When this column appears we'll be just a few days short of the 4th of July, America's birthday, and a holiday that The Checker Maven celebrates every year; for as we always say, we are unabashed patriots, proud to honor our nation on Independence Day.

And--- as we do every year--- we turn to player, problemist and patriot Tom Wiswell, with another of his studies. He calls this one Harmony.

BLACK

WHITE
White to Play and Draw

W:W13,17,19,20,21,23,29,32:B2,6,8,9,10,12,14,15.

Mr. Wiswell suggests that the pieces should work together to sing a harmonious tune. We agree; can you play the correct melody, without any flat notes? Try to solve it, then let your mouse sing (a patriotic tune) on Read More to see the solution and notes.

Solution

Necessary to prevent 19-15.

The only move available but still Black can press ...

Now what? White loses a man!

Preparing to attack the elbow.

Black must give back the man. 2-7 loses: 2-7 19-15 10x19 17x1 9-14 1-5 7-11 5-9 White Wins.

Black wins a man once again, or so it seems. Mr. Wiswell gives as an alternate line 2-7 4-8 27-24 19-15 10-19 20-16 7-10 16-11 etc. to a draw.

Drawn. What an ending! Mr. Wiswell never fails to please.

Happy 4th of July to all our American readers.