_In order to select the decisive movement in a given situation it is
necessary first to determine both the object and the objective, not
merely of the required movement, but also of that series of movements,
which collectively constitute the projected line of movement; together
with the object and the objective of every movement contained therein._
The mathematician readily will perceive, and the student doubtless will
permit himself to be informed, that:
Before the true object and the true objective of any movement can be
determined it first is necessary to deduce the common object of all
movement.
* * * * *
As is well known, the combined movements of the Chess-pieces over the
surface of the Chess-board during a game at Chess are infinite.
These calculations are so complex that human perception accurately can
forecast ultimate and even immediate results only in comparatively few
and simple situations. Such calculable outcomes are limited to the
earlier stages of the opening, to the concluding phases of a game; and
to situations in the mid-game wherein the presence of but few adverse
pieces minimizes the volume of effort possible to the opponent.
Consequently, it is self-evident, that: