After castling, it is generally proper not to move the Knight's Pawn
that is before your King, until you are obliged.

In a diagonal line of Pawns you should endeavor to preserve the Pawn at
the head of them. Pawns, when united, have great strength; but when
separated, their power is sensibly lessened.

A passed Pawn is mostly serviceable when supported by another Pawn.

A doubled Pawn is not in all cases a disadvantage, especially if it is
united with other Pawns. The worst kind of doubled Pawn is one on a
Rook's file; while the most advantageous is the King's Bishop's Pawn
doubled on the King's file, because it strengthens your middle Pawns and
opens a file for your King's Rook.

The Pawn being less important than a Piece, it is usually better to
defend with it than with a Piece. For the same reason it is likewise
better to protect a Pawn with a Pawn than with a Piece. No Piece can
interpose between the attack of a Pawn, it can therefore frequently
check the King with great advantage.

Be cautious generally of advancing the Pawns far on either side, till
you see on which your opponent castles; and remember, when approaching
the end of a game, where you have Pawns, or even a Pawn, against a minor
Piece, that _you may win_, but that your opponent, except in very rare
cases, cannot, and that two Pawns in any situation can _protect
themselves_ against the adverse King.


MAXIMS AND ADVICE FOR AN INEXPERIENCED PLAYER.