Pierce Gambit : Chess Papers and Problems. By James Pierce,
M.A., and W. Timbrel Pierce. (Triibner and Co.)—That Messrs. Pierce should have dedicated these admirable chess studies to the Poet-Laureate, may seem strange to many, though few will doubt the excellence of the work, and the well-expressed and melodious dedication. The Pierce Gambit, which is first analysed, is a variation of the Vienna opening, "an attempt to graft the Muzio on the Vienna stem, like the Hampe-Allgaier." It is undoubtedly a beautiful and suggestive opening, and leads to an even game. In the second part, the elements of chance in chess, sui-mates, and Mr. Biddle's paper are discussed. The authors point out the mathematical nature of the calculations, instancing Mr. Biddle'a remark that "when exchanges take place, it is of moment to know the mean value of the pieces involved ;" a frame of mind, to say the very least, unchesslike. Part III. contains 134 problems,. a very fine collection indeed.
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