White to Play and Mate in Four

Pete Tamburro on Aug 20, 2008

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One of the fascinating things about problems that are miniatures is that although White usually, as here, has overwhelming force with precious few men to move, people have a devil of a time finding the key move. This composition by S. Clausen is no exception. Good luck!

Solution:

1.Ke3 h4 [1...Ke5 2.Qd7 Kf6 (2...h4 3.Qe6#) 3.h4 Ke5 4.Qe6#] 2.Ke4 h3 3.f6 Ke6 4.Qe7# What a beautiful composition by Clausen! The only check in every variation is the one that gives mate. No bludgeoning here—simple, understated moves as Black is drawn into the mating web. The key move is akin to a spider moving away from the net to lure the unsuspecting victim. Bravo!

Send questions and comments to PTamburro@aol.com.