Next in importance to the Ruy Lopez and the Vienna Opening is the _Scotch_,
an Opening very frequently adopted in matches and tournaments. If after 1.
P to K 4, P to K 4; 2. Kt to K B 3, Kt to Q B 3; White plays 3. P to Q 4,
it is called the _Scotch Game_. Black's best move is 3. ... P takes P (not
3. ... Kt takes P), and White can either retake the Pawn or leave it. In
the latter case the Opening becomes the _Scotch Gambit_. The former Opening
is considered sounder than the latter, and for that reason is met with more
frequently nowadays. Formerly, when Gambits generally were more in vogue,
the Scotch Gambit enjoyed corresponding popularity. A few of the most
essential variations of this interesting Opening follow. First, of the
Scotch game.
{388}
WHITE. BLACK.
1. P to K 4 1. P to K 4
2. Kt to K B 3 2. Kt to Q B 3
3. P to Q 4 3. P takes P
4. Kt takes P 4. Kt to B 3
5. Kt to Q B 3 5. B to Kt 5
6. Kt takes Kt 6. Kt P takes Kt
7. Q to Q 4 7. Q to K 2
8. P to B 3 8. P to B 4
9. Q to K 3 9. Castles.
Even game.