Morphy against Barnes — a casual game from the London 1858 offhand series in which Barnes adopts an irregular defence. One of Mr. Morphy's few recorded losses, conducted by the winner throughout with marked skill.

1. 1…f6 Mr. Barnes, being aware of Mr. Morphy's thorough acquaintance with every Book opening, probably adopted this unusual defence in order to neutralize, as far as possible, the effect of his opponent's theoretical knowledge.
2. 15…e5 This is a good move, and wins a clear pawn. A piece might have been gained by P. to K. Kt's 4th, but Black doubtless considered that by so playing he should too much expose his King.
3. 17.Bc2 This was compulsory.
4. 45…Bf1 Black might have advanced the Pawn to Kt's 6th, and gained a piece: the move he selected, however, was equally effective.
5. 50…h3 And wins. We cannot but observe that the winner conducts this game throughout with marked skill and prudence.