dated August 3, 1951: Abdullah of the 121 squares

Many an Editorial had been written on the assassination of King Abdullah of Jordan. Taking an unusual aspect, this paper observed: ``King Abdullah of Jordan may be remembered by posterity as a bold innovator in chess rather than for his political suppleness, but even that is doubtful. His new game of chess with 121 squares and three new powers, glorying in the names of Tank, Mine and Atombomb, would be more than what human flesh and blood could stand. The complexities of chess as it is are enough to tax the most subtle intellect. And those who have succumbed to the insidious delights of the game would consider any change a sacrilege. Capablanca, it is true, made a similar though far less drastic proposal. His suggestion was that an additional power, Chancellor, should be included. But the idea just faded away. It is amazing that such light-hearted proposals should at all be made. They argue a naive belief that the utmost has been extracted from the game, though no world champion would stake his reputation on so rash a proposition.''

Desist from misusing the Mahatma's name

A press release by the Government of India expressed the earnest hope that the name of Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation, would not be exploited by members of the business community for commercial purposes. The press note said: ``Instances have come to the notice of the Government of India where the name or representation of Mahatma Gandhi has been used in trade marks, and for other business purposes. While it would be possible to take action under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950 to stop such practices, the Government of India considers that legal measures should not be necessary where the Father of the Nation is concerned and that public opinion and the good sense of the business community should suffice to prevent the exploitation of his name. The Government of India, therefore, hopes that, whenever such instances come to the notice of members of the public, they will draw the attention of the persons responsible to the desirability of discontinuing the practice. Members of the public may also bring such instances to the notice of the Government of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, or of the State Government concerned, with a view to suitable actions being taken.''

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