The two leading variations 1...Re4 and 1...Rf3 feature black line-opening and
interference unpins, plus white line-closures. Again economy is sacrificed slightly to
attain accuracy. The pieces on g1 and h2 can be safely removed.
A beautifully simple setting yielding 4 half-pin variations, three involving selfblocks and
the other an interference. The only weakness is the e5 pawn, which is used solely to
provide a key. Compare Mansfield’s dual-free Meredith, with a much better key but
only three half-pin variations. I do not know which problem was published first.
(13b) C. Mansfield
1st HM., Good Companions 8th Meredith Ty., November 1918
Removing the d4 bishop allows both 2.Rg5 and 2.Qf4, which are separated by the arrival
effects of 1...Bxb6 and 1...Bc5, while 1...Be3 eliminates both only to let
in 2.Re4, which completes the half-pin.
Complex interference play. The star variation is 1...Sd3, defending by unpinning the
d4 knight, but also unpinning the c2 knight and interfering with the rook to allow 2.Sxe3.
1...Rd3 again unpins d4 and c2, and unguards b4 for 2.Sxb4. 1...Be5 unpins the
queen, but unguards e7 for 2.Se7.
The white b-pawn blocks three squares. A widely-reproduced problem which I feel is somewhat
overrated, as there are few possible ways for Black to reach the white king.
A tremendous variety of interference plus line-opening and closing effects. The force is
fully utilised, and the play is completely accurate. My favourite Westbury problem. I
wondered if the sequence 1...Rxd7 (=1...R random), 1...Rc6+ and 1...Rd5 shows tertiary
black correction, but I have my doubts, as 2.Se4 exploits the secondary error (interference
on the bishop) and not some new error introduced by 1...Rd5.
Less complexity, but a very artistic work. The bishop captures of Q and R force the
unpinned knight to choose carefully in Java style to avoid self-interference. There is a
nice contrast with the pair of knight selfblocks at f5 and f3 which allow self-interference
mates! The b3 pawn ensures complete accuracy by confining the rook.
