When the opponents enter the bidding by Frank Stewart

A: Double: Where the other players are finding their calls is a mystery, but you must trust your partner. Double. If everyone passes, you should clobber one heart; partner has suggested heart strength. If the opponents run, you will double them or perhaps bid a game.

Your result so far:

A: 3NT: Since your opponent's preempt has made precise accuracy impossible, you must assume that your partner has a few values. Bid 3NT. (Indeed, some players would have bid 3NT directly over three diamonds with your hand.) If partner has a shapely hand, he can insist on four spades.


Your result so far:

A: 3♥: Since your partner doubled before bidding a suit, he has a hand worth at least 17 points. Game is likely. A jump to four hearts would be reasonable, but since the value of the club honors and jack of diamonds is questionable, I'd settle for a raise to three hearts.


Your result so far:

A: Pass: I know successful experts who would overcall 1NT, but that action would terrify me. The heart stopper may be forced out immediately, and there is a scarcity of winners. Nor would I be eager to double for takeout with so many losers and only three cards in the other major. I would pass and await developments.


Your result so far:

A: 3NT: You have suggested but not guaranteed five hearts and four spades. (You might have held A 3 2, K 8 7 6 2, 6 5, A K 9 or A 3 2, K Q 6 2, A J 4 2, 9 2.) Partner is likely but not certain to have three-card heart support. Bid 3NT. If his hand is unsuitable for notrump, he can bid again.

Your result so far: