Stewart 0005 by Frank Stewart

A: 4♠: You had almost enough to raise two spades to three. (Some players might have raised anyway.) Since you have an ace, you must catch up now. Bid four spades. You would bid three spades if your ace were a low club.


Your result so far:

A: 3♣: If you're a notrump hog, you might shoot out 3NT, but partner would pass with A K 8 6 4 2, 6 5, Q 4, K 6 2, and the contract would be in grave danger. Bid three clubs. If partner next bids three diamonds or three hearts, try three spades. If he bids four clubs or rebids three spades, go to four spades.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦: If your opponent had passed, you would have bid one heart. But the double suggests length and strength in hearts, and you may do poorly at hearts even if a fit exists. Moreover, if the auction turns competitive, you may benefit from describing your hand so your partner can judge where and how high to compete. Bid two diamonds.


Your result so far:

A: 4♥: You can't consider this hand an "eight-point hand." Your fifth heart will be a winner, your side card is an ace, and even your good club intermediates may be significant. Bid four hearts. Partner will have a fine chance if he has a minimum opening bid such as A J 7 4 2, K 7 4 3, 4 2, K Q.


Your result so far:

A: 2♥: This hand is weaker than its point count suggests. The long suit is poor and will take time to establish. Bid two hearts, showing substantial strength. A bid of 2NT would be aggressive: The defense might win the race to set up opener's spades before you set up the hearts.

Your result so far: