Well, Carl, noting in this comment, that my Queen side Knight was basically languishing on the back row, being of no help what-so-ever. Well, I can't abide by slackers, so it is indeed time to move him into the fray. Now, I had meant to on several earlier moves, but always ended up either saving my Queen, or considering some other possibility more pressing. However, with his last move, I am not pressed for any type of possible attack, and have a breather. So, Knight to c6.




Officially, both Bishops and Knights are worth three points. Personally, I rate Knights a wee bit higher than Bishops, and as you've seen, I like to get both of my Knights busy early on, if I can. I really love their unusual properties -- they're quite hard to defend your King against, whereas if, say, you're trying to counter your opponent's Bishop on the black squares, keeping your King on the white squares is a sound bet. In other words, I think it's about time you put that Knight in play.
All right, now I'll make my next move and shut my mouth: Castle on the Queen's side...