This prize winning composition by R.C.O. Matthews was greatly praised by the judges. Mates in three are tough. Remember in 99.9% of problems, the first move is not a check. Good luck!

Solution:

1.Qb5 The powerful queen makes a tiny one step move just to perform the humble duty of guarding the e5 pawn. A very subtle concept. It makes everything else work. 1...Qf6 [1...Bxg6 2.Rf3+ Ke4 3.d3# Possible because the e5 pawn is protected.; 1...Qxh7 2.Rf3+ Ke4 3.d3#; 1...Bd5 To stop the defense of the e-pawn. 2.Rb6+ Nxh7 3.Rxd4#; 1...Qxe5 2.Rf3+ Ke4 3.d3# A delicious irony...even taking the e-pawn didn't help.] 2.Rh6+ Nxh7 3.Rh3# For those of you new to these type of problems, don't feel too bad about not solving it. Rather, make a real effort to appreciate the artistry of the composition. Every single chessman on the board is on their particular square for a very specific reason. When you look at each mate variation, take a close look at how everything just fits so well. It even impressed the very picky judges!

Send questions and comments to PTamburro@aol.com.