Page "Paul Morphy" Paragraph 12

Not yet of legal age to begin the practice of law, Morphy found himself with free time.

He received an invitation to participate in the First American Chess Congress, to be held in New York from October 6 to November 10, 1857.

He at first declined, but at the urging of his uncle eventually decided to play.

He defeated each of his rivals, including James Thompson, Alexander Beaufort Meek, and two strong German masters, Theodor Lichtenhein and Louis Paulsen, the latter two in the semifinal and final rounds.

Morphy was hailed as the chess champion of the United States, but he appeared unaffected by his sudden fame.

According to the December 1857 issue of Chess Monthly, " his genial disposition, his unaffected modesty and gentlemanly courtesy have endeared him to all his acquaintances.

" In the fall of 1857, staying in New York, Morphy played 261 games, both regular and at odds.

His