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paul forsdick (Pondpaul)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Pondpaul

Post Number: 584
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Monday, January 25, 2010 - 3:45 pm:   

a new folder for Pitchfork game questions
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 303
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 4:53 am:   

You asked (Can you match this, Markus?), Richard, here my answer:



Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Advanced Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 91
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 8:59 am:   

Markus, I have won games #1, #4 and #5. Am struggling with games #2, #3 and #6. Any hints from you Markus?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3792
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 11:13 am:   

The first 10 Pitchforks are winnable. I doubt if 11 or 12 are.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 305
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 11:47 am:   

Kathy, i saved PF #2 and #6. Will post it tomorrow. Try to rewin #3 and post it. The first posts will not show the end, but an important starting position. I hope, you can wait till tomorrow.

Richard, i don't have at work so much time, as i want to. Maybe tomorrow eve. We have parents eve in school and i guess, that no one wants to see me, so i have a little more time. Will then try #11 and #12. What's your maximum score so long?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3793
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 12:50 pm:   

Markus, I saved all of them. This will save you some time.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_2.pgs (1.4 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_3.pgs (1.7 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_6.pgs (2.4 k)


Kathy, You can open these solutions and run through the moves and then try to win them yourself.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 306
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 1:12 pm:   

Thanks, Richard. So i don't have to play PF #3 one more time and rewin again. You know, how hard it sometimes is, to rewin a game again.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3794
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 1:32 pm:   

OK Markus. I am trying Pitchfork #12 again. It LOOKS like a winner but I don't think it is.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 425
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 2:15 pm:   

Ill try it now that I see you can play a card back up to the reserve!!! Its not clear in the directions. I won the first two games without this little move. Ive been try #3 for awhile without moving one back up and had all but givin-in, so I looked at you game Richard...I admit.

hate that......
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3796
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 3:25 pm:   

I didn't spot this little nuance either Ken. It was Kathy Quade who brought it to our attention. It can make one heck of a difference.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3797
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 4:12 pm:   

Pitchfork #12 IS winnable, but it is the worst of the bunch as far as I'm concerned. Happy hunting guys.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 426
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 4:32 pm:   

Yes it does....Im on #8. Seeya soon, I hope.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 310
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 5:57 am:   

Hi Richard, tried your PF numbers #11 and #12.
#11 i would say, it is definitely unwinnable. There you have only a few moves and they lead to nothing. I go so long score 5, maybe a little more is possible (how much you got?).
#12 is a really hard one. As you said, it looks a little like winnable. You can get 2 free columns very early, but than you are looking for the black 6, or you need another free cell. So i got stuck, with a maximum score of 7. When you could put down the 8D, so it maybe would be winnable, but so long ...
I will give them still a few more tries, but not hours.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 311
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 5:59 am:   

Sorry Richar, i forgot your post you said, #12 is winnable. That means, i have to try, maybe even hours. How did you solve my mentioned problems?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3801
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 6:20 am:   

Sorry Markus, I don't understand this....."How did you solve my mentioned problems?". Have you posted #'s somewhere that I've missed?
Pitchfork #11 is unwinnable. Top score is the same as yours. Pitchfork #12 is likely to give you many problems. I have saved the solution.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 312
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 7:53 am:   

I am talking about PF #12. I posted today, at 5:57 my trials. There i mentioned a few problems:

"You can get 2 free columns very early, but than you are looking for the black 6, or you need another free cell. So i got stuck, with a maximum score of 7."

I meant, how did you solve that problems, while you win the game? Hope you understand now, what i mean.
Will try it today eves to get the solution.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 313
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 7:55 am:   

I just read my post again and saw, that it really is not clear, what i would say. Here in other words:

How did you get those black 6 into the game. That is one of my problems i cannot match so long.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 427
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 9:16 am:   

It really wasnt the black 6s till the end for me. It was keeping an eight down to clear an extra space and getting to the 2d on the left.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 428
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 9:17 am:   

Very good one btw.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3802
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 9:52 am:   

Markus,Ken is correct. Ignore the black 6's. I landed up with both of them in the last column. Here is a partial solution for you.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_12_early.pgs (0.4 k)


Ken, I'd be interested to know your scores with the numbers after #12.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 429
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 10:04 am:   

#13 was easy im on #14.

Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 314
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 10:27 am:   

Richard, Ken, i have now time to watch the game in a relaxing way. Thanks for the tip, not to bother for the 6s. We will see, if i need your upload, Richard.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 430
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 10:33 am:   

#14 is easy enough but on #15 I see no opening of any sort. Ill have to try again later on. Let me know what you think.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3804
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 11:24 am:   

Agreed. I only scored 5 with #15. 16 is tormenting me. I can get very close but no joy as yet. Will be out for a few hours. Will try again later .
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 315
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - 11:26 am:   

Yessssssss!!!



I had been all the time so close (about 10 times), but just now i saw the one important move. Very enjoying.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 317
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 5:43 am:   

Richard, got your score 5 with #15 and that's it.
#16. Very hard, if it is winnable. Harder than #12. How close you can get? When you mean with close, that you can also score a lot, than it would be interesting how much you can score. When your maximum score is low, than we surely have the same problems. I have 2 or 3 possibilities, but always i would need one more move.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3807
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 7:16 am:   

Pitchfork #16 is frustrating. Just one more space would win it. This is as close as I got yesterday. Will have another go tonight.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_16_partial.pgs (0.4 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3808
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 8:54 am:   

I can score 20 with Pitchfork #16. Oh so very near victory!
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3809
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 9:03 am:   

GOT IT! It's a stinker.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 318
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 11:43 am:   

I knew the pilt from the solution (so long) you have posted above, Richard. But i haven't had today more time at work, to try once more time. I don't think i have tomorrow time to get the stinker out. So it has to wait till monday. Just one information. Did you went on from the position of your upload or did you have another starting sequence?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3810
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, January 28, 2010 - 2:21 pm:   

I started againn from the beginning Markus. It did not appear to be winnable from the position I posted despite me spending ages tinkering with it.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 319
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 12:01 am:   

Ok, Richard, than i try my other position, which i got yesterday, but didn't see any solution. Maybe it is the best to start on monday again from the beginning. Today, i have about 15 minutes time to try and i think, that is not enough.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 320
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 2:58 am:   

Hi Richard, i found in the time between two lessons a new starting sequence, which looks great. Maybe i can do it today.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 321
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 4:06 am:   

After that starting, it is easy. Very nice.

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_16.pgs (1.1 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3811
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 4:28 am:   

Well done Markus! Here is my solution if you want to compare. We took a similar route.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_16_Victory.pgs (2.0 k)
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 322
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 4:47 am:   

The beginn has been almost the same (we both could put the black 3 into the game), but after that, it had been totally different. And we both didn't need to use the gem. (Your big pile in the middle has been impressive. Looked a little like Canfield.)
I hope, in the next Mac version this game is included. I think, it will than become one of my favorites, even if solving a game number can take a few minutes more. Have to give Gregg a hint.
BTW i have already won 146 games and 19 i have played, and am waiting for a winning number or the solution.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3812
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 4:56 am:   

Try Pitchfork #20. It is giving me problems.

Do you mean that you have won 146 different types of game? If so, what ones have you still to win?
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 324
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 5:06 am:   

The difficult ones. (Double Seatowers hard, ...) I play the simple ones first.
PF #18 is the opposite of #16. The easiest one so long. Playing next PF #19, and than i came to #20. Maybe still today.
(My students are waiting for their physics lesson.)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3813
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 5:23 am:   

I finally got Pitchfork #20. Another excellent one!
Give your students the day off. Tell them to go and clear the snow. Practical physics.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 325
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 5:44 am:   

There has been only 6 out of 12 students. In the next group i would have had 7 out of 11. So, i put them together and have had some minutes for #20. It looks much more winnable as #16. I could get close, but didn't match it so long. In 15 minutes, the lesson starts, let see, ...
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 326
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 7:19 am:   

I could not do it, without the gem.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_20_with_the_gem.pgs (2.4 k)
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 431
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 9:07 am:   

A fresh look at #16 seemed to do the trick. I was able to go a differect route I haddnt seen before and it fell easily. It so easy to fall into the same rut over and over.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 327
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 9:52 am:   

Ken, did you try PF #20. It is easier than #16, but also very nice.
Richard, could you solve #20 without putting a card back to the reserve?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3814
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 10:16 am:   

I did PF #20 the hard way Markus.... "without" having to put a card back up into the Reserve.

I agree with you Ken. I'm finding that I'm spending too much time flogging the same dead horse. Instead of undoing and redoing endlessly it is often better just to start from the beginning again.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_20_finally.pgs (1.7 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3815
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 10:16 am:   

I did PF #20 the hard way Markus.... "without" having to put a card back up into the Reserve.

I agree with you Ken. I'm finding that I'm spending too much time flogging the same dead horse. Instead of undoing and redoing endlessly it is often better just to start from the beginning again.
Ken Millar (Tpa_ken)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Tpa_ken

Post Number: 1294
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 6:26 pm:   

I think your home renovations are getting to you, Richard, you're starting to stutter!
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3821
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, January 29, 2010 - 7:15 pm:   

Snow and bad roads are what's holding things up this time Ken. The ground that was waterlogged is now frozen solid and covered in snow, so the external work that was due to restart has "ground" to a halt again. The balance of the kitchen units plus the bathroom stuff were due to be delivered this weekend. They won't be coming. Blizzard conditions with strong winds are forecast for the weekend, although they jumped the gun and started hours ago. If I can find a taxi I'm heading for the pub! (Not now. It's 01.15).
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 332
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 12:43 am:   

I hope you have still a place where you can make something to eat. Otherwise we have to fear you are getting to weak (because of missing energy from food), that you could not help us anymore. :-)
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 432
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 8:01 am:   

#21 looks bad.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 335
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 9:48 am:   

I had not much time to try, but i agree. Not an easy one.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3826
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 11:20 am:   

No comment!

Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 339
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 11:38 am:   

That's not fair. You know i can try it again on monday. I had a look for about 5 minutes. Now i have to wait. And when #30 is played, i have to wait till it comes in the Mac-Edition.
(Where did you find that "Scottish" devil?
Mike Butler (Butler77)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Butler77

Post Number: 1369
Registered: 4-2006
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 11:40 am:   

The Scottish Devil. A self portrait.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3827
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 12:14 pm:   

I believe it's supposed to be a Yeti. But as nobody has ever taken a photo of one, it's hard to tell how authentic it may be. "I call him Mike".
I found it somewhere on the internet when I was looking for information about something I was going to buy. I think it must have followed me home. (These things happen).
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 340
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 12:19 pm:   

Am i right, that only accidentally you gave him the same name as Mikes?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3829
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 12:38 pm:   

Both Mikes were accidents.............allegedly.
Mike Butler (Butler77)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Butler77

Post Number: 1370
Registered: 4-2006
Posted on Saturday, January 30, 2010 - 2:43 pm:   

Oh great. Now Richard has a straight man. What shall we call this new comedy team.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3834
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 5:06 am:   

"Helping Hans"?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3835
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 5:13 am:   

or how about "Mark us! Oh Really? Us?" ?
(Marcus Aurelius).
A quote from the gentleman......"A man should be upright, not be kept upright". Personally I think he could have ended the sentence one word earlier.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 435
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 9:10 am:   

...on the original, I found #21 better than #20. It was completely hidden to me at first glance. Nice one Richard. A clear head in the morning helps I suppose.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3838
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 11:38 am:   

You are a shrewd dude Ken........can you find an error in Pitchfork? (It applies to every game).
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 345
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 1:35 am:   

Hi guys, it seems, that the weekend came at the right time. I couldn't even remember, that i won PF #21 already on friday.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 346
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 3:17 am:   

It seems, i had in mind PF #22. I can score only 4, and cannot see any way to a solution. Did anyone solve this game?
For me it is right now unwinnable. Have time to try it once more in 5 hours.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 347
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 3:56 am:   

And BTW, PF #23 seems also to be an interesting one, but i am quiet sure, winnable.

Can anyone say something about PF numbers #24 to #30? I did not try so long, but that are the last one i can play in my trial.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3844
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 4:35 am:   

I agree that #22 is unwinnable. Numbers 23 to 26 are all winnable. I played #1300284672 by mistake. I was very pleased that I managed to win it. (I had thought that it was impossible).
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3845
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 4:38 am:   

I loved your white flag (surrender) smiley Markus.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 348
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 5:03 am:   

I cannot play #1300284672.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 349
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 5:11 am:   

One more question. You know, i try to win every game at last one time. Mostly i play the first 5 games. When i get 4 of them out 1 is unwinnable but i am not sure, should i than open for each game a new thread? That would make 725 threads maximum. (Ok. minus the easy ones.) What is your tip? Do i put it in the thread for Richard or do i open a thread Markus (like Kathy Quade)? Mostly are that games, i will not play a lot, so an extra thread is maybe a little to much.
paul forsdick (Pondpaul)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Pondpaul

Post Number: 591
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 5:59 am:   

My suggestion is to use the search function to find games first as you will probably find that if the game is a hard one somebody may already have posted a winning number or solution

some games we have only found 1 winning number and 5 of them we have no solution yet
these being British Canister, Forwards and Backwards, Robert, Kings and Aces and Queens and jacks
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3846
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 6:07 am:   

I think that Jerri would like us to open a new thread for each game. Yes this would be 725, even if everyone followed this suggestion. There are probably some games that will never be asked for, so the number could be much lower. The idea of having a thread for Kathy and one for Richard looked OK to me, but Jerri wants to be able to delete emails about games that are of no interest to her. Our threads frequently contained several different games, so she argued that she would have to read through them all in case she missed something that might have interested her. Anyway we should try it. There is no point in annoying someone if we have an alternative.

Has anyone got a better suggestion?
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 350
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 6:08 am:   

I know, Paul, for the really hard ones i search first. But i am playing in climb mode (possible in Mac-Edition) and mostly the first numbers aren't in the Forum ever asked. You can get some infos from the climb-mode stats, but that is all.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 351
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 9:05 am:   

PF #29 and PF #28 are hard ones. I couldn't even get close. Again unwinnable ones? What do you mean, Richard (Ken)?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3847
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 11:08 am:   

PF #28 and PF #29 look unwinnable to me too.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 352
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 11:49 am:   

Ok. Than are 3 left to do for me (#24, #25, #26, all winnable, i know; started with #30 backwards). I hope, i find tomorrow the time to do them.
Gregg told's me, that Pitchfork is not to be planned for the next Mac-Edition, but he might be can do something. I hope a lot.
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 440
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 5:13 pm:   

#27 wasnt mentioned but its not a bad game...was fun
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3851
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 5:18 pm:   

Did you try #1300284672 Ken? It gave me problems.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 355
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, February 02, 2010 - 1:35 am:   

Games that are winnable i normally don't mention, Ken. It was a beauty, because you could build the piles till the end in right order and let the rest do the Autoplay.
(And Richard wrote above, that the other 3 mentioned games are winnable. I have them still to play. Maybe today.)
Ken Blackwell (Blackie9)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Blackie9

Post Number: 441
Registered: 8-2003
Posted on Tuesday, February 02, 2010 - 3:31 pm:   

No I havent, Richard, I will. I saw your friend is only third in pf...must be an error. You might need to check to see if his cardboard box sprang a leak.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3858
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, February 02, 2010 - 5:59 pm:   

Yes! That's up there with changing water into wine, or curing a blind man!
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 360
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, February 03, 2010 - 5:10 am:   

Richard, what do you mean?

"can you find an error in Pitchfork?"

I read the rules and could not find so long an error. Do you mean, that you can put cards back from the foundation? ...
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 3860
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Wednesday, February 03, 2010 - 6:35 am:   

There are 7 cards in the Reserve. The rules say there are 8.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 220
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 12:27 am:   

I won Pitchfork #1 once, but then I decided to start over and cleared my statistics, and now I can't remember how I won it. Can you help? I am really struggling with this game, but I want to see if I'm up to the challenge. I have a hard enough time with Haystack. Also, there are 7 cards in the reserves and the rules says there should be 8, but you would think that would make it easier.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 503
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 3:13 am:   

Hi Kathy, here are 4 files for at various steps (?). From very (?) start to solved.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1_1.pgs (0.2 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1_2.pgs (0.6 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1_3.pgs (1.1 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1_4.pgs (1.8 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4100
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 4:30 am:   

"from various stages/steps" otherwise OK Markus.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 504
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 4:46 am:   

BTW Richard, it wasn't easy to rewin it without the undo button.
(And i wanted to write: "here are 4 files for you at ..." The you got lost.)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4101
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 4:56 am:   

The Undo button is an essential tool Markus. The older you get the more essential it becomes.
We tend to call this type of "file" a "partial solution" or just a "partial", but it doesn't really matter what you call it, we know exactly what you mean.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 507
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 5:03 am:   

Especially in climb mode. As you know, there you cannot open games. You can save them "but open, is not" (?). (Very direct translation from the (?) spoken German language.)
That means, in the harder games "i am living from the undo button" (?). The other way would be to play them "one by one" in normal mode from game #1, but that's not really the same.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4105
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, February 26, 2010 - 5:56 am:   

"opening them is not possible" in Climb Mode.
"from the spoken German"...excellent.
"i am living from the undo button" is not good. I think you wanted to say that you are "forever using the undo button". Yes, if it wasn't for the Undo button many of the harder games would be practically impossible. It saves us from having to write down ever move we have made. No fun in that!
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 226
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 4:17 am:   

Having problems with Pitchfork #8. It says in the forum that it's winnable, but I can't make it happen.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4117
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 5:23 am:   

It's far from easy Kathy.

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_8.pgs (1.3 k)


From this position the 6S moves,the 2C,goes into the space,the 4D goes onto the foundations, and the 8D goes onto the 9C.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 227
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 2:46 pm:   

Pitchfork #10. Also, I got my paint program to work. How do I know what size to make it so I could upload a screenshot?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4126
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 4:29 pm:   

Try reducing the size to about 75% and upload that. Once it's pn a page you will know it is too big if you have to scroll across to see it all. Then use a smaller size next time.
#10 is very difficult. I doubt if the screenshot will be of much help, but at least you will be able to suss out which cards I didn't move.


application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_10.pgs (1.7 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 229
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 6:20 pm:   

Richard, I downloaded your partial solution to Pitchfork #12 and am stuck. Need help please. Not a good day today. I lost my dog in October and kept thinking of him all day today, and so I haven't been thinking well, only grieving. Maybe tomorrow will be better. At least it has taken my mind off of food. I need the find a silver lining somewhere.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4130
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 3:35 am:   

I'm confused.Did you mean the screenshot for Pitchfork #12 Kathy?

Just eight moves were made to get here.

Another nine moves takes you to here.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 230
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 4:41 am:   

No, I meant to say the early pages download not the screenshot. I looked at this screenshot and it's so far away from my screen that I don't know what I'm doing. I tried to resize it, but couldn't figure out how to do it. The math was too hard.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 231
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 6:15 am:   

I think I finally found out how to size it, but then I forgot how to name it, and my head hurts too much to figure it out. It doesn't matter anyway. I can lose it. I'm going back to bed.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 232
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 8:40 am:   

image/bmp
Pitchfork #12.bmp (2359.3 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 233
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 8:41 am:   

I tried to upload the screenshot, but this is what I got.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 234
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 9:06 am:   

Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4134
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 9:51 am:   

Well done with the screenshot!
I'm not sure how this is going to help Kathy. I am going to have to try and solve this from what may not be a winnable starting position. However, looking at the picture I would move these.
AH onto 2S. KC onto AH. QD onto KC. JC onto QD. I think that's the 8S exposed in the first column. If so, play it out followed by the 9S from the reserve. The 8C and the 9H can also go up. The 4C onto the 5D. I'm starting to forget what is where now. Let me know how you've got on.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 236
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 10:35 am:   

Nope. I can't get it. It's the two red 7's that I have nowhere to put since I can't bring down the 8's. I did back up and leave the 8S there so I could bring down one of the 7's, but then had nowhere to put the 9S. BTW, I got the screenshot from your posting above giving an early-pages download.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4137
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 11:06 am:   

No, I can't win it from there either. It is a hugely complex game so I'll just post a solution. Was the screenshot you uploaded a position you had reached yourself?
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_12.pgs (1.7 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4138
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 11:09 am:   

Ooops. I didn't read your post properly. I hadn't realised I had posted a screenshot previously. I'll have to backpedal and see what bright moves I made the first time.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 528
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 12:07 pm:   

Kathy, it took me also some problems. I have had problems with the 6s. Don't bother (?) about the 6s, they will come out at the end without problems. Maybe this helps you.
And here is a hint from Ken:
"It really wasnt the black 6s till the end for me. It was keeping an eight down to clear an extra space and getting to the 2d on the left."
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 237
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 2:58 pm:   

Markus, it wasn't the 6's I had problems with. It was the two red 7's. I would almost solve the game but had nowhere to put them, especially since you can't bring back down the 8's in that game. But I have to say that without the hint for the start of the game, I would never had gotten as far as I did. I'm working on #13 now, which you said was easy. But every game of Pitchfork is hard for me.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 531
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 3:27 pm:   

Kathy, it is right, that you can't bring an 8 back down, when you put it on the foundation, but you don't need to put them up. You can also put them on a 9 in the piles and then you have a place for a 7.
It was Ken who said, that #13 was easy.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4140
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 3:34 pm:   

Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that #13 is "easier" rather than easy. It is certainly nowhere near as difficult as some of the rest we have managed to solve.
This screenshot for #13 was taken after 13 moves.
After this position you can get the 2C out straight away. Put the 8D and the 9S onto the 10H.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 238
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, February 28, 2010 - 4:54 pm:   

You're going to make me figure out 13 moves? I'll give it another shot, but you may hear from me in the morning.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 240
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 2:53 am:   

I give up. It's too complicated for me.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 241
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 3:22 am:   

I got to your screenshot okay, but I didn't know where to place the JS. Then I got that figured out and was left with the 4S in the reserves. I'll keep trying to figure it out, but I can only spend 3 more hours until it's time to watch Mass on TV.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 533
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 3:29 am:   

Kathy, from Richards screenshot on clear the right pile by putting the 9S and the 8D onto the 10H. Got then up to the KS, which you can put onto the AH. Take the QD from the reserves onto the KS. You should have then a free pile which you can use to put the 9S and 8D onto the 10D and then you can put the JS and the 10H onto the QD. Maybe this is helping you.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 534
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 3:42 am:   

Kathy, it is not 100% as i described, but you should reach this situation:

You have now to free the 3C and then you can put the 3C, 4C and 5C onto the foundations. After that, try to free the 7th pile. When you did all right, you should be on this point:
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 242
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 3:43 am:   

I just got it Markus right before I read your post.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4143
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 3:56 am:   

From the screenshot position it is easy to see a whole lot of moves.
The 9S and the 8D go onto the 10H. Put the 10D into one of the empty columns. Put the AS into the other one and put the KH onto it.Now you have the 2,3,4C and the 3H that play onto the foundations. Getting the other cards ouit is just routine after that.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 243
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 4:46 am:   

Richard, as you can see right before your post, I solved #13. Now I'm having problems with #14. I can almost get it but with 2 cards left in the reserves. It's the 8's that are giving me trouble.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4146
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 5:02 am:   

Sometimes posts overlap. Your post was not there when I made mine. This happens sometimes and causes confusion. Will look at #14
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4147
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 5:12 am:   

Here is my solution Kathy. Open it under another player name if you want, and see if it helps you to solve the problem you are having with the last two cards in the reserve.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_14.pgs (1.1 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 244
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 9:43 am:   

I need help with Pitchfork #21. I believe it is winnable, but I get almost all the way except for the 7S which is left in the reserve.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4148
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, March 01, 2010 - 10:28 am:   

Just the solution Kathy. One of my columns was enormous. Getting you there would be all but impossible.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_21.pgs (2.3 k)
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 535
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 1:12 am:   

Kathy, here is my solution. I didn't have such an big column as Richard.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_21.pgs (1.9 k)
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 536
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 1:36 am:   

And here is a replayed solution. I had at the beginning some bigger columns.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_21_replayed.pgs (1.2 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 247
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 9:00 am:   

Pitchfork #281317313. This one looks like it could be winnable. What do you think? Nobody's posting any more winning #'s, so I'm going it alone.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4151
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 9:56 am:   

Joan Armatrading sprang to mind when I read your post Kathy.

"I sit here by myself
And you know I love it
You know I don't want someone
To come pay a visit"

"I wanna be by myself
I came in this world alone
Me myself I".

Forgive my oblique slant on life. A few years ago I resolved to not to take everything/anything so seriously. Monty Python got it about right,
"Always look on the bright side of life"


The bottom line is that you are not alone in Pitchfork. You have at least one companion.


From the screenshot I put the 3C and the 4H onto the 5C in the last column. I kept the QH in the tableau.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_281317313_Me_Myself_I.pgs (1.5 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 248
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 10:05 am:   

Thanks Richard. I've been down all day. The funny thing is that I used to love living alone. Now, I'd give anything if I could have a friend to visit or if I could live with my sister. I've taken up smoking again because I need some kind of companion. When I lived with my sister or when I'm with others, I feel no need to smoke at all. BTW, how did you know I was such a huge fan of Monty Python?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4152
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 11:13 am:   

It's a funny old life. I used to love living alone too, but as you get older you are more and more prepared to sacrifice some of your independence for a bit of company. I'm an ex-smoker and I was glad when Scotland took the lead in the UK and banned smoking in public places. It's a treat to go into a pub or a restaurant and not have a load of second-hand smoke billowing around.
How did I know you love Monty Python? Simple! Nobody expects the Scottish Inquisition.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 249
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 2:56 pm:   

I don't smoke in public places nor around others as a matter of courtesy. It's strictly a "lonely" habit with me. On the other hand, how about Pitchfork #439236225? It's hard for me to tell if a game is a possible winner.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4154
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 4:23 pm:   

You have a good attitude towards smoking. Do unto others etc.
Identifying possible Pitchfork winners is difficult. Some that look easy are unwinnable, whilst other that look ugly surrender meekly. It's why we love playing Solitaire.
Pitchfork #439236225 was very tricky even after I settled on what I thought was the best opening sequence. The screenshot may not be a lot of help.

The early moves just strip most of the cards from the Stock. Once you get to the screenshot position, play the KH into the space and the QS onto it. Then play the 2C and 3C onto the foundations.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_439236225_Smoked.pgs (1.1 k)
Ken Millar (Tpa_ken)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Tpa_ken

Post Number: 1303
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 5:01 pm:   

Well, Richard, I guess I'm not as OLD as you because how I miss my solitude!!
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4155
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 5:24 pm:   

We miss your solitude too Ken. When is the siege likely to be relieved?
Ken Millar (Tpa_ken)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Tpa_ken

Post Number: 1304
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 5:31 pm:   

May 12th! 70 days and counting!
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4156
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 5:37 pm:   

MAY! Mayday sounds more appropriate. Or SOS.... that's Sod Off Soon.
You have my sympathy for all it's worth.
Mike Butler (Butler77)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Butler77

Post Number: 1416
Registered: 4-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 5:58 pm:   

May 14th is when I will be there Ken. First Jacksonville then on to you. Won't it be fun.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4157
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 6:05 pm:   

Yeah. Cheer the man up why don't you. A further dose of wrinkles sounds like a great idea.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 258
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - 8:49 pm:   

I'm batting 0 on Pitchfork today. Let's give
#234926097 a try.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4164
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 5:21 am:   

As my file name suggests, not very obliging. Run it through under a different player name. Then you can create some screenshots of your own that you are better able to follow. Then try it under your original name.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_234926097_Akward.pgs (2.0 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 260
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 5:49 am:   

Pitchfork #1167714816. I got close in this one Richard, so I thought I'd give you a shot at it.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 263
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 3:20 pm:   

This afternoon, I came so close to winning #1167714816 but couldn't make it.

Where is everyone else in the forum? Is everyone taking a break?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4168
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 4:01 pm:   

A cynical person might suggest that they have all been banged up.
I am surprised that Markus has made no posts recently!

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1167714816_AWOL.pgs (1.6 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 265
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 4:51 pm:   

Yes. I was wondering why Markus isn't getting on to have his English lessons. What does "banged up" mean?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4169
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 5:20 pm:   

Banged up? Ha! Doing bird. Doing porridge. Or the American term of "In the slammer".
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 266
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 8:16 pm:   

I'm glad you gave me the American term or I still wouldn't have known what you were talking about.

Let's hope we get more people visiting the forums or else you're going to get sick of not only talking to me but of Haystack and Pitchfork. At least I can leave them for a while and play other games. How do you like the new games in the new version of PGS? Nothing too challenging there. I'd give anything if I could find another game I liked as much as Tuxedo.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 538
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 12:54 am:   

I am still here and just listening your posts.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4170
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 4:01 am:   

Hi Kathy,Yes it is amazing how many euphemisms there are relating to imprisonment, and that we don't necessarily recognise one another's. George Bernard Shaw remarked that "England and America are two countries separated by the same language". This statement is all the more remarkable because Shaw was Irish. I'd not have thought that he would have believed that the words "England" and "Britain" are interchangeable. This widely held belief gets quite infuriating as each decade rolls by, (a bit like the Spell Checker trying to "correct" my spelling into American English). I've played all the new games. I tend to retain little memory of any of the PGS games. I don't really mind which games I play but the addition type ones would be my least favourite. Sorry I can't suggest anything as a rival for Tuxedo.

Hi Markus, We thought that you had been buried by an avalanche. We've had no snow here for two days now, (although it is still lying everywhere). Because of this Liz and myself are going down to the Edinburgh region for about a week. We are leaving on saturday morning. I hope that you will be available to help Kathy with her problem games.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 267
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 5:28 am:   

Markus, you scared me. I saw your post first before reading who is was from and nearly jumped out of my chair. I thought a ghost was talking. Yes, with Richard gone, you're my only lifeline unless one of the others comes back. I know you can help with Pitchfork, but didn't you say you didn't have Haystack?

Richard, I notice that there's a big popularity among the "spider" games (which I won't play as they drive me crazy). I finished the new Aces Up Pairs and was the first to post my stats. I'm eager to see when the "cheaters" will best my score (just for fun).
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 268
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 6:03 am:   

Pitchfork #1167714817 looks like it has the potential to be a winner, but I keep getting stuck with cards in the reserves. Worked on it last night as well as this morning.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4171
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 6:12 am:   

I sent Mike an email a few days ago. He's been having problems with his chest. He should be on the mend soon. Ken Millar has his parents living with him at the moment. His mum tends to hog his PC. That's why he's conspicuous by his absence. I'm sure that Ken Blackwell,Paul and Trisha will show up at some point too.
There are some decent games in the Freecell folder. Four By Ten looks like it could be up your street.
I'm glad you are taking a more relaxed attitude to the stats. You don't want to let silly things like this wind you up. Some people will stop at nothing to be the top dog in those tables. Just let them get on with it if that's what it take to make them happy.
Ken Millar (Tpa_ken)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Tpa_ken

Post Number: 1305
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 6:38 am:   

Speaking of stats, check the stats for Thieves of Egypt in 101!
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4172
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 7:19 am:   

Hi Ken,No comment.

Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4173
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 8:22 am:   

Not had much time with Pitchfork #1167714817. It looks like is should be winnable but I keep getting stuck a single move away from the breakthrough. I've even managed to clear the reserve pile. I've not given up yet though.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 539
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 8:26 am:   

Hi Kathy,

i can't help you with Pitchfork and Haystack, because i don't have them in Mac Edition and on work i can only play the first 30 games (without undo button). So, maybe you found another game you like and which i have on my Mac. Otherwise you have to play the first 30 games of a game, which i have on my PC at work. I will help as much as i can while Richard is in Edinburgh.
(Richar, i found it nice how you Scots pronounced Edinburgh (when i had been in Scotland).)
Patricia Traynier (Trisha)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Trisha

Post Number: 148
Registered: 3-2007
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 8:55 am:   

Hi Kathy,
Pitchfork #1167714817 is winnable. Here is the solution if you need it.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_1167714817.pgs (1.5 k)
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4174
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 9:51 am:   

Well done Trisha! And I'd only just figured out how to release the KC! An excellent game. You should try numbers 1 - 50. I'd be interested to know which ones you don't win.

OMG Markus! There are TWO ways to pronounce Edinburgh! Only joking. We often hear it pronounced wrongly by tourists, notably Americans! Since there are so many of them and so few of us, perhaps it's us who pronounce it wrongly. (Also a joke).
Patricia Traynier (Trisha)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Trisha

Post Number: 149
Registered: 3-2007
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 10:18 am:   

Thanks Richard.
It would probably take a long time to play 50 games of Pitchfork,but I may give it a try.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4175
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 10:36 am:   

It's a great little game Trisha. Some are pretty easy and others are the exact opposite. I would expect you to win well over half of them.
Kathy will be glad of your help and your company for the next week or so. I have important business to attend to. (I wonder what the "guest" beers will be).
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 270
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, March 05, 2010 - 11:47 am:   

Thanks Trisha.

Markus, I played games 1 to 23 in Pitchfork. I'll try 24-30 in case I need help.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 274
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Saturday, March 06, 2010 - 12:04 am:   

I am playing Pitchfork #23 now. It looks winnable, but I can't figure it out. Any help would be appreciated.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 540
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, March 06, 2010 - 2:54 am:   

Kathy, i can help you on monday, when i am on work again. Maybe Trisha or Ken or anyone else can help you. Otherwise you have to wait till monday.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4177
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Saturday, March 06, 2010 - 3:58 am:   

We are just about to leave Kathy. #23 IS winnable according to my stats but I didn't save it. No time to replay it now. Sorry. Markus will certainly be able to win it.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 541
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Saturday, March 06, 2010 - 4:25 am:   

Richard, i won it aready, but i can rewin it on monday. I hope Kathy can wait or anyone else can do the job on the weekend instead of me.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 275
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Saturday, March 06, 2010 - 5:13 am:   

Thanks guys. Markus, I can wait until Monday. In the meantime, I'll play other games and work on #23 on my own in between games just in case I get inspired.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 279
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, March 07, 2010 - 3:27 pm:   

I just won #23 after working on it for three days! Now it's on to #24. Markus, do you know what games are winnable from #24 to #30?
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 549
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 1:47 am:   

From #24 to #30 are only #28 and #29 unwinnable. #27 was a nice one. Ok, i am glad not to need to rewin #23, because without undo button it is a hard work to do.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 280
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 6:07 am:   

Markus, I know it's too hard for you to help me without the undo button. So maybe someone else who sees this post can help me with Pitchfork #23 which I have been working on since yesterday. Otherwise, I'll just keep trying or wait for Richard to come back.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 550
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 6:38 am:   

Kathy, you wrote, that you have won #23? Did you win it or not?
I just installed Windows 7 and i may (?) have another trial periode. That means the first 30 games with all features.
Just tell when you have problems. I will do what i can.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 281
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 7:59 am:   

I won #23. Now I am having problems with #24. I'm sorry I confused you.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 551
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 10:15 am:   

I hope i will tomorrow have time to help you with #24. Today i have had just about 30 minutes time to play at work.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 552
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 10:33 am:   

Hi Ken,

"Speaking of stats, check the stats for Thieves of Egypt in 101!"

How did you find game #30?
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 282
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 10:41 am:   

Don't bother helping me Markus. You are too busy. I will get it on my own.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 284
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 9:23 pm:   

Is there anyone who can help me with Pitchfork #24? I know it is winnable but can't get anywhere with it.
Mike Butler (Butler77)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Butler77

Post Number: 1419
Registered: 4-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 12:24 am:   

You are much better at Pitchfork than I Kathy.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 556
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 4:41 am:   

Here it is. I had to use at the end the possibility, to put a card back to the reserve pile.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_24_start.pgs (0.6 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_24_half.pgs (1.4 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_24_solved.pgs (2.2 k)

I can't say, if Richard or Ken did it the hard way and i don't remember if i had to use the gem, when i won it the first time, but here you have an solution.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 285
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 5:18 am:   

Thank you Markus. I'll try real hard to do the next game on my own.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 286
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 6:11 am:   

Markus, I used your start page for #24. It took me quite a few tries, but I solved it without having to use the two other solutions.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 557
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 6:38 am:   

That's fine. Well done. There was still a lot to do.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 287
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 - 3:50 pm:   

Markus, any help with #25 would be appreciated. I can get pretty far but then no further. It's that 9C in the reserves that has me stumped, and if I get it down, then I have no where to put the 2D.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 558
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 - 1:51 am:   

Here you are.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_25_start.pgs (0.7 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_25_advanced.pgs (0.7 k)

application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_25_solved.pgs (1.2 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 290
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 - 4:54 am:   

Thanks Markus. I just won #26 on my own!
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 295
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 6:08 am:   

I have tried off and on for all day yesterday and this morning, and I cannot solve #27.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 559
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 7:23 am:   

It is winnable and a beauty one. Will rewin it, when i find some time. I remember, that it was a realy nice one and i enjoyed it to play.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 560
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 8:20 am:   

As i said: nice one.
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_27_start.pgs (0.3 k)
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_27_advanced.pgs (0.5 k)
application/octet-stream
Pitchfork_27_solved.pgs (1.2 k)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 296
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 12:14 pm:   

Thanks Markus. Do you know that even after trying the starting page, I still couldn't solve it. I retraced my steps, but it did no good. I guess I'm not very good at Pitchfork. If it hadn't been for you and Richard, I don't think I would have solved very many at all.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 561
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 12:21 pm:   

As Richard said, there sometimes only one move which depends if you win it or not. Don't think we just look at it and can solve them. To rewin it, it took me quite a time. So long as you can solve a game by your own, everything is all right. And i also sometimes have not the patience (?) to try every possible possibility. That's Richard's job and he like it. So, still try Pitchfork. It's a nice game. Only thing which is bad, after #30 i cannot help anymore with Pitchfork.
(But Richard is soon back.)
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 297
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 12:31 pm:   

Thank you Markus. I did win #30 just now very easily. Now on to #31. I'll give it my best. If not, I'll wait for Richard to help me. You have been great in helping me. It seems not very many people play Pitchfork.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 298
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 - 11:43 pm:   

Markus, I thought you would like to know that I won #31 on my own. There is hope for me yet.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 307
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Friday, March 12, 2010 - 9:25 pm:   

Is #33 winnable?
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4180
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2010 - 10:44 am:   

My stats show that I only scored 3 with #33 Kathy.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 319
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2010 - 3:45 pm:   

Can't get anywhere with #34. I can get to where all the reserve pile is empty, but after putting one card up there, I can't get any further.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4185
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2010 - 5:00 pm:   

That's the situation I reach too Kathy. You've done exceptionally well to get this far! I keep thinking that there must be some smart move that I've overlooked. I just can't find it so far.
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 323
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2010 - 6:17 pm:   

I'll keep trying until I hear from you probably in the morning. BTW, do you have anything like we have in the US where two times a year, we have to turn our clocks ahead in March and back in October, or is that just one of our quirks? I don't even know if all of the US does it. I just know about the Midwest.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 571
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 15, 2010 - 1:25 am:   

That is called normal time and summer time and is changed on the last weekend in March and October. It cames from the midth of the last century. To save energy in summer, they thought it would be better, when in summer it is longer (bright) (?) in the evening, so that people don't need so much energy. But it didn't work, because people stayed longer in the evening and went later to bed and the energy costs had been the same.
When i remember right, then almost every EU-country is changing to summertime. Only with UK i am not sure, but wait for Richards answer.
Richard Mechen (Richardscotland)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Richardscotland

Post Number: 4188
Registered: 9-2006
Posted on Monday, March 15, 2010 - 3:34 am:   

I nailed the Pitchfork but I can't find the "Saved" game. My PC has been acting oddly since we got back. I can't get a couple of things to work. If you still want the game Kathy, I will see if I can rewin it for you. I've a rough idea I think.
Yes we also have Daylight Saving time. It was proposed by an Englishman and adopted in a great many countries worldwide. I can't see Scotland scrapping it. The days are short enough in the winter without chopping off an hour of daylight.
(brighter) (If I remember correctly/right).
Kathy Quade (Kathyquade)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Kathyquade

Post Number: 328
Registered: 2-2006
Posted on Monday, March 15, 2010 - 6:38 am:   

If it's not too much trouble, I wouldn't mind having the game solved, mostly because I'm trying to learn better how to play it. From now on, I'll use the new Pitchfork and Haystack threads so we don't get confused. Isn't it odd that Markus and myself have also been having problems with our PCs. Quite a mystery.
Markus Reischl (Markus)
Master Solitaire Player
Username: Markus

Post Number: 573
Registered: 7-2009
Posted on Monday, March 15, 2010 - 7:26 am:   

I don't have problems with my Mac. He is working properly. We have problems with the comunication with the internet. Maybe the new Java-update didn't work properly with the homepage of the threads.

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