Stewart0054 by Frank Stewart

A: 2♠: Since your partner may have as many as 18 points, game is possible. You owe him a raise, but a chance-giving raise to two spades is enough. A raise to three spades would strongly invite game. You would make that call if you held K J 4 3, A 10 8 2, Q 10 5, 9 6. With K J 4 3, A 10 8 2, A 10 5, 9 6, you would bid four spades yourself.

Your result so far:

A: 4♦: Partner suggests six diamonds, four clubs and extra strength. With a minimum such as 2, 4 2, A Q J 8 4 2, K J 5 2, he would have rebid two diamonds to limit his strength. Bid four diamonds (forcing) or six diamonds. Partner may hold 2, K 2, A Q J 8 4 2, A J 3 2.

Your result so far:

A: 5♦: The development of the auction makes your hand look quite promising. Your partner has some length in spades, else the opponents would have been heard from, so he can ruff spades in your hand. A minimum hand for him such as J 5 4, 3, A K J 9 3 2, K 4 3 offers a decent play for game. Bid five diamonds.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦: Your partner did not jump at his second turn. Still, a pass would be too conservative. Neither a two-heart rebid on a weak five-card suit nor a bid of 1NT with no club strength is attractive, but the diamond support, although only three cards, is impressive. Bid two diamonds.

Your result so far:

A: 4♥: Partner has six or more hearts. He would never be obliged to rebid two hearts with a five-card suit; he would have an option. Bid four hearts. You could bid three clubs, but if partner tried 3NT next, you would then go to four hearts. Your hand isn't strong enough for that sequence, which would imply slam interest.

Your result so far: