Kmoch - Rubinstein's Chess Masterpieces

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Biography of

AKIBA RUBINSTEIN

An Eventful and Tragic Life

Deep out of the shadows, out of the Middle-Ages, came Akiba Rubin­ stein. A dark squalid Ghetto of Russian-Poland was the Bethlehem in which his spark of life was kindled. Rubinstein was born on December 12, 1882,

1D Stawiski, of the Province of Lomza. For generations his ancestors had been rabbis and scholars of the Hebrew class1cs, equally inured to physical privation and the intensive cultivation of the mind.

In the home of Rubinstein's parents both were to be found-keenness of intellect and stark poverty. A few weeks before his birth, his father had died, leaving behind a wife and twelve children. Akiba went to the house of his grandparents, who forthwith undertook his up-bringing. The lines of this "up-bringing'' were marked out to a nicety. The youngster would become a teacher of the Talmud, a student of Hebrew, even as his father and his grandfather before him.

His education was indeed received in the "Cheder,'' the school of the Jewish community, and the "Yeshiva,'' a higher academy of religious instruction. The prescribed language was Hebrew and Yiddish : Rubinstein understood no other, and had no desire for any other. He would become an ornament of the Ghetto-nothing more.

Then chess came into his life. He chanced to see two children playing the game in the "Yeshiva." He was fascinated and from that moment chess became the ruling passion of his life. He was sixteen years of age at the time, and immediately obtained the only chess book available in Hebrew, "Chess, Checkmate," by Sossnitz. He absorbed its contents entire. Study of the T()rah, the lore of the Talmud, became an evanescent dream; only chess remained.

His grandparents noted, and mourned. They cursed the devilish alchemy in whose toils the boy had become enmeshed. His mother prayed dally that the Lord bring her erring son back to the well trodden paths. But Rubinstein was lost to God; he had succumbed to a demon, that was to embody his tragic fate, and from which his life could never more be sun­ dered. From the petty glory of the Ghetto and a humdrum existence, his way was to lead to world-wide renown and a soul racking ambition.

At 19 Rubinstein learned that in the nearby town of Lodz there lived a real chess master, one George Salwe-a champion, who, indeed, had crossed swords with the great Tschigorin. Forthwith Rubinstein betook himself to Lodz ; there he found in some way the means of subsistence, and thereafter was nowhere else to be found except in the sphere of chess. He played with those to whom Salwe gave the odds of a rook ; but even against these yokels the young man of Stawiski did not shine. Clearly the lad of the Ghetto was not cut out to be a chess player.

No one had any confidence In his ability except Rubinstein. He re­ turned to his native village and for several months disappeared from view. Suddenly he was in Lodz once more. He entered the chess club, then direct to the table of master Sal we, and challenged him to battle.

Sal we smiled indulgently ; those about the master mocked In derision. But Rubinstein seated himself, and played and won. The whole club went into a huddle. Without delay a match between Salwe and Rubinstein was arranged. The result was a deadlock at ₅ : 6. A second match was played and victory rested with Rubinstein 5 : 3. The old champion was dethroned, and the dreamy Y,Outh from the Polish village reigned in his stead.

A year later he was sent to the Russian National Tourney at Kiev, where he obtained the 5th Prize. In 1905 he entered the international arena, and at Barmen won his spurs _1n the Hauptturnier A of the German Chess Association, tying with Duras for third prize. He became a recognized master. From the odds of a rook, after less than four years, he bestrode the realm of chess like a Colossus.

Now began a breath-taking march from triumph to triumph. At Ostend (1905) he was third among 36 entrants. Schlechter and Maroczy alone out­ ranked him, with such prime figures as Bernstein, Teichmann, Marshall, Janowski and the whole array of Russian talent trailing behind.

Shortly after the new year was ushered in he scaled the pinnacle in competition among the great. At Ostend he shared first prize with Bern· stein far in advance of 28 contenders. At Karlsbad he won undisputed first honors, and with this victory broke the supremacy of the so-called Lasker­ Pleiades, that is, the generation of grandmasters who were contemporaries ot Lasker, and who had set the standard In the world of chess since 1890. With this victory the standard was hauled down, and Rubinstein in turn became the standard bearer of his generation, which was to include Capa­ blanca, Niemzowitch, Spielmann, Tartakower, Vidmar and all others of the new epoch of chess.

At St. Petersburg in 1909 the Polish master demonstrated _his full equality with world champion Lasker, whom he defeated in their individual encounter. In fact it was not until the last round that Lasker's score matched his own, so that both shared the first prize.

in

In a period of twelve months, he scored no less than ftve ftrst prizes in in­ ternational competition, a record that in the whole gamut of chess history

has never been duplicated, either before or after. San Sebastian, Pistyan, Breslau, Warsaw, and Vilna.

But In this year also the shadows for the ftrst time flitted across the spirit of Rubinstein. None the less his record blazoned forth, and it was clear to the whole world that Rubinstein was to be the next champion. Nor was this conviction shaken by his astounding failure at St. Petersburg in 1914, the first signal rebu.tr in his career. A great match for the world title was scheduled to take place in the spring of 1914 between Lasker and Rubinstein. The chess world waited expectantly. Then came the War. Among the millions who fell victims to the ravages of the Great War is to be numbered Rubinstein, chess genius. The post-war Rubinstein Is a far different master than the triumphant hero of 1914 who was to contest with Lasker for the Championship of the World. The soul of the sensitive Rubinstein had been most delicately poised even at the height of his career, and was most sorely tried by the ravages and hardships of the war years. Gone was that Inner harmony so essential for the complete fulfillment of the powers of a chess artist.

It is true that even in the last fifteen years he has garnered a long list of tournament successes, and not a few first prizes, and has played games that take their place among the gems of chess literature. But Rubinstein has lost the supreme confidence in himself that is the necessary equipment of a champion. He suffers in fact from an Inferiority complex, deeming himself superfluous, no longer a necessary adjunct to every great tourney, nor Indeed welcome.

Ever modest and retiring, his shyness has become an obsession to the point of a real mental aberration. Yet we can be sure that were he to overcome this fixation, and to find some degree of contentment, attaining that calm and clear vision that most distinguished his play in his earlier period, he would once more find his place in the fore-front of the masters in spite of his fifty years.

There can be little doubt that Rubinstein has added more to the present status of chess theory and technique than any master since Steinltz. More innovations in the openings and more of the lines that are today recognized as the ultimate in correctness and strength can be traced to his genius and originality than can be ascribed to any other master. The standard defense of the Ruy Lopez-B-K2, P-Q3, P-QKt4, P-QB4, etc.-owes most to _him. In the Four Knights both Kt-Q6 (leading to a draw) and Q-K2 (followed by Kt-Q), were formulated by him, and so potently aided Black, that they have all but banished this opening from serious play. In the Queen's Gambit Declined, it was Rubinstein who perfected the Fianchetto of the King's Bishop against Tarrasch's defense of P-QB4, and sent that variation into

semi-retirement for many years. Indeed he most signally celebrated the triumph of th.ls variation by resounding victories over Lasker (1909) and Capablanca (1911).

In recent years he has introduced new attacks and defenses 1n the most hyper-modern positions. Against Black's 3 . . . B-Kt5 In the Queen's Pawn Opening, his simple P-K3 followed by Kt-K2 Is especlally noteworthy. Less well known is his novel sacrificial line against the Blumenfeld Counter At­ tack, while his crushing treatment of the Queen's Fianchetto Defense by !

a

the best of Black's resources in the Sicilian.

He is a pioneer and originator who hews out new paths In the domain of chess. He is not content merely to win games, to take advantage of some lapse on the part of his adversary, to entrap his opponent Into pitfalls that have been dug by others. He views himself as an artist and at each session he endeavors to add something worth while to the literature of chess and some new thought to its technique.

As a result the record of his victories constitutes the most valuable compilation of games that has been brought together by any master. As we go over these one by one we are amazed at their superiority In depth and strategy over the masterpieces of those we have long honored with the label of champion. In the opinion of the writer only the games of Capablanca reach a higher standard of perfection. But Capa built largely on the labors of others, adding merely the final mark of his own great talent. His is a great gift of selection. Rubinstein is the creator and h.1s moves bear the imprint of his own personality.

Of Lasker It was indeed said that he played P-K4 with a view to the end game. But Lasker's chief forte was the complex struggle of the mid­ game, and he added little to our knowledge of the openings, being content to trod the best paths, and to leave the blazing of new trails to some more adventurous spirits.

And be it said for Rubinstein that he stands as the greatest end-game player of all time, if not indeed, the most finished master we have known. In fact so profound an impression did his games make with the writer, that in a brief colloquy with Reuben Fine he ventured the thought that the Polish master ranked with Capablanca in the sheer artistry of his victories. Mr. Fine not only agreed with this appraisal, but indicated his belief that Rubinstein should be placed at the very head of the list.

WhY then such disparity between his talent and his recent perform­ ances ? Dr. Hannak writes :

vi

Rubinstein's character is too noble for the rough and tumble of l i fe. H is col leagues know best the splendor of his personal ity,

bo not disturbed in his reflection, that as a matter of principle, he l eaves the board after each move, and only returns after his ad­ versary has completed his play. Naturally much time ia lost there­ by, and his own thinking suffers, and many a surprising loss of Rubinstei n c:an no doubt be attributed to this factor."

He is indeed the Spinoza of chess. More geometriw, with crystal­ clt.ar, mathematical detachment, he builds up his position-grace, ease and restraint most markedly apparent in the process. Yet his game throbs with the zeal of the artist, revealing the throes and pains of the creator, all of which are held in check by a judicial appraisal, a calm logic. His games remind us of a great symphony that flows evenly and majestically, yet contains within itself deep tones of approaching storms. From time to time the wild spirit breaks forth from the confines of its Olympian repose, giving

us games like his imperishable contest with RoUewi. Yet even in his most dashing attacks there is the supreme mastery of the elements-the sacrl1lce of a queen (against Duras in 1908), not to overwhelm his adversary, but to win a pawn, and some twenty-five moves later, by the most refined tech­ nique, to translate the pawn advantage into victory.

This is the great feature of his play-its great strategic depth. He _1s never superficial, never cheap or tawdry. He is never seeking merely to _win, but always to create a "Work of Art." He never plays to the score or to the weakness of his opponent, but ever to the board and to give us his best.

B. F. WINKELMAN Philadelphia, 1941 With acknowledgment to Dr. Hannak'I introduaion to "RubinJtein Gewinnt" vii

CONTENTS

BIOGRAPHY OF AKIBA RUBINSTEIN --- 111

No. of Game Page CHAPTER I. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT AT KARLSBAD, 1907 --- 13 1. Janowski-Rubinstein --- --- --- --- 13 2. Duras-Rubinstein --- --- 16 3. Salwe-Rubinstein --- --- --- 17 4. P. Johner-Rubinstein --- - 19 5. Rubinstein-Teichmann --- 21

CHAPTER II. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT AT LODZ, ____ 1907 23 6. Rotleur-Rubinstein --- --- 23 7. Dos·Chotimirski-Rubinstein --- 24 8. Rubinstein-Salwe --- 26 9. Rubinstein-Salwe 10. Salwe-Rubinstein 11. Salwe-Rubinste!n CHAPTER III. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT VIENNA, PRAGUE AND LODZ, 1908. MATCH AT VIENNA, 27 30 32 1908 --- --- ---- --- 35 12 Rubinstein-Duras --- 35 13. Rubinstein-Teichmann --- --- 36 14. Alapin-Rubinstein --- --- 37 15. _Dr. Vidmar-Rubinstein --- 38 16. Rubinstein-Spielman - --- 40 17. Marshall-Rubinstein --- --- 41 18. Rubinstein-Marshall ---- --- --- --- 43 19. Rubinstein-Salwe - --- 45

CHAPTER IV. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT AT ST. PETERS-BURG, 1909 --- 47 20. Rubinstein-Schlechter --- - 47 21. E. Cohn-Rub!nstein --- --- 48 22. Rubinste!n-M!eses -- --- 50 23. Rubinstein-Dr. Lasker --- --- 62 24. Speyer-Rubinstein --- --- 64 25. Dr. Vidmar-Rubinstein --- --- 56 26. Forgacs-Rub!nste!n --- --- 67 27. Duras-Rubinstein --- 69 28. Spielmann-Rubinstein --- --- 60 29. Rubinstein-Snosko-Borowski --- --- 63

No. of

Game Page

CHAPTER V. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT SAN

SEBAS-TIAN AND KARLSBAD, 1911 --- 65

30. Rubinstein--Capablanca --- --- --- 65

31. Rubinstein-Duras --- --- --- -- 67

32. AJapin-Rubinstein --- 69

33. Rubinstein-Lowenfisch --- -- --- 70

34. Rubinstein-Alekhine --- 7 2 CHAPTER VI. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT SAN SEBAS-TIAN, PISTYAN AND BRESLAU, 1912 --- 75

35. Rubinstein-schlechter --- -- 75 36. Schlechter-Rubinstein --- --- 76 37. Spiehnann-Rubinsteln --- 78 38. Dr. Tarrasch-Rubinstein --- 79 39. Rubinstein-Duras --- --- 81 40. Rubinstein-Marshall --- --- 82

CHAPTER VII. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT LODZ, 191 6 ; WARSAW AND LODZ, 1917. MATCH AND QUAD­ RANGULAR TOURNEY AT BERLIN, 1918 --- 85

41. Factor-Rubinstein --- - --- --- 85 42. Belltzmann-Rubinstein --- 87 43. Gottesduner-Rubinstein --- 87 44. llegedzinsky-Rubinsteln --- 89 45. Rubinstein-schlechter --- 90 46. Rubinstein-Schlechter --- 92

CHAPTER VIII. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT GOTE-BUIW, 1920, AND THE HAGUE, 1921 --- 94

47. Rubinstein-Dr. Tarrasch --- 94 48. Reti-Rubinstein -- ---- --- 95 49. Rubinstein-Maroczy --- 97 50. Dr. Euwe-Rubinstein --- --- 98 61. Rubinstein-Marco --- --- - 99 52. Rubinstein-Maroczy --- 101

CHAPTER IX. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT TEPLITZ­ SCHONAU AND VIENNA, 1922. SIX-MASTER TOUR­ NEY AT HASTINGS, 1922 --- 103 53. Rubinstein-Dr. Tarrasch -- --- --- 103 64. Rubinstein-Teichmann --- 104 56. H. Wolf-Rubinsteln --- 106 56. Rubinstein-Dr. Tarrasch --- --- 109 67. Yates-Rubinstein --- 109 58. Thomas-Rubinstein -- --- 112 59. Rubinstein-Dr. AJekhine --- --- 113 ][

Game

_Page

60. RublDstein-Spielmann --- 115

61. Reti-Rubinstein --- 116

62. Rubinstein-Bogoljubow --- 117

CHAPTER X. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT KARLSBAD AND MAHRISCH-OSTRAU, 1923; MERAN AND BER-LIN, 1924 --- --- 120 63. Rubinstein-Dr. Tarrasch --- --- --- 120 64. Rubinstein-Hromadka --- 122 65. Dr. Tarrasch-Rubinstein ---- --- --- 124 66. Grunfeld-RublDstein --- --- 126 67. Mieses-Rubinstein --- --- 126

CHAPTER XI. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT BADEN-BADEN AND MARIENBAD, 1925 --- 129

68. Spielmann-Rubinstein --- --- --- - 129 69. Rubinstein-Carls ---- --- --- --- --- 130 70. Yates-Rubinstein ·--- - --- -- ---- --- - --- - --- 131 71. Mieses-Rubinstein --- --- 133 72. Rubinstein-Samisch --- --- 134 73. Michell-Rubinstein --- --- --- 135 74. Rubinstein-Dr. Tartakower - --- --- - 137 75. Rubinstein-Janowski --- 139 76. Yates-Rubinstein --- 139

CHAPTER XII. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT AT SEMMER-ING, 1926 --- 142 77. Kmoch-Rubinstein --- 142 78. Dr. Michel-RubinstelD --- - 143 79. Rubinstein-Spielmann --- -- ---- - ---- 145 80. Rubinstein-Reti --- --- 147 81. Yates-Rubinstein - --- --- --- 148 82. Rubinstein--Grunfeld --- 151

CHAPTER XIII. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT DRESDEN, BUDAPEST AND HANOVER, 1926 --- 153

83. Yates-Rubinstein --- --- 153

84. P. Jahner-Rubinstein --- 154

85. Rubinstein-Takacs --- 156

86. Rublnstein-Frh. v. Holzhausen --- --- -158

87. Rubinstein-Mieses --- 159

CHAPTER XIV. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT AT KISSINGEN, AND TAGEBLATT TOURNEY AT BERLIN, 1928 ___ 161 88. Rubinstein-Mieses --- --- 161

89. Rubinstein-Dr. Tartakower -- --- --- 162

No. of Game Page 90. Rubinstein-Dr. Tarrasch --- 163 91. Rubinstein-Nimzowitch --- 165 92. Rubinstein-Reti --- 166 93. Rubinstein-Dr. Tartakower --- 168

CHAPTER XV. INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT KARLSBAD AND ROHITSCH-SAUERBRUNN, 1929; SAN REMO, 1930; PRAGUE OLYMPICS, 1931 --- 171 94. Mattison-Rubinstein --- 171 95. Canal-Rubinstein --- 173 96. Rubinstein-Flohr --- 175 97. Rubinstein-Canal --- 177 98. Rubinstein-Dr. Vidmar --- 179 99. Rubinstein-Bogoljubow --- 180 100. Kashdan-Rubinsteln --- 182 INDEX OF OPENINGS --- 185 INDEX OF OPPONENTS --- 188

RUBINSTEIN'S TOURNAMENT AND MATCH RECORD --- 190

Chapter I

Intemational Townament at Xarlsbad. 1907

Game No. 1 FOU R KNIGHTS GAM E

Karlsbad, 1907 Janowski 1 P-K4 2 Kt-KB3 3 Kt-B3 4 B-Kt5 Rubinstein P-K4 Kt-QB3 Kt-B3 B-Kt5 Rubinstein had not as yet dis­ covered 4 . •• Kt-Q5! a well-known variation named after him.

5 0-0 6 P-Q3 7 PxB 8 B-Kt5 9 Q-Q2 0-0 BxKt P-Q3 Q-K2 For 9 R-K1 compare the follow-ing game. 9 • • • • 1 0 B-QB4 1 1 B-Kt3 12 R PxB Kt-Q1 B-K3 BxB Kt-K3 The mobility of this Knight, which in all variations aims to occu

p

13 B-R4 P-KR3

If 13 .• .Kt-B5 White might sac­ rifice a Pawn for a strong attack thus: 14 Kt-Q4, PxKt; 15 QxKt, PxP; 16 QR-K1, threatening 17 Q­ K3, to be followed by 18 P-KB4! Black could maintain the Pawn at a grave disadvantage in position.

14 K R-K1 P-R3

Kt-B5 would still have been bad, for after Kt-Q4, Black would have

no satisfactory reply. Obviously, White obtains the superior game if his own Knight occupies KB5. But _1f 15 . • . PxKt; 16 QxKt, would follow thus: 16 .. . PxP; 17 P-Q4, etc. If 16 . . . P-KKt4; 17 BxP, PxB; 18 QxPch, K-R1; 19 PxP, KR-K1; 20 R-R5, with su­ perior prospects for White.

1 5 B-Kt3?

15 P-Q4 should have been played. After 15 . • . Kt-B5 (QR·Q1; 16 P­ Q5!) 16 PxP, PxP; 17 Kt-Q4, KR­ Q1; 18 Q-K3, PxKt; 19 QxKt, P­ KKt4; 20 BxP, etc. White attains an advantageous attack. But if 15 . . . P-KKt4; 16 B-Kt3, Kt-B5; then White continues 17 BxKt, KtPxB (KPxB; 18 P-K5!) 18 P­ Kt3, Kt-R4; 19 Q-K2 with advan­ tage.

1 5 • • • • Kt-R4 1 6 P-Q4

Now this move is inconsequent. 16 • •• • 1 7 BxKt 18 P-Kt3 Kt(K3)-B5 KtxB Kt-Kt3 Black has indeed been compelled to vacate the excellent square of the Knight; but the "Moor has performed his duty:" The posi­ tion of the White King has been weakened (by P-Kt3) and attack by P-KB4 is threatened. 19 Q-Q3 20 Kt-Q2 21 P-Q5 22 PxP 23 Kt-K4 Q.K3 P-KB4 Q-Q2 RxP The position of the Knight offers some compensation for the _op­ ponent's possession of the KB file. In spite of this Black obtains the initiative, f o r t h e weakening 13

14 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES P-KKt3 cramps Whi te's style ap­

preciably.

23 • •• • QR-K 81 24 R-K3

Preparing for P-KB3 in order to guard against the incidental at­ tack R-R4 followed by Q-R6.

24 • • • • Kt-K2! Rubln•tei n

Janowski

Now the Knight threatens to enter decisively into the attack by Kt-B4 as circumstances may re­ quire: his task is also to render innocuous the counter-thrust P­ QB4-B5, as well as to dislodge his colleague on K4, - the best posted White piece.

25 R-Q1

The Pawn at Q5 must be pro­ tected in order to increase the mobility of the White Queen; but 25 P-QB4 would have been a de­ cisive mistake for: 25 .. . R-R4; 26 Q-B1, (or 26 P-B3, Kt-B4; 27 KR-K1, Kt-Q5; followed by Q-R6 and wins) Kt-B4; 27 R-QB3, Kt­ Q5; 28 P-B3, KR-B4; 29 Kt-Q2, KtxPch; 30 RxKt, RxR; 31 KtxR, P-K5; etc. should win.

25 • • • • K-R1

Now White could adequately

de-fend himself against 25 . . . R-R4, etc. by 26 P-KB3 or Q-B1, as the Black Kt cannot gain access to Q5.

26 P-Q84 Kt-Kt1 ! If 26 . . . R-R4 White can pre­ vent the entrance of the Knight Into Q5, thus: 27 Q-B1!, Kt-B4 ; 28 R-KB3, followed by 29 P-QB3.

27 P-K83

P-QB4 would only add to the force of Black's next move.

27 • • • •

28 R-K81 29 QxKt

Kt-83 KtxKt Apparently White has overcome the perils of the mid-game. What can now happen to him in a posi­ tion as simple as this? To this question the next two moves of Rubinstein offer a menacing ans-wer.

29 • . • • Q-Q1 ! ! A very strong and subtle m ove. Rubinstein recognizes that the Q can force entry only from the other wing.

30 Q-K Kt4

Comprehensibly he does not de­ sire to permit Q-Kt4. A better defense w as offered by 30 R-Q3 in order to answer Q-Kt4 by 31 Q-K3, which also threatens Q-R7 in some variations.

30 • • • • Q-Q Kt1! Quite overwhelming! The Queen now takes up a strong position on the Queen's wing.

31 K-Kt2 32 R(81 ) -K1 33 Q-K4 34 R(K)-K2 Q-R2 Q-84 Q-Q Kt:J Better to retain this Rook on the first rank.

16 35 Q-Q3

36 Q-Q83 P-Q R4! K-Kt1 Ex ploiting the cramped position of the White Rooks: for after the exchange of Queens, R-QRl can­ not be readily played.

37 QxQ 38 P-Q 83 39 RxP PxQ PxP Actually 39 R-R2, P-B7 ; 40 RxP, R-Rl would have led to the same position.

39 • • • • R-R1

Rubinstein

Janowski 40 K-R3 7

The sole counter-play lay in: 40 P-QB5 e. g.

a) 40 . . . R-R4 ; 41 P-QKt4, R­

R5; (R-Kt4 ; 42 R-B4,) 42 P-Kt5! with the t hreat 43 P-Kt6, BPxP ; 44 P-B6! b) 40 . . . R-R6; 41 PxP, PxP ; 42 P-KB4, PxP ; 43 PxP, RxP ; 44 R-K7, R-R7ch; [44 . . . R- B2 ?] 45 R- B8ch, R-BI ; 46 R(B8 )-B7) ,-46 K-Kt3, R(B5)-B7 ; 46 R(B3)-B7, R­ Kt7ch ; 47 K-B3, R(R7 ) -B7ch ; 48 K-K3, R-K7ch ; 49 K-Q3, RxR; 50 RxR, RxP ; 51 RxQKtP, with the threat of R- Q7, etc.

Weaker than 40 P-B5 would have been the preparatory move of 40 P-QKt4 because of R-R8 ; 41 R-Kt2

(41 P-B5, R- Q8! ) R-Q8 and K-Bl (42 P-B5, K-K2 ; 43 PxP, KxP.)

with advantage for Black.

40 . • . . P-QKt3 Now P-QB5 would require longer preparation.

Black gains t ime to strengthen his position decisively.

41 K-Kt4

The quiet retreat K-Kt2 would be relatively better.

41 • • • • R-RB

42 R-QKt2

Now he is on the right t rack, but it is much too late.

42 • • • • 43 P-Kt4 44 R ( Kt2)-Kt3 K-R2 K-Kt3 If P-B5, R-Q8 ; 45 PxKtP, PxP; 4 6 R-B6, P-Kt 4 ; followed by RxQP. 44. . • . R-84 With the idea of R-KR8 followed by R-Kt4ch and R-R4ch or R- Q8 followed by R-Q5ch and R- R4ch, then R-Q7ch.

45 R ( 83)-82 R-KRB 46 P-84

There was no adequate defense: the King gets into a mating net, and at least a Pawn must be lost.

46 . • • • 47 PxP 48 K-Kt3 49 K-82 50 R-K83 51 RxR 52 K-K3 53 K-Q3 54 K-Q4 55 R-82ch 56 R-Kt2ch 57 P-Kt5 PxP P-R4ch R-Kt8ch R-Kt5 R(Kt5 ) x P RxRch K-84 R-86ch R-QKt6 K-Kt3 K-R3 R-K 86 After 57 P-Kt5 the Pawn posi­ tion on the Queen's side has lost all aggressive possibilities, and Black can now devote himself

16 RUBINSTEIN' S CHESS MASTERPIECES quietly to the exploitation of his

Pawn plus. 58 K-K4 59 R-R2 60 R-R7 61 K-Q3 62 P-85 Desperation! 62 • • • • 63 P-Q6 R-83 P-Kt4 R-B5ch R-82 QPxP R-Q21 Now it become s apparent how important it was to force the White King on t he Queen file by 60 . . . R-B5ch.

64 RxP

65 K-K4 RRxPch -Q5ch Much stronger than the worri­ some defense of t he Knight Pawn by R-KKt3, etc. 66 K-85 67 R- 88 P-R5 Or 67 R-B6ch, K-R4). 68 RxP, R-B5ch followed by R-B7 with an easy win. 67 • • • • 68 K-K5 69 R-R8ch 70 R-QB8 71 R-Kt8ch 72 P-R3 73 R-R8ch 74 R-Kt8ch 75 R-R8ch 76 R-QB8 77 R-86 78 RxP Resigns. R-B5ch P-85 K-Kt2 K-Kt3 K-R4 P-BS K-Kt3 K-R3 K-Kt2 R-86 RxP R-KB6 Game No. 2 FOU R K N I GHTS GAME Karlsbad, 1907 Duras 1 P-K4 2 Kt-KB3 3 Kt-83 Rubinstein P-K4 Kt-QB3 Kt.. B3 4 B-Kt5 5 0-0 6 P-Q3 7 PxB 8 B-Kt5 9 R-K1 B-Kt5 0-0 BxKt P-Q3 Q-K2 In the previous game White playe d 9 Q-Q2, attaining an ex­ cellent position. 9 • • • • 1 0 P-Q4 1 1 B-QB1 1 2 B-81 Kt-Q1 Kt-K3 P-Q B3 The Bishop's moves lead to an attacking continuation that origi­ nated with Teichmann. From the viewpoint of development, not much is lost as Black, too, must regroup his pieces.

12 • • . •

1 3 Kt-R4 R-K1 Q-82 Four years later against Spiel­ mann in Karlsbad, Rubinstein played 13 . .. R-Q1 with disastrous results.

14 Q-Q3

This square should be le ft open for the Bishop. The proper con­ tinuation was P-Kt3 followed by P-KB4 and Q-B3. 14 • • • • 1 5 P-Kt3 1 6 B-Kt2 B-Q2 Q R-Q1 Here the Bishop has no offensive power.

16 • • • • B-81

17 P-KB4

Now that Black is fully develop­ ed, t his attack is less effective.

17 • • • • 1 8 PxP 1 9 P-85

PxBP Kt-81 A more aggressive continuation would be 19 P-QB4, for in that event, if 19 . . . Kt-Kt3 (not 20 Q-KKt3, for KtxKt; 21 QxKt, P­ Q4; 22 P-K5, Kt-K5 ! ; 23 BxKt,

PxB ; 24 RxP, B-B4; etc. or 1f 23 RxKt, PxR; 24 BxP, P-KB4!) 20 KtxKt, RPxKt; 21 P-Q5 ! (21 B­ Kt2, P-Q4! followed by B- B4 gain­ ing the important square K5 ) fol­ lowed after adequate preparation by posting the Queen's Bishop on the long diagonal.

19 • • • • P-KR3

20 B-Q2

B-B4 is not possible because of Kt-R4. But i f the White queen were on B3 and the Bishop on Q3, 20 B-B4 could be played with an excellent game. This Is exemplified by the Spielmann-Rubinstein game above referred to.

20 . • • • 21 Kt-KB3 22 P-KR4 Kt(B)-R2 R-K2 P-QB4 Threatening P-QB5, which would be decisive as the Pawn at K4

would fall.

23 Kt-R2 R (Q)-K1 24 R-K3

P- QB5 was still threatened. 24 • • • • P-QKt3 25 B-83 8-Kt2 Again t hreatening P-QB5. Rubi nstein Dur-aa 26 Q R-K1 ?

An error, which leads to speedy collapse. White's position was not

Indeed anything to brag about, but a fter 26 P-Q5, he could still put up a fight. If 26 . . . P-QB5 27 Q-Q4 should be played. For 27 Q-K2 would lead to a loss, a fter 27 . . . Q-B4, with the double threat 28 . . . KtxKP and KtxQP. Duras was always notoriously weak ln games which r equire positional manoeuvring against Rubinstein. Such situations between masters of nearly equal strength are not uncommon in the records of chess. Medical psychology terms them "complexes. " Bogoljubow, In fact, included a whole country In his weakness. He once said: "I can't play well in England:" and the facts so demonstrate!

26 • • • • P-Q85 Clinching the game.

27 Q-K2 8xKP 28 Q-Kt2 P-Q4 Not 28 . . . BxP ; 29 RxR, RxR; 30 RxR, QxR; 31 BxRP, Q-K8ch ; 32 Kt-Bl. 29 8-81 30 Ktx 8 31 8xR 8x8 RxR White ls lost: but RxR would have afforded a longer defense.

31 • • • • R-K5 32 Q-R3 R-Kt5ch 33 K-R1 R-Kt6 34 Q-R2 Kt-Kt5 35 8-Kt1 KtxQ 36 8xKt Q-85 37 Kt-Kt1 QxP Resigns Game N o. 3 Saiwe GiUOCO PIANO Karlsbad, 1907 Rubi nstein 1 P-K4 2 Kt-K83 3 8-84 4 Kt-Q83 P-K4 Kt-Q83 8-84 Kt-83

18 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES 5 P-Q3

6 8-K3 P-Q3

At Karlsbad in 1929 Canal has re-introduced the old variation 6 B-Kt5, P-KR3 ; 7 BxKt, QxB; 8 Kt-Q5, Q-Q1 ; 9 P-B3 etc.: however, It enjoyed but a brief vogue as it is of little merit.

6 • • . •

7 Q-Q2 B-KKt5 8-Kt3 More enterprising than the usual 7 .. . B-K3 etc.

8 Kt-KKt5 B-KR4

Castling is dangerous because of 9 P-KB3, B-R4 ; 10 P-KKt4, B­ Kt3 ; 11 P·KR4 etc. 9 P-K83 1 0 Kt-R3 1 1 Kt-82 P-K R3! Q-Q2 P-KKt4 would now merely weak­ en White's position.

1 1 • • • • Kt-Q5 Threatening KtxBPch etc. The weakness of Q4 now becomes un­ pleasantly evident. 1 2 8xKt If 12 0-0-0, B-QR4 is quite dis­ concerting. 1 2 • • • • 8x8 13 Q Kt-Q1

An awkward move! White should forthwith have prevented the advance which follows. With 13 Kt(B2)-Q1 and 14 Kt-K2, or in case 13 . . . B-Kt3 is played, 14 Kt-K3 would have maintained the position.

1 3 • • • •

1 4 B-Kt3 0-0-0 P-Q4 With his two Bishops and the attack in the center, Black has the superior game. Rubinstein now translates his advantage into vic­ tory in exemplary style.

1 5 0-0 P-KKt4

16 K-R1 P-Q 83

In order after PxP not to permit Kt-K4. If White now wishes to occupy K4 with PxP and P-QB4, he suffers decisive weaknesses on the Queen's file.

1 7 Kt-83 18 P-QR4 19 P-R5 20 Kt-R4 8-K Kt3 K-Kt1 P-R3 Salwe has artfully created a slight weakness at Kt6, but it does not suffice to give him effective counter-play. 20 • . . • 21 Q-Kt4 22 QxQch Q-82 Q.Q3 RxQ The exchange of Queens has not changed the essence of the posi­ tion. Black retains the advantage.

23 P-QB3

Thereby the retreat of the Knight at R4 Is barred, compelling the further weakness of P-QKt4. However there was no satisfactory move. 23 • • . • 24 8-82 25 Q R-K1 26 Kt.Q1 27 Kt-K3 28 P-QKt4? 8-R2 Kt-Q2 P-KR4 P-83 R-Q1 After 28 Kt-KB5, BxKt ; (Black cannot permit the Knight to re­ main at B5) 29 PxB, P·QB4. Black has the superior game, but far less so than after the move actually made. 28 • • . . 29 Rx8 30 R-K 1 31 KtxP 8xKt! P-Q5 PxP The White Pawn structure is now decisively weakened.

31 • • • • P-R5

To prevent a counter attack by P-R4 if Black repl·les (PxP; P­ KB4 ) .

32 K-Kt1 Kt-81

33 K-82 Kt-K3

34 Kt-K2 8-K1

34 . . . P-QB4 looks strong: but after 35 PxP, KtxP; 36 Kt-Bl, B­

K 1 ; 37 R-Q1, B-Kt4 ; 38 K-K3, White would hold the Pawn at Q3, and the exchange of the healthy BP for the weakling at Kt4, would prove pointless. Now, on the con­ trary, 35 . . . P-QB4 is threatened, with the win of a Pawn.

35 8-Kt3 36 8-84 37 R-Q81 38 R-82 39 Px8 Kt-82 8-Q2 B-K3 8x8 Kt-K3 Black now controls the only open file, his Knight gains the formid­ able outpost of B5, or Q5, the end of the battle Impends.

40 R-Q Kt1

41 K R-Kt2 R-Q7 Rx R By the exchange of one of his Rooks, the survivor secures great­ er chances of entry into the White position. 42 RxR R-Q6 Rubinstein Sal we 43 R-Kt2 R-Kt6 was threatened. If 43 R­ B3, R-Q7; and in the event of 44 K-K3, R-Kt7 ; 45 R-Q3, Kt-B5 ; and wins. A nd if 46 R-QZ, KtxKtPch; 47 K·Q3, Kt-K8ch; 48 K-B3, RxR; 49 KxR, KtxBPch; followed b:y Ktx RP 43 • • • • 44 P-85 45 P-Kt3 K-82 K-Q2 Foreshadows the end. The break­ through by P-Kt5 was always in the offing. 45 • • • • 46 PxP PxPch P-Kt5 ! If now 47 PxP, Kt-Kt4! ; or lC 47 P·B4, PxP ; 48 PxP, KtxP ; etc. 47 Kt-Kt1 48 K-K2 49 P-84 50 PxP 51 K-81 52 K-Kt2 53 R-K82 54 K-R1 55 R-Q2ch Kt-Kt4! R-R6 KtxP PxP KtxPch Kt-R4 Kt-85ch R-R8 K-K2 White resigned. The exchange of Rook and Knight cannot be avoided. For if 56 K-R2, P-Kt6ch! and Kt-R6 etc.

Played by Rubinstein in out­ standing fashion. Game No.4 R UY LOPEZ Karlsbad, 1907 P. Johnel' 1 P-K4 2 Kt-K83 3 8-Kt5 4 8-R4 5 0-0 6 R-K1 7 8-Kt3 8 P-83 9 P-Q4 Rubinstein P-K4 Kt-Q 83 P-Q R3 Kt-83 8-K2 P-Q Kt4 P-Q3 8-Kt5 For 9 P-KR3 etc., compare the

20 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES game against Spielmann, St. Pe­

tersburg, 1909. 9 • • • • 10 P-QR4 1 1 8-Q5 12 PxP 13 PxKt 14 KtxKt 1 5 Q-Kt3 0-0 R-K1 Q-Q2 Ktx8 KtxP PxKt

It would be a serious mistake to play 15 P-B3, B-B4 ; 16 RxP??, because of B-B4ch etc. It is there­ fore apparent that the plan of development initiated by 11 B-Q5, was at fault. Black is now better developed, has his two Bishops

and a mobile majority of Pawns

on the King's side.

1 5 - • • .

1 6 PxP 8-Q3 PxP

Played without due considera­

tion. The Knight Pawn now be­

comes weak, and Black thereby nearly loses all his advantage. Proper was 16 . . . QxP ! ; for after

17 QxQ, PxQ ; 18 RxR, RxR; 19

Kt-R3, Black can continue effec­

tively with 19 B-Q 2 ; ( 20 P­

QB4, P-Kt5).

17 RxR

1 8 Kt-R3 R-R4 RxR

Now the difference is apparent : Black's Queen Bishop cannot de­ vote itself to the protection of the Queen's wing; and Black is driven -in the effort to preserve a modi­ cum of his advantage-to the un­ natural text-move. After 18 . . . R-Ktl there would follow 19 P­ QB4, P-Kt5 ; 20 Kt-Kt5, a move impossible with the Bishop on Q2.

19 P-Q84

This loses a Pawn, but the re­ sultant position is so favorable that we can hardly refer to the move as a mistake. 1 9 • • • . 20 KtxP 21 Ktx8 PxP RxP!

Not 21 Kt-Kt6 because Black would attain a clear advantage for the end-game by 21 . . . RrKt4 ; 22 KtxQ, RxQ ; 23 KtxP, B-K3 ; etc. 21 • • •• 22 Q-Kt8ch 23 QxQch QxKt Q-Q1 RxQ

Black has indeed a Pawn ad­ vantage, but because of the separa­ tion of the Pawns, as well as the Bishops of opposite colors, White should have no difficulty in assur­

ing the draw. But Johner now

plays weakly, and Rubinstein on

the contrary, with a m a z i n g

strength.

24 P-83?

24 P-B4, would have brought either welcome simplification by . . . PxP; or the exchange of Rooks. a) 24 . . . P-K5 ? ; 25 RxP or b) 24 . .. P-KB3 ; 25 PxP, PxP; 26 B-Kt5, R-K1 ; 27 B-B4, or 26 . . . R-Q4 ; 27 RrQB1, P-B4 ; or 27 . . . P-B 4 ; . . . B-K 2 ; . . . R-Q2 ; then 28 R-K1, etc.

Black would have to play R-Q8 to avoid loss of his Pawn advan­ tage, but after the exchange of Rooks, winning prospects would disappear.

24 . . . . B-K3

25 K-82 R-Q4

26 P-QKt4

Taking from the Bishop the ex­ cellent post QB3. To be preferred was 26 R-K2 ( . . . R-Q8 ; 27 R-Q2.) 26 . • • • P-R3 27 P-Kt3 8-Q2 28 8-K3 P-K84 29 R-Q81 P-83 30 R-82 K-82 31 K-K2

Or 31 P-KB4 was playable. The reply 31 . . . P-K5 was less to be dreaded than the following move.

31 • • • •

32 8-85 P-K85 P-Kt4

Now Black has attained the ideal Pawn formation.

33 R-R2 34 PxP 35 K-K1 36 R-R7ch 37 R-K7 38 R-K6ch 39 B-Q6? Rubinstein P. Johner B-84 B-Q6ch KtPxP K-Kt3 B-Kt4 K-Kt2

Giving the opportunity for a problem-like final thrust. 39 R-Q6 was in order, not because of the exchange, but because-as Wag­ ner the Hamburg master expressed it-Black could do nothing at all

thereafter. This threat was ac­

tually so strong that in all human probabllity the well-nigh helpless game of White would have been saved thereby.

39 • • • • K-82

Now the White Rook is thrust to the wing, and the Black Rook en­ ters decisively into the thick of the fight. 40 RxRP 41 K-82 42 B-85 43 K-Kt1 44 RxP 45 R-Q6 46 P-R4 47 B-Q4 48 B-K5 R-Q6 R-K6 R-K7ch B-85 ! B-Q4 BxP P-K5 R-Q71 P-K6 1 49 BxP R-Kt7ch

White resigns: An instructive game.

Game No.5

QUEEN'S GAMBIT DECLINED

Karlsbad, 1907 Rubinstein Teichmann 1 P-Q4 2 Kt-KB3 3 P-QB4 4 B-Kt5 5 Kt-QB3 6 P-K3 7 Q-82 P-Q4 P-K3 Kt-KB3 B-K2 Q Kt-Q2 0-0 P-QKt3 7 . . . P-B4 forthwith is here recognized as the proper move.

8 PxP 9 B-Q3 10 0-0-0 1 1 P-KR4 PxP B-Kt2 P-84 R-81

In reference to these opening moves we can compare his games

against Dus-Chotimirski, Lodz,

1907, and against Teichmann in their match at Vienna in 1908.

12 K-Kt1 R-K1

Teichmann

22 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES

1 3 PxP RxP

It 13 . . . PxP there are some troublesome rejoinders: 14 B-Kt5 or 14 B·B5, the most pointed. In reply to 14 BxKt, KtxB ; 15 B·B5, threatening 16 KtxP and 17 P-K4. And not 13 . . . KtxP; 14 B-B5 followed by BxKt(B3) and BxPch.

14 Kt-Q4 Kt-K51

This opens the Queen file, where­ upon White repulses the attack 1n the center, and quickly secures a

decisive advantage. P-QR3 fol­

lowed by P-QKt4 merited a trial.

1 5 BxKt PxB 1 6 K Kt-Kt5 Threatening Kt-Q6. 16 • • • • B-R3 17 Q-R4 BxKt 1 8 KtxB BxB 19 PxB According to Marco, 19 Kt-Q6 with the continuation 19 . . . KR· K 4 ; 20 Kt-Kt7, P-Kt4 ; 21 Q-Q4 was even stronger. The situation, how­ ever, is not clear if Black replies 19 . . . P-Kt4 instead of 19 . . .

KR-K4. If 20 Q-Q4?, B-B3 ; might follow, and 20 Q-QKt4 would be followed by 20 . . . B-K2 ; 21 KtxR, R-B8ch; and BxQ. 1 9 . • . • 20 R-Q4 21 P-QKt4 R-K2 Q-R1 R-B1

If 21 . . . RxP; the game would be decided by 22 Kt-B7, Q-B1 ; 23 KR-Q1, QxKt ; 24 RxKt, RxR; 25 RxR, Q-B1; 26 Q-Q1.

22 Kt.Q6 P-QKt4

22 . . . R-B2 would also lose quickly: e. g. 23 Kt-B5, R-K4 ; 24 RxKt, P-QKt4 ; 25 Q-Q1, etc. But 22 . . . R-Q1 would have offered some resistance, as after 23 Kt-B5, R-K4 ; 24 RxKt, RxKt might fol· low. The text-move loses immedi­ ately.

23 KtxRI

After 23 . . . PxQ ; 24 KtxRch, K-B1 ; 25 RxKt mate in a few moves or loss of the Queen follows.

Chapter

_U

International Tournament

Lodz. 1907

Game No. 6 Q U E E N'S GAM B I T DECLI N E D Lodz, 1907 o r 1908* Rotlewi Rubinstein 1 P-Q4 2 Kt-K B3 3 P-K3 4 P-84 5 Kt-83 6 QPxP 6 B-Q3 is best. 6 .. . . 7 P-QR3 8 P-QKt4 9 B-Kt2 10 Q-Q2? P-Q4 P-K3 P-QB4 Kt-QB3 Kt-83 BxP P-Q R3 B-Q3 0-0

An ugly and bad move. PxP,

PxP; 11 B-K2 was playable, or also 11 B-Q3, whereupon in any event White would realize that his 6th move was weak .

10 • --• . Q-K2! 1 1 B-Q3

As long as the Black Queen re­ mained on Q square, the Pawn on Q4 clearly could not be taken. For eventually B-Kt5ch would win the

Queen. But even now the Pawn

is inviolate. 11 PxP, PxP; 12 KtxP, KtxKt; 13 QxKt, B-K3 ; 14 Q-Q1, (14 Q-Kt5, BxPch ! ) KtxP ! 1 1 • . . . PxP 1 2 BxP P-QKt4 1 3 B-Q3 R-Q1 14 Q-K2

Naturally the Queen must not remain on Q2.

14 • • • •

1 5 0-0 Kt-K4 B-Kt2

White has wasted no less than three moves in the opening.

16 KtxKt

17 P-KB4 Bx Kt

KR-Q1 was better. If then 17

. . Q-B2; then 18 P-KB4, BxKt; 19 QR-Bl.

17 . . • .

1 8 P-K4 B-82

Entirely wrong. The rooks should be brought to bear upon the open lines. It is, however, quite doubt­

ful If equality could still be

achieved.

18 • • • • QR-81

19 P-K5

Thereupon an elemental storm follows. 19 . . • . 20 K-R1 21 B-K4 B-Kt3ch Kt-Kt5!

After 21 QxKt, RxB ; and Black wins easily. If 21 Kt-K4, would follow 21 . . . RxB ; 22 QxR, BxKt ; 23 QxB, Q-R5 ; 24 P-R3, Q-Kt 6 ; 25 PxKt, Q-R5 mate. 21 • • • • Q-R5 22 P-Kt3 If 22 P-R3, RxKt might follow. e.g. a) 23 QxKt, RxRPch ! ; 24 QxR, QxQch ; 25 PxQ, BxBch ; 26 K-R2, R-Q7ch ; 27 K-Kt3, R-Kt7ch ; and mate in two moves.

b) 23 BxB, RxRPch; etc. c) 23 BxR, BxB ; 24 QxKt, ( 24 QxB, Q-Kt6 ! etc.) QxQ; 25 PxQ, R-Q6 ; followed by 26 . . . RxB for White must parry the threat 26 . . . RxRP mate.

•several sources give the date as 1907, others as 1908.

24 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES Rubinstein Rotlewl 22 • • • • RxKt! l l A wonderful combination ! 23 PxQ

Every other reply leads to speedy loss. a) 23 BxB, BxBch ; 24 QxB, QxP mate. b) 23 BxB, RxP ; 24 R-B3, (B-B3, KtxRP) RxR; 25 BxR, Kt-B7ch ; 26 K-Ktl, (26 K-Kt2, Q-R6ch; 25 K-Ktl, Kt-K5ch ; 28 K-R1, Kt-Kt6 mate.) Kt-K5ch ; 27 K-Bl, Kt-Q7ch ; 28 K-Kt2, KtxB ; 29 QxKt, R-Q7ch; etc. ( 29 KtxKt, Q-R5ch ; etc.) 23 R-Q7 ! I I

The enchanting beautiful point of the sacrifice of the Queen !

24 QxR

Again there was no possibility of longer resistance.

a) 24 QxKt, BxBch; 25 R-B3, RxR.

b) 24 BxR, RxQ ; and the double threat of mate by RxP mate and BxB mate is decisive.

c) 24 BxB, RxQ ; 25 B-Kt2, R­

R6! ! etc.

24 • • • •

25 Q-Kt2 R-R61! 8x8ch

Now mate follows in three moves at most. If 26 R-B3, (26 R-B2, BxR) BxR; 27 B-Q4, BxB ; and RxP mate.

Resigns

This is Rubinstein's "Immortal Game." Game No. 7 Q U E EN'S PAWN Lodz, 1907 Dus-Chotlmirskl 1 P-Q4 2 Kt-K83 3 P-K3 4 8-Q3 5 8-K2 Rubinstein P-Q4 P-Q84 Kt.Q83 8-Kt5

Recognizing that the opening moves have not been well chosen.

3 P-B4 would have been stronger.

If 5 P-B3 there might follow

:-5 . . . P-K4 ; 6 PxP, BxKt; 7 QxB, P·B5 ; 8 B-B2, Ktx:P ; 9 B-R4ch, K·K2 ! ; (Araiza vs. Dr. Alekhlne, Mexico City, 1932) . 5 • • • • 6 0-0 7 QKt-Q2 8 P-QKt3 P-K3 Kt-K83 Q-82

Since White has lost a tempo, we now have a normal Queen's

gambit declined in which Black

has the move. According to the

principles of the orthodox defense 8 P-B4 was in order. 8 . . . . 9 KPxP 10 8-Kt2 PxP B-Q3 0-0-0 With colors reversed,-a well known position, which we shall en­ counter frequently in this volume.

11 P-84 P-K R4

12 R-81

Also after 12 P-B5, B-B5 ; 13 P·QR3, BxKt ; 14 KtxB, P-KKt4 ; Black's attack has more prospects than White's-which is just get­ ting started.

12 • • • • K-Kt1 1 3 P-QR3 P-KKt4! 14 P-QKt4

LODZ, 1907 26

White dare not play P-KR3 or

KKt3, as these would simply fur­ nish additional targets for the hos­ tile attack. 14 • • • • 8xKt 15 Ktx8 P-Kt5 16 Kt-K5 If 16 P-B5, 16 . . . B-B5 is de­ cisive. 16 • •• • 1 7 PxKt 18 PxP KtxKt 8xKP Naturally BxRPch would be a

mistake. White has figured all

this out to a nicety, - but the safety of his King costs a Pawn.

18 • • • • Q-Q3 19 8x8 Qx8 20 R-K1 Ktx P I 2 1 Q-Kt3 21 BxP is of Kt-K6 ! 21 • • • • 22 B-81 23 R-85 24 P-Kt3

not playable because

Q-Kt4 QR-81 P-R5

Apparently bold, but quite sound. B-Kt2 will protect everything.

24 . . . . PxP 25 R Px P Q-83 26 Q-84 RxR 27 QxR Q-Q86 28 Q-Q6ch Q-82 29 Q-K5 QxQ 30 RxQ

Having no prospects of winning by an attack, Black has forced the exchange of Queens. But the end­ ing is not easily won, for the Bishop is strong. 30 • • • • 31 R-K4 32 RxP 33 R-Kt8ch 34 R-Kt7 R-Q81 R-86 RxP K-82 R-K86 If 34 . . . KtxP, 35 RxPch and the free Knight Pawn is very strong. Thanks to the strength of his Bish­ op, White would then have good prospects of maintaining equality.

35 8-Kt2 36 R-Kt4 37 R-Q4 38 P-84 39 P-Kt4 R ubinstein R-83 P-Kt4 R-84 R-KR4 R-R1 Dus-Chotimirskl 40 P-857

This leads quickly and penitently

to destruction. Correct was 40

BxKt, R-Ql ; 41 P-Kt5, PxB ; 42 K-B2, K-Kt3 ; 43 R-Ql, and White can obviously hold his own in the Rook ending.

If Black plays 41 RxB, (Instead of PxB) then would follow 42 RxR! , PxR; 43 P-B5, K-Q3 ; 44 K-B2, K-K4 ; 45 P-Kt6, PxP ; 46 PxP, K-B 3 ; 47 K-K3, KxP ; 48 K­ Q4, K-B4 ; 49 KxP, K-B 5 ; 50 K-B5, K-K5 ; 51 KxP, K-Q5 ; 52 K-R6, K­ B5 ; 53 P-Kt5, K-Kt5 ; Drawn. 40 . • • • 41 K-82 R-KKt1

Now BxKt is too late, for evi­

dently PxB would follow. If in­

stead 42 K-B2, K-Q3 ; 43 K-B3, K­ K4 ; 44 R-Ql, then R-QBl, and Black has a won game. Compare the ending arrived at in the previ­ ous note!

41 • • • . 42 K-83

Kt-83

White cannot avoid the loss of a second Pawn : 42 PxP, KtxPch ; 43 K-B3, Kt-K5ch ; 44 K-K4, RxP ; etc.

26 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES

42 • . • . P-K4

With this move the game Is ter-minated. 43 R-Q2 RxP 44 R-B2ch R-B5 45 RxRch PxR 46 B-B1 P-B6 47 K-K3 If 47 B-Q3, P-K5ch! 47 . . . . P-K5 48 B-84 K-Q3

The Bishop Pawn might be de­ fended by Kt-Kt5ch ; 49 K-K2, P­ B 3 ; (50 B-Q5, Kt-B7 ! ), but this Is quite superfluous. 49 BxP K-K4 50 B-Kt3 Or 50 B-K6, Kt-Q4ch. 50 . •. . 51 K-K2 52 K-Q1 53 K-B1 54 B-Q1 55 P-Kt5 Resigns Kt-Kt5ch KxP K-K4 K-Q5 Kt-B7 KtxB Game No. 8 Q U E E N'S GAM BI T DECLI N E D Lodz, 1907 Rubinstein 1 P-Q4 2 P-QB4 3 Kt-QB3 4 PxQP 5 Kt-B3 6 B-Kt5 Sal we P-Q4 P�K3 P-QB4 K Px P Kt-Q B3

At a later period Rubinstein played P-KKt3 exclusively in this position. 6 • • • • 7 BxB 8 P-K3 B-K2 K KtxB 0-0 The whole game is well known from the match between Dr. Las­

ker and Marshall. In the

Karls-bad tourney of 1907 Rubinstein, playing Black against Marshall, moved 8 . . . PxQP, and after 9

KtxP, 0-0; 10 B-K2, Q-Kt3 ; 11 Kt­ Kt3, (better Q-Q2) P-Q5 ! ; 12 PxP, R-Q 1 ; etc. attained a good game.

9 PxP Q-R4 1 0 B-K2 QxP 11 0-0 B-B4 12 R-B1 QR-Q1 1 3 Kt-Q Kt5 Q-Kt3 14 Q-Q2 B-K5 15 QKt-Q4 R-Q3 1 6 R-B3 R-KKt3

The development of the King Rook was indicated.

17 P-K Kt3 BxKt

Here also KR-Q1 was more na­ tural.

18 BxB !

After 1 8 KtxB, KR-Ql, White will eventually have to play Kt-Q4 again to prevent the threatened advance of the Queen's Pawn. Rubinstein does not want to lose any time.

18 • • • • KtxKt

Apparently securing an advan­ tage, for White also is now left with an isolated Queen's Pawn. Actually one of those positions has arisen, in which the Bishop l·a presently stronger than the Knight.

Such subtle, but surprising, rever­ sals frequently occur in Rubin­ stein's games, and indicate the great master.

1 9 PxKt R-QB3

More natural was R-Ql.

20 R-K1 Q-Kt5

20 . . . Q-Q1 is not satisfactory either. There might follow : 21 QR-K3, Kt-Kt3 ; ( R-QB2 ; 22 R-K5,) 22 B-Kt2 ! , (not 22 P-KR4 ? because of P-KB4 ! and P-B5 with a strong counter-attack), and Black has no good moves. Equally favorable for White are the continuations 20 . . . RxR; 21 PxR, or 20 . . . R-K3 ; 21 R-K5, etc.

1907

21 R-K5 R-K3

Black now loses a Pawn, but his game was already inferior.

Ir 21 . . . R-Q1 ; 22 Q·K2 is very strong ; and after 21 . Q-Q3, a Pawn is lost thus : 22 R-K3, R­ QB2 ; 23 Q-K2, etc. 22 BxP 23 PxR 24 QxKt 25 R-87 Winning a Pawn. 25 • • • • 26 RxR P RxR KtxB QxP P-QKt4

White has a clear win, with a Pawn plus and an overwhelming position. 26 • • • • 27 P-KR4 28 K-Kt2 29 R-Kt7 To prevent 30 Q-QB5. 30 P-R5 31 R-K7 P-R3 P-Kt5 K-R1 Q-86 Q.K8

31 Q-B5 would have been weaker, for the Pawn at KR5 is unpro­ tected.

31 • . • • Q-K7

32 Q-83

Now an impressive finale ensues.

32 • • • • 33 P-K6 Sal we Rubinstein QxRP P-Kt6 If 33 . . . P-B 3 ; the continuation might be : 34 Q-K4, P-Kt6 ; 35 Rr KB7, R-KKtl ; 36 P-K7, P-Kt7 ; 37 RxKtP ! and wins. 34 QxKBP 35 K-R2 R-KKt1 Q-R1ch

RxQ would only postpone the end. 36 R-Kt7 37 Q-85 Naturally 37 37 . . . • 38 Q-83 39 P-K7 40 Q-88 41 R-Kt8 42 QxR Q-K1 RxP would suffice. Q-R5 R-K1 K-R2 Q-83 RxR P-Kt7

A bold attempt to continue the fight. 43 QxP 44 Q-R3 45 Q-85 46 Q-K31 47 K-Kt2 48 Q-83 49 Q-QB6 Q-K5 Q-K7 P-Kt3 QxRPch Q-Q4ch Q-Kt1 Resig n s Game No. 9

KI NG'S GAM BIT D ECLI N ED

Lodz, 1907 Rubinstei n 1 P-K4 2 P-KB4 3 Kt-KB3 4 P-83 Sal we P-K4 8-84 P-Q3 Kt-QB3

Here 4 . . . P-KB4 has o ften been recommended and tried, but the analysis of this move has not

yet been exhausted. In a match

game - Stoltz-Spielmann, played late in 1932, - White after 4 . . . P-KB4, obtained the decisive ad­ vantage thus: 5 BPxP, QPxP; 6 P-Q4, PxQP; 7 B-QB4, PxKP; 8 Kt-K5, Kt-KB3 ; 9 Kt-B7, Q-K2 ; 10 KtxR, P-Q 6 ; 11 B-KKt5, B-B7ch; 12 KxB, Q-B4ch ; 13 B-K3, QxB ; 14 P-KR3, B-K3 ; 15 Kt-Q2, Q-Q4 ;

28 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES

16 P-KKt4 ! The onrushing Pawn

threatens to free the imprisoned Knight, and Black has no means of thwarting this.

Simple and good, however, is 4 . . . B-KKt5, for if 5 P-Q4, BxKt ; 6 PxB, Q·R5ch ; 7 K-K2, B-Kt3 ! ; 8 Kt-R3, P-KB4 ! ; 9 Kt-B4, BPxP; 10 BPxP(K5), QPxP; 11 KtxP, Kt­ QB3 ; 12 KtxKt, PxK t ; and Black's position is splendid (Dr. Lasker­ Janowsk.i Match 1910).

After the last move White ob­ tains a favorable game in a simple manner. 5 8-QKt5! 6 P-Q4 7 P-Q5 8 8-Q3 8-Q2 8-Kt3 Kt-Kt1 PxP

He alms to gain K4 for his pieces, but in the ensuing play he has too little combinative scope to profit thereby. 9 8xP 10 Q Kt-Q2 1 1 Kt-B4 1 2 Ktx8 13 0-0 14 P-QKt4 Kt-K83 8-Kt5 Q Kt-Q2 R Px Kt 0-0 In order to be able to play Q-B2 with no molestation by Kt-B4.

14 • • • • Q-K2

15 Q-82 BxKt

Here 15 . . . P-KR3, followed by Kt-K4 was to be considered. Not, however, Kt-K4 immediately be­ cause 16 KtxKt followed by B­ KKt5 would have been downright unpleasant. The importance of P­ QKt4 becomes apparent in this variation ; also: The Black Queen cannot depart with check. Salwe, however, does not wish to sur­ render the opportunity of utilizing

K4, and therefore gives up the

second Bishop, The strengthening of the White center is frequently not of moment, as P·B4 and P-K5 are difficult to accomplish.

16 Px8 Kt-K4

17 B-K2 Kt-Kt3

18 B-Kt3 K R-K1

In this and the following moves Black lacks decision. It was ne­ cessary to forestall the hostile plan, and for this purpose P-R4 might have been tried. The advance of this Pawn to R5 could not have been prevented ( 19 P-R4?, Kt-Q2 etc.) and the threat Kt-B3-R4-B5 would have required the utmost care. In any event Black could not play Kt-R4 at a point where P-KB4

was possible in reply. But he

could by P-QB3, even at the sac­ rifice of a Pawn, strive to open up the game,-which would be un­ favorable for White just at this moment because of his somewhat undeveloped King side.

19 Q R-K1 20 B-QB4 21 R-K2 22 P-84 R-R6 QR-R1 Kt-R4?

After Black has four times

passed up the opportunity of

P-R4-R5 etc., White advances against

the ensuing weaknesses of the Black squares (K4, KB5) and soon

attains the initiative. The ex­

change which follows is much more favorable for White than that on move 15. 22 • • . • 23 PxKt 24 K R-K1 25 K-Kt2 Ktx8 Kt-81 Q-83 R-K2

Evidently the Black game be­ comes entirely hopeless if White proceeds with P-K5 without oppo­ sition. Inasmuch as this advance

cannot be prevented directly,

Black's sole and slim hope lies in bringing about complications by 25 . . . P-KKt4. After 26 P-K5, Q-KR3 ! ; 27 R·KR1, Q-Kt2 ; or 26 Q-Q2, Kt-Kt3 ! ; (27 PxP? Q-Kt2) the White King would have no reason to believe himself secure.

26 Q-Q2 Q R.K1

Even now P-KKt4 was to be

considered, though White could now force the exchange of Queens by 27 Q-Q4. For 27 . . • Q-KR3?

29 falls because of 28 R-KR1, Q-Kt3 ? ;

2 9 P-KB5, followed by P-B6 win­ ning the Rook ; and 27 . . . Q-Kt3 ? is tactically circumvented by 28 P-B5, Q-R4 ; 29 R-KR1, Q-Kt5 ; 30 R-K3, with the threat of K-Ktl and B-K2.

The ending arising after 27 . . .

QxQ ; 28 PxQ, PxP; 29 PxP, R-R5 ; 30 R-QKtl, P-B3 ; would have been incomparably more favorable for Black than that which eventually arises in the actual game. Black,

in the former case, would have

obtained excellent mobility for his pieces, and thereby d r a w i n g chances; whereas in the variation chosen, he is entirely hemmed in. It is also to be noted that the acceptance of the Pawn sacrifice by 27 PxP would have been poor business, for thereby K5, the key square of the position would have passed Into the control of Black. ( 27 . . . Q-Kt2 threatening R-K4 etc.) .

27 Q-Q4 ! K-R1

The ending ansmg after 27 . QxQ differs markedly from that mentioned in the previous note (P-KKt4) ; by reason of the liquid­ ation through PxP and the dis­ placement of the Rook at R5. Nor does 27 . . . Q-KR3 relieve the situation, for P-KKt4 is no longer playable.

28 P-K5

The Rubicon is crossed. Natu­

rally 28 QxQ would be against the logic of the position, and would surrender the laboriously won con­ trol of the point K5.

28 • . . . 29 R-K R 1 30 PxP 31 Q-KB4? Q-KR3 Px P Q-Kt4

A thoughtless move, by which White suddenly falls into danger of loss. The proper line was 31 R-K1 to be followed by Q-KB4. Should Black play 31 . . . Kt-Kt3 in order to prevent 32 Q-B4, there would follow 32 P-Q6, PxP ; (32

RxP ? 33 RxRch and 34 P-Q7, winning), 33 PxP, RxRch; 35 BxR, and White has a winning position.

31 • . • • QxQ !

Obviously not RxP ?? 3 2 QxQ and wins.

32 PxQ P-Kt3?

It is amazing that a keen tac­ tician like Salwe should overlook the favorable opportunity of 32 . . . P-Kt4 ! White would have been in a most difficult situation in any event, e.g.

I 33 PxP? RxP; 34 RxR, RxR; and gains the Pawn at Kt5 (35 R-R5 ? P-B3) .

I I 3 3 KR-K1, Kt-Kt3 ; 3 4 P-Q6, PxP ; 35 PxP, KtxPch; 36 K-B2, RxRch ; 37 BxR, K-Kt2, and Black threatens the double exchange of Rooks, to be followed by K-B3, the march of the King to Q2, and then

the decisive advance of the 3

united Pawns.

III 33 B-Q3, PxP ; 34 KR-Kl, Kt­ Q2 ; 35 P-K6, PxP ; 36 PxP, Kt-B l ; and releases the Pawn majority, since White must take time to pro­ tect the Pawn at K6.

IV 33 B-Kt5, R-Q1 ; and wins a Pawn.

From these examples, it is evi­ dent that after 33 . . . P-Kt4 White would have had a hard battle, a draw, at best.

33 K-83

Now all is well once more. If 33 . . . P-Kt4, clearly 34 P-Q6 follows, as the Rook at K2 is adequately defended.

33 • • . • K-Kt2

34 P-QR4 P-KB3

Salwe hopes to attain a favor­ able control of the Black squares. This dream is shattered by Rubin­ stein in masterly manner.

35 P-K6 R-Q1

36 R-Q 1 !

Important, as P-QB3 could be answered by P-Q4. The Pawn at K6 cannot be captured by the Knight because of 37 R-K1, not by

30 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES the Rook on account of 37 PxP,

RxR ; 38 P-K7 !

36 . • • • P-KR4

D �K� �KK�

38 P-BS !

Without the help of the pieces, Black's united passed Pawns are not to be feared. 38 • • • • 39 P-B4 40 P-RS ! R-Q3 P-B4

An instructive example of the weakness of the doubled Pawns. White threatens by PxP etc., to drive the hostile Rook from the blockading square, Q3, after which

P-Q6 would win forthwith ! If

Black did not have the doubled Pawns,-if these stood at QR2 and QKt3 - this method of winning would not be possible.

40 • • • • 41 K-B4 42 R-K3 P-KtSch Kt-Q2 BPxP

A sacrifice dictated by despair. If 42 . . . Kt-K4, there would fol· low, 43 RxKt, PxRch ; 44 KxP, and Black now loses one of his Rooks. However, if Black plays 42 . . . Kt-Ktl, in order to answer 43 PxP

with Kt-R3, the decisive thrus

t

occurs on the King's wing. 43 R­ KRI, K-R3 (44 RxP, followed by R-Kt3 with a mating attack was threatened.) , 44 B-Ql ! ! , and against the threat 45 RxPch (KxR, 46 R­ R3 mate) , there Is no defense.

43 PxKt RxR

44 KxR PxP

Otherwise 45 PxP and P-B5.

4S B-R4

45 P-B5, followed by P-B6 etc. was at least equally good.

4S • • • • 46 K-Q4 47 P-BS 48 KxP 49 BxR 50 P-Q6 51 B-B6 P-Kt3 K-R3 PxPch RxP P-K R 5 P-K Kt6 Resig ns Game No. 1 0

Q U E EN'S GAM B I T ACC EPTED

Lodz, 1907 Sal we 1 P-Q4 2 P-Q B4 3 Kt-QB3 Rubi nstein P-Q4 P-K3 Px P

Rubinstein is an outstanding ex­ pert at this method of play, which was also greatly favored by Steln­ itz. 4 Kt-KB3 5 P-K3 6 BxP 7 0-0 8 PxP Kt-KB3 P-QB4 Kt-B3 PxP

Playing White, Rubinstein In such positions usually captured with the Knight. If Black there­ upon captures the Knight, he gives up one of the pieces needed to

block the White center Pawn.

White will thereupon soon be able to play P-Q5, and attain good play for his pieces. ( Compare the game

Rubinstein vs. Dr. Tartakower,

Marlen bad, 1925 ! )

8 . . . . B-K2

9 B-B4

The Bishop is better placed at

K3 or Kt5. Nothing can now be

accomplished by the break-through 9 P-Q5, for the presence of the Knights at KB3 and QB3 creates

an unfavorable situation for Black :

after 9 . . . PxP ; 10 KtxP, KtxKt ;

11 BxKt, the threat of BxQKtP is lacking, so that Black can continue his development undisturbed.

9 . . . . _�0

1 0 Q-Q2 P-QKt3 1 1 K R-Q1

With 11 P·Q5 White can attain complete equality.

1 1 • • • • Kt-Q Kt5

Now P-Q5 is unfavorable as Black would secure the two Bish­ ops.

31

12 Q-K2

1 3 Kt-K5 Kt( Kt5)-Q4 8-Kt2

See the note to 9 B-B4.

14 8-KKt3

B-KKt5 or B-K3 would be some­ what better.

14 . . .

-1 5 Q R-8-1 KtxKt R-81

Now begins a splendid counter­ play, based on the unfavorable post if White's Queen Bishop.

16 PxKt

White does not grasp his op­ ponent's plan, else he would have played 16 RxKt. It is true that Black could then have secured the two Bishops by 16 . . . Kt-K5 and 17 . . . KtxB. But relatively, White could have suffered the loss of the wayward son at Kt3 with few qualms.

1 6 -• . •

1 7 P-K847 Kt-Q4 !

White was in difficulties. On the one hand, . . . P-B4-B5 was threat­ ened, on the other . . . P-QKt4 etc.

If he play 17 P-B3, after . . . B-Kt4 or . . . P-QKt4, he is committed to the exchange on Q5, although under somewhat more favorable circumstances, as the Bishop at Kt3 is not obstructed, and the Pawn at B3 is more effective and

safer. Relatively best was how­

ever: 17 Q-Q3 ; if then 17 . . . P­ B4, then 18 P-B3 ( B-Kt4, 19 R-B2 ! ) and if 17 . . . B-Kt4 then 18 R-B2, Kt-B5 ; 19 BxKt, BxB ; 20 R-K1, and the hanging Pawns at B3 and Q4, as well as the two Bishops, justify Black in a favorable ap­ praisal of his position. Yet White would have had prospects of over­ coming all dangers. After 20 . . . Q-Kt4 ; 21 Q-KR3 might follow, and after 20 . . . Q-R5 ; 21 P-KR3, Q­ Kt4 ; 22 Q-KB1 would suffice.

17 • • • •

1 8 8xKt P..QKt4! Qx8

Now Black has an overwhelming position : in addition to the Bish­ ops, and the attack upon the weak and blockaded Pawns, there is also the control of the White squares. Such advantages must be sufficient to win in the hands of a master.

19 8-K1

If only P-QB4 was possible ! But this unfortunately is refuted by . . . PxP and . . . B-R3.

19 • . • . R-82

20 P-QR4

Not wishing to be throttled slowly, with one forceful stroke, he seeks to be rid of the pitiful con­ figuration of the blockaded, hang­ ing Pawns. 20 • • . . 21 Kt-83 22 P-84 23 QxQ P-83! PxP Q-K5

There was no chance of avoid­ ing the exchange of Queens, be­ cause after 23 Q-Q2 (KB4 must be protected) 23 . . . B-R3 would be decisive, since 24 P-B5 is refuted by B-K7. 23 . . . . 24 P-Q85 25 Kt-Q2 26 Kt-84 8xQ R-Kt2 8.Q4 P-Kt3!

27 P-B5 was threatened, after which White would gain two united passed Pawns. 27 R-83 28 K R-Q81 29 K-82 30 P-Kt3 31 R-K3 32 RxR 33 Kt-Kt2 34 R-Q R 1 35 K-K3 K R-QKt1 8-Q1 B-82 R-Kt6 K-82 PxR P-Q R4 K-K2

Obviously not 35 BxP, because of . . . R-R1 etc.

32 RUBINSTEIN'S CHESS MASTERPIECES 36 8-83 37 K-Q3 38 Kt-R4 K-83 K-Kt4 P-Kt4

The ending has indeed been won for Black for a long time. How­ ever, Rubinstein's well considered winning procedure is instructive. Precisely at the moment when the White Rook is taken up with the protection of the Knight, Black opens the file on the King's wing, and penetrates with his own Rook.

39 PxP PxP 40 8-Kt2 R-K8 1 41 Kt-83ch K-83 42 R-K1 R-86ch 43 R-K3 R-88 44 Ktx8 KxKt 45 K-K2 R-KRB 46 RxKt P RxPch 47 K-83 P-KR4 48 8-83 P-Kt5ch 49 K-K3 R-KKt7 50 8-K1 8xP 51 8xP 8-87ch 52 K-84 8xP

Worthy of note : the hanging Pawns, notoriously weak, fall at

last. We are reminded of the

prophecy, "The last shall be first."

� �K� �K� 54 8-Kt6 P-K4 55 P-86 KxP 56 Bx8 Px8 57 KxP K-Q4 58 K-Kt4 K-K5 59 R-Kt8 R-K87 60 KxP R-82 Resigns Sal we Game No. 1 1 G I U OC O PIANO Lodz, 1907 1 P-K4 Rubi nstei n P-K4 Kt-Q83 2 Kt-K83 3 8-84 4 Kt-83 5 P-Q3 6 8-K3 7 0-0 8-84 Kt-83 P-Q3 8-Kt3

After this move Black obtains the freer game by the pin which

follows. Castling was premature.

Better was 7 Q-Q2 or even 7 p. KR3. 7 • • • • 8-KKt5 8 Kt-Q5 KtxKt To prevent 9 BxB and 10 Kt-K3. 9 8xKt 1 0 P-KR3 11 P-K Kt4 0-0 8-KR4

11 Q·KZ was the proper line, in order to continue, 12 P-B3, and if necessary BxB and Q-K3.

1 1 • • • • 8-Kt3 1 2 K-Kt2

More exact was K-Rl.

1 2 . • • • Q-K2 13 Q-K2

Neglecting the opportunity of initiating an advance on the King's wing by 13 B-Kt5, Q-Q 2 ; 14 Kt-R4 etc.

13 • • • • K-R1

14 P-QR4

White has a difficult game. The position demands P-KB4, and the posting of a Knight on B5. But none of these objects is to be at­ tained without greater disadvan­ tages. Hence the nervous advance

on the Queen's side. Preferable

was however 14 P-B3.

14 • • • • 1 5 P-R5

Kt-Q1 8x8

If White believed that it was favorable for him to force this exchange, he was grievously mis·

taken. There are indeed many

cases in which the capture of the Bishop on K3 (or K6) is disad· vantageous (to the player making

the capture) , because the open Bishop file proves useful to his opponent. In the game before us the situation is quite different. Clearly White can put the open file to no practical use. Above all he is confined to defense measures, and because of the restricted po­ sition of his King, he can hope for no advantage from the opening of the game in the center.

16 Px8 P-QB3

17 B-Kt3

17 B-R2, Kt-K3 ; 18 P-Kt4, QR­ Q1 ; 19 P-B4 would have served only for the moment, but on the contrary would have availed little against the permanent weakness.

17 • • • • 18 P-QB3?

Kt-K3

18 BxKt would have afforded better resistance.

1 8 • . . •

1 9 B-82 Kt-84 P-Q4 Forcing the exchange which fol­ lows, as 20 . . . PxP as well as

20 • . . KtxQP etc. is threatened.

20 PxP PxP

21 Kt-R2?

Neither 21 P-K4 nor 21 P-Q4 was a satisfactory continuation, but either was far better than the text-move. Now the White King is confronted by several mating attacks.

21 • • • •

22 P-Q4 P-K5

22 PxP would not have materi­ ally altered the situation.

22 . . . .

23 8-Kt3 Kt-Q6

Still worse would be 23 BxKt? PxB ; 24 Q-Q2, QR-K1 ; 25 QR-Kl, B-K5ch ; 26 Kt-B3, P-KB4 and resignation is in order. 23 . . . . 24 Q-Q2 Q R-Q1 P-K84 25 P-84 26 PxQ P P-85 26 PxBP? fails because of . P-K6, etc. 26 • • • • 27 K-R1 28 8-84 29 8xKt 30 R-82 31 R-Q81 32 Q-Kt4 Rubinstein Sal we P-86ch Q-R5 QxRP Px8 8-K5 R-83

Among other things 32 . . . R­ KR3 and . . • QxKtch, and . . • P-B7 mate was threatened. White prevents this by the counter-threat 33 Q-K7.

32 . . . . P-Q7 ! Gaining a move ! If now 33 QxQP, R-KR3 ; 34 K-Ktl, Q-Kt6ch; 35 K­ B1, QxP (35 Q-Kt4 ? B-Q6ch) etc.

33 R-Q1

Not wishing to abandon the threat of Q-K7. But the Queen is needed for the defense, and ln its absence an even more br1lllant finale takes place.

33 • • • •

34 Q-K7 35 K RxQP

Q-Kt6 R-Q81 Now the Pawn had to be cap. tured, because after 35 QR-KB1