” label may like to ascribe its use at least in part to this curious style of Dawson’s, and it is true that he made widespread use of the term. When he started a magazine devoted to the subject he made a choice among a number of titles suggested by aficionados and settled on Fairy Chess Review. We should perhaps be grateful for small mercies, though, since one of the rejected suggestions was apparently The Chess Problemist’s Fairy. Anyhow, it appears that the term was not originated by Dawson, but first used by the Australian Henry Tate in 1913. The German word Märchenschach (“fairy-story chess”) seems slightly less absurd, and may go back further in time. There is no shortage of alternative expressions for current use (“unorthodox composition”, “experimental chess”, “generalised chess”, or in German “Exo-Schach”) but despite my own mild aversion to the term “fairy chess” I shall not go to great lengths to avoid it in what follows.

Here is what Dawson wrote about Fox in 1936:
“Charles Masson Fox Nov.9 1866 – Oct.11 1935
The purpose of this booklet is to do justice to the genius of C.M.F. in a permanent collection of his best problems. There is little need, therefore, for the editor to intervene between the reader and the beautiful collection that follows.
Suffice it to recall that C.M.F., after many years solely as a chess player, took to Fairy Chess in 1921-22, took a first prize with his first published problem, and went on from strength to strength, entrancing every Fairy Chess devotee with the brilliance and power of his compositions.
He loved best the helpmate, and was ever fascinated by the Grasshopper possibilities, and many problems in each of these veins are given in this collection. But above all, he had an eye for the alternative possibilities in a position, which gave him extraordinary facility and skill in making problems in twin form, in groups, and in long sequences, and such “Fox Families” have become famous in Fairy Chess.
In 15 years, C.M.F. composed some 900 problems and captured many prizes and mentions in Tourneys.
C.M.F., who was a Vice-President of the British Chess Problem Society, was a generous benefactor to that body, presenting it with all the issues of the Problemist Fairy Chess Supplement and other gifts. There is no question that as a patron, he did invaluable service to the Fairy Chess cause which he loved so well.
More than all these things, C.M.F. was a friendly man, kind, mellow, lovable, bringing peace and comfort and serene joy with him. Fairy Chess lovers the world over mourned his loss. Now his work, his inspiration, his genius come back in this little volume alive, enthralling, the mind and deeds of a master.”

Dawson’s words may be somewhat cloying, but Fox’s compositions are not. He was able to achieve a high standard of correctness in the helpmate, a notoriously difficult field where cooks abound, and he seemed to know instinctively what appealed to solvers. The “first published problem” mentioned by Dawson (see diagram A) is a good example, with its paradoxical withdrawal of the white king. This was probably not the first problem of Fox’s to be published, rather the first in order of composition among his published problems. The tourney in question was only the second helpmate composing contest ever held, and about 70% of the entries were unsound!

The theme of B, mate on a square initially vacated by Black, is just one of a number of H#2 ideas which are still popular today and of which Fox made early examples. C shows another, capture of white material on both black moves. Nowadays of course, despite the paradoxical themes, such single-line helpmates would be considered too simple, but it is to Fox’s credit that he also composed helpmates in more than one phase and (unlike many of his contemporaries) made a point of showing a strong thematic connection between the phases. Thus in D we have an early example of a full black halfpin and in E a neat piece of dual avoidance. Both of these could be set as well or better with two solutions, especially obviously in the case of E, where it suffices to move the BQ to b7, but it was to take another thirty years before the understanding that this is the most suitable form for helpmates became widespread. In this respect Fox never escaped from the tyranny of Dawson, the main reactionary influence. I have documentary evidence of Dawson’s taking a 2-solution problem by P. Sola, submitted to him for publication, and rearranging it into a form with one solution and set play, without consulting the composer! Why Dawson so objected to problems with more than one solution is not clear. Fox may well have thought it best to humour him.

From problems with twin positions it is a short step to the “families” of problems referred to by Dawson, which I will not illustrate here. These are essentially series of approximate twins, problems with the same stipulation and using the same or very similar material but often related by changes in the positions of several pieces, in a manner which would be thought clumsy today. But we have computers to help us find neat twinning, and we rarely attempt such extensive sets as Fox sometimes produced. Dawson quotes an example with 16 related problems. This aspect of Fox’s work may have dated more than others, but it remains a tribute to his analytical powers, for his standard of accuracy in these problems is impressive.

In longer helpmates the main focus of interest in Fox’s work was promotions, and his output includes some remarkable task problems. My favourites here are the witty F and the elegant example, G, showing all four promotions in ascending order.

For a brief and rather inadequate glimpse into Fox’s fairy compositions I offer three examples. First H, a selfmate with nightriders (N), pieces which move in straight lines composed of knight moves. Thus for example on the line a2-d8 the moves Na2-b4, Na2-c6 or Na2-d8 are playable. This problem is based on the battery of the Nh8 which gives check to the white king if the black pawn on g6 can be forced to move. In I, one of the simplest of a long series of symmetrical problems with asymmetrical solutions, Fox uses the grasshopper (G), his favourite fairy piece, which operates on queen lines but must hop over one other unit to the square immediately beyond. Finally in J we have an example of a genre whose development and popularity today (thanks to the computer) would have astounded Fox. The paradoxical element (I shall say no more so as not to spoil potential solving pleasure!) is here once again quite strong.

A Chess Amateur 1922 1st Prize H#3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Be5 Kd5 2.Qb1 Ke6 3.Bb2+ Kxf5

B Chess Amateur 1929 H#2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bxf6 Bd3+ 2.Qe4 Scd4

C Falkirk Herald 1931 H#2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Kxg4 f5+ 2.Kxf5 Rf4

D Chess Amateur 1930 1st Prize H#2 (set play)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Set 1…gxf5 2.Rf2 Se3 Solution 1.Bc5 Sg5 2.Rd4 Se3

E British Chess Magazine 1935 H#2 b) Qa8>b8

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Rd3 Bc2 2.Qd5 Sg3 b) 1.Qb1 Bc6 2.Qd3 Sd6

F Essener Anzeiger 1931 H#5

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.h1Q+ Sf1 2.Qh2 Se3 3.a1R+ Sd1 4.Ra6 Sc3 5.Qb8 Sb5

G Deutsche Märchenschachzeitung 1932 H#9

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.g2 h4 2.g1S h5 3.Sxe2 Kxe2 4.d1B+ Kd3 5.Bc2+ Kd4 6.Bg6 hxg6 7.e2 g7 8.e1R g8Q 9.Re6 Qd8

H The Problemist Fairy Chess Supplement 1931 S#4

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Na6! d4 2.Na6e4 a4 3.Nb4 a2 4.Sh5+ gxh5 1...a4 2.Na6b4 d4 3.Ne4 a2 4.Sh5+ gxh5

I The Problemist Fairy Chess Supplement 1933 H#2.5

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1…Ga5 2.Kd7 Gh7c7+ 3.Kc8 Ga6

J The Problemist Fairy Chess Supplement 1933 What is the shortest game ending in this position?

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.f4 e5 2.f5 Bc5 3.f6 Bxg1 4.fxg7 Bxh2 5.Kf2 Se7 6.Ke3 Rf8 7.g8S d6 8.Sf6

ñ 3. C.J.A. Jones

Christopher James Austin Jones was born on 6th April 1952 at Newport-on-Tay, Scotland. He was educated at the High School of Dundee and Corpus Christi College, Oxford and practised as a solicitor from 1980 to 1997. As a player he represented Scotland as a junior in the period 1968-69, and captained Oxford University Chess Club in 1972-73. Resident in Bristol since 1978, he has played for the Bristol & Clifton and Thornbury clubs.

Having been helpmates sub-editor of The Problemist since 1997, he took over as Secretary of the BCPS in 2001 and was elected President in 2007.

His first chess problem was published in 1987, since when his output has passed the 500 mark. He has established a reputation as a prolific composer of helpmates, in which field he has been the most successful British composer of recent years in terms of awards gained. In 1997 he became helpmates sub-editor of The Problemist, and in 2001 took over as Secretary of the BCPS.

(The notes to the following problems are by Christopher)

A 1st Commend, The Problemist 1989 Helpmate in 7½ (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1…Bxf3 2.Sc5 Bg4 3.Kd5 Kc8 4.Kc6 Kd8 5.Kb7 Bc8+ 6.Ka8 Kc7 7.Sa6+ Kb6 8.Sb8 Bb7 1…Bf1 2.Sg5 Kc7 3.Kf4 Kxd6 4.Kg3 Ke5 5.Kh2 Kf4 6.Sh3+ Kxf3 7.Kh1 Kg3 8.Sg1 Bg2

It was fortunate for the composer that placing the black bishop on f3 (which needs to be captured) precisely forces both sequences of moves!

B 2nd HM, The Problemist 1992 Helpmate in 3 (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Kxd4 Rxc6 2.Re4 Bb6 3.cxb6 Rd6 1.Kxf4 Bxc5 2.Be4 Rb6 3.cxb6 Bd6

Matching strategy involving Zilahi (captures of bishop / rook while rook / bishop mate) and Grimshaw (mutual interferences of the rook and bishop at e4).

C British Chess Magazine 1997 Helpmate in 3 (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sxf4 Rc7 2.Rxg3 Rg7 3.f2 Rxg3 1.Qxf4 Bh4 2.Bxc5 Be7 3.d3 Bxc5

Another Zilahi with matching strategy in the two solutions.

D Prize, Suomen Tehtäväniekat 1998 Helpmate in 3 b) f5 > c7

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: a) 1.Qd5 Rb8 2.Rb7 Be8 3.Rc7 Rb6 b) 1.Rb3 Rb4 2.Bd6 Rc4 3.Rb5 Bxf3

Interchange of function between white rook and bishop (pinning / mating) and between white rook and the black rook at b4 (Bristol manoeuvres).

E (after F. Kovacs) 1st Prize, Orbit 1999 Helpmate in 4 (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.d2+ Sxd2 2.c4 (f5?) Sb1 3.cxb1B Sg4 (Se4?) 4.Bg6 Sxf6 1.f5 (c4?) Sd1 2.cxd1B Sxc5 3.Bb3 Sd7 (Se6?) 4.Bg8 Sf8

Alternating roles of the knights plus two pairs of dual avoidances by Black.

F Die Schwalbe 2000 Helpmate in 3 (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sxd5 Bg6 2.Se3 Sd5 3.fxg6 Sc3 1.Sxe4 Se6 2.Sf2 Be4 3.fxe6 Bf3

White’s first move is motivated purely by the need to give Black something to play on move 3.

G 2nd Prize, The Problemist 2000 Helpmate in 3 (2 solutions)

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Kd3 Bc1 2.Rd2 Sf2+ 3.Ke3 Bxd2 1.Rc2 Bd2 2.f2+ Ke2 3.Rxd2+ Sxd2

This one was used in the World Solving Championship of 2000 and found very difficult! Again, interchange of function between White and Black as first the bishop then the rook go beyond d2.

H 2nd Prize, Orbit 2001-II Helpmate in 3 (b) e3>f2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: a) 1.Qa5 f5 2.Kb6 Rxb4 3.Rxe3+ Bxe3 b) 1.Rxb5 f3+ 2.Kb4 Bxb6 3.Bxf4 Rxf4

Reciprocally changed functions of the queen and b4 rook, and b3 rook and c7 bishop.

I Sachova Skladba 2003 Helpmate in 3 b) Black Pawn d3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: a) 1.Sd6 Rb7 2.Kd4 Rb4+ 3.Kc5 d4 b) 1.Sc5 Bb7 2.Kc4 Rxe4+ 3.Kb5 Rb4

No classic, but I have a soft spot for this quirky one. “Follow-my-leader” effects at b7, and different routes of the rook to b4. Difficult to solve, I should think!

J Schach-Aktiv 2003 Helpmate in 3 b) Remove Pe5

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: a) 1.Sxc3 Rf4 2.Qe4 fxe4 3.Kd4 Sf5 b) 1.gxf3 Se6 2.Bd4 cxd4 3.Ke4 Re5

Reciprocally changed roles for the white pawns, and for the rook and knight, which open lines for the queen and bishop.

ñ 4. B.G. Laws

Benjamin Glover Laws (6.2.1861-21.9.1931) was one of the great composers from the heyday of the English School of composition. He began composing in the late 1870s and became a recognised authority on the English School, especially after the publication of The Chess Problem: Text-book with illustrations (1887), on which he collaborated with H.J.C. Andrews, E.N. Frankenstein and C. Planck. His services as a judge were greatly in demand, and from 1898 he used his position as problem editor of the British Chess Magazine to disseminate his views. On the formation of the BCPS in 1918 he was elected President, and held that post until his death. His other published works were an introductory volume, The Two-move chess problem (1890) and Chess problems and how to solve them (1923). A memorial volume entitled An English Bohemian, compiled by John Keeble, was published as the 1933 volume of the A.C. White Christmas Series.

In February 1924 Laws gave a lecture to the BCPS consisting of his reminiscences of nearly fifty years’ involvement in the chess problem world. The text of this lecture follows:

Recollections 1877-1924. by B.G. Laws

In a fragmentary way I propose to relate approximately in order of date some of the occurrences which have impressed me during that portion of my chess career which has been devoted to what is so often termed the 'Poetry of Chess'. In doing so, I shall endeavour, as far as I can, to be anecdotal, but throughout I fear you may notice the personal element somewhat pronounced, in which case, I crave your indulgence.
The problems I shall set will not, with perhaps a few exceptions, be exemplary models. In some respects they have been landmarks which have helped me to retain in treasured memory a few of the events I propose to refer to.

In the year 1877, a colleague and myself whilst "serving our time", (not at the Country's expense) had more leisure than perhaps was good for us during the daytime, the principal work of the Office being done after the rising of the Courts. We agreed to learn the game of chess and, knowing no-one who could teach us, we acquired the rudiments as best we could from a short treatise contained in "The Boys' Treasury". After a time we put up what we considered some good fights but our playing strength may be estimated when I say that if either one of us gave to the other the odds of the queen, the result would have been in the balance - either might have won! Our struggles continued for some weeks when a friend, some years our senior, called on business and on seeing us playing became interested. Later on he gave us a few games, beating us unmercifully. We looked upon him as a genius. After falling a victim to the "Scholar's Mate", I tried the trick on him which he met in an unorthodox way. This however gave me my first glimpse of chess strategy. The moves were1.e4 e5 2.Bc4 Bc5 3.Qf3 Sh6(?). Now I saw that if I could annihilate or dislodge this knight, I could mate; so it struck me that by opening my queen bishop's diagonal I might have a chance and in order to take his attention from the attack on the knight and direct it to the bishop, I played 4.d4 which at least ensured the winning of a piece. It had the desired effect, and I brought off the mate! From this date I schemed and my playing strength greatly improved.

In the same year a new London weekly was published: Brief, being a concise summary of the week's news. In issue 12 of the paper (January 1878), a chess column was started by F.C. Collins. Neither my colleague nor myself had seen a chess problem but Brief's No.1 by the Editor being only in two moves, we attempted to solve it and ultimately came to the conclusion there was something wrong with the diagram.

1. F.C. Collins Brief 19.1.1878 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sc3 () 1…Kxd4 2.Qa7 1…S any 2.Sd5 (some duals) 1…Rxf4 2.Rd3

We imagined Mr. Editor when the time came to print the solution would be profuse in apology; but no, nothing of the sort, the problem was quite correct and we marvelled. To move the knight, giving up a rook to the black king, seemed to indicate symptoms of insanity, and we never gave that move a second thought. Obviously Collins could not have been proud of the problem, as it does not appear in his collection published in 1880. We were, however, so charmed with this position when we understood it that we sought for more and shortly became passable solvers.

This problem by Collins in which we were so reluctant to give up a rook made me in my innocence fancy that it might be puzzling to arrange a position with the rook unprotected and left so by White's first move, because I argued that a solver would naturally remove the rook to safety or support it. The result was my first problem, which appeared in Brief in 1878.

2. B.G. Laws Brief 7.6.1878 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sc5 (2.Sde4) 1…Kxa5 2.Sc4 1…Rxb3 2.Sxb3 1…Ra1+ Sb1

I had not in those days the slightest notion of any rules connected with problems, but had a consciousness that an alternative first move was wrong, moreover I did not realise that multiple mates were damaging. I gradually got to know better as I consulted as many papers as I could which catered for chess players, the chief at the period being besides Brief, Illustrated London News, Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, Field, Land & Water, London Figaro, English Mechanic, Design & Work, Royal Exchange, Holloway Press, and a little later Leeds Mercury and Glasgow Weekly Herald.

It would probably be in the winter of 1879 that my old friend A. Tremaine Wright, who was taking a fatherly interest in my chess and helping considerably in my small literary work, persuaded me to accompany him to Gatti’s Adelaide Gallery. He had been accustomed to dine or sup there and watched the games. He rather wanted to arrange for me to have a tilt with an old stager, Drew by name. It was the first time I had entered a public place where chess was an attraction. My friend sought out Drew and asked him to give me a game, which he was willing to do so soon as he had disposed of the opponent with whom he was then engaged. I crossed over to other tables and found several zealots congregated scanning a problem. I enquired about the conditions and was informed it was a mate in seven.

3. H. Bolton Chess Player’s Chronicle 31.7.1841 Mate in 7

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Rc7 Kd5 2.Rc6 Kd4 3.Sf7 Kd5 4.Se5 Kd4 5.Sd3 Kd5 6.Sb4+ Kd4 7.c3

I viewed it from behind and hit on the solution (which is quite simple) and played it over. The question immediately came: "You have seen it before?" I assured them I had not but they were sceptical. One of the party (Reyner) said: "We will test him. I have some problems he cannot have seen." He set two or three up and I polished them off without much effort. Planck, who was present, then produced a three-mover which no one had set eyes on and I treated that in like manner. All this dissipated any doubt they may have entertained as to my genuineness. After this I was always welcomed to their band. I had to leave the solvers' circle then, though I did so reluctantly, for my game with Drew, which to my elation ended in my favour.

When I made Planck's acquaintance he was a Cambridge undergraduate, but shortly after he was appointed Professor of Mathematics at an important school in Surrey. He used to come to town at weekends and many a Friday and Saturday was spent by us in company with other congenial amateurs at Gatti’s and Café Monico. Our camaraderie strengthened to lasting friendship. I have no hesitation in saying he was largely instrumental in directing attention to the superiority of the methods practised and results obtained by the Bohemians, but he contended that as the modus operandi was the ideal one, being the logical application of sound principles, the Bohemians could not claim it as national, since it was the result of that process of evolution which takes place in every sphere of science and art, and not discovery or invention. Consequently he preferred the term "Modern". It was he who demonstrated the incongruities of the advertised conditions of important tourneys which announced that the judges would allot points (up to a maximum) for such qualities as neatness, symmetry, naturalness, variety and economy. These are all comprised in economy of force. Tradition however clings like limpets to a rock and this quality is not universally appreciated. Even today some composers consider that they are exempt from the trammels imposed by the best modern practice.

In the days of my novitiate there were not so many composers as now and fewer publications which encouraged chess. It was seldom in this country that we had the opportunity of comparing products emanating from foreign lands with those of our own. In 1879 H.J.C. Andrews reproduced in the Chess Players' Chronicle this three-mover by J. Chocholous.

4. J. Chocholous Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bxb4 () 1…Kd5 2.Bf3+ Ke6 3.Sg5 2…Kc4 3.Qc3 1…K else 3 2.Qc3+ Ke4 3.Bf3 1…f4 2.Sf2+ Ke3 3.Qa7 2…Kd5 3.Bf7 2…Kf5 3.Bg4

The delicate setting with the purity of the mates (models were not appreciated then as they were afterwards) made deep impressions. To this problem I attribute the birth of a campaign having for its object the promotion of fine constructional work. It was a revelation and from that time Planck, seconded by a few other admirers, endeavoured to inculcate in others methods of artistic construction.

5. H.J.C. Andrews 1st Prize Lowenthal Memorial Tourney 1878 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sg6 () 1…Kc6 2.Se7 1…Kd6 2.Qd7 1…Ke6 2.Sf4 1…Ke4 2.Qb7 1…Kc4 2.Qd4

When I read the comments made on the late H.J.C. Andrews' prize two-mover in the Lowenthal Tourney of 1878 which had special reference to the feat of allowing the black king five flight squares with a corresponding number of distinct mating moves, I tried my hand with six flights.

6. B.G. Laws Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Rg4 () 1…Kc5 2.Sxd3 1…Kxc4 2.Qb4 1…Kc3 2.Sxd5 1…Ke3 2.Sh3 1…Ke4 2.Sg6 1…Kxe5 2.Qxd5

Soon after it was completed Design & Work announced an international tourney, and as Andrews was appointed judge of the two-movers I entered my problem hopefully, as he had expressed the opinion something to the effect that such an achievement would rank as a master-stroke but he doubted its possibility. Alas! I placed one of the rooks on a square which let in a cook. I had however the satisfaction of feeling I had been first in the field to carry out the task. My prescience was correct as Andrews afterwards told me he would unhesitatingly have awarded my entry first prize had it been sound.

7. B.G. Laws 1st Prize Design and Work 1881 Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sxd5 () 1…Ke4 2.Qe6+ Kd3 3.Sb4 2…Kf2 3.Sh4 1…Kg4 2.Qg6+ Kf3 3.Sd4 2…Kh3 3.Qg3 1…Kg2 2.Qe2+ Kh3 3.Sf4 2…Kg1 3.Qf2 1…Bg2 2.Qc4 any 3.Sh4

In the three-move section of the tourney I was given first prize. I was delighted at the success as several of the competitors were composers of standing. Viewed in the light of modern proficiency the problem is no more than a fair specimen of the Transition period. The judge (the late W.T. Pierce) rather suggested that the position was conceived on the lines of a two-mover of his published in 1873 in the Westminster Papers which I had not seen, but the resemblance was not sufficient to interfere with his real appreciation of its originality.

8. W.T. Pierce Westminster Papers 1873 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sg4 () 1…Kc6 2.Se7 1…Kc4 2.Se3 1…Ke4 2.Sf6 1…Ke6 2.Sf4

This three-mover was widely circulated and brought me some popularity, several chess editors inviting contributions to their columns. This was mere glamour and I am sorry to admit I succumbed with the result that I gave more thought to quantity than quality. Many of my problems now scoff me in their mediocrity and insignificance.

My name has been associated with reflex chess - a variant from the self-mate, and perhaps it may not be uninteresting if I explain how the idea occurred. From 1880 onwards, I often met the late Mr. Geary at Gatti’s. About 1882 we were looking over an ordinary self-mate which I thought I had solved, but Black was not compelled to make the mating move though it was open as an option. The play leading to this stage was pretty and I jestingly said: "When Black can mate in such a position he ought to be compelled to do so." Before our next meeting a day or so after I composed a problem carrying out this apparent obliquity which was published in the Brighton Guardian. Geary was responsible for the name "Reflex"; he composed one or two little things on similar lines as also did C.H. Coster, a young and promising composer. None of these was published as far as I remember. The innovation however did not take the fancy of problem composers and solvers in those days. Reflex chess makes a good game. Geary, Coster and myself often revelled in the fantastic charms it produced. It was comical to see the expression of bewilderment of on-lookers who were unaware of the motives of our moves. Some must have thought it was time we were taken care of. No wonder with the kings in the middle of the board and men massed around them aroused curiosity. Here is an illustrative problem: I might mention that this diversion of chess is becoming quite popular on the Continent due to the interest which our enthusiastic member T.R. Dawson has taken in it.

9. B.G. Laws Schack Kurios Reflexmate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Kf3 () 1…d5 2.Sa3 Rxf1 1…Se3+ 2.Kf4 Qxh6 1…S else + 2.Kf2 Sd3 1…Qxh6 2.various Qxe3

I was introduced to Frank Healey at Simpsons' Divan by the late Sir John Thursby and Wilhelm Steinitz about 1881. I thought it was a great privilege to be allowed to enjoy the personal acquaintance of the man who had up to that time stood in the foreground of the English School. He took a genuine interest in me and I received much encouragement from him. I fear I pestered him with many questions which with dry humour he satisfied. He explained that in his young days he studied the long drawn out problems which came his way, checks sacrifice, sacrifice checks were ubiquitous, and saw that many of the strategems could be condensed by quiet moves. He admitted many of his problems were not only inspired by but actually based upon the works of contemporaries and predecessors showing however no traces of their origin.
On seeking information regarding the famous "Bristol" problem, he told me that the idea occurred to him that as solvers were getting so alive to sacrificial devices, it might prove puzzling if instead of placing an important piece at the mercy of the defence and getting rid of it as a superfluity in this way, it was removed to the remotest square available and there remained dead. Of course the moves of the attack which followed the key move had to dovetail with the far away exile. This explanation rather tends to support A.C. White's term "passive sacrifice" as applied to the "Bristol" and other clearance schemes.
One Saturday afternoon at Simpsons' I set up a little three-mover, quite a bagatelle, just composed; it pleased him.

10. B.G. Laws Chess Player’s Chronicle 1880 Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Rf1 () 1…f3+ Kxf3 g4+ 3.Ke3 1…Kg4 2.Sh6+ Kh5 3.Rh1 1…g4 2.Rxf4

After a little while Horwitz (the end-game specialist) came in and Healey asked me to put this problem up again, remarking to Horwitz that it would make him think. This appeared to me to be banter. The latter soon made the key move (1.Rf1). When Healey promptly replied 1...f3+, Horwitz followed with 2.Kxf3, but 2...g4+ came as a shock. "I never saw that", said Horwitz, and at once replaced the men, starting afresh much to the glee of Healey and myself. Of course it was not long before the solution came, with feigned disgust at being eluded.
I often saw Horwitz about this period and as the question regarding the origin of the term "Cook" was then being discussed in problem circles, I asked him if he could throw any light on the subject. He corroborated the statement which had been made that Kling (who had frequently collaborated with him in end-game and problem study) would on Horwitz greeting him with: "I have a raw idea," ironically reply "Well, I will cook your raw idea." If Horwitz's account can be relied upon, this should settle a debated point.

One evening in 1883 I dropped into Gatti’s for refreshment before going to Toole's Theatre which was hard by. I had just composed this two-mover, and so set it up and left it for the entertainment of the few solvers present.

11. B.G. Laws Croydon Guardian 24.11.1883 (published without BPb6) Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bd8 (2.Bxb6) 1…Qxe3+ 2.Sd3 1…Kxe3 2.Sc2 1…Kc5 2.Sa6

Returning about 11p.m., I was amused to see the position still on the board being tackled by a fresh set of solvers, quite strangers to me. One however ejaculated "Here is Laws, he will solve it for us." I glanced at the board with an assumed air and pointed out that the black pawn at b6 was not wanted. Off it came and someone found the key move in a few minutes. I had placed this unnecessary pawn on the board intentionally to make the problem more difficult to solve and though this was not a proper thing to do, it effected its purpose. A case of giving the quality of difficulty preferential consideration.

One Saturday afternoon I strolled into Gatti’s and found a few enthusiasts studying a three-mover by Walter Grimshaw from the current issue of the Illustrated London News, among them being the late J. Graham Campbell, one of the finest composers and players of his time. I had not met him before.

12. W. Grimshaw Illustrated London News Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qg5 (2.Qg1 mate) 1…hxg5 2.Sb5 (3.Sc3) g6 3.Bc2 Cook: 1.Sf5 (2.Qe4 or Qd3 or Bc2 mate) 1…Bxf5 2.Qe6 (3.Bxa2 or Qxf5 mate) Bxe6 3.Bc2

He was pointing out the beauty of the solution commencing with 1.Sf5. I had previously solved the problem by 1.Qg5, being helped by having made the acquaintance of a four-mover by the same composer, published in 1868. When I suggested the queen key move, Campbell said it was absurd and resented my interference. Others in the group saw with surprise that the move was effective. Campbell however expressed the opinion that the solution he had found was the author's. Strange to say the knight move solution appeared in the I.L.N. as the only one a fortnight later. I wrote to the chess editor (P.T. Duffy) as well as to Grimshaw. The latter replied that he was unaware the position yielded to 1.Sf5 and that 1.Qg5 was his intention. The position is quoted by L. Hoffer in his article on chess in Encyclopaedia Britannica. It can be put right by adding a black knight at a6 when the black pawn at a4 becomes unnecessary.

For reasons which I do not now remember, the problem habitués of Gatti’s changed their rendezvous to Café Monico. We certainly were more secluded, but the chess room was not too well ventilated; still this was compensated for by our ventilation of ideas! I look back with pleasure on those evenings and recall many of the old frequenters who were ardent composers and keen solvers. A few come to mind: Barbier, Bedell, Brockelbank, Coster, Enderle, Geary, Guest, Piercher, Planck, Reyner and Rosenbaum. Sometimes Blackburne and Zukertort would honour us by their presence both at Café Monico and Gatti’s. This arrangement of meeting at a convenient resort was the best which could be suggested. Friday and Saturday were the most popular evenings. Chess, literature, drama, music, mathematics, athletics and politics were among the subjects discussed, and when the party dispersed it was with feelings that the time had not been ill-spent. On one of these occasions Brockelbank was challenged to compose a three-mover without the sight of board and men. He was known to enjoy the uncommon facility of playing the game sans voir. Before our usual hour for breaking up was reached, he produced this problem, explaining he had built around a powerful threat on a constrained king, the better to control things and thus render the task lighter. Seeing the peculiar subtleness of the play after the two principal defences of the black queen it was a notable accomplishment.

13. C.H. Brockelbank Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qf3 (threats 2.cxd4+ Kxd4 3.Qxe3 and 2.Qxe3+ followed by 3.Sg6) 1…Qe4 2.Ke7 threat 3.Sf7 2…Qxf3 3.Sg6 2…Qf5 3.Qxf5 1…Qd3 2.Qxe3+ Qxe3 3.Sg6

Brockelbank had a remarkable memory for positions. One evening (in his absence) we were endeavouring to set up a three-mover of Barbier's, which he had shown some weeks before. Whilst we were casting about for clues, Brockelbank walked in when one of the party cried: "Here's Brockelbank, he'll remember it." He at once maintained his reputation by setting it up without hesitation.

Among the names in the Gatti and Café Monico coterie I mentioned Enderle. As a composer he did little, but what he turned his hand to was in correct style. He enjoyed solving, but if it was made known to him beforehand that a three or four-mover had not an economically pure mate (the term "model mate" afterwards coined by H.D'O. Bernard not being in the problemist's glossary), he would be disinclined to take any interest in it. He was a stickler for model mates and much admired those where no men were in the king's field, which he called "mirrors". He struck this word to convey his meaning that a mirror mate must also be a model mate. Some modern writers have lost sight of this essential characteristic and count as mirror mates those which are neither pure nor strictly economical. I asked Enderle why he termed such a mate a mirror and received some such reply as, "Can't you see the black king reflected in the frame of the opposing forces?"

During the preparation of The Chess Problem Text Book in 1885, Andrews, Frankenstein and myself had many conferences at Frankenstein's home. He had conceived the idea and financed the undertaking. Andrews was invited to join after the project was well under way. His inclusion was not altogether fortunate, as though a man of experience, he was a little out of date and was not quite in harmony with the modern code of construction which was supplanting that of the period during which he was a prominent figure. He gave me the impression that he felt slighted at the suggestion that Planck should write the treatise, but Frankenstein and I appreciated the latter's ability to do credit to the subject. The outcome was that The Chess Problem Text Book contained the finest essay on the chess problem that had been written in the English language, and probably in any other.
I have one feeling of regret concerning this work, and that is that I did not exercise restraint in the case of a number of my selected problems which might well have been omitted on account of their very indifferent merits.

In 1885 it was rumoured that Sam Loyd contemplated a visit to Europe. The possible event excited interest, especially to the quartet engaged on The Chess Problem Text Book. We all hoped to have the pleasure of making the personal acquaintance of the eminent American composer who had thrilled the chess world with his spontaneous and daring originality. It is true Frankenstein had met Loyd on several occasions in the States and had formed his own estimate of his skill as a solver. As such he was by many credited with being the world's greatest expert, but this was more speculation than positive knowledge. Frankenstein suggested a solving match over the board with myself if Loyd came to England, adding that he would be prepared to support his confidence in me by staking £100. This sporting suggestion was endorsed by Planck, but Loyd however did not leave the western hemisphere; he certainly never heard of the proposal.

About three years after the launching of The Chess Problem Text Book I was asked by the well known publishers Bell & Co. to write a work on problems uniform with their "Club Series". I chose for my subject the two-mover, and in 1890 The Two-move Chess Problem was published. That this small book proved successful goes without saying as Messrs Bell have stated that it has had the largest sale of any of their game books and I understand it is still in steady demand. Towards the end of 1890 they pressed me to write a similar treatise on the three-mover, but I felt then I could not devote the necessary time to another publication which would have involved considerable labour and research. I feel considerable recompense for the labour bestowed on the treatise by the many expressions of appreciation I have received from readers; indeed not a few have stated that they owe their introduction to the art to it, and among the members of our own Society I have had gratifying acknowledgments from P.F. Blake and A.C. Challenger, who have distinguished themselves as adepts.

For many years I was in regular correspondence with the late A.F. Mackenzie of Jamaica, an eminent exponent of the art. The receipt of his letters gave me much pleasure; we rarely missed a mail day. In most matters concerning problem lore we were in agreement. He nevertheless at the time his contemporaries were being enlightened by new ideals, held tenaciously to the style of the Transition period, and viewed "economy of force" from an angle different from which those who embraced modern maxims regarded it. Time works changes and years before his premature death he showed by the majority of his masterly problems that he had become a convert.
I introduce Mackenzie's name in order to mention a matter which has never been cleared up, that is the origin of the two-mover credited to him and sometimes jointly with myself, with six black king flight squares and altogether seven mating moves, a feat of construction which I believe has never been rivalled.
After I had succeeded in producing the six "flighter" which you have already seen, I worked for better results and communicated the skeleton scheme and my progress to Mackenzie. He was very interested and made suggestions. When completed I despatched the finished article to him.

14. A.F .Mackenzie and B.G. Laws HM Chess Monthly 1884-86 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Ra4 () 1…Kd5 2.Sa5 1…Kd4 2.Se5 1…Kd3 2.Rd2 1…Kf3 2.Sd2 1…Kxf4 2.Rf2 1…Kf5 2.Se3 1…c any 2.Sd6 1…f5 2.Se5

My amazement can be imagined when soon after I received a letter from the late Mrs. T.B. Rowland enclosing in confidence a copy of this two-mover (with a small but fatal difference) which had been entered by Mackenzie in one of the problem tourneys she was conducting. I replied by pointing out a cook, at the same time making a protest. The problem was withdrawn. However Mackenzie seemed to consider he was entitled to it and making the key move to correspond with mine, subsequently entered it in the tourney of the Chess Monthly under the motto "I stand alone!". It was not included in the judge's "honours list". (Laws presumably means “honours list“ to refer to prizes)

(Discussing the problem in his book The Two-Move Chess Problem Laws had written “A well-known problemist hit upon precisely the same rendering of an identical idea as the writer, nearly simultaneously. The circumstances under which each position was composed left no room for the suggestion that either had taken advantage of the other. An explanation, however, is afforded by the fact that similar views on problem construction were held, and in the treatment of a popular problematic theme, there was every probability of ‘unconscious imitation’.”)

Prior to the publication by A.C. White of A.F. Mackenzie's Chess Lyrics, 1905, he visited England. This gave me the opportunity of becoming personally acquainted with this brilliant disciple of our cult. Inheriting a love for problems from his father he has devoted many years in fostering their study, classifying the thousands which have come under his notice, has produced about thirty standard books (mostly distributed as Christmas gifts), assisting materially in promoting the biggest chess problem organization of the world: The Good Companion Chess Problem Club (Philadelphia), acting as judge in numerous tourneys and often providing the prizes. In many ways by his articles and influence he easily stands alone as an expert enthusiast, writer and patron. He first consulted me in compiling his first volume Chess Lyrics in the hope I could furnish him with useful information. In that work he acknowledges my help in these words: "Mr. B.G. Laws, the popular problem editor of the British Chess Magazine, has given me extensive assistance notwithstanding the anxieties of a long protracted illness."

One of the most extraordinary and yet simple cases on record of a composer taking another's problem en bloc, and by shifting the men one file, producing a new one, occurred to me in 1888. The incident has been referred to in chess columns several times, but may be unknown to some of you.

15. L.K. Jokisch Nashville American 3.1888 Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qa8 () 1…e4 2.Qa3 Ke5 3.Qd6 2…e3 3.Qxe3 2…g3 3.Qxg3 1…g3 2.Qg2 any 3.Qxg3

16. B.G. Laws Nashville American 7.1888 Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qg1 () 1…d4 2.Qh1+ Ke3 3.Qe1 1…f3 2.Qf2 any 3.Qxf3

L.J.H. Jokisch's three-mover was given in the Nashville American. The solution is a good one, especially the key move. By the simple change of locale Qa8 cannot be made, but curiously enough in the other position the queen is played in the other direction, as h1 is now available after the queen's pawn advances, resulting in a "model".

17. J. Rayner British Chess Magazine 12.1893 Selfmate in 10

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bc4 Ka3 2.Qa5+ Kb2 3.Bcd3 Kc1 (3…Kb3 4.Bbc2+ etc.) 4.Qe1+ Kb2 5.Bbc2 K any 6.Qa5+ Kb2 7.Bh7 Kc1 8.Qe1+ Kb2 9.g8B Ka3+ 10.Qc3+ Bxc3

17. J. Rayner British Chess Magazine 12.1893 Selfmate in 9

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bg6 Kc1 2.Qe1+ Kb2 3.Bg8 Ka3 4.Qa5+ Kb2 5.B6h7 g6 (best) 6.Qc5 Kb1+ 7.Qc3 Bb2 8.Bxg6+ Ka1 9.B6h7 Bxc3 If 5…Kc1 6.Qe1+ Kb2 7.Qe3 g6 8.Qc1+ Kxc1

In the year 1893 the late James Rayner sent me a ten-move self-mate to solve, examine and comment upon. I had some trouble over it and as his diagram was not too clear I thought possibly the only pawn used might be a black one instead of white. With this change I found a pretty solution in ten. Rayner however confirmed the white pawn and being on sure ground I soon discovered the intention. The interesting part of this is that with the alteration of colour of the pawn, and shifting the position of the queen Rayner brought to light a most ingenious line of play fulfilling the sui-mate stipulation in nine moves. These positions were given in the special Christmas number of the British Chess Magazine 1893.

19 S. Loyd New York State Chess Association 22.2.1892 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Ra6 (2.Qf1) 1…Rxf5 2.Rxa4 1…Kxf5 2.Rf6 1…gxf5 or Sxf5 2.Bg5 1…Ra1 2.Qe4 1…Sg4 2.Qxg4 1…e2 2.Qf2

The "American Indian Theme" was a fancy term given by Loyd to the idea contained in the two-mover he contributed to the New York State Chess Association Congress 1892. It was regarded as a novel conception at the time, but in fact it was not so, as though in this case Loyd had treated the idea laterally (using rooks), he had worked it out in 1889 with bishops. I take the dates from A.C. White's Sam Loyd and his chess problems.

20. S. Loyd New York Sunday Herald 1889 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bf8 (2.Qa1) 1…Bxb2 2.Bxh6 1…Kxb2 2.Qa3 1…Sc2 2.Qxc2

It was not until April 1919 when Dr. Schumer wrote an article entitled "Reversed Themes" for the British Chess Magazine, that it was noticed that Loyd's 1892 problem had been materially anticipated by one of mine published in the Morning Post in 1885.

21. B.G. Laws Morning Post 5.1.1885 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Re8 (2.Se3) 1…Rxd3 2.Rxc8 1…Kxd3 2.Qe4 1…Rxe8 2.Sd6

It would be needless to say on comparing the two positions; Loyd's is the superior problem. Knowing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the American it is easy to understand that he himself thought out the scheme and presented it in a form so different to mine, and in ignorance of the latter's existence.

In 1907, on the initiative of Godfrey Heathcote, I was the recipient of a testimonial (accompanied by a substantial cheque subscribed by problem admirers) which was stated to be a tribute to: "Your great and disinterested services to chess", and "as a proof of the friendly esteem in which you are held by your confrères in the problem world".
This testimonial is among my cherished possessions, but I confess to finding it difficult in the glare of adulation to recognize my modest self.
Up to this date this was the sole instance of such a recognition. Since then however, a far more extensive mark of esteem has very properly been shown to Alain C. White which took the form of a presentation Album. This was in 1922. The idea was Dr. Schumer's and he with A. Guest, P.H. Williams and myself as a committee carried out the work of collecting the material, corresponding with Caissa's brotherhood throughout the world and completing the arrangements. Mr. White acknowledged this token by issuing a special number of the Good Companion Chess Club magazine, Our Folder.

While H.J.R. Murray the Oriental scholar was getting together material for his great work The History of Chess, he asked if I would look over two small books of problems published in recent times in India (the letter-press was Sanskrit) as he had some misgivings respecting the true origin of the problems which bore the names of natives. In one book of 32 positions I found 31 by European and American problemists - one of them being by myself. As to the other I had a presentiment that it had also appeared in the press but I could not locate it. In the second booklet, containing fewer positions, I detected some barefaced audacious claims to authorship by the Indians. By these discoveries Mr. Murray was spared question concerning the authenticity of his illustrations.

Some time before the War I used to meet the master player Richard Teichmann for the purpose of exchanging views on chess problems. He is the author of some fine positions and one of the readiest solvers it has been my lot to know.
At one of our early meetings he showed me a few choice problems from his stock which he had memorised for display purposes whenever he found an assembly who were likely to be interested. One of his pet show pieces was this five-move self-mate of mine which he set up for me to solve! He was tickled when he learnt I was responsible for the grotesque self-locking of the white pieces.

22. B.G. Laws Selfmate in 5

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Ba5 b4 2.Sd5 b3 3.Ra4 Kxf8 4.Qh6+ Bg7 5.Sb4 Bxh6

One evening, shortly after returning from the Continent, he put up this six-move self-mate. I do not know the author's name; perhaps he did not mention it (the composer was W.A. Shinkman).

23. W.A. Shinkman Selfmate in 6

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sb5 axb5 2.Sa6 bxa6 3.Kd4 Kb7 4.Qd5+ Kc8 5.b7+ Kc7 6.Kc5 Ba7

I sat down to unravel the enigma. Teichmann told those of us who were present that it had recently been submitted at a solving competition abroad, the winner having taken 90 minutes. I managed it in 10 minutes according to his timing. It is a beauty of its kind.

Speaking of solving, though I habitually solve a large number of the problems which come under my notice, it is many years since I was engaged in a tourney. On a few occasions I have entered over-the-board competitions with success. The last was at the congress of the British Chess Federation at Westminster 1922 which proved to be a lesson and I refer to it as it may serve as useful advice to those likely to take part in similar contests. Four problems were given to solve in ninety minutes. In my eagerness to hand in my paper early I rushed off the lot in 18 minutes. I soon afterwards learnt that one of the two-movers had a second solution which I had not looked for. At the close of time J. Keeble was found busy writing out his findings. He explained to me his experience (and he had had considerable) taught him to take the full time allowance, because something might turn up at the eleventh hour. He was right in this instance. He had in the first place found the cook to the unsound two-mover, and scenting it was not the author's intention set to work to get the latter, which he eventually did. He told me that had he discovered the true solution in the first instance, he most likely would have missed the other. Therefore, hasten slowly.

My notes would be incomplete if I omitted to refer to the many enjoyable evenings spent with the late Dr. J.W. Hunt. He was not a composer, but as chess editor in turn of East Central Times, Hackney Mercury, Brighton Society and Hampstead and Highgate Express took a lively interest in problems. He promoted and conducted at his own expense a number of composing and solving competitions which were most successful by reason of the number and quality of entries contributed from all over the world and the excellent band of solvers he enlisted.
At his house I have met, among others whose names have faded from me, J.T. Andrews, Walter Gleave, Ethelbert Holt, James Rayner, J. Stent, T. Taverner and P.H. Williams. Whenever a provincial notable was expected to be in London, the doctor would invite him to one of his little gatherings at which I was invariably present. When he was not entertaining he and I alternately visited our respective homes weekly.
It was a loss to our art when he had to abandon chess after he acquired an extensive medical practice which denied him the relaxation of his choice. He always hoped to come back to the fold, but unfortunately died (I believe at Wolverhampton) a few years ago without realizing his hopes.
Some fifteen years ago Godfrey Heathcote occasionally came to London, when he took the opportunity of seeing me. At one of our meetings he set up a three-mover he had just finished. To his surprise I altered the position a little to agree with the result I had previously arrived at, but without the aid of a black dummy pawn it was unsound. I was anxious to retain a sporty variation which was not in his. He at once decided to efface his work, hoping I should get mine right, as to which he had doubts. He was correct; I never succeeded.

24. B.G. Laws Mate in 3

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: Intention: 1.Kf1 (2.Ke2 with multiple threats) 1…Bc4+ 2.Sd3+ Kxd3 3.Qf5 1…d4 2.f3+ Kxe3 3.Qh6 1…Rd6 2.Qg4+ Kxe5 3.Bd4 1…S any 2.Qg6+ Kxe5 3.f4 but 1…Bb3 threatening check at d1 is too strong.

My experience in chess editing commenced about 1880-81 when the late James Pierce (who was about to travel for the benefit of his health) asked me to take over as locum tenens his column in the English Mechanic. I carried this on for over twelve months when he resumed office.
Less than two years after, I succeeded Frank Healey as problem editor of the Chess Players' Chronicle, then published weekly. As in the case of Healey, my name did not appear, and this is the first time the fact is made known.
For some months I conducted the chess in a magazine with the title "Our Corner". This I handed over to I. Gunsberg. This publication was short-lived.
On the death of Dr. Zukertort in 1888 I undertook the problem department of the Chess Monthly until it ceased ten years afterwards.
James Rayner, the problem editor of the British Chess Magazine, died in June 1898, and from the following month to this date I have been in charge of the problem pages of this monthly - nearly 26 years. For two years last past I have had the valuable co-operation of G.W. Chandler, our able and popular secretary.
For some months before its collapse I was responsible for the chess in The Public School Magazine.
It hardly seems credible that so harmless a pursuit as the chess problem art could ever form the subject of litigation. Unfortunately I have been directly and indirectly concerned in a few matters where proceedings were taken or threatened.
The first was one where I.M. Brown and myself were plaintiffs; but the case was settled to our satisfaction without going to trial.
In another, I was called as a witness on behalf of the successful plaintiff, examined and cross-examined at length. I often wondered how the jury enjoyed the technicalities! As to the shorthand writer, goodness knows what he thought! A ludicrous demand was made by a composer some years ago that if a certain sum was not paid him by the British Chess Magazine forthwith, he would bring an action for libel. Nothing more was heard from the impudent adventurer after he received a letter from me asking for the name and address of his solicitor!
There is I believe an action now pending connected with chess in which I have made an affidavit; it would not however be discreet to give details at this stage.

The episode of my broadcasting an address or "talk" on "The Art of the Chess Problem" is no doubt known to all of you. I confess that I feel some complacency in being the first to radio a chess subject.
The Times wrote of the incident:
"There was an item in last Saturday's broadcast programme which marks an entirely new departure in that increasingly popular means of communication. We refer to the intimation that Mr. B.G. Laws would speak on 'The Art of the Chess Problem'. It is entirely fitting that the President of the British Chess Problem Society should be the first chosen to broadcast his views on the art he knows so well; and it may be added he made his explanations of the positions selected convincingly clear...."
There was one rather amusing incident which originated in the studio. The announcer gave my name as B.C. Laws. In an undertone which I thought was inaudible to the outside world, I said "B.G. Laws, but it doesn't matter". To my surprise on meeting my friend George Walpole two days after, he told me he had not only "listened in", but had taken a verbatim note of my turn and had even caught those few sotto voce words intended only for the ears of the announcer.

It will be remembered by most of us that H.W. Butler of Brighton established in 1917 "The Sussex Chess Problem Fraternity". In the spring of the following year the members held a meeting in London to which several of us were invited. The formation of a larger organization embracing the whole of the British Isles was then mooted. The result was that a committee consisting of H.D'O. Bernard, H.W. Butler, Stanley Smith, P.H. Williams and myself was appointed to carry out the project. After a number of conferences and much work our present Society was founded in August 1918. I had the honour of being elected the first President and am proud that by your grace I have been able to retain the office. The progress of our Society has been steady and only by increasing the membership can we expect to carry out the programmes which our ambitions hope to see materialized.

Every one will agree that Dr. J.J. O'Keefe is the finest all round composer Australia has produced. It was my good fortune in December 1918 to meet him in London. I believe I am the only English problemist who has had that pleasure. In his patriotism he "shut down" his surgery in order to voluntarily render professional service to the Motherland during the War. It was agreeable news to him when he learnt his ship's destination after the Armistice was England as he had never before visited our shores. His sojourn here was however of only a few days' duration and this was to him a little disappointing. It meant a lot to be crowded in the short space of time, and gave him no leisure for correspondence. He wired inviting me to dine with him. We had - or at least I had - a most pleasant evening. Full of bonhomie and anecdote, he proved a delightful companion. It appeared he was anxious to meet me in the flesh and remarked that in coming to London he neither wanted to see Royalty nor Lloyd George but only B.G.L. Dr. O'Keefe was the first overseas member of our Society.

I should not be surprised to know that everyone present here this evening possesses what may be considered my crowning literary and instructive effort connected with the art: Chess problems and how to solve them, which was published last year. I have no remarks to offer concerning this book beyond tendering my appreciative thanks, particularly to W.H. Thompson, who wrote the splendid preface, and to all those who have volunteered favourable expressions of its contents, whether by correspondence or otherwise. I have received nothing but what is commendatory. The press review were such that I could not have inspired better. I only hope that the modest work will prove to be as H.D'O. Bernard wrote of it in the British Chess Magazine: "a standard text-book on the subject for many years".

If in my somewhat long devotion to the art, no exciting events have happened, some of the personal incidents I have related may be a little out of the common.
Sustaining, almost continuously, an interest in matters relative to the chess problem for nearly half a century I have enjoyed the variety afforded. Composing, solving, judging, corresponding, writing and making friends of those with kindred propensities, have been the principal charms and they have been considerable.
It has always afforded me pleasure to initiate and guide as best I could those willing to receive instruction and seek advice. I feel on looking back on my career the hobby of my adoption has been well chosen. One would think that with a sedentary occupation chess would not be very captivating, but I have found probably as much intellectual enjoyment and refreshment as the devotees of any other artistic pursuit. I linger in silent reflection over the happy moments which the chess problem and its associated attractions have engaged and entertained me in my leisure and during periods of indisposition. May new composers arise to invent and create thus assisting in making brighter the intellectuals of this prosy world.

ñ 5. C. Mansfield

Comins Mansfield, the greatest British composer of directmate two-movers, was born on 14th June 1896 at Witheridge, Devon. He came to prominence during the Good Companions era (1913-24), and many of his early masterpieces were made while serving with the Royal Field Artillery in the trenches of France.

Throughout a problem career spanning seven decades he remained the master of the “traditional” style of two-mover where the interest lies in the post-key play, though his ventures into the realm of try play problems produced a number of memorable works. In 1944 he published Adventures in Composition, an attempt to teach the art of two-move composition.

Mansfield held the post of President of the BCPS between 1949 and 1951. He served as President of the FIDE Problem Commission between 1963 and 1971, and was one of the first four composers to be awarded the title of Grandmaster of the FIDE for Chess Composition in 1972. He died on 28th March 1984. The three-volume work Complete Mansfield, by Barry Barnes, contains his complete output of almost 1200 problems.

A 1st Prize, Hampshire Telegraph and Post 1915 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bc7 (2.Ra5) 1…Ba5 2.Rb6 1…Ba3 2.b3 1…Bc3 or Bc5 2.Rb3 1…Bd2 Qxc2 1…Sc6 2.Ra5 1…Sxb5 2.bxa8Q 1…Sb3+ 2.axb3

When Mansfield began composition the conventions of the English school prevailed, particularly the stress on accurate play. The desire to avoid dual mates placed restrictions on the complexity of strategy which could be incorporated, and Mansfield was one of the few who could combine accuracy with complexity. A was an early experiment with what became one of his favourite themes, the half-pin. The strategy in the leading variation 1…Bc3 or Bc5 2.Rb3, where the bishop’s interference allows White to unpin the rook, is called a Goethart unpin, after the Dutch composer G.H. Goethart who investigated the idea.

B 1st Prize, Good Companions 1917 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Be4 (2.Sxc4) 1…Ke5 2.Sxc4 or 2.Sf7 1…Sd2+ 2.Sc4 1…Sxd6+ 2.Bd3 1…Sxe3+ 2.Sb5 1…Se5+ 2.Rd3

A magnificent key gives a flight and unpins the knight. To quote Alain White: “This problem may well be taken as the standard cross-check problem of the 20th century. It would have been a physical impossibility for a composer to turn out such a work fifteen years ago.” The problem shows Mansfield placing economy and beauty of presentation ahead of accuracy by refusing to add material to prevent duals. He wrote: “This problem was made in the trenches near Ypres during World War 1. I found my pocket board a great boon in helping to while away the midnight hours, and to keep me awake when on telephone duty which was part of a Signaller’s work. We had to lay and man perilous telephone wires to maintain communications with the infantry in the front line.”

C 1st Prize ex aequo, Australian Meredith Tourney 1928 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qe2 (2.Qxe7) 1…S random 2.Qb5 1…Sd3!? 2.Bc6 1…Sd7!? 2.Bf7 1…e any 2.Rxd8

A perfect lightweight showing tertiary black correction. Any move of the knight loses control of d7, a random move allowing 2.Qb5. 1…Sd3 corrects by closing the queen’s route to b5, but unpins the bishop for 2.Bc6. 1…Sd7 again corrects by closing the white diagonal, but by blocking d7 allows 2.Bf7. As with so many Mansfield problems a flight-giving key is incorporated, and there is a set mate 2.Qa4 after some knight moves to mislead the solver.

D 1st Prize, Evening Standard 1930 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Sc6 (2.Se7) 1…Kxc6 2.Bxe4 1…Bxd3 2.Se5 (2.Sd2?) 1…Bxf5 2.Sd4 (2.Sg5?) 1…Bxf3 2.Qxf3 1…Rxc6 2.Qa2 1…Sxc6 2.Qg8

Another fine key leading to a pair of variations where the knight must carefully select the square from which to reclaim a flight, in order to avoid unpinning the bishop. The captures on c6 are followed by a pair of queen mates at either end of the diagonal. Said Alain White: “ A geometric demonstration, with the ease and finality of a proposition by Euclid.”

E 1st Prize, German Chess Federation Olympic Tourney 1936 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.a3 (2.Rb4) 1…Sg2 2.Qc6 1…Sg4 2.Qxc4 1…Sf5 2.Qxc2 1…Sd5 2.Qe8 1…a5 2.Sc5

A famous study in the cutting of black lines controlling a queen from the rear.
The story attached to this problem bears repetition.
Mansfield was informed that restrictions prevented the prize money being sent out of Germany, but that he could open an account with a bank in Berlin or give the money to someone in Germany. Neither alternative appealed to Mansfield, who was struggling like most other people with three young children. The German Consul in Glasgow was sympathetic, and recommended “go to the Frisian Islands for a holiday – your money will not go far, but it will help.” In desperation Mansfield wrote a carefully worded letter – “His Excellency Herr Hitler…” and after three months came a banker’s draft dated 19th June 1937 for the prize money, £20.4s.10d to the penny!

F 1st Prize, American Chess Bulletin 1948 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Bf4 (2.Re5) 1…Qb2+ 2.Kxb2 1…Qc3+ 2.Kxc3 1…Qd2+ 2.Kxd2 1…Qd1+ 2.Kxd1 1…Bb3+ 2.Kxb3 1…Bxd5 2.Kc1 1…Qa1 2.Rd8 1…Q or Bd3+ 2.exd3 1…Rxa8 2.Qxh1

Mansfield had achieved the task of combining half-pin with six king battery mates 22 years earlier, but the 1948 problem attained absolute perfection of construction, with 8 half-pin mates in total and an extra mate at h1 to make full use of the white queen.

G 1st Prize, Die Schwalbe 1956 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.g4? (2.Qd1 and 2.Qxe4) 1…Sxf2! 1.g3? (2.Bxb3 and 2.Qe3) 1…Sc2! 1.f4? (2.Qxe4 and 2.Bxb3) 1…e3! 1.f3! (2.Qd1 and 2.Qe3) 1…Rxf3 2.Qd1 1…Bxf3 2.Qe3 1…Rf4 2.Bxb3 1…Bf4 2.Qxe4

After over 40 years of composing in traditional vein, Mansfield showed that unlike some of his contemporaries he was open-minded enough to embrace the increasingly popular try play style with G, which he regarded as possibly his best problem. The black organ pipe arrangement of rooks and bishops is employed to show a series of Nowotny tries, each setting up a pair of threats. The problem is raised to a different level by the pair of post-key Grimshaw interferences at f4.

H 40 Double-Task Problems 1962 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qe8 (2.f8Q, f8S, fxg8Q, fxg8S) 1…Se7 2.f8Q 1…Sxf6 2.f8S 1…gxf6 2.fxg8Q 1…h5 2.fxg8S

Mansfield in lighter mood. The key sets up four threats, which are separated by Black’s four possible moves.

I 4th Prize, The Problemist 1970 Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.c4? (2.Sc2) 1…Sb1! 1.b4? (2.Sb3) 1…Bxc2+ 2.Sxc2 1…cxd4! 1.b6? (2.Sb5) 1…Bxc6+ 2.S or Rxc6 1…Rc7! 1.c7? (2.Sc6) 1…Bxb5! 1.e7? (2.Se6) 1…Sxf5! 1.f6? (2.Sf5) 1…Re7! 1.f4? (2.Sf3) 1…exd4! 1.e3! (2.Se2) 1…exd4 2.Qh2 1…Sxf3 2.Sxf3 1…Sxf5 2.Sxf5 1…Bxb5 2.Sxb5 1…cxd4 2.Qb4 1…Bxb3 2.Sxb3 1…Sxc2 2.Sxc2

A humorous setting with a blocked knight which needs to be released to discover mate. Skilful construction ensures unique refutations for 7 tries. Amazingly the key changes the set mate 1…exd4 2.Qf4.

J 2nd Prize, The Problemist 1979-I Mate in 2

To see the solution hold down the left mouse key and run the cursor over the brown area: 1.Qc3 (2.Bc1) 1…Qd1..Qxf1 2.Qe5 1…Qb2+ 2.Bd2 1…Qxc3 2.Bg3 1…d2 2.Qh3 1…e3 2.Qxd3 1…d4 2.Qc5 1…Se6 2.Rxd5 1…Sg6 2.Qc8 1…Sg5 2.Rf6

Back to the traditional style. At the age of 83 Mansfield was still capable of delighting solvers with an elegant setting showing 10 variations preceded by a typically generous key.

ñ 6. T.R. Dawson

Contributed by George Jelliss



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