Paul Morphy

“Chess never has been and never can be aught but a recreation. It should not be indulged in to the detriment of other and more serious avocations.”

“It [chess] is not only the most delightful and scientific, but the most moral of amusements.”

“It [chess] is eminently and emphatically the philosopher's game.”

“Let the chessboard supercede the card table, and a great improvement will be visible in the morals of the community.”

“I am more strongly confirmed than ever in the belief that the time devoted to chess is literally frittered away. It is, to be sure, a most exhilarating sport, but it is only a sport; and it is not to be wondered at that such as have been passionately addicted to the charming pastime should one day ask themselves whether sober reason does not advise its utter dereliction.”