| Phony Benoni: There probably wasn't much theory on the French in 1849, but Medley knew enough to try and destroy White's center. Too bad about those tactical details. You have to feel sorry for Black's LSB. Usually a forgotten problem child in the French, here it gets a chance to play a bit. I just imagine it jumping up and down at move 15: 
click for larger view"I can do it! I can do it! Let me attack his rook!".
An indulgent Medley lets him have his way, only to be forced to pull him back shamefacedly a few moves later and concede the exchange. But the little fellow is not discouraged. Again, at move 20: 
click for larger view"Let me attack the rook! I'll get him this time!"
Finally, Bird moves the rook, almost relunctantly it seems; I think he would gladly have left it en prise indefinitely had he been able to. Then the bishop reaches the ultimate goal of any piece--he attacks the mighty queen! Of course the euphoria doesn't last. Black finally freezes the bishop to the edge of the board, crams a dunce cap on his head, and says "Sit down and shut up!" By then, it's too late; after 33...Ng8 34.Qf7 Black cannot delay mate, much less stop it. | 
