Do you have the potential to play game? by Frank Stewart

A: 2♠: Slam is possible even if your partner has minimum high-card values. His hand could be K 6 5, 2, A Q 9 6 2, A J 10 6. Bid three diamonds if in your partnership a jump-preference in opener's minor suit is forcing. If that bid would be invitational, bid two spades -- the "fourth suit" -- and show your diamond fit next.


Your result so far:

A: 3♥: Partner's bid is forcing. You certainly can't persist with 3NT. A bid of three spades would be reasonable, but better is three hearts to show a tolerance for his first suit. He won't expect any stronger heart support; with three-card support, you would usually have raised directly.

Your result so far:

A: 4♠: Your partner's hand is worth about 17 points in support of spades. You have only six high-card points, but both kings are working and your fifth spade will be a winner. Partner suggests unbalanced pattern; a singleton diamond isn't too much to hope for. Bid four spades. He may hold A J 6 5, A 6 4, 2, A J 8 5 3.


Your result so far:

A: 4♠: Your diamonds weren't quite strong enough to pass partner's double for penalty (though that might have been a winning action). His raise to two spades shows significant extra strength, and you have two aces when you might have held no points at all. Bid four spades.

Your result so far:

A: 5♣: If your partner were content to play at game, he would have bid four hearts. His four diamonds is an ace-showing cue bid to try for slam. Your values are minimum, but you have two golden diamond honors plus a side ace. Cooperate with a cue bid of five clubs.


Your result so far: