Even trickier! by Frank Stewart

A: 3♠: The auction has developed unfavorably. Partner has 10 or more cards in the major suits but minimum values. You must not persist with 3NT. Be disciplined and bid three spades. Partner may not make it, but any other action could turn a small loss into a disaster.

Your result so far:

A: Pass: In bridge's early days, nobody would have deemed the hand worth opening because the "honor-trick" structure is poor. Now players count points and open on anything. I admit I would open, but I would be tempted to pass. I would be reluctant to mislead my partner. He might double the opponents, counting on me for a defensive trick or two.


Your result so far:

A: 4♣: A bedrock principle of good bidding is supporting partner. Here, you have an excellent hand for play at diamonds, with three aces. Bid four or five diamonds or, even better, cue-bid four clubs. If partner has 2, K Q 10 6, A K Q 6 5 2, 3 2, he will have a fine chance at six diamonds.

Your result so far:

A: 3♦: If your partner has a suitable minimum hand such as A 5 2, K Q 10 5 4, 9 2, A 7 3, you might make a grand slam. If he has an unsuitable minimum such as A Q 2, K J 7 5 4, 9 2, Q J 3, you need to stop at game. To let him help make the decision, jump-shift to three diamonds to suggest slam. If you do have one, he will cooperate in getting there.


Your result so far:

A: 3NT: This situation is uncomfortable, but your partner promises enough extra values to accept your try for game, and his bid of three spades is logically forcing. If it were not, you might wind up at three spades with a flimsy trump suit. Bid 3NT and hope for the best.

Your result so far: