[Lee]

The second row are just lines, you're doing it right! You just go back and do the 'x's on the next row of wherever you are. The 'x' is the twisty bit when you do the cable, it really doesn't matter where you put them, as long as you line them up with your first 'x's.

As for the stitches, you usually go under the 'v' shape, but you can use the posts, too. Like, the chain will look like this from the top, for example: >>>>>>>> Two legs make up one stitch. You don't have to stick the hook in under both at the same time, you can do it one at a time, if you want. It won't change the end project.