games proceed. After having formed his own opinion about the
merits of a particular position, he should compare the result
with the sequel in the game in question, and thus find out where
his judgment has been at fault.

The deeper study of the theory of the openings is of course a
necessity to the student who wishes to become an expert, but the
development of his judgment must precede it. To him Griffith &
White's admirable book, Modem Chess Openings, will be a perfect
mine of information. There are thousands of variations, and in
most of them the actual game in which they were first tried by
masters is named, thus adding to the interest and value of the
work.

I must not omit to mention the invaluable help afforded me by my
friend Mr. John Hart, to whom my warmest thanks are due.


JULIUS DU MONT.



AUTHOR'S PREFACE



THE large majority of chess players who would like to improve
their game, have not the necessary opportunity of pitting
themselves against players of master-strength, or at least of
obtaining the desired instruction from personal intercourse with