Chess

Upon a board of squares the pieces stand

Neatly in rows, opposed for skilful war;

The infantry in front, the guns behind.

The opening move is with due caution planned,

A gambit that can make the game, or mar;

Each player seeking weaknesses to find,

Not wishing to relinquish his command

Of tactics, nor declare his moves too far

Advancing, but to make the eye more blind

To his intentions.  Under the hand

Slowly the pawns advance, the field is set.

Sudden a knight may leap, or rook.  The king

At once in danger, caught within the net,

Is penned by queen and bishop in a ring.

 

Weekly Times     23.11.62