The Major Pre-Empt Transfer System

The Major

Pre-empt

Transfer system “The Major Pre-empt Transfer system” Opening 1.: 11-19HP 5+. UNBAL(4.-4-4-1 or worse), or 11-14NT ((SEMI)SEMI(BAL) 2+.) with Transfers at the one/two level. Opening 1: 11-19HP 5+ UNBAL(4-4-4-1. or worse) or 18-19NT ((SEMI)SEMI(BAL) 2+). Switch at the one level, and transfer after 2.. Opening 1/: 5+M with transfers at the two level, “Stenberg”, “Impossible Support”, “Impossible Major” and PRE-FER Structural jumps Opening 1NT: 15-17HP ((SEMI)SEMI(BAL)) with «Drop-dead Stayman», «Smolen» and transfers at the two and four levels. Opening 2.: 20+ (suited) or strong NT (22-23/26+HP) with Transfers (2.//NT/). «Puppet Stayman» and Transfers after the strong NT. Opening 2: «Multi». Either weak 2/ or strong NT (20-21/24-25HP) with Transfers and «Puppet Stayman» after the strong NT. Opening 2/: «Tartan»: 5M and four+ side suit in m. Opening 2NT: Both m (5+. and 5+) and below opening or at least 15+HP Distributional leads. Distributional discards. Low card = encouraging.

By Tommy Sandsmark

Updated: 29.03.2016 version 8, 30

2 Table of contents:

1 Introduction

The PRE-FER system (originally called BUK: Best Without Cards) has been put together by the words PRE-EMPT and TRANSFER, which are the two most dominant characteristics of the system. PRE-FER is a very aggressive, natural bidding system with clear aims and goals: 1) it shall bar and 2) block the opponents, 3) take away as much bidding room as possible (PRE-EMPT) and 4) simultaneously cater for all major contracts and 5) most other optimal contracts our way. PRE-FER is especially aggressive when based on the “right” conditions, i.e. when you have a good suit fit.

1.1 What is «natural»?

PRE-FER departs from other natural systems through the opening sequences, which will often imply a transfer of some sort (or switch). In addition, a number of conventions and principles have been woven into the start sequences, and these shall take PRI (priority) if at all possible. You will deny holding certain hands and suits if you don’t use them, but at the same time you will confirm holding other features. When the opening sequences are over, natural bids will follow, more or less like you are used to from before. (With «natural» we mean that new suits will be real suits, and that CUE-bids will be used together with KCB.

1.2 Why aggressive?

The more active we are, the more passive the opponents become. The enemy is always afraid of opponents who bid their cards to the limit. In PRE-FER you want to bid higher and more often. Therefore we have lowered the openings strength to 11+HP, which will enable you to start the bidding 20-25% more often than before. In addition to this we introduce ZAR openings, in which we open with far less than opening strength, but with a far better distribution, which compensates for the lack of HP. The opponents normally have far better offensive systems than defensive agreements.

PRE-FER is especially aggressive in the ”right” circumstances, i.e. you bid hard and aggressively with good suit fits. Whenever you understand that a) you have an excellent fit and b) the enemy will in all probability have the highest contract, you bid just a little bit harder. The momentum here is that you do not bid in order to win the contract, but to make a good bid and to make life difficult for the enemy.

This will often result in the opponents having to make the decision whether to participate or not at the three level or higher. They will a) not compete, b) compete

3 4 under dubious circumstances and c) very often end up too high or in the wrong contract because they have too little bidding space to exchange information sufficiently effectively.

1.3 Why Transfers?

PRE-FER will sometimes make you the «captain» and you can ask for info. Some other times you will supply info in accordance with your partner’s request. Other times again there will just be an exchange of info, and most of the time these things will occur interactively within the same bidding sequence. Many bids will «promise» some things, others again will «deny» something. Totally, by means of the transfer sequences, much more info will see daylight than in other natural systems. Many bids are alertable.

Transfers have ample offensive qualities: 1) They block the opponents’ suit, so that they cannot bid naturally on low levels. 2) They generate a forcing situation, and give you much better time and opportunity to describe your hand properly. One could say that transfers create an extra, artificial bidding level, so that more info can be shared in less time. Thus you will know faster (on a lower level) what your partner’s cards are worth. 3) They create tranquillity in the bidding and give both the OH and the RH good opportunities to identify fits, especially in the M suits. 4) They create an artificial bidding level between the one and the two level, in which you are able to exchange much more information then in a normal natural system. Because you can bid with more nuance, it is much easier than earlier to decide whether to throw in another bid or to call it day (throw in the towel).

1.4 Why PRE-EMPT?

By depriving the opponents of bidding space, we achieve several goals simultaneously: a) We hamper the communication for the opponents. b) They get less room for exchange of info. c) They often have to make rapid decisions on high levels. d) They often overbid or land in the wrong contract. e) They will have severe problems as to punishing our contract.

However, to deprive the opponents of bidding space is medal with two sides. At the same time we deprive ourselves of bidding space. Therefore it is extremely essential that our PRE-EMPTS really depict the hand. All PRE-EMPTS should therefore be based on the «right» premises. They should be positive for us and negative for the other side.

Every time you support your partner (with or without a jump) to 3 in his shown suit (3/ or 3/4./), this will show a weak PRE-EMPT, and is never an INV. This is a new way of thinking. Whenever we have the highest contract, we should bid as closely to the limit as feasible or necessary, without going over the edge. However, whenever you

4 think or know that the opponents may have the highest contract, it is no longer a question of finding whatever can be won our way, but to find the best bid, i.e. the bid that a) makes it difficult for the opponents to enter the bidding, and b) which will be a good sacrifice against any contract by the opponents. So, if you think you can get away with 100 down, bid it! Contrary to these PRE-EMPT support bids you will always be able to find another way of inviting your partner to game (a new suit/a NT bid/a PREFER-X followed by a support bid).

The same is the case when the OH lifts a supported suit to the level below game. This is always a PRE-EMPT, and never INV. (On the other hand, if the OH has had no possibility of supporting the suit earlier in the bidding, due to hostile intervention or to your own PRI bidding sequences, doing so will constitute an INV.)

This is well-known scenario:

West North East South 1. pass 1 pass 2 pass pass ?

The normal thing is that South will double (TO), and North will bid 2. Even if we then sacrifice, it will do us no good:

x pass 2 3 ?

Now the opponents have ample possibilities. They can fight for part score with 3, make an INV or one of them can make PEN-X:

1) 3 pass pass pass

2) pass pass 3 pass pass Pass

3) x pass 3 pass pass pass

4) x pass 4 pass pass pass

pass 3 pass 4 pass pass pass

6) x pass pass pass

7) pass pass x pass pass pass

Just by bidding one more time before the opponents join the bidding, you will take all these options away from your opponents:

West North East South 1. pass 1 pass 2 pass 3 ? or: West North East South 1. pass 1 pass 2 pass 3 pass pass ?

This is situation that will make life so much more difficult for the opponents. A double now will certainly be TO-X, and it will take much more than only good guessing to transform it into a PEN-X. In addition, both opponents will have severe doubts about whether or not it will be good for them to enter into the bidding at the three level. Natural cowardice in good players will make it possible for us to keep the contract 3, while less good players will suspect us of stealing the contract (which is actually exactly what we are doing), and will launch bids on extremely variable values. Sometimes this can turn out to be successful for them, but most of the time it will lead to the opposition bidding too high or landing in awkward contracts and they will be going down instead of us.

1.5 Why the Majors (M)?

If you want success at the bridge table, you should hunt for Major contracts (M). They pay considerably more dividend than any m contract, and with an (at least) 4-4 fit in M, you normally get at least one trick more than in the equivalent NT contract. Therefore the PRE-FER system has been constructed so that: a) You should find any 8+ M fit as early as possible. b) You should have good enough system to handle various fits.

6 Since in PRE-FER you should rather show a 4 card M than a 5-6 card m, m contracts are somewhat «downgraded» by the system. Any m suit will possibly be shown later by the RH, most frequently as Canapé suit (= the m suit is longer than the first bid M suit).

1.6 Why PRI-sequences? Priority bidding sequences will always both show and force to certain level. If you have a hand that fits into one of the PRI sequences, you should always use that opportunity. Both the exchange of info within such a sequence and the fact that you could have, but didn’t use it conveys lot of info about your hand.

In modern bridge there are no longer any secrets as to leads, declarer’s play or defence. However, quite lot can still be done on the system front, for nearly all «natural» systems have giant holes, uncertainties and inaccuracies. My guess is that we have seen very little yet of what is to come. The PRE-FER system is small step on a huge ladder which will probably develop for ever.

Priority bidding sequences have lot of the qualities that normal natural systems lack. Normally it is no so difficult to bid game or slam, or to «take a chance». The transfers together with the PRI sequences put invitations (INV) in a completely new light. The secret behind good results is that you are able to differ between when to stop and when to go on. If you know what you are doing, this will bring you more points in the long run, than any more or less good guessing.

2 General principles 2.1 Abbreviations (It would be wise to have this list handy)

OH stands for the opening hand, RH stands for the Reply Hand. LHO means the left- hand opponent and RHO means the right hand opponent. HP means Honour Points (4-3- 2-1), DP means distributional points (3-2-1) and HDP represents the sum of Honour and Distributional Points. M (capital M) means Major (suit/card), and m (small m) means minor (suit/card). = Ace, K = King Q = Queen J = Jack. x = Any small card. KC = Key Card. CTR = control. RF = Round Force, GF = Game Force and NF = Non-Forcing. INV = an invitational bid. INV+ means at least INV. PRE-EMPT means pre-emptive bid. PRE- EMPT INV is pre-emptive bid, which may become an INV with the ideal cards in your partner’s hand. SLAM TRY = bid that invites to slam. SEMI(BAL) = balanced hand, SEMISEMI(BAL) means semi balanced hand, while (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) means either semi balanced hand or balanced hand. UNBALis suited hand with at least one singleton or void. (UN)SEMI(BAL) is either an unbalanced or balanced hand. CUE means Cue Bid. X is double and XX redouble. TO-X means a Take-Out double. NEG-X = negative double. PRE-FER-X is PRE-FER double. PEN-X means penalty double. SUPPORT-X = Support double. MIN = minimum HP, MED = medium HP and MAX = maximum HP (These terms in capital letters are concepts relative to how much they have been limited to contain in the course of the bidding). The equivalent terms max/min (in small letters) refer to the quality of both suits and other things, and mean “at least” and “at most”. SUBMIN = 3- 6HP RH. «ZAR» opening (= a distributional OH below opening strength). ROMEX = Romex trial bids. ROMEX Short = Romex short suit INV. ROMEX Long = Romex long suit INV. XY = INV/GF after 3 suit bids (or equivalent) at the one level = after 1X – 1Y – 1Z/1NT. KCB = Roman Key Card Blackwood (= PI-KCB: 0-3;1-4). X-KCB = Exclusion (Key Card) Blackwood (jump to suit above game level showing void in the suit). JUMP+1, JUMP+2 and JUMP+3 are PRE-FER Structural fit jumps after 1/ opening. PRI means that the sequence or bid(s) in question will take priority and should therefore be your primary choice when you bid on. SHORT/SHORTAGE = singleton (can also in some cases (Splinter) mean singleton/void). New = new suit. Canapé = The first bid from the RH in M is shorter than the next one (m). IMPOSSIBLE SUPPORT/IMPOSSIBLE M = terms describing a doubleton in the opening M suit with or without an H after the opening sequence 1/ - 2. - 2 - ?.

2.2 The PRE-FER system

The PRE-FER system has certain goals and clear ambitions: a) To find very good fits, especially in the M suits. M contracts provide more points in the book when you have at least an 8-card fit, so it is one of the major goals in this system to chase M contracts. If there is no M fit, one should look for NT contracts and finally to the minors.

8 b) To destroy as much as possible for the communication between your opponents. This is partly achieved through the transfer bids after the openings at the one level, which in addition to improving your own biding through more nuanced and more available bids, very often “steal” the enemy’s suit, and thus make it very difficult for the enemy to participate in the bidding at low levels. In addition, the two-level openings are often ambiguous, and so is the defence bidding against the opponents’ strong 1NT. The ambiguity of the components of the system lessens the danger of action from the opponents. However, these bids are easily manageable for your own side. c) To use as much space as possible by sacrificing early at the right level so that the opponents will have to guess more than they know when they are to decide whether or not to enter the bidding. PRE-FER’s pre-emptive bidding has been built on the right premises, and therefore, PRE-EMPTs is an integrated part of the system.

The system has been designed to be very aggressive, and one of the main rules is: “If in doubt, BID!” Another rule is that you should be careful not to bid too many times on MIN and SUBMIN hands. Normally, you should be more careful when vulnerable than when not vulnerable. If you discover a fit, you should, however, immediately add all distributional values and bid as aggressively as you dare. This approach will most certainly lead to an occasional disaster when the weather gods as well as the card gods are against you. However, more often than not it will lead to extremely good results for your own side because by stealing bidding space from the opponents, you make them a bit annoyed, indecisive and insecure. The final rule is that you should never bid twice on the same values (except when pre-sacrificing). Every new bid should therefore in principle reveal something that you have not shown before.

The system primarily seeks to discover M fits. The main rule is that if you have at least eight cards together in a M, you should normally play a M contract. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t try to find a 4-4 M fit even if you have already found 5-3 M fit, for 4-4 normally plays better than 5-3. Neither does it imply that you shouldn’t suggest or accept 3NT as the contract even if you have found an (at least) 8M fit. If it somehow seems easier to win 9 tricks in NT than 10 in M (few HPs and many quick tricks) 3NT may be an excellent alternative contract, especially in pair tournaments.

Here are couple of suggestions which would tend to favourise 3NT over 4M: a) MIN HP after GF: 1 - 2NT 3NT b) Also after GF and not MIN HP: 1 - 2NT 3. - 3NT

If the bidding reveals that you don’t have a good enough fit in M, you should normally play NT, unless the bidding makes this unacceptable. Only as an emergency solution will we chose to play a m contract unless we are in the SLAM zone. However, it should be pointed out that pre-sacrifices function just as well in m as in M suits. If you select to play a m contract it should be because you simply know that it’s the best contract your way. So don’t rule the minors totally out.

This view on contracts has three main consequences:

1) Most of the system is constructed so that as soon as possible (and preferably before the third bidding round) we should manage to find out: a. If we should play in a M or not. b. If we should stop below game level, bid pre-emptively, make an INV or bid a game (/make a SLAM TRY).

2) Minor contracts are regrettably somewhat ignored in this system, as you should prefer to show 4-card M at the one level rather than a 5-6-card m. The m will be shown later if there is room, time and HP enough, most often as a Canapé suit by the RH. When in the SLAM zone, it will, however often be smart to find out the exact distribution through forcing bids, to reveal (at least) 4-4-fits in the minors, even if you have already found a fit in a M. It is actually allowed to suggest alternative contracts in an (un)bid m both at the six and the seven level. If this does not seem to be good idea, you just return to the M

3) In accordance with Cohen’s «The Law of Total Tricks” we should be at the three level when we have established a 9 card fit in a M, regardless of both vulnerability and any shortage of HP. It is either a good contract, or it is probably a very good sacrifice against any potential contract by the opponents. It is the belief in this concept that will enable us to pre-sacrifice in many situations.

It is, however, advisable to be little more careful when the vulnerability is maximally unfavourable (we VUL, they not). It should also be noted that even if we would be heading towards a catastrophe by bidding like that, the opponents more often than not function as a rescue team, as nobody really likes to be outbid. And by doing so, with no certain knowledge about the actual deal, they very often go over the edge and go down(s). Therefore, when you have decided to make a sacrifice, you should stand by your decision and say no more. If the opponents manage to find a good contract by guessing, applaud them, but since their bids will often be marginal, we should allow them to go down(s) with dignity.

If you have enough for a GF as RH, you can bid your suits natural after having established whether you have a M fit or not, and as the principle is that new suits are

10 RF and reverses are GF, your partner is not likely to pass until you have reached the best contract. There are, however some exceptions: a) The responder has made a limited bid in the first round. In this case a reverse bid would not show more than super-MAX for his limited first bid. b) There are bids which take PRI as INV, RF and GF, like XY, ROMEX Short or a direct jump shift to 3 (over 1) or to 4 in new suit (over 1), showing super fit in the latest suit shown and void in the bid suit. If these bids are available, you will normally apply these bids as INV/GF. Thus, if one of these bids is available to you, but you abstain from applying it, other bids will per definition be NF, even if the bid is a new suit at the three level or shows a fit. The RH’s new m will therefore always show a Canapé suit and NF values.

Apart from this last principle, all new suits from responder, as well as from the opener will be RF. This is to make a quiet and easy bidding sequence in which nobody should feel compelled to jump just because he holds very good hand. Jumps tend to eliminate valuable bidding space, and we should only jump if the bid shows a strong OH or is sacrificial. Therefore you have to weigh your hand to find out whether or not it is good enough to make RF in new suit.

The only time the RH is allowed to pass a new suit from the OH after having made one bid is when he holds a SUBMIN (3-6HP) and at least a partial fit (3+ cards) in the OH’s second suit. If holding at least 7+HP the RH should always make another bid after a new suit from the opener if he can at the one and the two level.

The OH should, however, always bid when the responder bids a new suit unless the RH has limited his hand. No opening bid is so miserable that you should ”take a chance” by passing a RF/GF. Remember that also the RH knows that new suits are RF, and therefore, he could actually hold SLAM ambitious cards, even if he only bids a new suit on the cheapest level.

If an opponent intervenes, a new suit would still be forcing, but now you can make a new type of doubles introduced in this system: the PRE-FER-X (PRE-FER-double). After a PRE-FER-X, any new suit from the other hand is NF. This PRE-FER-X should occur after clearly formulated criteriae.

PRE-FER-X demands a new suit bid from partner (who should only rarely pass or bid NT). Normally, doubles at the one, two and three levels in competitive situation are not penalty doubles (PEN-X) in this system, unless there has been a bid which implies at least INV values. A PRE-FER-X in unclear situations therefore makes your side especially competitive. It is very simple: If the double is not one of the other doubles which have been clearly defined in the system (lead double, TO-X, penalty double, Reese double or NEG-X, etc.) it will always be a PRE-FER-X.

2.3 PRI (Priorities)

In this system there are some basic rules which give priority (PRI) to special developments in the subsequent bidding: a) The first PRI of this system is always to show four / at the one level whenever this is possible. This is far more important than showing 5-6./. A longer m should be bid later with/without a jump and as a NF/RF/GF by the RH as a Canapé. When an eight card M fit has been agreed or shown, and the suit has not yet been bid, transfer bids shall be given PRI at the three and four level when one hand is stronger than the other. The suit below the agreed trump suit transfers to the trump suit, and this implies that the suit just below the trump suit will never function as Cue in these situations. Example: 1 - 1 - 2NT - ? 3 will be transfer to 3 (PRI, in principle with SUBMIN, but after the OH has bid 3, the RH can pass with a SUBMIN or raise to game with a 7-10HDP hand). A jump from 2NT to 4 is likewise a direct transfer to game (no slam ambitions). b) If XY is possible (i.e. after 3 bids at the one level), 2. and 2 will always be XY (PRI). In principle, new bids will therefore be NF when they do not show XY or jump support (= short suit as INV/GF). c) After certain (short) bidding sequences in which the last bid at the one level shows /, a jump to a new suit at the three level (also 2 after 1), will take PRI as INV (ROMEX short). ROMEX Short/Long also takes PRI every time the bid of 2/ establishes an 8 card fit in a M. All other bids than these must be viewed with ROMEX in mind. d) PRE-EMPTs is an integrated part of the system. Every time you make a (jump) support to 3 in one of partner’s shown suits (3/ and 3/4./), this will be a weak PRE-EMPT, and not an INV. e) When an opponent interferes in the bidding (in the 4. hand) after the RH has bid a suit at the one, two or three level, SUPPORT-X/XX take PRI. A SUPPORT-X shows exactly a 3 card support in the RH’s bid suit. f) Only after 1 - 1 - 2. the 4th suit (2) will force to game. g) If an opponent makes a bid which makes it impossible to apply a) and/or b), or your own bidding has been so uneconomical that it has prevented you from applying a) and/or b), other INV- and RF/GF bids are activated: NEG-X (RF), PEN-X, PRE-FER-X (RF), and CUEs in suits bid by the opponents (RF), the 4. suit (GF), reverse by the RH (GF) etc.

12 h) A PEN-X will normally occur in competitive situation when one of you has made bid which could imply at least an INV, and besides when the doubler could bid one of several actual suits himself, so that the PRE-FER-X can no longer be applied. i) The system contains very few PEN-X suggestions when an opponent bids. Therefore PRE-FER-X (= a X in an unclear situation) will almost always ask partner to bid one more time. A PRE-FER-X can also be made when the bid of new suit would have been RF. The X gives partner the opportunity to bid a new suit (also at the three level and higher) as NF. j) When partner makes a SLAM TRY, you should always show your controls below game level in the agreed trump suit. These CUEs are only “showing” and do not accept any SLAM TRY. Only when you CUE higher than game level, the CUE is a commitment and shows real additional values. Over 1 – 3/4./ you should therefore show your CTRs up to 4 without having made any commitment. Exceptions: 1 – 2NT – 4 and 1 – 2NT – 4, (and indeed every time you skip Cue,) which shows dead MIN. k) When 2 (XY) is applied after a bid which denies M on the OH, the PRI should be: 1st PRI: Show an unbid 5+ m if you have it. 2nd PRI: Support the M bid by the RH with a 3 card support. 3rd PRI: Bid a stopper in the cheapest suit. l) When your partner asks you to show certain features in any bidding sequence, your PRI for showing this should be:

1) natural suit (i.e. any suit which can show whatever you ask for in that suit as a natural suit)

2) corresponding suit (i.e. .<->and <-> = rounded to rounded suit, as opposed to pointed to pointed suit).

3) The residue (i.e. whatever remains when there are no more natural or corresponding suits to bid on the cheapest level. This may often be NT or the trump suit).

2.4 Phases The System is compiled by different phases. The most important one is the narrative phase, during which you simply exchange info. Some sequences contain an asking phase, in which there is a “captain” and a corresponding reply phase (during which you tell the captain what he needs to know about your hand). In the various bidding sequences there are quite a number of PRI phases, during which you should bid according to PRI. sequences. Several sequences will also have a confirm/denial phase. You should never mix the phases, but reply to the different phases according to your best abilities. If you only apply the system correctly, the system will bring you to the exact point in the bidding where you must decide whether or not to continue to game,

13 14 land in a part score or invite to a slam, based upon the info you have aquired so far (the decision phase).

Example 1: pass - 1 - 1 - 1 - 2.. The RH can see a 5-3 fit in , and may therefore add DP: KDxxx Exxx - .109xx. This hand has grown to 12HDP because the OH has shown 3+, and XY is thus applicable even if you are some HP short.

Example 2: pass - 1 - 1 - 1NT - 2.. The OH has now shown an 18-19NT without 4, and the RH will now INV (XY), even with only 5-6HP: KDxxx 9xxx 3 .98x. After 2 from the OH he will then bid 2, and has then shown 5-4 in the majors and an INV.

2.5 Opening hands An opening bid normally shows at least 11HP, and we almost always open on 11+HP, regardless of the distribution, (with 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3, however, you can chose not to open, especially if the hand is feeble and lacks intermediary cards). With 4-4-3-2 we always open unless there is a number of wasted low honours in the short suits. We do, however always open with 4+ cards in both M. As a thumb rule you could say that on an 11 count, you should have a maximum of 7 losers.

2.5.1 The ZAR count

On extreme distributional hands (at least 10 cards in two suits) we apply quite another method to discover whether we can open at the one level: the ZAR count. You add: a) Honour points: = 4(A)-3(K)-2(Q)-1(J). +b) Controls (Ctr): = A = 2Ctr, K = 1Ctr. +c) Long Distribution: = The number of cards in your 2 longest suits. +d) Short Distribution: = The difference between your longest and shortest suits.

The sum you get is the number of ZAR points. To open, regardless of position and vulnerability, you need at least 26 ZAR points. This is a typical ZAR hand:

K 7 6 5 4 7 HP. - 3 Ctr. A 8 6 5 4 3 11 Long points Altogether 28 ZAR – a good ZAR opening. .4 2 6 Short points. Open 1 and rebid weak unless your partner makes an INV.

14 A ZAR OH will almost always make weak rebid to show feeble honour strength. However, this is an unusually good ZAR:

A 7 6 5 4 7 HP. 4 3 Ctr. K 8 6 5 4 3 2 12 Long points Altogether 29 ZAR – very good opening hand indeed! .- 7 Short points. Open 1. Since you have 29 ZAR, you should bid the  as a reverse!

An OH of at least 29 ZAR will normally be enough after a normal 7-10HP reply, and with somewhere around 32 ZAR you can INV an even weaker RH (even SUBMIN). The RH should accept with MAX of whatever he has shown so far.

On the RH, 24 ZAR will normally be enough to invite for game, and about 28 ZAR will be enough to force to game. NB! You should, however, be little careful if your partner has already shown two other suits than your ZAR main suit, for there can easily be a misfit. A little warning: If you have bid on a ZAR as the RH, and the OH rebids weakly, there may be reasons to assume that both hands may have a ZAR count. You will then have long suits on both hands, no fit and the hands may be anaemic honour wise.

On the other hand: After a ZAR opening the OH should normally make a weak rebid, however, you should rethink at least twice before turning down an INV. E.g.: 1 (ZAR) – 3 (11-13, 4, may have singleton) - ? With two 5+ suits on the OH this hand is so forceful that you should always accept an INV. (3 (= where is your singleton?) - 3 (= no singleton).

2.5.2 In the 3rd and 4th hand

In the 3. and 4. hand we tend to open extra light at the one level. However, we put some emphasis on lead direction. We will therefore be pleased to open in the 4. hand with 1/ on 10+HP and a very good 4 card suit.

Even after an initial pass the system is still “on”. You should, however take into your consideration that the RH does not hold as much as 11 HP.

Opening bids at the two level (Multi, Tartan or 2NT = m) in principle still show below opening values, but after pass from partner you may have a stronger hand (up to 15+HP).

2.5.3 The Loser Count When you have established an 8 card fit in M (and also in order to estimate how forcefully you should bid after 1M – 2. – 2) We apply the ”Loser Count”:

There are max 3 losers per suit (K Q or the equivalent in short suits). Singleton/AJ10 = 1 loser, AJ9 = 1,5 losers, Kx = 1 loser and Qx/XX = 2 losers, etc. In cases of double fits, the one that invites can deduct 1 loser. When somebody has a void, the Loser Count does not function optimally. One should, however bid a little bit harder than normal.

This Count should be taken seriously in team events, and should be used more moderately in pair events. We use the Count primarily to decide when you are in doubt: INV or not? GF or not? Accept an INV or not? The number «24» minus the number of losers on both hands will give you the number of tricks to expect.

2.5.4 Opening hands:

An opening hand = normally 7 losers (8 losers is a bad OH and 6 is a good opening). This is the way to estimate an OH: 1NT = 6-7 losers, Reverse on the OH = 5-6 losers, 2. = 4-5 losers and Weak 2 = normally 8-9 losers.

2.5.5 The RH:

Simple raise/1NT = 9 losers, INV = 8 losers (asks if partner has 6 losers), GF = 7 losers (sufficient HP), Direct game = 7 losers (good distribution).

2.5.6 Distributional hands with great trick potential:

If you have a distributional hand with great trick potential (e.g. after 1M - 2. - 2 -?) the rules change little, since these hands are based upon distribution, rather than HP. There is a huge difference between x-x-Qxxxx-.QJxxxx and x-Ax- AJxxx-.AJxxx, even if both only have 6 losers. In addition the system is based upon an OH which can be very light HP-wise (Zar opening). If you open 11HP hands with maximum of 7 losers, there is a better control when you apply the Loser Count.

To make an INV in m you should have max 7 losers (possibly a thin 6-loser distributional hand). To accept an INV in m you should therefore have 6 losers yourself. To accept an INV with an NT bid you should have max 7 losers yourself, but both fit and stoppers will be crucial. To make a GF in m, you should have max 6 losers.

To make a SLAM TRY you should have max 5 losers (maybe also 6 losers). To accept a small SLAM INV you should have max 6 losers. To accept a grand slam INV you should have max 5 losers.

2.6 The PRE-FER NT concept: In PRE-FER, all NT hands will be SEMI(BAL) or SEMISEMI(BAL). You may not have a singleton (unless you have an impossible bid with 4-4-4-1). You may not have 5M. However, you may have up to 7./ if you have a 2-2-7-2/2-2-2-7 distribution.

This goes for all showing of NT hands. So on a bad day you can open 1. with 2-2-7-2. Likewise you can show an 18-19NT after opening 1 containing 2-2-2-7..

16 When you show a (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) hand with 1NT, you need not have any stoppers in the enemy suit. If the RH is interested, he can find out if you have a stopper by overbidding the enemy suit at the three level. If you show your balanced hand at the two level or higher, however, you need to ha at least one stopper in the enemy suit.

2.7 NF, RF or GF:

For the OH there will be a number of rebids available,which will also show 11-14HP. However, the OH can reverse or jump in the opening suit/a new suit or make a support jump in a suit shown by the RH to show a 15-17HP count (a jump to 2NT almost always shows 18-19HP).

A weak rebid of the opening suit always shows 11-14HP. Likewise 1 - 1//NT - 2.. Otherwise, the bid of a new suit will be RF unless something else has been agreed. Exception: 1 - 1NT - 2 is NF (while 1 - 1NT - 2./ is RF).

This principle means that the OH will never have to jump in his second bid unless he needs to show a better hand than 11-14 when this is necessary. Exception 1: After the RH has shown a 4+ M at the one level, a jump in a new suit will show SHORTAGE and 4+ support to the shown suit. Exception 2: After the RH has shown a 4+ M at the one level, a direct jump to 2 in that suit will show 11-12HDP and 4+ support (1. - 1 - 2 , 1. - 1 - 2 or 1 - 1 - 2.

Since all new suite from the RH are RF, there is no need for the RH to jump. A jump from the RH will therefor either be a PRE-EMPT or en invitation/GF with a 4+ support in the shown M. An INV from the RH is either a ROMEX, an XY or any new suit on any level. Therefore, a jump to the level below game in either one of the OHs suits or in his own shown suit will for sure be a PRE-EMPT!

3 Opening bids

1. = 2+., 11-19HP. If (SEMI)SEMI(BAL): 11-14HP. If UN(BAL), the hand has long ., possibly with side suit(s) and 11-19HP. With 15-19HP the hand is always UNBALand normally contains 5+. (can be 4-4-1-4./4-1-4-4./1-4-4-4.). RH transfers at the one level (1//) and at the two level (2//). 1 = If (SEMI)SEMI(BAL): 18-19NT (the same SEMISEMI(BAL) as in 1.). If UN(BAL): normally 5+, (can be 4-4-4-1.): 11-19HP. NB! RH «switches» at the one level. A weak 5-4 in m (11-14HP) is always opened 1 no matter which m is longer. 1 = 5+, 11-19HP. NB! RH transfers at the two level (2. + 2). PRE-FER Structural jumps (2, 2NT, 3. and 3). 1 = 5+, 11-19HP. NB! RH transfers at the two level (2., 2 and 2). PRE-FER Structural jumps (2NT, 3. and 3 and 3). 1NT = 15-17HP, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Same SEMISEMI(BAL) as after 1./. “Drop- dead Stayman”. Transfers at the two level, “Smolen” and SA-Texas transfers at the four level (.-> and ->) 2. = Strong, honour wise or trick wise. At least 20+HP if suited hand, and 22-23HP or 26+HP if NT hand. Tempo-Force after 2 to 2NT, 3/, 4./. The RH transfers at the two level and 3. (2//NT/3.) . 2 = either 0-4HP or 5+HP and not 4/ or ./HHxxxx (Good-Bad). 3 = HHxxxx in ./ and xxxx in / and 5+HP (GF). The RH applies Puppet Stayman and transfers after the OH has shown a strong NT. 2 = Multi: weak 2/ or 20-21NT or 24-25NT (with a jump). The RH applies Puppet Stayman and transfers after the OH has shown a strong NT. 2 = «Tartan». 5 and 4+./. Below an opening hand. 2NT asks for the m suit. 2 = «Tartan». 5 and 4+./. Below an opening hand. 2NT asks for the m suit. 2NT = 5+. and 5+, 5-10HP or at least 15HP. 3./ = Natural PRE-EMPT, often at least KDxxxx or the equivalent in the 1. and 2. hand and when vulnerable. 3/ = Natural PRE-EMPT. 7suit. Most of the honours in the suit. 3NT = Running m with max queen in other suits. 4. = South African Texas: Running, at least 7 + max king in other suits. The relay suit (4) asks for the number of running . 4 = South-African Texas: Running, at least 7 + max king in other suits. Relay suit (4) asks for the number of . 4 = Natural PRE-EMPT, aggressive. 4 = Natural PRE-EMPT, aggressive. 4NT = Asks for specific aces. 5. = Natural PRE-EMPT, aggressive. 5 = Natural PRE-EMPT, aggressive. 5 = 11 tricks, lacks two top honours in .

18 5 = 11 tricks, lacks two top honours in .

4 Opening 1. (4+. 11-19HP/2+. if 11-14NT)

If (SEMI)SEMI(BAL): 2+., 11-14HP. Can have 5-6 ./ in SEMISEMI(BAL) NT: 6-3-2- 2 [6./ (you open, however, 1 with an UNBALhand with 6+.

If UN(BAL), the OH normally has a suited distribution with 6+., or 5+. and a side suit and 11-19HP (can be 4-4-1-4./4-1-4-4./1-4-4-4.). Hands with 15+HP are always suited and normally have at least 5. (could be 4.-4-4-1).

1. opening can also contain a reverse hand (15+HP) with 5+. and 4+ or the other way around: 5+ and 4+.. You should bid that hand as a  reverse (RF). (The equivalent m distribution with 11-14HP is shown through the opening 1 and then the rebid 2..) When the OH shows a -revers the the RH can bid 2NT as PRE-FER Lebensohl, which asks the OH to bid his longest m at the three level. With the exception of this one sequence, . will be the longest suit in your OH with 15+HP.

The typical 1. hand is an 11-14 (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) NT, which can contain doubleton . and on the other hand, it may have up to seven cards in . or (with a 7-2-2-2 distribution). NB! If the hand contains a long m, it is important first to define it as an 11-14NT before you show the long m suit: 1. - 1 - 1 - 2 (GF) - ? If you have an 11- 14NT with 2-3-5-3 or 2-3-6-2, you should NOT bid 3, for the RH must interpret this as at least 5-4 in the m and a strong hand (15+HP). You should first bid 2NT, limiting your hand to an 11-14NT. Only then, if you have enough bidding space, you can show your long m.

A 1. OH never contains more than four cards in / (unless the . suit is longer). If you then show the M at the two level, the hand will be UNBAL15+HP. The RH can apply 2NT as PRE-FER Lebensohl, which asks the OH to bid his longest m on the 3 level.

With a 5 card support and 7-10HDP, the RH bids 2., while he with 11+HDP will go through 1 and 1NT + XY to show an INV (11-13HDP) or GF (14+HDP). A direct jump to 3. will show 5+. and SUBMIN.

4.1 Transfers at the one level

In reply to a . opening the RH applies transfers at the one level (1, 1 and 1), both after pass, X, and the bid of 1/1 by the RHO, and also SUBMIN transfer jumps to 2 and 2 (transfer to  and ). The latter may be ambiguous (15+HP).

The RH’s first PRI is always to discover (at least) 4-4 fits in M, and he will therefore primarily transfer to a M, if he has an at least 4/. Even with a 6 or 7m side suit, his 1st PRI is to discover a M fit. He should show his M even with as little as 3+HP (SUBMIN).

If the RH bids a m after having shown a M, the m will be longer than the M (Canapé) and NF (even on a jump or a bid on the 3 level) if XY is available (PRI).

If XY is not available, the bid of a Canapé suit at the three level must be seen as a “new suit at the 3 level” and consequently it will be RF.

Even in a forced bidding sequence in which both opponents participate in the bidding, such bids will be RF/GF, while a PRE-FER-X will permit the partner to bid a new suit (also on the 3 level) as NF when fighting for a part score. This applies to both partners.

4.1.1 Bidding after an initial pass

Even if the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must, however, always be taken into account that the RH can have no more than 10HP (since we open nearly all hands with 11+HP). However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open, he may still have enough for an INV. Whenever he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation.

4.2 The RH’s bids after 1. 1. - ? pass = 0-2 HP or 3-6HP, no 4M and very feeble hand. 1 = 4+ 3+HP, can have longer ./. Sets up jump to ROMEX Short. 1 = 4+ 3+HP, can have longer ./. Sets up jump to ROMEX Short. 1 = The bid denies 4+/. You either have 7-10NT or 11-13 and 5+. or any hand with at least 6. The OH should rebid 1NT with an 11-14HP hand. After that, XY is “on”. 2. = 7-10HDP with at least 5+.. Denies 4+/. NF. 2 = PRE-FER Transfer jump. Shows a SUBMIN with 6+ without any side suit. The bid 2 sets up ROMEX both Short and Long. NB: The RH can also have values enough for a SLAM TRY (15+HP). In that case the RH will make a ROMEX INV after 2. 2 = PRE-FER Transfer jump. Shows 6+ without any side suit. See 2. 2 = Shows either 6+. or 6+ and denies 4/. At least INV values. 2NT = 18-19HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL), natural GF without four /. 3. = SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP) and 5+.. 3 = SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HP) and 6+. 3 = Splinter (singleton) with (5)6+.. SLAM TRY. Rejection: 3NT/4..

20 3 = Splinter (singleton) with (5)6+.. SLAM TRY. Rejection: 3NT/4.. 3NT = 14-17HP. NF. Denies four /. The principle of fast arrival. 4. = SUBMIN PRE-EMPT INV 3-6HP with 7+.. 4/ = For play. No slam ambition.

4.3 An opponent interferes over 1.

If the RHO doubles, it does not mean anything to us. The system is still «on», and we bid as if the RHO has not bid at all. X is for us a «no-bid», because it does not interfere with our system The only exception is a XX over the enemy’s X, which shows 11+HP and expresses an interest in punishing the Enemy. The XX sets up PEN-X on both hands.

If the LHO bids 1, the system is also ”on”. The RH doubles 1 if he wanted to bid 1 himself (the X shows 4+). After pass from the RHO, the OH then bids 1 with 3+, etc. If the RHO should bid after the reply to 1., the 1st PRI for the OH is to show a 3 card support to any shown M with X (/XX) = SUPPORT-X/XX. All other bids than SUPPORT-X/XX, direct support (=4+ in the shown M) and jump shifts showing suit support (confirming 4+ in the shown M and shortage in the jump suit) will show max a doubleton in the shown M.

If the LHO bids 1, the system is also “on”. X shows 4+, and if the RHO takes action, SUPPORT-X/XX (PRI) will show three cards in , 2 will show 4+ and all other bids (except a singleton jump shift showing shortage in the jump suit and 4+) will deny more than 2. The other bids keep their meaning: 1 = 7-10NT (and asks for 1NT with an 11-14 count, and needs not necessarily have a  stopper).

If the RHO bids 1 or higher, the system is corrupted and consequently “off”. X will be a NEG-X and show 4+. Then 1NT will show 7-10HP (needs not have a  stopper). 2NT 11-13HP and 3NT 14+HP (must have a stopper in the enemy suit). If the RHO takes action after a NEG-X from the RH, a SUPPORT-X/XX will show three cards in ,  bid will show 4+ and all other bids denies as much as 3.

Since 1. does not show any specific suit, it would be advantageous to apply some sort of NT defence system. In PRE-FER the RH will apply “Amundsen’s NT Defence” when the RHO bids a strong 1NT in direct position: 1. - (1NT) – “ Against 1NT (Amundsen” (also p – (p) - 1. - (1NT) – “Amundsen”. 1. - (1NT) - ? X = PEN-X 2. = 5+ or 4+ and 4+. 2 = 5+ or 4+ and 4+./. 2 = 4+ and 4+./. 2 = 5+.

2NT = 4+. and 4+.

Thus, if a bid from the opponents does not interfere with our system, it is in principle ”system on”. Then you just totally ignore their intervention and simply bid according to the system as if there has been no intervention at all.

If, however, an opponent bids so high that our system is corrupted (i.e. 1 or higher), we turn to natural bids, which include NEG-X, SUPPORT-X, PRE-FER-X, 2/1, new suits RF, reverse on the RH (GF), 4. suit (GF) and new suit on the 3 level (GF), cue bids in the opponents’ suit show a good raise in partner’s suit etc.

SUPPORT-X is obligatory up to 2, unless the reply to X will bring us to the 3 level. Then it will be allowed to pass with minimum hand, especially when partner has not shown more than a SUBMIN with his first bid. On the 3 level the OH may choose to show his 3 card support with X if he thinks he has additional values. It is both important, necessary and strategically correct to pass with a weak OH when the RH cannot guarantee 7+HP.

NT is NT, even after intervention, and normally shows a stopper in the opponents’ suit on at least the two level. However you do not necessarily need a stopper to bid 1NT. Remember, your partner can ask for a stopper (CUE) if 3NT is an interesting project.

XX after X shows additional values (11+HP) and an interest in ”punishing the opponents”. The XX sets up PEN-X (forcing pass) on both hands. However, your partner does not have to accept this proposal. If partner passes after your XX and another bid from the opponents, this will invite you to X (shows additional values = RF). If he, however, pulls in a suit, he shows a MIN. Likewise, if partner after XX from you and pass in the 3rd hand pulls directly, either in suit or in NT, this will show a clear-cut MIN and is a strong warning against further bidding.

If there is a system transfer bid before an opponent intervenes, the one who has transfered should think well before bidding again, for his partner is bound to try to interpret the next bid within the framework suggested by the transfer bid. . 1 can e.g. mean a number of different things and a whole range of points on the scale. It is only the 1 bidder who knows what he holds. Therefore he should be careful with his next bid. If he does not make a GF, there is no chance that he is trying to show a GF. Thus, it is the one who knows the most about the collective values who should carefully see to it that also partner gets the message.

4.4 Bids after 1.-1 (=4+, 3+HP)

Since 1 can be made on as little as 3HP, the OH should never go direct to game after the reply, but give the RH a chance to show his minimal values. Therefore, a hand with

22  support should be shown like this: 2 = 11-12HP and 4. 1 = 13-14HP and 4+ (the OH then bids  the next gang it is his turn to bid) or 11-14HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) with 3+ (the OH bids something else (weak) than  in his next bid) or 15-19HP UNBALwith 3 and 5+. (the OH makes a force (INV/RF/GF) in his next bid).

After 1 from the OH, the RH can be passed with 4+ and a SUBMIN hand (3-6HP), and bids one more time (1NT/suit/2) with 7-10HP and 5+. With 11+HP the RH applies XY, and shows after the INV/GF if he holds 5. A jump to 2/3./3 is a natural ROMEX Short INV which confirms 5+. A jump to 3 = PRE-EMPT with 5+. If the RH has enough to bid one more time (= at least 7HP except when giving his cheapest preference), the OH can then with an 18-19HP count force/go to game the next time it is his turn to bid, possibly jump as an INV with 15-17HP.

1. - 1 = 4+ and at least 3HP. ?

1. - 1 1 = 3+ with 11+HP. Can have four cards in  and 13-14 SEMI(BAL)/UNBALand will then rebid  without jump in his next bid. Can also have 15+ with 3+. With only 3 and a 15-17HP UNBALhand with at least five cards in . you bid a new suit or NT at the cheapest level in your next bid, and you will jump to 3 with a 4 support. On an 18-19 UNBALhand with at least 5. you jump in NT, in a new suit or make a reverse bid with only 3 and you must jump to 4 with a 4 support. The bid 1 sets up XY and also sets up a jump to ROMEX Short with  as designated trumps:

1. - 1 1 - ? Pass = 4 and SUBMIN (3-6HP). 1 = 4, 4+ and no more than feeble INV. (XY would be INV/GF). Sets up 3./3/3 as ROMEX Short with  as trumps. 1NT = Natural, 4, 7-10HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 2. = XY INV. Transfer to 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = 7-10HP. 5+. For play. Sets up ROMEX Short and Long for the OH: 2 = Introduction to ROMEX Long: Asks for 2NT. 2NT = OK. 3. = ROMEX Long: 3+.. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Residue) 2NT = ROMEX Short with short . (Residue) 3. = ROMEX Short with short .. (Natural)

3 = ROMEX Short with short . (Natural) 3 = PRE-EMPT. 2 = ROMEX Short. 5+ and singleton . INV. Rejection: 3. 2NT = Max 10 HP, 4 and 1-4-4-4/0-4-5-4/0-4-4-5 distribution. NF. All INV+ go through XY. 3. = ROMEX Short. 5+ and singleton .. INV. Rejection: 3. 3 = ROMEX Short. 5+ and singleton . INV. Rejection: 3. 3 = 5+ PRE-EMPT. NF. 3 = Void in  with 5+. GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 3NT = 14+HP. Only 4. 4. = Void in . with 5+. GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = Void in  with 5+. GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = 5+. distributional hand. Weak. For play.

1. - 1 1 = 4+ and 11+HP. Denies 3. The bid 1 sets up XY and jump to ROMEX Short with  as agreed trumps: 1. - 1 1 - ? Pass = 4, at least 3 and 3-6HP (SUBMIN). 1NT = Natural NF 7-10HP. Not 4. Not 5+. 2. = XY INV, transfer to 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = Natural. For play. 5+. 7-10HP. (INV+ goes through XY). 2 = Natural support: 4 and 9-10HDP. More constructive than 3 (=PRE- EMPT). 2NT = Max 10 HP, 4 and 4-1-4-4/4-0-5-4/4-0-4-5 distribution. NF. All INV+ go through XY. 3. = ROMEX Short. 4+ and singleton .. INV. Rejection: 3. 3 = ROMEX Short. 4+ and singleton . INV. Rejection: 3. 3 = 6+ and mild PRE-EMPT INV. NF. Rejection: pass and 3. 3 = PRE-EMPT: 3-8HDP and 4. NF. 3NT = NF. 14+HP without 4/5+. 4. = Void in . with 4. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = Void in  with 4. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = 7. For play with max 3. 4 = 4. 11+HDP. Not slam ambitious.

1. - 1 1NT = 11-14NT, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) with neither 3 nor 4. Can have 6./. Sets up XY. 1. -1

24 1NT-? Pass = 4 and 3-10HP. 2. = XY INV: transfer to 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = NF with 5+. 3-6HP. 2 = 4+ and 5+, 3-10HP, NF. (With an INV+ you go via XY). This bidding will comprise all hands with 4 and 5 which are not worth an INV. 2NT = Max 10 HP, max 3 and max 2 and 4-4/4-5/5-4 in the m. NF. (With an INV+ you always go through XY). 3. = 6. and exactly 4, NF 7-10HP (weak Canapé). (All INV+ go through XY). 3 = 5+and exactly 4, NF (weak Canapé). (All INV+ go through XY). 3 = 6+, PRE-EMPT. 7-10HP. (All INV+ go through XY). 3 = Singleton  with long . GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4 (denies CUE). 3NT = (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) NF with exactly 4. 14+HP. 4. = Singleton . with long . GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4 (denies CUE). 4 = Singleton  with long . GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4 (denies CUE). 4 = 6-7, NF. No short suit. Not slam ambitious. 4 = Void in  with long . Exclusion KCB.

1. - 1 ? 2. = 6+., with . as the only suit, 11-14HP UN(BAL), or SEMI(BAL) with infectious honours in short suit(s). Denies 3+ and 4+. (May have 5+./4 and no reverse values.) 2 = Reverse. Either SEMI(BAL) 5+ and 4+., or UNBAL5+ and 4+. and 15-19HP. RF. Denies 3/4. the RH bids 2NT with SUBMIN (BUK-Lebensohl). Also 3./ are SUBMIN preference bids. Everything else promises 7+HP: Pass = For play. SUBMIN with 4 and no interest in any game, even if the OH has 19HP. 2NT = PRE-FER Lebensohl with SUBMIN, asking the OH to bid his longest m, which can be passed or corrected to another suit on the 3 level. NF. 3. = SUBMIN preference bid with 4+.. NF. 3 = SUBMIN preference bid with 4+. NF. 3/ = CUE with support in one or both m. GF 3NT = For play. 2 = 4, 11-12HP. Can be UN(BAL). NF. Sets up ROMEX Short/Long. 2 = Introduction to ROMEX Long 2NT = OK. 3. = ROMEX Long: 3+.. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Residue) 2NT = ROMEX Short: SHORT .. (Residue)

3. = ROMEX Short: SHORT .. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Short: SHORT. (Natural) 3 = PRE-EMPT. 2 = ROMEX Short. 5+. and 4+ and short . 15+HP. RF. 2NT = 15+HP SEMISEMI(BAL) with 5+. and max 2. The RH show SUBMIN if he a) passes 2NT, b) pulls in 3. or c) bids 3. Everything else from the RH is GF. 3. = 6+.. UNBAL15-17HP, max 2 and denies 4. NF if RH has SUBMIN (3-6HP). 3 = ROMEX Short. 5+. and 4+ and short . 15+HP. RF. 3 = PRE-EMPT with 4+. 3 = Void in . 5+. and 4+, 15+HDP and SLAM TRY. 3NT = 18-19HP. 5+., max doubleton  and not 4. UNBALfor play. 4. = CUE in .. 5+. and 4+, 18-19HDP. SLAM TRY. Denies shortage (2-4-2-5). 4 = Void in . 5+. and 4+, 15+HDP and a SLAM TRY. 4 = 18-19HDP with 5+. and 4+. UN(BAL), but not slam ambitious. 4NT = KCB with 5+. and 4+. (Roman Key Card Blackwood).

4.4.1 The RHO interferes after 1. – 1

If the RHO X, it is ”system on”. If the RHO bids a suit after 1. – 1, the system is also ”on”. However, SUPPORT-X/XX takes PRI and shows 3.

If the RHO bids 1NT (strong), PEN-X is applied, but if the RHO bids 1NT in reply to a X/bid from the LHO, it is a SUPPORT-X. Your first PRI is therefore always to support a M if you can.

Exception: Notice that we also apply XY after the interventions 1/ in the following bidding sequence: 1. - (pass) – 1 – (1/) – X . SUPPORT-X will replace any bid at the one level, and is therefore counted as a bid at the one level, and consequently, XY is «on».

After 1. – 1 – 1NT and 1. – (p) - 1 – (1/) - 1NT, XY is activated (PRI). This implies that all other bids than 2. (INV) and 2 (GF) will be NF (exception: a double fit jump in a short suit).

NB! Every time an 8 card fit in a M has been established atn the two level, any INV will be in accordance with ROMEX (short way = short suit. Long way = long suit). This principle also applies to the consequent bidding after e.g. X from one hand and a bid on the two level (an unbid M) which has been shown through the X from the other.

In addition to this, ROMEX Short can be shown (PRI) through a direct jump after 1. – (X) - 1 - (pass/X) and after 1. – (pass) - 1 – (1) - X (the jump to 2/3 will confirm 4+ on the OH, and show a singleton in the bid suit).

26 If the hostile intervention is on such level that it will corrupt our system, we will shift to natural bids: new suits (RF), a new suit on the 3 level (GF), PRE-FER-X (RF), etc.

Please note the following after the opponents have intervened over 1.:

1. - (1) - 1 - (2) ? Pass = 11-14NT with max 2. Nothing more to tell at this point. x = SUPPORT-X (shows a 3 card  support). 2 = Reverse. 15+HP, not 4, but 5+. and 4+. RF. The RH goes through 2NT (= PRE-FER Lebensohl) with a SUBMIN. 2 = 5+ and 7-10HDP. 2NT = PREFER Lebensohl. Asks for 3. 3. = OK Pass = For play. 3 = For play. 3. = 4 and 5+.. NF. 3 = ROMEX Long: INV with 4+. 3 = 5 and 4. INV. 3 = PRE-EMPT with 6+ and 3-6HDP. 3NT = 14+HP with 4 , max 3 and a  stopper. 4. = CUE with 4+. 4 = CUE with 4+. 4 = For play. 4 = For play. 2 = 11-14HDP and 5+. 2NT = 15+ UNBALwith max a doubleton  and 1,5  stoppers. NF 3. = 6+., 11-14HP and no interest for . 3 = GF. If the RH bids 3NT, he has a  stopper. If he bids 3, he has 4 and no  stopper. 4 will show short  and 5+. 4 will show Cue with 6+. 4 will be to play. 3 = 15+HDP, ROMEX Short: 4+, 5+. and short . GF. 3 = 11-14HDP 4+ and PRE-EMPT (suited hand). 3NT = 18-19HP, not 4 and many tricks with at least 1,5  stopper. 4. = CUE with 4+. GF. 4 = SHORT  and 4+. GF. 4 = SHORT  and 4+. GF. 4 = 18-19HDP and 4+. Denies any short suit.

4.5 Bids after 1.-1 (=4+, 3+HP)

Since 1 can be made on as little as 3HP, the OH should never go direct to game, not even with an 18-19HP count. Therefore, a hand with  support should be shown like this by the OH: 2 = 11-12HP and 4. 1 = 11-14HP SEMI(BAL)/UNBALwith 3+, 13-14 SEMI(BAL)/UNBALwith 4+ or 15-19 UNBALwith 5+. and 3+ (can be 4-1-4-4/1-4-4- 4/4-4-1-4). The bid 1 sets up a jump to ROMEX Short.

After 1 from the OH (=3+ and sets up XY), the RH passes with 4+ and SUBMIN (3-6HP) and bids one more time (1NT/suit/2) with a 7+H(D)P count. 2./ is XY, while a direct jump to 2NT is max 10HP with only 4 and 5+. (all INV+ go though XY/ROMEX short). A jump to 3/3 is ROMEX Short with  as agreed trumps. If partner has enough to bid one more time (= 7H(D)P), an 18-19HP hand can make a GF or jump to game the next time it is his turn to bid, or jump with 15-17H(D)P (INV).

1. - 1 ? 1 = 3+ (PRI) with 11+HP. 1 is RF unless the RH has SUBMIN. Can have 4 and 13-14 SEMI(BAL)/UNBALand then rebids  without a jump the next time (PRI). With 15-17HP UNBALwith at least 5. the OH bids NT/jumps in a suit the next time, and with 18-19 UNBALwith at least 5. and 3+ the OH jumps in NT/ a new suit with only 3 and jumps to 4 with a 4 card  support. The bid 1 sets up both XY and ROMEX Short on the RH:

1. - 1 1 - ? Pass = 4+ and 3-6HDP (SUBMIN). 1NT = Natural, 4, 7-10HP. NF. 2. = XY INV, asks for 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = 5+, 4+ and 7-10HDP NF. (INV+ go though XY.) 2 = 5+. NF. For play 7-10HP. (INV+ go though XY.) 2NT = Max 10 HP, 4 and 4-1-4-4/4-0-5-4/4-0-4-5 distribution. All INV+ go through XY. 3. = ROMEX Short. Shows 5+ and a singleton .. INV. 3 = ROMEX Short. Shows 5+ and a singleton . INV. 3 = ROMEX Short. Shows 5+ and a singleton . INV. 3 = At least 5+ and 3-6HP. SUBMIN PRE-EMPT. 3NT = 14+HP. Only 4. NF. 4. = Void in . with 5+. Asks for CUE/KCB. 4 = rejection. 4 = Void in  with 5+. Asks for CUE/KCB. 4 = rejection. 4 = Void in  with 5+. Asks for CUE/KCB. 4 = rejection. 4 = For play. No slam ambition. No short suit.

28 1. - 1 1NT = Natural 11-14NT with max 2. Can be SEMISEMI(BAL) with 5.+4-2-2 or with 6./-3-2-2. NF. Sets up XY:

1. -1 1NT-? Pass = 4 and 3-6HP. 2. = XY INV, transfer to 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = Preference bid with 5 and 4+. 7-10 HP (NF). 2 = 5+. Weak and for play. 3-6HP (SUBMIN). 2NT = Max 10 HP, max 2 and max 3 and 4-4/4-5/5-4 in the m. NF. (With an INV+ you always go through XY). 3. = 7-10HP with 4 and 6.. (Weak Canapé). INV+ go via XY. 3 = PRE-EMPT with 4 and 5+. (Weak Canapé). INV+ go via XY. 3 = 5+, 5+ and super-mild distributional INV. 7-10HP NF. 3 = Long . PRE-EMPT: 7-10HP. INV+ go via XY. 3NT = For play, 14+HP with exactly 4. 4. = Splinter with 6+. GF. Asks for CUE/KCB. Rejection: 4. 4 = Splinter with 6+. GF. Asks for CUE/KCB. Rejection: 4. 4 = Splinter with 6+. GF. Asks for CUE/KCB. Rejection: 4. 4 = 6-7, For play. Not slam ambitious. No short suit.

1. - 1 ? 2. = 6+., with . as the only suit 11-14HP SEMI(BAL) (with infectious honours in the short suit(s)) , or 11-14HP UN(BAL), with 5+. and a higher ranking 4 card side suit and no reverse strength. Max 2. 2 = Reverse. Either 5+ and 4+., or 5+ and 4+. and 15-19HP UNBALRF. Denies 3. Pass = For play. SUBMIN with 3+ and no interest in any game. 2NT = PRE-FER Lebensohl with SUBMIN, asking the OH to bid his longest m, which can be passed or corrected to another NF suit on the 3 level. 3. = SUBMIN preference. 3 = 7-10HDP with 4+. NF. 2 = Natural Reverse, UNBAL15-19HP (RF) with 5+. and 4+. Max 2. 2NT will be PRE-FER Lebensohl with SUBMIN RH, and asks for 3.. 2 = 4, 11-12HP (SEMI(BAL)/UN(BAL)). Sets up ROMEX Long and Short: 2NT = Introduction to ROMEX Long 3. = OK. 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Long: 3+. (Natural)

3 = ROMEX Long: 3+.. (Residue) 3. = ROMEX Short: SHORT .. (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Short: SHORT . (Natural) 3 = ROMEX Short: SHORT . (Natural) 3 = PRE-EMPT. 2NT = 15+HP UNBALwith 6+. and max 2. Can be passed. The RH shows SUBMIN by a) passing 2NT, b) bidding 3. and c) bidding 3. Everything else is GF. 3. = 6+.. 15-17HP and max 2. UN(BAL). RF, but NF if the RH is SUBMIN (3-6HP). 3 = ROMEX Short (15+RF). UNBAL5+., 4+ and singleton . 3 = ROMEX Short (15+RF). UNBAL5+., 4+ and singleton . 3 = 5+., 4+. 11-14 PRE-EMPT without shortage in /. 3NT = 18-19HP UN(BAL). 6. and max a doubleton . Great trick potential. For play. 4. = UNBALCUE with 5+. and 4. 18-19HP. SLAM TRY. Rejection = 4. 4 = Void in , 18-19HP. SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE/KCB. Rejection = 4. 4 = Void in , 18-19HP. SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE/KCB. Rejection = 4. 4 = UNBAL18-19 with 5+. and 4. Not slam ambitious. No singleton/void.

4.5.1 The opponents interfere after 1. – 1 (=4+)

After X from RHO your PRI bid should be a XX = SUPPORT-XX, with exactly 3. The bid 1 would then show 4 and 13-14HP, while jump to 2 still shows 11-12HP and 4. Pass after X will show max a doubleton  and at least H10xx in . In principle it is a strong suggestion “to play”, but your partner should have Hx or xxx and at least 7HP in order to want to pass. All other bids deny more than max a doubleton .

If the RHO bids 1NT(15-17HP), X is a PEN-X, but if 1NT from RHO is a reply to a X/suit bid from the LHO, it is a SUPPORT-X (the X will then show 3, even after 1 bid from the RHO).

If the RHO makes other bids after 1. – 1, it is ”system off”.

Notice that XY is set up also after a support-X after the intervention 1 in the following bidding sequence: 1. - (pass) – 1 – (1) - X and sets up XY after this sequence: 1. - (pass) – 1 – (1) - 1NT. In both cases there have been 3 bids at the one level in principle (even if an opponent has barked), and XY is ”on”.

4.6 Bids after 1. -1 (PRE-FER-transfer to 1NT)

When bidding 1 the RH denies 4/, and normally shows either a hand which a) wants to be in 1NT (7-10HP) on the correct hand (the OH), or b) has at least 5+, and is UNBALwith 3+HP (can be unlimited). The bid 1 asks for the bid 1NT from the OH if

30 he holds 11-14HP (SEMI(BAL)/UN(BAL)). If the OH bids something else than 1NT or 2. (= 11-14 and UNBALwith 6+.), he must have at least 15HP.

After 1NT from the OH, which sets up XY, the RH can bid: a) 2. (XY INV), which demands 2 from the OH, which the RH can 1) pass (sign off) or 2) INV (2NT/ a new suit – also 3), or he can b) force to game with 2 (XY GF). After the reply to 2 the RH can: a. Bid 3. with 5+.. b. Bid 3 with 5+. c. Bid 2NT with at least 5-4 in the m. The OH then bids: c.i. 3./ with at least 3 card support and anaemic stoppers in M. (4th PRI) c.ii. 3 with good stopper(s) in  but no  stopper. (3rd PRI) c.iii. 3 with good stopper(s) in  but no  stopper. (3rd PRI) c.iv. 3NT with good stopper(s) in both M and max 3./. (2nd PRI) c.v. 4./ with at least 4 card support (then: CUE). (1st PRI)

The main principle is easy to remember: When XY is available, new suits are NF.

Since 1 can be made on as little as 3HP, the OH should never go direct to game after the reply. Instead he should give the RH a chance to show his minimal values. Therefore the OH should do as he is told on all hands which cannot force against a SUBMIN in the RH (actually up to 17HP, and that is to bid 1NT first, and then possibly 2 on 2.. If he bids something else, he shows 15+HP.

After 1NT from the OH the RH will pass with 7-10HP and he will bid 2. (XY INV) on  hand. Then, with a SUBMIN (3-6HP) he will pass 2 and with 11-13HP the RH can bid one more time as natural INV with  as his longest suit. If the RH has enough to bid one more time after the OH has said 2 over 2., he will hold 11-13HP (INV), and then the OH can go to game with 15+HP the next time it is his turn to bid, or make a re-INV with 13-14HP.

The RH bids 2 (XY GF) after 1NT with 14+HP and ./ as his longest suit. On 2 the OH primarily bids a stopper in M (2NT = stopper(s) in both M). If the RH does not apply XY after 1NT, but makes another bid, he shows 7-10HP (NF), and 5+ or a natural 4 card suit with longer .

1. - 1 ?

1NT = 11-14NT NF. Normally SEMI(BAL), but not necessarily. Can have up to 17HP UNBALwithout showing it (the RH can hold as little as 3+HP if he has 5+). A hand that doesn’t want to go to game against 7-10HP in the RH. 1NT sets up XY.

1. - 1 1NT - ? 2. = XY INV. NF transfer to 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = weak preference bid with 5+ and 3. (The RH has denied 4M.) 2 = weak preference bid with 5+ and 3. (The RH has denied 4M.) 2NT = weak preference bid with 4+ and 4+.. The OH will make preference in suit with fit. 3. = weak preference bid with 5+ and 5+.. 3 = 6+. Direct PRE-EMPT. No game ambitions. 3/ = Showing stopper(s) with HHxxxx in . 3NT = For play, 14+HP with 5+. A very mild SLAM TRY in .

1. - 1 ? 2. = Natural UNBAL11-14 with 6+.. 2 = Reverse. Either 5+ and 4+., or 5+. and 4+ and 15-19HP UNBALRF. Denies 3/4. Pass = For play. SUBMIN preference with 3+ and no interest in any game. 2NT = PRE-FER Lebensohl with SUBMIN, asking the OH to bid his longest m, which can be passed or corrected to another NF suit on the 3 level. 3. = SUBMIN preference bid with 4+.. 3 = PRE-EMPT preference bid with 4+ and 7+HP 2 = Reverse with 4+ and 5+.. 15-19HP and UN(BAL). (2NT = PRE-FER-Lebensohl.) 2 = Reverse with 4+ and 5+.. 15-19HP and UN(BAL). (2NT = PRE-FER-Lebensohl.) 2NT = Breaks the transfer (to 1NT) and shows 18-19HP UNBALwith at least 5+.. (We always open (SEMI)-SEMI(BAL) 18-19 with 1.) If the RH pulls in 3./ (NF), he has SUBMIN (3-6HP) with a . fit and/or long . 3. = Natural NF: 15-19HP with 6+.. 3 = 6+. and 5+. 15-19HP. Very UN(BAL). NF, but preference should be made. 3 = 6+. and 5+. 15-19HP. Very UN(BAL). NF, but preference should be made. 3 = 6+. and 5+. 15-19HP. Very UN(BAL). NF, but preference should be made. 3NT = Gambling. Running 6-7. or 18-19 with great trick potential in ..

4.7 Bids after 1.-1NT (11-13HP, INV)

32 The bid 1NT is natural after 1. and shows exactly 11-13HP and a SEMI(BAL) INV. The bid denies 4+/ and 5+ in a suited hand. (If you have at least 14HP, you should make a RF/GF bid). After 1NT the OH can pass with a weak opening hand (11-12HP), but with 13-14HP the OH should make a RE-INV (2NT) and with 14+ he should bid game.

If the OH now bids 2, this is Reverse, with either 5+ and 4+., or 5+. and 4+ and 15-19HP UNBALGF. 2NT from the RH asks the OH to bid his longest m.

4.8 Bids after 1.-2.

2. shows 5+. and 7-10HP. NF. The bid denies 4+/.

1. - 2. ? 2 = Reverse, with either 5+ and 4+., or 5+. and 4+ and 15-19HP UNBALGF. 2NT from the RH asks the OH to bid his longest m. 2 = Stopper in . 15+HP. 2 = Stopper in . 15+HP. Denies stopper in . 2NT = 15+HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) INV. 3. = PRE-EMPT, 11-14HDP with at least 3+.. 3 = Singleton  and 4+., 15-19HDP. SLAM TRY in .. 3 = Singleton  and 4+., 15-19HDP. SLAM TRY in .. 3 = Singleton  and 4+., 15-19HDP. SLAM TRY in .. 3NT = Gambling: long, top-strong 6+.. Or 15+ UNBALHP with max 3.. 4. = 18-19HDP, 5+. and a SLAM TRY. No void in any side suit. Rejection: 4NT/5.. 4 = Void in  and 5+.. CUE accepts the SLAM TRY and 4NT/5. rejects. 4 = Void in  and 5+.. CUE accepts the SLAM TRY and 4NT/5. rejects. 4 = Void in  and 5+.. 4NT is KCB. Aces in the void suit should be supressed. 4NT = 18-19HDP, 5+.. KCB in .. No singleton/void in the side suits.

4.8.1 RHO bids after 1.-2.

If the RHO doubles or bids 2//, a pass from the OH will show 11-14HP. 3. will be a PRE-EMPT. With 15+ the OH bids stopper in the opponent’s suit with 2NT, and otherwise bids suits showing stoppers on the 2 and 3 levels. A jump in a new suit = SHORT, 5+. fit and 15+HDP. Cue bid in the RHO’s suit asks for a stopper in that suit. X is PRE-FER-X on both hands.

4.9 Bids after 1.-2 (PRE-EMPT transfer ->2) PRE-FER jump to 2 primarily shows a weak transfer to 2 (SUBMIN PRE-EMPT) with at least 6+ without any side suit. Most of the honour strength should be in . But the hand can also have values enough for a SLAM TRY (15+HP). In that case the RH will return with Cue after 2 from the OH. The rejection will then be 3.

1. - 2 ? 2 = OK. The OH should bid 2 on all hands between 11 and 17HP and at least x. Any bid after this will be Cue (SLAM TRY) from the RH. The OH should not accept a SLAM TRY without a fit or with less than 15+HP. If the OH breaks the transfer, he shows an UNBALhand with 7+., or at least 18+HP, which is unsuitable for  contracts (a singleton/void in ). 2 = 5/6. and 4+. Reverse: ≥ 18HP.  contract is no option (max x). 2NT = 18-19HP UNBALNF. At least 4+. and at least xx. A light INV to 4. 3. = 7+. and 11-14HP.  contract is not an option (max x). 3 = Reverse. 5+., 4+ and 18+HP.  contract is not an option (max x). 3 = PRE-EMPT with at least xxx/Hx, 11-14HP or a ZAR. 3 = Void in  with at least xxxx/Hxx, 18-19HP. SLAM TRY in . 3NT = 18-19HP with 6+ (semi-)running . and max x. NF. 4. = 18-19HP, CUE with 5+. and xxxx/Hxx. SLAM TRY in . Partner accepts the INV with Cue, and rejects it with 4/4NT/5.. 4 = Void in  with at least xxxx/Hxx, 18-19HP. SLAM TRY in . 4 = At least xxxx/Hxx and 18-19HP. For play and not slam ambitious. (Could also be a PRE-EMPT.) 4 = Void in  with 5+. and at least Hxxx. SLAM TRY in . Rejection: 5. 4NT = KCB in . At least Hxxx. At least 18+HP. 5. = 6+. and 18-19HP.  is not an option (max x). NF. 5 = Void in  with 5+. and at least Hxxx. X-KCB. 4.10 Bids after 1.-2 (Transfer PRE-EMPT->2)

PRE-FER jump to 2 primarily shows a SUBMIN PRE-EMPT transfer to 2 with at least 6+ without any side suit and either 3-6HP or at least 15+HP. The same principles apply as after the SUBMIN PRE-FER jump 1. – 2.

1. - 2 ? 2 = OK. the OH should bid 2 on all 11-17HP hands and at least x. See 1. - 2. 2NT = 18-19HP UNBALNF. At least 4+. and min xx (can be 1-4-4-4). 3. = 7+. and 11-14HP.  contract is not an option (max x). 3 = Reverse. 5+. + 4+. 15+HP.  contract is not an option (max x). 3 = Reverse. 5+. + 4+. 15+HP.  contract is not an option (max x). 3 = PRE-EMPT with at least xxx/Hx, 11-14HP or ZAR. 3NT = 18-19HP with 6+ (semi-)running . and max x. 4. = 18-19HP. CUE with 5+. and xxxx/Hxx. SLAM TRY in . Partner accepts the SLAM TRY with Cue, and rejects it with 4/4NT/5..

34 4 = Void in  with at least xxxx/Hxx, 18-19HDP. A SLAM TRY in . 4 = Void in  with at least xxxx/Hxx, 18-19HDP. A SLAM TRY in . 4 = At least xxxx/Hxx, 18-19HDP. For play and not slam ambitious. (May also be PRE-EMPT.) 4NT = KCB in . At least 4+ support. 18+HDP. 5. = 6+. and 18+HP.  contract is not an option (max x). NF. 5 = Void in  with 5+. and at least Hxxx. X-KCB.

4.11 Bids after 1.-2

1. - 2 shows 11+HP UNBALRF with 6+./ and denies 4 /. The OH should bid 2NT to learn the exact contents of the RH’s hand:

1. - 2 ? 2NT = What does your hand look like? 3. = INV (11-13HP) with 6+. (natural). 3 = INV (11-13HP) with 6+ (natural). 3 = GF (14+HP) with 6+. (complementary). 3 = GF (14+HP) with 6+ (complementary).

If the OH makes other bids than 2NT, this is natural and GF (14+HP). Exceptions: a) 3. will always show the 11-14HP hand with 6+. (PRI). b) 3 will always show the 15+HP hand with 5+ and 4+. or 4+and 5+.(PRI)

4.12 Bids after 1.-2NT

A jump to 2NT shows an 18-19HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) natural GF which denies 4/ and 5+.. Normally the RH has at least 4. (Could also be 3-3-3-4..)

1. - 2NT ? 3. = Asks the RH to bid 4 with 4+. Thereafter: CUEs with  as trumps. 3 = Reverse. 5+. + 4+/5+ + 4+. and 15+HP. CUE in a M asks for the longest m. 3 = Reverse. 5+. + 4+. 15+HP. 3/4./ is CUE which confirms 4+ on the RH. 3 = Reverse. 5+. + 4+. 15+HP. 4.// is CUE which confirms 4+ on the RH. 3NT = 11-14HP UN(BAL)/(SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Could be 4-4-1-4/4-1-4-4/1-4-4-4. 4. = 13+HP, 6+. UNBALand asks for a CUE. The RH accepts with a CUE and rejects with 4NT. 4 = 13+HP, 4+. + 5+ or 5+. og 4+ GF and asks for a CUE. The RH accepts with a CUE and rejects with 4NT. 4 = 13+HP, 5 + 6+.. GF and asks for a CUE. 4NT = rejection.

4 = 13+HP, 5 + 6+.. GF and asks for a CUE. 4NT = rejection. 4NT = Kvantitativ høyning med 13-14HP og jevn hånd.

4.13 Bids after 1.-3.

A jump to 3. is a PRE-EMPT, and shows 3-6HP and 6+. NB! with 7-10HP and 5+. you normally bid 1 (= transfer to 1NT), and with 11-13HP you jump to 2NT.

1. - 3. ? Pass = For play. Shows 11-14 UN(BAL)/(SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 3 = 5+. and 4+ or 5+ + 4+.. Reverse: ≥ 15hp. RF. Partner passes with 3+, bids 4. with 3-4HP and no NT interest, shows a M stopper with 4-6HP. 3NT = 4-6HP with at least one stopper in both M. 3 = 5+. and 4+. Reverse: ≥ 15hp. RF. Partner passes with 3+ and 3-4HP, bids 4. with 3-4HP without any support in . 3NT = 5+HP and a stopper in . 4 = 4 and 5+HP, and 4/4 = singleton, 4+ and 5+HP. 3 = 5+. and 4+. Reverse: ≥ 15hp. RF. Partner passes with 3+ and 3-4HP, bids 4. with 3-4HP without any support in  and without a stopper in . 3NT = 5+HP and a stopper in . He bids 4 with 4 and 5+HP. 4/4 = singleton, 4+ and 5+HP. 3NT = 18-19 UN(BAL). 5+., but no slam ambition in .. Could be 4-4-1-4/4-1-4- 4/1-4-4-4. 4. = PRE-EMPT INV, either additional values (15+HP) or very long .. Partner accepts the INV with Cue and rejects it with pass or 5.. 4 =  void with 15-19HP, 5+.. GF. CUE accepts. 4NT/5. rejects. 4 =  void with 15-19HP, 5+.. GF. CUE accepts. 4NT/5. rejects. 4 =  void with 15-19HP, 5+.. GF. CUE/4NT (KCB) accepts. 5. rejects.

4.14 Bids after 1.-3

1. - 3 is a SUBMIN PRE-EMPT with 6+ and 3-6HP. (NB! With 7-10HP and 5+ you normally bid 1 (= transfer to 1NT), and with 11-13HP you bid 1NT.)

4.15 Bids after 1.-3/

1. - 3/ shows shortage in the bid suit) with 5+.. INV+. CUE/4NT (KCB) Accepts the SLAM INV, while 3NT/4-5. is for play.

4.16 Bids after 1.-3NT

36 A jump to 3NT shows 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 and 14-17HP. 4. suggests . as trumps with 15- 19HDP and 5+.. and asks for CUE. (rejection is 4NT/5.). A new suit shows a distributional hand and is a SLAM TRY. Partner accepts the SLAM TRY in the new suit with Cue, and rejects it with 4NT/5.. 4NT is KCB. 4NT directly on 3NT is quantitative bid.

4.17 Bids after 1.-4. A jump to 4. is a PRE-EMPT INV with 4-7HP and 7+.. Partner normally passes, pre- empts on with 5/6. or bids Cue with 18-19 (the cheapest bid in . is a rejection).

4.18 Bids after 1.-4 A jump to 4 shows void in  with 7+.. SLAM TRY. 4/=CUE, 4NT=KCB and 5. does not accept the INV.

4.19 Bids after 1.-4/4 A jump to 4/4 shows the RH’s own long suit and is a PRE-EMPT game in /, NF, and should be passed!

5 Opening 1: 5+[/4-4-4-1.]/2+ if 18-19NT SEMI(BAL)

1 shows 11-19HP, and never contains 5 card / unless the hand is strong and has a longer  suit. If it has SEMI(BAL) 18-19HP, the  suit can be down to a doubleton. Between 12 and 17HP the OH always has an UNBALdistribution with  as the longest suit (normally 5+, but can be 4-4-4-1.). The exception is: 1 - 1//NT - 2., which can have longer . than  (NF).

5.1 The RH shows M after  opening

After a 1 opening, as after a 1. opening, the RH should show a 4+M if he has one. However, there is not sufficient bidding space to make a complete transfer at the one level. We prefer to apply transfer on 1 - 1 but a «Switch» on 1 - 1. The reason for this is that vi still want to use the enemy suits to show our own suits, because this both hampers them and is morally destructive.

1 will always promise 4+, but can also have 4+! If the RH has both M, they may be equally long (4-4 or 5-5) or the  suit is longer than the  suit. 1 does not reveal anything about the relative length in the M suits, and must therefore be bid by the RH on hands that can hold 5/6 and 4 as well as 5 together with 5!

1 by the RH, on the other hand, shows 4+ and can hold 4 (but normally no more than that), and then only if the  suit is longer.

The continuation after 1 – 1/ has much in common with the continuation after 1. – 1/: a) XY is set up for the RH after 3 bids at the one level (PRI). (1 - 1 - 1/NT and 1 - 1 - 1NT, and several sequences after intervention). b) After a shown M from the RH, a direct jump to 3. by the OH is ROMEX Short (INV, PRI) (1 - 1/ - 3.), and confirms a 4+ support in the shown M. c) After 1 - 1, a jump to 2 from the OH will show exactly 11-12HDP and 4. (After 1 - 1, however, this is impossible to stage, and consequently, 2 will show 11-14HDP and 4+.) d) After 1 - 1, 1 from the OH shows 3+ and 11+HP. If the OH rebids  in his 2nd bid (PRI), he will have exactly 13-14HP and 4+. (The same as 1. - 1 - 1 - 1NT - 2.) After 1 - 1 - 1 - 2./ (XY), the OH should break the transfer and bid 2, since it shows an exact hand. e) Also after 1 - 1 - 1 the RH can jump direct to ROMEX Short: 3./ will show 5+, 13+HDP and is an INV with (max) singleton in the jump suit. f) If the opponents interfere after 1/ from the RH, this will set up SUPPORT-X with the OH. 38 Furthermore, certain common denominators will appear as to the development after 1 - 1 and 1 - 1: a) The bid 1NT shows the 18-19NT and denies four cards in the shown M. b) The bid 2NT shows the 18-19NT and confirms a 4 card support in the shown M. c) The RH can have a NF Canapé suit (longer . or at least 3), which he can show on the 3 level after some bidding sequences. After 1 - 1/ - 1NT, a jump to 3./ is NF Canapé, for all INV+ go through XY.

5.1.1 Bidding after an initial pass

Even when the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must always be taken into account that the RH has no more than 10HP. However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open, he may still have enough for an INV. When he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation.

5.2 PRI after 1 opening

After 1 opening the 1st PRI of the RH will always be to show a 4 card M if he has one. This he may do with as little as 3HP. The 2nd PRI of the RH is to PRE-EMPT with pre- defined bids: a) A jump to 3 with 6-8HP (NB! Must be good enough to afford 3NT from an 18-19HP OH) and 4+ (PRE-EMPT), b) A jump to 3. with 3-10HP and 6+. (PRE-EMPT). c) 1 - 1/ - 3/ is a PRE-EMPT with a 4+ support and 11-12HDP. d) 1 - 1 - 1 - 3 is a PRE-EMPT with 5+ and 3-10HDP. e) 1 - 1 - 2 - 3 is a PRE-EMPT with 4 and 3-10HDP. f) A jump to 2/ (natural) with a SUBMIN 6-suiter (PRE-EMPT). His 3rd PRI is a) to bid 2. with suitable hands. b) to bid 1NT with 7-10HP which cannot be shown in other ways and c) to bid 2NT with 11-13HP as a natural INV.

The 1st PRI of the OH will always be to show an 18-19NT if he has one. The 2nd PRI for the OH is a) to show a 3 card support to the RH’s  after 1, b) to show 4 card support to The RH’s shown M if he has got that and didn’t show it in his 2nd bid. His 3rd PRI is otherwise to show any weak, pre-defined hands (2.: shows 11-14HP and 5-4 NF in m (either way) and 2: shows 11-14HP NF and 6(or 5+ and a higher unbiddable 4 card suit)).

After 3 bids at the one level (or the equivalent) the RH’s 1st PRI is to apply XY to show any INV+. If he doesn’t, his bid will be NF unless it is a double jump showing SHORT and fit to the last bid suit by the OH.

5.3 About the 1 opening:

The 1 opening can be UN(BAL), SEMI(BAL) or SEMISEMI(BAL) (the same SEMISEMI(BAL) hands as after 1.). If the hand contains 11-17HP, it is in principle always UNBALwith at least 5 (NB! Only 4 if 4-4-4-1. and also if you open 1 and follow up with 2., which can show 4 and 5.). If you show the hand as an 18-19NT, will it always be (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) in the eyes of the RH, and only then can the OH have as few as 2. But of course, even an 18-19HP hand can be UNBALwith  as the longest suit.

The normal 1 opening therefore shows an UNBALhand with 11-17HP with 5+ (with or without side suit), i.e. a hand which should not be shown as an 11-14NT (opened with 1.), nor as 15-17NT (opened 1NT). 1 will normally be bid on a hand which a) has at least one singleton/void and good long one-suiter in  (6+), b) 5 and 4/ with or without HP enough for reverse. (Thus, 1 - 1x - 2 may show 5+ and 4 card / with only 11-14HP.) c) 4-4-4-1., or d) is a weak minor hand with 5-4 one way or the other (5. and 4 or 5 and 4., 11- 14HP). The bidding sequence 1 - 1//NT - 2. will therefore be NF and shows normal UNBALopening with 11-14 HP. (5-4-2-2 is normally shown as a NT hand). e) is an 18-19NT.

The RH should bid at the one level with as little as 3+HP (PRI), since the opening 1 can contain an 18-19NT. (It may even be necessary to «fake» a M suit to protect an 18- 19NT: with knxx - xxx - x - .D9xxxx you hardly want to leave an 18-19HP partner in 1 on a 2-1-fit! You therefore bid 1 in practical bridge with only 3 even if this means that you have to lie to your partner.) This will bring you more in accordance with the rest of the tournament, even though you may be landed in a 4-3 fit in a M at the two level or your partner may jump to 2NT, which you may consider to pass.

After 1NT (18-19HP) from the OH the RH can apply XY (2./) to INV/GF. All other bids will then be weak bids for play or for preference. Since the RH should bid on a 3 card M and as little as 3+HP, you actually need a bid below game level which shows 18- 19NT with a 4 card /-support. Therefore, a jump to 2NT after 1/1 will show an 18-19NT with a 4 card support in the shown /). This has several consequences:

1) With SUBMIN (3-6HP) the RH can pass 2NT or rebid 3/ (the supported M) for play. Everything else will be GF.

2) All ROMEX Short (direct jump to 3./3 after 1 – 1 and to 3./3 after 1 – 1) will therefore also show strong opening hands (15-17HP). Jumps like that will show at least 4+, 4 in The RH’s shown / and max a singleton in the jump suit (very often 4-4-4-1.).

40 3) 1 - 1/ - 2. will show 5-4 one way or the other in the m (5 and 4. or 5. and 4), 11-14HP, denies any support in the shown M and is NF.

4) The bid of a not shown M at the two level will be a Reverse, shows 15+HP and the RH should apply the PRE-FER Lebensohl (2NT) with a SUBMIN hand.

5.4 Guiding (PRI) principles

After 1 opening the RH should bid quite naturally, but in doing so, keep in mind four principles which are more or less PRI. a) You should always first check the major fit. Even with as little as 3HP the RH should show a 4 card M if he has one. This sets up Canapé when the RH later bids . and has had no support in his M suit(s). b) The second principle is the use of ROMEX Short. Because 2NT is used in order to show an 18-19HP with a M-support, Romex Long cannot be applied with a direct jump from the one level. c) The third principle is that XY is set up and applied every time there have been three bids at the one level, also after the OH has bid 1NT to show an 18-19NT without a M support. d) PRE-EMPTs

1 – 3 is a PRE-EMPT on the RH with 4+ and 6-8HDP. 1 - 2. is a transfer to 2 and may be a PRE-EMPT. 1 - 3. is a PRE-EMPT on the the RH with 5+. and 3-10HP. 1 - 1/ - 3/ is a PRE-EMPT with 4+ support and 11-12HDP. 1 - 1 - 1 - 3 is a PRE-EMPT with 5+ and 3-10HDP. 1 - 1 - 2 - 3 is a PRE-EMPT with 4 and 3-10HDP.

The PRE-EMPT principle supports that either the OH or the RH raise a supported M to the 3 level or a supported m to the three/four level. This should be done every time you assume that you do not have the highest contract and that you will not go more than 100 down. The point is that you must make your bid, not because you believe that the contract will make, but simply based on what you believe to be a good bid. The little extra level up will for sure make the lives of your enemies intolerable.

After 1 – 1/1 – 2NT all bids on the 3 level are CUEs and GF (except when the strong hand hasn’t actually bid the agreed trump suit. Then the suit below the agreed trump suit is used both at the three and the four levels as a transfer to the trump suit

41 42 to get the contract on the right hand). A rebid of the shown suit on the 3 level shows a SUBMIN (3-6HP) and is NF, and all bids at the four level are CUEs and SLAM TRIES.

When the opener is forced to show his 18-19NT at the two level (e.g. 1 – 2. – 2NT or after hostile intervention), 2NT (and possibly 3.) is the end station for a SUBMIN RH. Everything else than pass from the RH will be natural and GF.

A direct jump to 4./ after 2NT (which does not show a M support) will be a SLAM TRY with a genuine long m suit. Reply: CUE accepts while 4NT rejects.

With a SUBMIN RH there must be an emergency brake when the OH shows a reverse hand. In the bidding sequence 1 – 1//NT/2. – 2/ (as reverse showing 15- 17HP), 2NT from the RH will therefore be PRE-FER-Lebensohl, which shows max 6HP, and asks for 3. from the OH. This can be passed or corrected to 3// as NF. If the RH bids anything else than 2NT, he shows at least 7HP and has an INV+.

5.5 Replies to opening 1 (5+ or 18-19NT m/2+)

1 - ? pass = 0-6HP, not 4+ and not 4+/. 1 = RF: 3+HP and 4+. Can have 4 and 4+ (equally long in the M or longer : (4-4-x-x/5-4-x-x/5-5-x-x/6-4-x-x). Sets up Romex Short (a direct jump from the OH to 3./). 1 = RF: 3+HP and 4+. Can have 4, but then the  suit is always longer. Sets up Romex Short (a direct jump from the OH to 3./). 1NT = NF 7-10HP without 4/. Can have 4+ and/or 4+.. 2. = RF transfer to 2 with either a PRE-EMPT in mind or at least 11+HP: a) INV with 4-4-4-1.. b) GF with 4-4-4-1.. c) INV with long .. d) GF with long .. e) GF with 5+ f) a SLAM TRY with long .. g) a SLAM TRY with 5+. 2. sets up PEN-X on both hands. 2 = 3-6HDP NF, 4+, not 4/. 2 = 3-6HP, a Natural NF PRE-EMPT. 6+. Most of the HP in . Does not need to have any  support. 2 = 3-6HP, a Natural NF PRE-EMPT. 6+. Most of the HP in . Does not need to have any  support. 2NT = 11-13HP, a Natural SEMI(BAL) INV without 4/, and with max 3. Sets up PEN-X on both hands. 3. = 3-6HP, a natural SUBMIN NF. 6+.. Most of the HP in .. PRE-EMPT if partner has normal  hand (11-14HP). Does not need to have any  support. (With 5+. and 7-10HP you bid 1NT.) 3 = a PRE-EMPT with 4+ and 7-10HDP. (NB! Must be good enough to sustain 3NT from an 18-19HP OH.) 3 = 4+, 11+HDP with SHORT . Not 4. SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE.

42 3 = 4+, 11+HDP with SHORT . Not 4. SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE. 3NT = 14+HP. For play. Not 4/. Max 4. 4. = 3+, 11+HDP with SHORT .. Not 4/. SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE. 4 = PRE-EMPT INV with at least 4+, 6-10HDP. 4 = Long . For play. No slam interest. 4 = Long . For play. No slam interest. 4NT = 18+HDP. KCB with 3+. Not 4 card /. No shortage.

1.1 Strategy when an opponent interferes over 1

If the RHO doubles 1, 1/ from the RH means the same as without the X. All new suits on the lowest level are RF, XX is an INV+ with 11+HP and a keen interest in punishing the opponents (sets up PEN-X on both hands). 2. sets up INV (3), GF (2NT) with  support and a PRE-EMPT in . (3.). Everything else than 2NT/3./3 is a GF. 2 shows 7-10HDP with 4. 2NT is an INV without  support (11-13HP) and sets up PEN-X on both hands.

If the RHO bids a suit at the one 3 level, a double is a NEG-X, a new suit is RF and a jump in  is a PRE-EMPT. Cue in the enemy suit is an INV+ with  support and 2NT is an INV to 3NT with max xx. If the OH doubles after 2 passes or bids NT, he shows the 18-19NT.

If the RHO bids a strong 1NT, X is PEN-X, 2. shows both M, and all new suits are natural and competitive (jumps are PRE-EMPTs). 2NT shows 5+. and 3+, and 2/3/4 are PRE-EMPTs with 4+.

If RHO bids in a suit at the one or two level after the RH has shown a M suit, a double is a SUPPORT-X and every new suit is RF. A bid in any shown M shows a 4 card support. Cue from the OH shows 15+ and asks for stopper(s). If the enemy interferes at the two level or higher, both 2NT and X will show 18-19HP, regardless of whether the RH has bid or not.

5.6 Bids after 1-1 (4+ and 3+HP)

1 - 1 is natural and shows 4+ and 3+HP. The bidding continues as after 1. – 1/ (the OH “indicates support” with 1 if he holds 3+, and jumps to 2 with 4+ and 11- 12HP. 1 sets up ROMEX Short on the OH (we jump in . and ). 1 shows only  or longest in  or equally long with both  and .

With 3-3-3-4/3-3-2-5/3-3-1-6 and a SUBMIN the RH should bid 1 with 3 as an emergency bid, to guard an OH holding an 18-19NT.

1 - 1 ? 1 = UNBAL11-17HDP (Can have 18-19HP UN(BAL), but denies an 18-19NT). A RF with (4)5+ and 3+. Sets up XY. Can only be passed with 4+ and a SUBMIN. Can have 13-14HP with 4+, which the OH will show by rebidding  on the lowest level in his next bid. (See the development after 1. - 1/). 2 will then take PRI over any other reply to XY.

1 - 1 1 - ? pass = SUBMIN 3-6HP, 4+ and max 3. With 4+ you will normally prefer to make a PRE-EMPT jump to 3, and with 5+ and SUBMIN, you will normally make a PRE-EMPT jump to 3. 1NT = Natural 7-10HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) NF. Denies 5+. 2. = 5-4 or 4-5 in the m. UN(BAL). Not interested in NT. 11-14HP. The RH makes a preference, or bids 2NT to learn which m is longer. 2 = 6+. 11-14HP UN(BAL). Not interested in NT. 2 = 4+ together with 4, 11-14HP. 2 = 4. For play. 13-14HDP. 2NT = Natural INV (15-17HP). No more than 3. 3. = 5+, 4+. and 15-17HP. INV. 3 = 6+ and 15-17HP. INV. 3 = 5+, 4+, 3 and 15-17HP. INV. 3 = 4 and 11-14HDP with a singleton and at least 5+. PRE-EMPT. 3NT = For play. Not 4. 4. = SHORT in . and 15+HP with at least 5+ and 4+. GF. 4 = CUE in  and 15+HP with at least 5+ and 4+. GF. 4 = SHORT in  and 15+HP with at least 5+ and 4+. GF. 4 = For play. 4+. 15+HDP NF. No SHORTAGE. 2. = XY INV. Asks for 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = 4 and 4+. 7-10HP NF. An INV goes via XY. The OH should make a preference in  with 11-14HDP and 3-3 in the M, for the  can be longer than the . Pass = 4+. 2 = 3-3 in the M or 4 and 13-14HP. NF. 2NT = NF. Choose m. Have 5-4 in the m. 11-14HP. 3. = INV with 5. and 4, 15-17HP. 3 = INV with 5 and 4.. 15-17HP. 3 = INV with 4. 15-17HP. 3 = INV with 4. 15-17HP. 3NT = 18-19HP UNBALfor play with 5 and not 4/.

44 4. = SHORT in . and 15+HP with at least 5+ and 4+. GF. 4 = CUE in  and 15+HP with at least 5+ and 4+. GF. 4 = For play. 4+ and 15+HDP. No SHORTAGE. 4 = For play. 4+ and 15+HDP. 2 = PRI with 5+, 7-10HDP. NF, but constructive. 2NT = 11-13HP UNBALINV with only 4 but can have 3+ and/or 4+.. The RH should pass with a MIN, and otherwise make further inquiries on the 3 level (natural) as GF. 3. = ROMEX Short in . (singleton). Confirms 5+. INV. 3 = At least 4. SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP). (INV+ go through XY). 3 = ROMEX Short in  (singleton). Confirms 5+. INV. 3 = 4+. SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP). (INV+ go via XY.) 3NT = Gambling: 14+HP or trick-promising 11-13HP with 3+ support, good . suit and at least (half-)stopper in . 4. = Void in . with 5+. 15+HDP. GF, and asks for CUE. 4 = Singleton/void in  with 5+. 15+HDP. GF, and asks for CUE. 4 = Void in  with 5+. 15+HDP. GF, and asks for CUE. 4 = For play. 5+. 15+HDP. No slam ambitions. (Could be PRE-EMPT).

1 - 1 1NT = 18-19HP PRI. (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) hand without 4, but can have 4. 1NT Sets up XY. 1NT is NF only if the RH has ≤6HP (SUBMIN). With at least 7+HP in the RH, 1NT is a GF.

1 - 1 1NT- ? pass = 3-6HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL), 4, no longer side suit and believes 1NT to be the best contract. 2. = XY INV. Asks for 2. 2 = XY GF with 7+HP. 2 = 4 as well as 4+. SUBMIN NF (3-6HP). (INV+ go via XY). With 3-3 in the M, the OH should make a preference to  (can be longer then ). 2 = 5+ and SUBMIN NF (3-6HP). (INV+ go via XY). 2NT = Asks for a preference in the m. The RH has a weak UNBALhand (3-6HP) with 4 and at least 4-4 in the m: 4-1-4-4/4-0-5-4/4-0-4-5. (INV+ go via XY. 3. = NF SUBMIN Canapé in . (4 and 5+.) with 3-6HP. (INV+ go via XY). 3 = NF SUBMIN Canapé in  (4 and 5+) with 3-6HP. (INV+ go via XY). 3 = CUE with 6+. Sets  as trumps. 3 = 6+ and PRE-EMPT INV (3-6HP). 3NT = For play with 7+HP and at least half a stopper in both . and . 4. = SHORT in ., 6+ (7+HP). GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection = 4.

4 = SHORT in , 6+ (7+HP). GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection = 4. 4 = SHORT in , 6+ (7+HP). GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection = 4. 4 = 6+ and NF (3-10HP). No slam ambitions. 4NT = A quantitative raise. 11-13HP. No long suit.

1 - 1 ? 2. = Natural. UN(BAL). Either 5+ and 4+. or 5+. and 4+ and 11-14HP. NF and denies 3+. Cannot have 2-2-4-5/2-2-5-4, (would then have opened 1. and rebid an 11-14NT). Can have 4 (0-4-4-5/0-4-5-4) on rainy day.

1 - 1 2. - ? Pass = For play (3+., 3 and max 4). SUBMIN. 2 = Minor preference. NF. Can be SUBMIN. 2 = 4 and 4+. NF. The OH should make a preference in  with 11- 14HP and 3-3 in the M, as the RH could have longer ). 2 = 5+ NF and SUBMIN (3-6HP). 2NT = INV with 4 and 11-13HP. If the OH accepts the INV, he should bid the longest m. 3. = INV with 4+. and 4 and 11-13HP. 3 = INV with 4+ and 4 and 11-13HP. 3 = INV with 5-5 in the M. 11-13HP. Choose M at the three or the four level! 3 = 6+ and PRE-EMPT INV (7-10HP). 3NT = For play with a  stopper and 14+HP. 4. = PRE-EMPT INV with 5+. and (7-10HP). 4 = PRE-EMPT INV with 5+ and (7-10HP). 4 = GF with 5-5 in the M. 11-13HP. Choose M! Not slam ambitious. 4 = 6+ and NF (11+HP). Self-playing suit. Not slam ambitious.

1 - 1 ? 2 = Natural, normally an UNBAL6 11-14HP NF. Denies 3+. (Can be an emergency bid on 5 + 4 and 11-14HP = a hand too weak for reverse bid.)

1 - 1 2 - ? 2 = 4 and 4+. SUBMIN NF (3rd suit). The OH should make a preference to  with 11-14HP and 3-3 in the M, for the RH could have longer . 2 = 5+ and NF SUBMIN (3-6HP). 2NT = Natural INV.

46 3. = NF Canapé in . (4 and 5+.) with max 10HP. 3 = NF 4 and a 3+ support PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP). 3 = INV (11-13HP) with 5-5 in the M. Choose a M at the three or the four level! 3 = 6+ and PRE-EMPT INV (7-10HP). 3NT = For play. Stoppers in . and  and believes in game. 4. = SHORT ., 4. 4and 14+HP. GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection = 4/5. 4 = PRE-EMPT INV in , 4+, 4+ and 7-10HDP. NF. 4 = GF with 5-5 in the M. 11-13HP. Choose a M! Not slam ambitious. 4 = 7+ and NF (7-10HP). Believes in game but not in slam. 5 = 5+, 4 and 11-13HDP. Not slam ambitious.

1 - 1 ? 2 = Natural reverse, 15+HP RF: 5+ and 4+. NB: 2NT from the RH = PRE- FER Lebensohl (shows max 6HP). Anything else = 7+HP and INV+.

1 - 1 2 - ? 2 = 5, 7-10HP NF. 2NT = PRE-FER-Lebensohl. 3-6HP. Asks for 3. from the OH. 3. = OK Pass = Wants to play 3.. At least 5. and SUBMIN. NF. 3 = Wants to play 3. At least 3 and SUBMIN. NF. 3 = Wants to play 3/ At least 5-5 in the M and SUBMIN. 3. = Canapé. Shows 5-6. together with 4. 7-10HP INV. 3 =  preference with at least 3. 7-10HP INV. 3 = 4 and 4+. 7-10HP INV. 3 = 6 and 7-10HP INV. 3NT = For play. 11+HP. 4. = SLAM TRY.11+HP, SHORT . and 4. CUE/4NT accepts, 4 rejects the SLAM TRY. 4 = SLAM TRY. 11+HP,  support and 4. Asks for CUE. CUE/4NT accepts, 5 rejects the SLAM TRY. 4 = 11+HP and 4. For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = 11+HP and 6+ good . For play. No slam ambitions. 5 = For play. No slam ambitions.

1 - 1 ? 2 = 4, 5 (can be 4-4-4-1.) and 11-12HDP. UNBALNF. Sets up ROMEX Short and Long.

1 - 1 2 - ? Pass = For play with SUBMIN and MIN (3-10HP). 2NT = Introduction to ROMEX Long. 3. = OK. 3 = Long . (Natural) 3 = Long . (Natural) 3 = Long .. (Residue) 3 = Rejects any INV. PRE-EMPT. 3. = ROMEX Short. INV with singleton . (Natural). 11-13HDP. 3 = ROMEX Short. INV with singleton (Natural). 11-13HDP. 3 = ROMEX Short. INV with singleton (Natural). 11-13HDP.

1 - 1 2 - ? 3 = PRE-EMPT. 3NT = For play. 14+HP. Believes that there are as many tricks in NT as in . 4. = 11+HP, void in . and 4+. A SLAM TRY. CUE/4NT accepts, 4 rejects the SLAM TRY. 4 = 11+HP, void in  and 4+. A SLAM TRY. CUE/4NT accepts, 4 rejects the SLAM TRY. 4 = 11+HP, void in  and 4+. A SLAM TRY. CUE/4NT accepts, 4 rejects the SLAM TRY. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions.

1 - 1 ? 2NT = NB! PRI with 18-19NT and a 4 card  support. NB! 3 (= SUBMIN transfer to 3 or a SLAM TRY) is the only ”sign off” from the RH after this. All other bids on the 3 level show the RH’s M situation. Likewise is 4 a transfer to 4 with no slam ambition.

1 - 1 2NT- ? 3. = Real CUE, 7+HP and 4+. 3 = Real CUE, 7+HP and 4+. Denies . CUE. 3 = Transfer to 3 (to get the contract on the right hand). PRI. Then: CUE. 3 = OK. Pass = Sign off with SUBMIN. 3NT = GF with 4+. Asks for . CUE. Shows slam interest. 4. = CUE. Shows slam interest. Rejection: 4. 4 = CUE. Shows slam interest. Rejection: 4.

48 4 = CUE. Shows slam interest. Rejection: 4. 3NT = Shows only 4. Probably 4-3-3-3. No slam ambitions and for play. The RH can CUE at the four level if he is slam ambitious. 4 is a new transfer to 4. 3 = GF with 5+ and no shortage. Slam interested. 3NT = Shows only 4. Probably 4-3-3-3. No slam ambitions and for play. The RH can CUE at the four level if he is slam ambitious. 4. = Singleton . with 4 without any side suit. 4 = A/K CUE with 4 without any side suit. Denies CUE in .. 4 = Singleton  with 4 without any side suit. Denies CUE in ./. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 3NT = For play. Shows 4 and probably 4-3-3-3. No slam ambitions. The RH can CUE at the four level if he is slam interested. 4. = Singleton . with 4. 4 = Real CUE with 4. Denies .-CUE. 4 = Single-CUE with 4. Denies ./-CUE. 4 = Spillemelding. Not slam ambitious. 4. = Singleton ., 18-19HP and UNBALwith 4+. 4 = A/K CUE with  without a side suit. 4 = singleton  with 4+ without a side suit. Denies CUE in . 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = Real CUE (A/K). UNBALwith 4+. 4 = Singleton CUE with  without a side suit. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = Transfers to 4. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play. Has probably one or more surprises for the enemy. Not slam ambitious.

1 - 1 ? 3. = ROMEX Short (singleton .). Confirms 4+. (15+HDP) INV. 3 = 15-17HP, a good 6+ suit, MAX 2. INV. 3 = ROMEX Short (singleton ). Confirms 4+. (15+HDP). INV. 3 = 15-17HP, 5+, 4+ and no singleton. INV. 3NT = Gambling, (semi-)running 6-7 15-19HP with side stoppers in . and . MAX 2. 4. = Void in . and 4+ + 5+. 18-19HDP. GF. 4 = 7+. 15-19HP UN(BAL). No interest in NT. No side suit. INV in . MAX 2. 4 = Void in  and 4+ + 5+. 18-19HDP. GF. 4 = 18-19HP, 5+, 4+ and no shortage. For play. No slam ambitions.

5.7 Bids after 1-1 (=3+HP and 4+)

1 - 1 is RF, shows 4+ and is either the only M (and the longest suit) or longer  if you also have 4. Sets up Romex Short (a direct jump to 3./ - RF), and the further bidding is quite standard.

The 1st PRI for the OH is to show an 18-19NT (1NT without 4+ and 2NT with 4+). The 2nd PRI is to confirm 4+ (by bidding 2). The 3rd PRI is to show 6+ (2) or a weak hand (11-14HP NF) with 5-4 or 4-5 in the m (2.).

A Reverse on the OH shows 15-17HP, and the RH’s 1st PRI is then to bid 2NT as PRE- FER Lebensohl with a SUBMIN (3-6HP). When an 18-19NT jumps to 2NT with  support, both 3 (SUBMIN or SLAM TRY) and 4 (no slam ambitions) are reserved for transfers to  in order to get the contract on the right hand (the strong one).

1 - 1 ? 1NT = 18-19NT, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) without 4 card . Sets up XY. 1NT is only NF when the RH has SUBMIN. With 7+HP with the RH, 1NT is GF:

1 - 1 1NT- ? pass = SUBMIN (3-6HP), 4, no longer side suit ((SEMI)SEMI(BAL)) and believes 1NT to be the best contract. 2. = XY INV. RF. Asks for 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = 5+ NF. (3-6HP). (INV+ must go through XY). 2 = 5+ and 4+ and NF (3-6HP). (INV+ must go through XY). 2NT = Asks for a preference in m. the RH has a SUBMIN with 4, 4+. and 4+ (INV+ must go through XY: 1 – 1 – 1NT – 2. – 2 – 2NT =6-7HP). 3. = NF Canapé in . (4+ and 5+.). (3-6HP). (INV+ must go through XY). 3 = NF Canapé in  (4+ and 5+). (3-6HP). (INV+ must go through XY). 3 = 6+. PRE-EMPT. NF (3-6HP). (INV+ must go through XY). 3 = Singleton  and 6+. GF (14+HP). Sets  as trumps. 3NT = Gambling. NF with 11+HP and at least half a stopper in both . and . 4. = Singleton . and 6+. GF (14+HP). Sets  as trumps. 4 = Singleton  and 6+. GF (14+HP). Sets  as trumps. 4 = 6+ and NF (11+HP). Does not believe in slam.

1 - 1 ? 2. = Natural. UNBAL5+ and 4+. or 5+. and 4+. 11-14HP. NF. Max 3.

50 2 = Natural, normally 6, 11-14HP. NF (Can be an emergency bid with 5 + 4 and 11-14HP = a not-reverse hand.) Max 3. 2 = Natural support with 5+ and 4+ (can be 4-4-4-1.) PRI. Can be 3 but that is 4th PRI! 11-14HDP. NF. Sets up ROMEX Short and Long: 2 = Introduction to ROMEX Long. 2NT = OK. 3. = Long .. 3 = Long . 3 = Long . 3 = Rejects any INV. 2NT = ROMEX with SHORT . 3. = ROMEX with SHORT .. 3 = ROMEX with SHORT . 3 = PRE-EMPT. 2 = Natural reverse, 15+HP, 5 and 4 and denies 3+. RF. NB! 2NT from the RH is PRE-FER Lebensohl with SUBMIN, and asks for 3. which can be passed or adjusted to another suit on the 3 level, which should be passed. 2NT = NB! 18-19NT with a 4 card  support (can have 5+ and can also be UN(BAL)). 3 is in principle a SUBMIN transfer to 3 (which can be passed with SUBMIN, or raised to 4 if this is right, or the RH can make Cue with slam ambitions). Every other bid on the 3 level is Cue and GF. A jump from the RH to 4./ = short suit CUE and a SLAM TRY in , while 4 is a transfer to 4 with no slam interest). 3. = ROMEX Short (singleton .). Confirms 4+. (15+HDP) RF. Also here 3/4 will be reserved for a transfer to 3/4 to get it on the right hand. 3 = 15-17HP, good 6+, max 2 and no shortage. RF. 3 = 4+ + 5+ (can be 4-4-4-1.) 15-17HDP. INV. 3 = ROMEX Short (singleton ). Confirms 4+. (15+HDP) RF. 4 by the RH is also here a transfer to 4. 3NT = Gambling, (semi-)running 6-7 15-19HP with side stoppers in . and . Max 2. 4. = GF. Void in ., 4+ and 5+. 18-19HDP. Asks for a  CUE/KCB. Rejection: 4 or 4. 4 = Transfer to 4. Can have slam ambitions. 4 = For play with no slam interest. Has at least one surprise for the enemy! 4 = Void in  with 4+. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with . 4 = SHORT  with 4+. Natural 18-19HP. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = SEMISEMI(BAL) 18-19HP. (Denies any short suit in /..) Confirms 4+ and 5+. No slam ambitions. Most likely distribution: 2-4-5-2. 4 = Void in , 4+ and 5+. 18-19HDP. GF. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with  as trump. 18-19HP. 4+ and 5+ and very special hand. 5. = Void in ., 4+ and 5+. 18-19HDP. GF. X-KCB.

5.8 Bids after 1 - 1NT

1NT shows 7-10HP (SEMI-)SEMI(BAL) without 4/ and normally without 4+. (You can, however, deviate from this with 7-10HP and 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3.) The RH must therefore normally have at least 4.: 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3/3-3-2-5/3-2-2-6/2-3-2-6 (n an emergency also: 2-2-2-7/3-3-1-6). The bidding sequence does not set up anything, and you apply a jump or a reverse bid to show an opening hand with 15+HP.

1 - 1NT ? Pass = Believes 1NT to be the best contract. Has 5+ UNBAL(can be 4-4-4-1.). 2. = Natural UNBALNF with 5+ and 4+. or 5+. and 4+ and 11-14HP. 2 = 6+. (Can have 5 and 4/ in weak opening hand (11-14HP).) UNBALNF. 2 = Reverse: 15-19HP with 5+ and 4+. INV+ RF. 2 = Reverse: 15-19HP with 5+ and 4+. INV+ RF. 2NT = 18-19NT, 2+ and (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) GF. The RH shows his hand: 3. = 3-3-3-4 3 = 3-3-2-5 3 = 2-3-2-6 3 = 3-2-2-6 3 NT = 2-2-2-7 3. = 5+ and 4+. or 5+. and 4+, 15+HP or with very suited hand. RF. (The OH passes 1NT with 11-14HP.) 3 = 6+, 15-17HP. INV. No side suit. 3 = 5+, 6+. 15+HP SLAM TRY. Rejection: 3NT//5. New suit = CUE with . 3 = 5+, 6+. 15+HP SLAM TRY. Rejection: 3NT//5. New suit = CUE with . 3NT = Gambling, running or semi running 6-7 and at least half stoppers in both M (the RH has in principle shown . in his first bid). 4. = 5+., 6+. 18-19HP SLAM TRY. Rejection: 4./5./. 4 sets the trumps and asks for Cue. 4M = CUE with . as the trump suit. 4 = 7+. 15+HP. No interest for NT (may have bad M). PRE-EMPT INV in . 4 = SHORT  with 6-7. 15+HP GF. Asks for CUE. 4 = SHORT  with 6-7. 15+HP GF. Asks for CUE. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 15+HP. 5. = SHORT . with 6-7. 15+HP GF. Asks for CUE.

5.9 Bids after 1 - 2. (Transfer to 2)

2. shows at least 11+HP, and is a transfer to 2 (PRI). 2. denies 4/ and shows either an INV with 6+./ or a GF with 6+./. 2. sets up PEN-X on both hands when the RH bids after 2:

52 1 - 2. 2 - The normal response to 2..

1 - 2. 2 - ? 2 = GF with long . (complementary). 2 = GF with long  (complementary). 2NT = INV with at least 4-4 in the m. 3. = INV with long .. 3 = INV with long . If the OH does not have a reverse hand, he should bid 2 over 2., so that the RH can show his assets. Even with a reverse hand it will probably be profitable for the OH to bid 2 to reveal what the RH holds.

Since the RH has stated (with his 2.) that a M contract is off limit, a showing of stoppers will be more actual than showing suits. After the RH has shown his hand, a showing of stoppers from the down and up will reveal whether or not 3NT is a feasible project.

After 1 - 2. - 2 - 2NT (INV with 4+. and 4+), the OH should start showing his stoppers if he accepts the INV. He may pass 2NT with a weak opening or a ZAR.

1 - 2. ? 2 = NB! Breaks the transfer. Reverse: 15+HP UNBALwith 5+ og 4+. GF. 2 = Stopper in . Max 2. 2NT = 11-13HP with 4+. and 4+. The OH should show stoppers as cheaply as possible. 3. = 11-13HP with 6+.. 3 = 11-13HP with 6+. 3 = 6+. and 14+HP. 3 = 6+ and 14+HP. 3NT = 11-12HP, 4+. and 4+. For play with a -stopper. 4. = SLAM INV with 6+.. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play). 4 = SLAM INV with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play). 2 = NB! Breaks the transfer. Reverse: 15+HP UNBALwith 5+ og 4+. GF. 2NT = 11-13HP, with 4+. and 4+. The OH should show stoppers as cheaply as possible. 3. = 11-13HP with 6+.. 3 = 11-13HP with 6+. 3 = 6+. and 14+HP.

3 = 6+ and 14+HP. 3NT = GF 11-12HP, 4+. and 4+. For play with a -stopper. 4. = SLAM INV with 6+.. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play). 4 = SLAM INV with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play).

1 - 2. ? 2NT = NB! Breaks the transfer. 18-19 NT (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 3. = 11-13HP with 6+.. 3 = 11-13HP with 6+. 3 = 6+. and 14+HP. 3 = 6+ and 14+HP. 3NT = GF 11-12HP, 4+. and 4+. For play. 4. = SLAM INV with 6+.. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play). 4 = SLAM INV with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT is for play). 3. = NB! Breaks the transfer. 5-4 in the m and 15+HP. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer. 15+HP and 6+. New suit from the RH = CUE. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer. 5+ and 6+. 15+HP. UNBALSLAM INV. Rejection: 3NT/4/5. New suit = CUE with . 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer. 5+, 6+. 15+HP. UNBALSLAM INV. Rejection: 3NT/4/5. New suit = CUE with . 3NT = NB! Breaks the transfer. (Semi)running 6-7 and half stoppers in both M. 15+HP. 4. = NB! Breaks the transfer. 6+ and 5+.,. 15+HP UN(BAL). SLAM INV. Rejection: 3NT/4./5. New suit = CUE med .. 4 = NB! Breaks the transfer. 6+. 18-19HP UN(BAL). No interest for NT. No side suit. SLAM INV in . Rejection: 4NT/5. New suit = CUE med .

5.10 Bids after 1 - 2 (= PRE-EMPT 4+ and 3-6HDP)

2 shows a PRE-EMPT with 3-6HDP and at least 4 (with 4 and 7-10 HDP you should jump to 3, which will be a PRE-EMPT, but also an INV if the OH has an 18-19NT. The bid 2 shows no interest in M contracts. Over 2, 3 from the OH is a PRE-EMPT, 2NT shows the 18-19NT NF. The RH passes or shows stoppers in the side suits. The stoppers are bid as cheaply as possible, and a stopper you skip is a stopper you do not have.

5.10.1 RHO bids after 1 - 2

If RHO bids after 1 - 2, the OH should primarily show an 18-19NT (PRI) by bidding NT on the cheapest level (would show a stopper in the RHO’s suit), or with a double. Any new suit from the OH will show a stopper in that suit and 15+HDP (INV). A CUE in the

54 opponent’s suit will ask for a stopper in that suit and shows 15+HP. With 11-14HP UNBALand 5+ the OH should PRE-EMPT with 3 immediately. Any new suit with a jump is a “Splinter”, showing a  fit, SHORT in the jump suit and is a SLAM TRY. Cue accepts and 3NT/4NT/5 rejects the SLAM TRY.

5.11 Bids after 1 - 2 (SUBMIN 6+ 3-6HP)

A jump to 2 shows a weak 6+ without any side suit. The RH will normally have SUBMIN (3-6HP) but with  support he can be even weaker. The OH should normally pass with a normal opening (11-14HP and 4+), even with only a singleton . With a void in  and 6+ the OH should pull in the lowest side suit or in 3 (PRE-EMPT). With  fit and 11-14HP the OH can bid 3 as a PRE-EMPT. A jump in a side suit or a jump to 4 (PRE-EMPT INV) shows 18-19 HP. Otherwise, with 18-19HP and good values, the OH can bid game. (3NT/4/5).

5.12 Bids after 1 - 2 (Weak 6+ 3-6HP)

A jump to 2 from the RH shows a weak 6+ without any side suit. The RH will normally show SUBMIN (3-6HP) but with  support he can be weaker. The OH should normally pass with a normal opening (11-14HP and 4+), even if he only has a singleton . With void in  and 6+ the OH should pull in the lowest side suit or in 3 (PRE- EMPT). With a  fit and 11-14HP the OH can bid 3 as a PRE-EMPT. A jump in a side suit or a jump to 4 (PRE-EMPT-INV) shows 18-19HP. Otherwise, with 18-19HP and good values the OH can bid game. (3NT/4/5).

5.13 Bids after 1 - 2NT (Natural INV)

A jump to 2NT shows 11-13HP, and is a natural SEMI(BAL) INV (against an 11-14HP on the OH) which denies 4/. Partner normally passes with 11-12 and will think about raising if the trick potential is present with 13+HP. If he bids 3, this is NF, 6+ and only a suggestion of a better contract. With 11-14HP and 5-4 in the m he may bid 3., which the RH can pass or make a preference til 3 NF. 2NT sets up PEN-X on both hands. NB! Since 2NT is a natural INV in NT (against an 11-14HP on the OH), 3NT from the OH can no longer show the 18/19NT. 4NT, however, will be a quantitative raise with 18-19HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 3//4 from the OH will be an UN(BAL), natural RF with 15+HP.

5.14 Bids after 1 - 3. (SUBMIN PRE-EMPT)

A jump to 3. is a PRE-EMPT: 6+. and 3-6HP. The OH should normally pass with all hands which cannot see a game against a SUBMIN, even with a singleton ., but can pull

55 56 in 3 with a singleton or void in . and 6+. 3NT/5./ will show the 18-19NT. 4. will be a PRE-EMPT INV, while 4 is a SLAM TRY with 15-19HP and long . 3/ will show a stopper in the bid suit, and asks for 3NT if partner has a stopper in the other M.

5.15 Bids after 1 - 3 (4+, 7-10HDP)

Since all 1 hands show an UNBAL4+ (5+ or 4-4-4-1.) except when they have an 18-19NT, a jump to 3 is a direct PRE-EMPT from the RH. The bid shows 4+ and 7- 10HDP, and the RH should be able to sustain 3NT from an 18-19HP OH.

3NT or 5 from the OH will show the 18-19NT. The OH should otherwise normally pass if he does not see the possibility of many tricks in NT, or can make a PRE-EMPT INV with a raise to 4 (15+HP or very long ). 3/ will show a stopper in the bid suit, and asks for 3NT if partner has a stopper in the other M.

5.16 Bids after 1 - 3/ (GF with SHORT /)

A jump to 3/3 is a SLAM TRY with SHORT / (the bid suit), 4+ and 11+HDP. The OH accepts the SLAM TRY with Cue, and rejects it with 3NT/5.

1.2 Bids after 1 - 3NT (14+HP without 4/)

A jump to 3NT normally shows 3-3-3-4. or 3-3-4-3. and 14+HP, and is a contract suggestion. 4 after 3NT sets the trump suit and asks for Cue (rejection is 4NT). A new suit shows a distributional hand with long  + the bid suit and is a SLAM TRY. Cue accepts and 4NT rejects. 4NT shows an 18-19NT and is a quantitative SLAM TRY.

5.17 Bids after 1 - 4. (GF with SHORT .)

A jump to 4. is a SLAM TRY with SHORT ., 4+ and 11+HDP. The OH accepts the SLAM TRY with Cue, and rejects it with 3NT/5.

5.18 Bids after 1 - 4 (PRE-EMPT INV)

A jump to 4 is a PRE-EMPT INV with 3-6HP and 7+. Partner normally passes or pre- empts on to 5/6. 4NT is KCB with  as trumps (18-19NT).

5.19 Bids after 1 - 4/4 (PRE-EMPT game)

56 A jump to 4/4 is a PRE-EMPT game for play with seven/eight cards in the suit and 3-10HP. The OH should normally pass, but 4NT will be KCB with partner’s M as trumps (18-19NT).

6 Principles and conventions after opening 1./

6.1 XY

XY is an abbreviation of both the conventions XYZ and XYNT. Since they are applied on absolute equal terms, and since the only difference between them is that the latter will end in 1NT, we are going to use the term XY as a common denominator for these conventions.

XY is applied only by the RH, and is ”on” (PRI) every time there have been 3 bids (or the equivalent) at the one level and only then: 1. – 1 – 1/; 1. – 1 – 1; 1. – 1 – 1NT; 1. – 1 – 1NT; 1. – 1 – 1NT; 1 – 1 – 1; 1 – 1 – 1NT and 1 – 1 – 1NT. Only in one bidding sequence is XY applied without interference after a M opening: 1 – 1 – 1NT. If there is an intervention from the enemy, any double may replace one (or more) of the bids at the one level.

XY is the primary principle, and shall take PRI in order to INV (2.) or as a GF (2). In addition to XY, there are fit-showing bids like ROMEX Short (= singleton INV, which shall take PRI over 2. XY when the RH who wants to make an INV has a singleton), or a double jump showing a void and a fit in the last bid suit. All other bids, even of new suits are NF. A new m from the RH after having shown a M at the one level will always be Canapé (i.e. shows longer m than the M), for we will rather repeat a 5 card M than show a 4 card m side suit.

However, notice that we also apply XY after the intervention 1//NT in many bidding sequences. The main rule is that when an X (SUPPORT-X, NEG-X or other Xs) replaces any bid at the one level, the system is “on”.

Examples: 1. – (p) - 1 (= 4+) – (1/) X (support-X) (p) - XY = on!

And: 1. – (1) - X (= 4+) – (1) X (support-X) (p) - XY = on!

But notice: 1./ – (1NT) - X (NB! = PEN-X).

And: 1./ – (p) - 1/// – (1NT) X (NB! = PEN-X).

Please also note 5 sequences which set up XY after 1 opening if the opponents intervene (these principles also apply to minor openings):

1 – (x) – 1 – (p) – 1NT. 1 – (p) – 1 – (x) – 1NT (denies 3, for xx = SUPPORT-X). 1 – (1) – x – (p) – 1NT (x = NEG-X and shows both m). 1 – (x) – xx – (1) – 1NT. 1 – (p) – 1 – (x) – xx (SUPPORT-XX which shows 3, and sets up XY).

XY is never applied after opening 1 or higher, nor after the intervention 1NT (15- 17HP) or higher.

6.1.1 This is how to apply the XY

After 3 bids at the one level, 2. (XY INV) asks for 2 and thereafter the RH can pass 2 (with a SUBMIN). If he doesn’t pass 2, any new bid will always be an INV.

2 (XY GF) primarily asks for a bid of unshown values in /. Such values will be a 4 card where that has not been denied, or a 3 card support where a 4-card support has been denied (PRI). Secondarily 2 asks for any 5 card m, if you don’t have either, you should bid 2NT.

The GF provides us with time and bidding space to exchange info before we bid the game. New suits from the OH will not necessarily show more than three cards, while any new bid from the RH will in principle always be natural.

The main rule is thus that all other bids than 2. and 2 will normally be weak and for play when XY is available as a device for INV+, with two exceptions: a) A direct jump into ROMEX Short takes PRI when the 3rd bid at the one level is a M. It shows a singleton in the bid suit and is an INV in the shown M. b) Double jumps which show a fit (including a jump to 3/4./ over a –bid) shows void in the jump suit (unless the suit has previously been shown as a 4+ suit) . This is a SLAM TRY which asks for Cue below game level if you have one. Rejection is a return to the M suit on the lowest level.

6.2 2 over 1 (2/1)

PRE-FER has no genuine 2 over 1 sequences without any intervention from the opposition. The closest one is 1 - 2..

However, if the opponents bid 1 or higher over 1. or 1 or higher over 1, our system has been corrupted and is consequently «off». Then 1NT will be the primary bid

59 60 for all hands between 7 and 10 HP (if available). Since we then go over to natural bidding, 2 over 1 will find its rightful place in this setting, and shows 5+ cards in M, 4+ cards in m and 11+HP. It sets up PEN-X on both hands.

6.3 PRE-FER Lebensohl

PRE-FER Lebensohl can in a given bidding sequence be applied by the RH to distinguish between a hand with 7+HP and a weaker hand (SUBMIN: 3-6HP) and conveys a wish to play a part score. This normally occurs after the OH has reversed and thereby shown strong cards (15+HP).

A SUBMIN RH will bid 2NT over the reverse bid, and this asks for 3.. When the OH bids 3., the RH can pass or correct to 3/ (underlying suits to the reverse suit), which he should be allowed to play. He can also make a weak support bid in one of the OH’s shown suits.

A related PRE-FER Lebensohl will occur if the OH has shown a reverse hand with 5.+4 or 5+4. (after 1. - 1x - 2). If the RH bids 2NT, the OH should pull in the longer m.

If, after such a reverse bid, the RH does not bid 2NT, but makes any other bid at the three level, he promises at least 7+HP, and this is therefore a constructive bid.

PRE-FER Lebensohl is also applied in defence after TO-X of a weak 2/ by an opponent, and also after TO-X of a “Tartan” (weak two suit openings), but not after a 1NT opening and intervention (see the PRE-FER defence against the opponents’ intervention over 1NT).

6.4 Canapé

Canapé means in PRE-FER that the RH bids a longer m after having shown a shorter M.

The OH will never have any Canapé suit, for the opening suit will almost always be his longest in a distributional hand. (Exception: 5-4 in the m).

The RH, however, will very frequently show a Canapé suit in ./ after he has shown 4+/ in his first bid (or has made PRI bids).

Since the 1st PRI in this system is to always reveal M fits, a weak RH with 4M + 5/6m will always choose to show the M suit first. He will not bid a 4 card ./, unless there is a RF/GF which would make it natural to bid ./ (e.g. after a PRE-FER-X) or if the RH is strong enough to show a m Canapé when you have found no other fit yet.

60 This means that when the RH only shows 4+ M and then chooses to show a m, the ./ suit is as a rule longer than the shown / whenever the OH has not established an 8 card fit in the M suit. Example 1: 1 – 1 – 1NT - 3./ = NF Canapé in ./ (4 and 5+./). 3./ are not regarded as “new suits on the 3 level”, for if the RH is to force or INV, he must apply XY: Example 2: 1 – 1 – 1NT – 2. - 2 - 3./ = INV Canapé in ./ (4 and 5+./). Example 3: 1 – 1 – 1NT – 2 - 2 - 3./ = GF Canapé in ./ (4 and 5+./). If the RH has 5/ + 4./ in weak hand, he should rather repeat the M suit than bid the m (with or without a jump).

The RH can: a) Go via XY and determine to INV or to bid a GF, and then show a longer m. b) Jump to 3./ as NF Canapé after only having shown a 4 card / when XY is available. c) Pass with not too strong a hand (SUBMIN). Then (if given the opportunity), he can bid the ./ suit as a natural NF Canapé, if he thinks that the bidding level, the vulnerability and the strength of the hand could justify this. d) Apply the PRE-FER-X to make his partner bid his m in a competitive bidding sequence. (This also applies to the OH.)

After a PRE-FER-X it will be easy to show a longer m direct (and even easier if an opponent interferes), for if there is no fixed fit, new suits in a competitive bidding sequence will: a) still be RF (the PRE-FER-X will make new suits NF for the other hand.) b) not necessarily be longer than four cards.

6.5 Be very careful with SUBMIN RH

There can be good reasons for warning the RH against bidding more than once on a SUBMIN (3-6HP), not even when the OH shows a 4 card fit in your shown suit. This is especially important when you are vulnerable. The point to make is ambiguous. Firstly, a new bid from a SUBMIN will promise 7+HP and the OH will never understand that the RH has a SUBMIN. Secondly, by bidding more than you must, you put your head under the guillotine, and if the opponents are in the mood, it will be chopped off. Please also remember that you have a partner, who will be willing to stretch his hand little based on your promised 7+HP.

The OH may, however be strong (at least 15HP), and can force you to bid again. When partner reverses the OH, SUBMIN RH has the possibility to warn him via 2NT, which is a PRE-FER-Lebensohl. If the RH bids something else than 2NT after a reverse on the OH, he will guarantee at least 7HP.

Likewise there is every reason to warn a MIN OH against being too active when the RH cannot guarantee 7+HP with his first bid. And, when the RH bids 2NT after a reverse bid (PRE-FER-Lebensohl) the OH should abide by the system and bid 3., unless he has something quite exceptional! 7 Opening 1 (5+)

Opening 1 shows at least 5 and 11-19HP (can have less if the opening is a ZAR). The opening suit is always the longest suit of the hand. (However with a MIN ZAR it is not unthinkable to open 1 with 5 and a longer m.) NB! Since the replies after 1 and 1 go exactly the same way, most of the principles and bidding sequences that are explained under the 1 opening, also apply to the 1 opening. (The only real differences between the two M are that after 1, 2 is a transfer to , showing at least 4, and after 1, 1 will show 4+.)

Bid: After 1 Meaning After 1 Meaning 1 4+, 7+HP. Only after 1. 1NT 7-10HP. 7-10HP. 2. 11+HP. Transfer to 2. 11+HP. Transfer to 2. Minor based hand. Minor based hand. 2 3 and 3-6HP or Transfer to 2 4+, 7+HP. Only after 1. at least 11HP. with exactly 3. 2 3 & 7-10HP 3 card  support 3 and 3-6HP or Transfer to 2 with at least 11HP. exactly 3. 2 7-10HP, 4+ and «Jump +1». 3 and 7-10HP 3 card  support a singleton. 2NT 14+HP and 4+. «Stenberg GF». 14+HP and 4+. «Stenberg GF». 3. 11-13HP and 4+. «Jump +2». 7-10HP, 4+ and «Jump +1». May have a sing. a singleton. 3 7-10HP and 4+. «Jump +3». 11-13HP and 4+. «Jump +2». No singleton. May have a sing. 3 3-6HP and 4+. SUBMIN PRE- 7-10HP and 4+. «Jump +3». EMPT. No singleton. 3 3-6HP and 4+. SUBMIN PRE- EMPT. 3NT For play. For play

The RH has a number of bids which show a fit and the lack of such, and there is a sharp difference between a 4 card and a 3 card fit in the opening suit. In accordance with Cohen’s «The Law of the total amount of tricks» we should then play a M contract on at least the 3 level whenever we have 5 + 4 = a 9 card fit.

Therefore, as 1st PRI, the RH must make a jump with any 4 card M fit (PRE-FER Structural jumps), and his 2nd PRI is to bid 1-2/ with “only” a 3 card  fit (the

62 equivalent showing 3 after 1 opening is: 1 - 2/). With a bad 3 card support (xxx) the RH is allowed to show a good 4 card in  after a 1 opening before supporting the .

With only two cards or less in the opening suit the RH’s 1st PRI is to bid 1NT (1) with 7-10HP. With 11+HP, the RH’s 1st PRI is to bid 2. (PRE-FER transfer to 2). (The same bid after 1 opening.) This transfer will cater for all kinds of INV and GF hands when the long suits are in the m and it will distinguish between Hx, xx and max a singleton in the opening suit. After 1 opening, there is a transfer bid which is not available after 1 opening, and that is 2, which transfers with 4+ and 11+HP.

With an established 5-4 fit in a M, 3NT is close to never an alternative contract. So when the OH bids a new suit on the 3 level this is (PRI) a singleton if it is not a conventional showing of a real suit (e.g. after 1 - 2NT). This bid asks for a CUE under game level. A SLAM TRY without a singleton is shown by 3NT (RF), which also asks for Cue. The bid of 3 in the agreed suit when a GF has been established asks for a singleton (3NT denies any singleton).

The main rule is that a 3 or 4 card support in the opening suit should be shown as soon as possible, simply because this will clarify the trumps, set the bidding level and give ample opportunities for the OH to add DP to his hand value. In a bidding sequence ending in 2 in the opening suit (which establishes an 8 card fit), we apply ROMEX Short and Long on the OH in order to make an INV.

If the RH transfers to 2 med 2 he either has a SUBMIN (3-6HDP) an INV (11- 13HDP) or a GF (14+HDP). (The equivalence after 1 opening is: 1 - 2). The OH should almost always bid 2 to give the RH the opportunity to show exactly what he holds. Then the RH should show his assets:

1 - 2 2 - ? Pass SUBMIN (3-6HFP). 3 card  support. New suit INV (11-13HFP). ROMEX Long with a 3 card  support. 2NT GF (14+HFP). Stenberg with a 3 card  support.

The sequence is similar after 1 opening:

1 - 2 2 - ? Pass SUBMIN (3-6HFP). 3 card  support. New suit INV (11-13HFP). ROMEX Long with a 3 card  support. 2NT GF (14+HFP). Stenberg with a 3 card  support.

2. is a PRE-FER-transfer which is applied after 1/ to show great number of minor dominated RH with max a 2 support. 2. is a transfer to 2 (which once in blue moon can be passed by the RH with a SUBMIN and 6+). The OH should normally fulfil the transfer, even with a singleton , unless he has incredibly good reasons to break it.

If the OH breaks the transfer, he can a) repeat the opening suit, with a 6 card suit and a very bad fit in the transfer suit (max a singleton). He then does not necessarily have more HP than 11+. He can otherwise make another bid, but then he will show an extreme distribution (a ZAR OH) and max a singleton , or 18+HP (2NT). The RH should assume that the OH has a ZAR. After 2. and the reply 2, all the further bids are more or less identical both after 1 and after 1 opening.

After 1 - 2. - 2 (1 - 2. - 2) two new PRI concepts are introduced: «Impossible Major» and «Impossible Support». «Impossible Support» is the bid of the opening suit after 1/ - 2. - 2, which shows a minor based hand, but promises Hx in the opening suit. «Impossible Major» is the bid of the other M in the same sequence, which shows a minor based hand but promises xx in the opening suit. If after 1/ - 2. - 2, the RH does not bid 2 or 2 (skips this segment), he will have max a singleton in the opening suit.

Both 2 and 2 are RF, however, and the opener is expected to make the adajent bid, so that the RH is able to convey his m constellation. (If the adajent bid is 2NT, this takes away the RH possibilities of conveying a SEMI(BAL) INV with 2NT, and, if so, the OH should not bid 2NT unless he would reject the 2NT INV. If he wants to accept an INV, any other bid would do).

7.1 How to show your M fit (or lack of such)

a) With four+ in partner’s M: With four+ cards in opening suit, the RH always jumps:

1) Jump+1 shows 7-10HDP, 4+ trumps and promises a singleton. (1 - 2 or 1 - 3.).

2) Jump+2 shows 11-13HDP, 4+ trumps and may have a singleton. (1 - 3. or 1 - 3).

3) Jump+3 shows 7-10HDP, 4+ trumps and denies any shortage. (1 - 3 or 1 - 3).

4) A jump to 2NT shows 4+ trumps and 14+HPD (GF). (1 - 2NT or 1 - 2NT).

5) A jump to three in the suit shows 3-6HDP and 4+ trumps. (1 - 3 or 1 - 3).

6) Any jump to 4 in a lower suit (or to 3 over 1) shows 4+ trumps and a void in the jump suit. (1 - 3/4./4 or 1 - 4./4/4). This may be a slam try, and the RH should Cue if he has any top honor/shortage on the way up to game.

64 b) With three cards in partner’s M:

1) With a three card support and 7-10HDP, the RH will raise to two in the suit. (1 - 2 or 1 - 2). 2) With a three card support and 3-6HDP, 11-13HDP or 14+HDP, the RH will bid two in the suit below the opening suit. This asks the OH to bid two in the opening suit, and then the RH will show which type he has:

1 - 2 2 - ? Pass = 3-6HDP. For play with 3. 2 New = 11-13HDP INV with 3. 2NT = 14+HDP. “Stenberg” with 3 card -support. GF. or: 1 - 2 2 - ? Pass = 3-6HDP. For play with 3. 2 New = 11-13HDP INV with 3. 2NT = 14+HDP. “Stenberg” with only 3 card -support. GF. c) With two cards in partner’s M:

With only two cards in the opening suit, the RH can bid 1NT, the other M or 2.. 2. is a minor-based hand which will aim at playing 2 or make an INV or a GF with one long m or with both m. The OH is expected to say 2 after 2., and then the RH can bid: 1) 2 in the opening suit (”Impossible Support”). This shows Hx in the opening suit, and is a RF.

1 - 2. 2 - 2 2 - 2NT/3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4 or: 1 - 2. 2 - 2 2NT *) - 3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4 *) Shows MIN. Everything else is a GF. 2) 2 in the opposite M (“Impossible M”). This shows xx in the opening suit and is a RF

1 - 2. 2 - 2 2NT *) - 3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4 *) Shows MIN. Everything else is a GF. or:

1 - 2. 2 - 2 2 - 2NT/3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4 c) With less cards than two in partner’s M:

With less cards than two in the opening suit, the RH bids 2. and after 2, he skips the showing of Impossible M/Impossible Support and bids on to show his valuables in the m suit(s). The fact that he skips showing any support will deny more than max a singleton in the opening suit:

1 - 2. 2 - 2NT/3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4 or: 1 - 2. 2 - 2NT/3./3/3/3/3NT/4./4/4/4

7.2 Replies to opening 1/ (5+, 11-19HP)

1 - ? pass = 0-6 HDP and max a doubleton  or 0-2HDP and 3+. 1 = 4+, 3+HP RF. Can have xxx but never 4. Sets up jump to ROMEX Short (jump to 3./ with  as trumps). 1NT = 7-10HP NF, max a doubleton , and not 4. The hand can contain 4-4, 5-4 or even 5-5 in the m suits. (With 11+HP, however, the RH should always bid 2. on such hands). 2. = 11+HP RF. PRE-FER transfer to 2 with a minor-based hand. The OH should normally accept the transfer, even with a singleton . 2. denies 4+ and sets up two new PRI concepts for the RH: ”Impossible Support” (RF 2 with Hx) and ”Impossible Major” (RF 2 with xx). If the OH breaks the transfer, he shows six cards in the opening suit and 15-17HP (2), 18-19HP (2NT) or an extreme ZAR hand (any new suit). 2. also carries the same meaning and development after 1 opening. 2 = PRE-FER-transfer to 2. 2 always shows a 3 support and in addition: a) SUBMIN (=3-6HDP), b) INV (11-13 HDP) or c) GF (14+ HDP). The OH should assume that the bid is a SUBMIN 3-6 HDP and should therefore bid 2 on nearly anything. The continuation is the same as after a «normal» Stenberg (1 - direct jump to 2NT). (The equivalent after 1 is 2). 2 = 3+, 7-10HDP. Sets up ROMEX Short/Long on the OH. (The equivalent after 1 is 2).

66 2 = PRE-FER structural jump+1: 4 + a singleton somewhere and 7-10HDP. RF, a Mild INV. 2NT asks for the singleton. (The equivalent after 1 is 3..) 2NT = (“Stenberg”) 14+HDP. GF with at least 4. (2NT carries the same meaning and development after 1 opening). 3. = PRE-FER structural jump+2: 4+ + 11-13HDP RF. Can have a singleton somewhere (the relay bid asks). (The equivalent after 1 is 3.) 3 = PRE-FER structural jump+3: 4 and 7-10HDP RF. Denies any singleton. A very weak PRE-EMPT INV. (The equivalent after 1 is 3.) 3 = 4 support. Very aggressive SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP). 3 = SLAM TRY with 4 and a void in . 4 = rejection. CUE/KCB = positive. 3NT = 14-17HP NF. 3-2-4-4 (doubleton ). No slam ambition. 4. = GF with 4 and void in .. 4 = rejection. CUE/KCB = positive. 4 = GF with 4 and void in . 4 = rejection. CUE/KCB = positive. 4 = NF PRE-EMPT. Very aggressive. At least 5. 5-10HDP. 4 = NF. Long (7+card)  suit (may be a PRE-EMPT). For play. 4NT = KCB. At least 4. Denies any short suit.

7.2.1 After an initial pass

Even when the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are still “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must always be taken into account that the RH has no more than 10HP. However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open, he may still have enough for an INV. When he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation.

7.3 The opponents interfere after opening 1

If an opponent bids X (regardless of position), this is still regarded as a “no-bid”, and therefore the system is ”on”, as if the opponents have not bid. XX shows 11+HP and expresses wish to «penalise the enemy» and sets up PEN-X on both hands. PRE-FER’s transfers at the two-level, “Stenberg” as well as “Structural Jumps+1, +2 and +3” are “on”. Exception 1: If an opponent doubles a “Structural Jump+1”, xx will ask for the singleton. Any suit will confirm a singleton in that suit. Exception 2: If an opponent doubles a “Structural Jump+2”, xx will ask for the singleton. Any suit will confirm a singleton in that suit, while a return to the trump suit will deny any singleton.

If the RHO bids 1 after 1, this will have no impact on the system, and consequently, also here the system is ”on”. 1NT will be the collective bid for all RHs ranging from 7- 10HP.

If the RHO/LHO bids 1NT (=a natural strong NT) a X will always will be a PEN-X (and sets up PEN-X on both hands), while a suit at the two level or higher will be natural and for play (possibly a PRE-EMPT). After later bids from an opponent PRE-FER-X can also be applied.

If the RHO bids inn 2. or higher, you switch to natural bids, with NEG-X up to and including 3, SUPPORT-X/XX (when the RHO interferes after the RH’s bid), the 2/1 principle, CUEs, 4. suit (=GF), Reverse, Splinter, void jumps, etc. However, 2NT will still be “Stenberg” even if an opponent bids up to 2.

You will make it PRI to show Hx in the opening suit if you have initially denied an at least 3 card support. Later you will also show xx in the opening suit. In a competitive bidding sequence where the RH has a difficult bid, he can, however, choose to support at once, even with no more than xx in the opening suit.

If the RHO doubles after a transfer from the RH at the two level, a pass from the OH will show at least H10xx in the transfer suit and a XX will show a 3 card support. Otherwise the OH should fulfil the transfer. Once again the X is a “not-bid”, which does not corrupt the system, and which gives our side an extra option which we did not have originally.

If the RHO bids after a completed transfer at the two level, a X from the RH will be PEN-X if the transfer could include an INV (the X will establish that it really was an INV). Example: if the RHO bids inn after 1 - 2. - 2 or 1 - 2 - 2 (or equivalent after 1 - 2. - 2, 1 - 2 - 2 eller 1 - 2 - 2), a X from the RH will be PEN-X, since all these transfer bids may contain an INV.

A X from the OH will, however, only be a PRE-FER-X, which shows additional values but no good bid. New suits continue to be natural and RD on both hands.

If the transfer does not imply at least an INV, a X from both hands will always be PRE- FER-X, which suggests additional values, and asks for another suit bid from partner. (Partner can, however, transform a PRE-FER-X into a PEN-X if he has extra good defensive values.) New suits continue to be natural and RF on both hands (when XY is not an option).

If the RHO doubles or bids a suit after the first suit bid from the RH, it sets up SUPPORT-X/XX (PRI) for the OH.

7.4 Bids after 1 - 1 (4+, 7+HP)

1 is a natural bid that shows 4+ RF, with 7+HP. Can have 3 (4-4 would play better than 5-3, but the RH will then support the opening suit in his 2nd bid) but not 4. With 4+ the PRE-FER Structural jumps take PRI. If the RH does not bid 1, he normally

68 has max 3. However, he can have 4 even if he chooses to show 3. 1 sets up a jump to ROMEX Short (but only in ./) on the OH.

1 - 1 ? 1NT = 11-14HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Denies 4, and 6, but can have 5, 4./ and 2-2. This is the only uncontested sequence after a M opening which sets up XY. (If the opponents intervene, however, both NEG-X and SUPPORT-X/XX will replace any bid at the one level and render XY “on”.) Any unforced bid of 3./ later will be a Canapé from the RH (with or without a jump).

1 - 1 1NT- ? pass = For play. 2. = XY INV. Asks for 2. 2 = XY GF. 2 = 4 + 3. NF 7-10HP. All INV+ go via XY. 2 = 5+. 7-10 HP NF. No game interest. Max 2. 2NT = UNBALNF with both m and short : 4-1-4-4/4-0-4-5/4-0-5-4. 3. = Weak UNBALCanapé. 5-10HP NF. 4 and 5+.. Max 2. 3 = Weak UNBALCanapé. 5-10HP NF. 4 and 5+. Max 2. 3 = 8-10HP PRE-EMPT INV. 4 and 3+ and a singleton in m. 3 = 3-7HP PRE-EMPT. 6+. Max 2. NF. 3NT = 14+HP. UNBALGF. Max a singleton . For play. 4. = Sets  as trumps. 4 and at least 3. Void in .. 14+HDP GF. 4 = Sets  as trumps. 4 and at least 3. Void in . 14+HDP GF. 4 = 14+HDP. 4 and at least 3. No slam ambitions. For play. 4 = 14+HP. 6+. Max 2. No slam ambitions. For play. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps.

1 - 1 ? 2. = 11-19HP RF. 5+ + 4+.. (NF for a SUBMIN RH with 3+.). 2 = 11-19HP RF. 5+ + 4+. (NF for a SUBMIN RH with 3+). 2 = 11-14HP NF, normally UNBALwith 6+. Pass and 2 are both NF from a SUBMIN RH. All other bids are RF. 3./ = Canapé. 2 = A NF 4 card  support with 11-14HDP. Sets up ROMEX Short/Long on the RH: Pass = for play. 2NT = Introduction to ROMEX Long. 3. = OK 3 = ROMEX Long (3+). 3 = ROMEX Long (3+). (Double suit support).

3 = ROMEX Long (3+.). 3. = ROMEX Short (singleton .). 3 = ROMEX Short (singleton ). 3 = ROMEX Short (singleton ). 3 = PRE-EMPT. 2NT = 18-19NT with 5+. NF. Every other bid than 3 (NF) from the RH is GF. 3. = ROMEX Short: 15+HP, a singleton . and 4. 3 = ROMEX Short: 15+HP, a singleton  and 4. 3 = 15-17HP, 6+. Not 4. INV. 3 = 15-17HDP and 4. INV. The RH should accept the INV with 9-10HDP and a short suit and with all 11+ hands. 3NT = 15+HDP. NF. For play with 7+ (SEMI-)RUNNING  and max 3. Great trick potential. 4. = 15+HDP GF with 4 and a void in .. 4 = 15+HDP GF with 4 and a void in . 4 = 15+HP UN(BAL), 6+. Max 3. Great trick potential. 4 = 15+HDP, 4. Cannot afford 3 to be passed. No short suit. 4NT = KCB with 4.

7.5 Bids after 1-1NT (7-10HP, max xx + xxx)

1NT over 1 = 7-10HP NF, with max a doubleton , and denies 4. The RH can have 4- 4 or 5-4 in the m, and even 5-5 with 7-10HP. (However, with 11+HP the RH always bids 2. = PRE-FER-transfer to 2 with a m dominated hand).

1 - 1NT ? 2. = 11-17HP. 5 and 4+.. UNBALor 15-17HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) with 3+.. RF, but can be passed with 3+. and x if the RH has a SUBMIN. 2 = 11-17HP. 5 and 4+. UNBALor 15-17HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) with 3+. RF, but can be passed with 3+ and x if the RH has a SUBMIN. 2 = 11-14HP. 6+. Can have 4 (but is too weak to show it through a reverse). 2 = Reverse: 15-17HP. 5+ + 4+. RF INV+. 2NT = 18-19HP SEMI(BAL) (5-3-3-2) or SEMISEMI(BAL) (can have 5, 4./ and 2-2). 3. = 15+HP. 5+ + 5+.. UNBALRF. 3 = 15+HP. 5+ + 5+. UNBALRF. 3 = 15-17HP. 6+. INV with a good suit. 3 = 15+HP. 6+ + 5. GF and asks for a preference or a m CUE with slam ambitions. 3NT = 18-19HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) NF 5-3-2-2 or 5, 4./ and 2-2. Trick potential.

70 2NT = 15-17HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL): 5-3-3-2 (could be 5, 4./ and 2-2). 3. = 15+HP. 5+ + 5+.. USEMI(BAL) RF. 3 = 15+HP. 5+ + 5+. USEMI(BAL) RF. 3 = 15-17HP. 6+. INV with a good suit. 3 = 15+HP. 6+ + 5. GF and asks for a preference or a m CUE with slam ambitions. 3NT = 18-19HP (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) NF. 5-3-3-2 or 5, 4./ and 2-2.

7.6 Bids after 1 - 2. (PRE-FER-transfer to 2)

2. is PRE-FER-transfer to 2, normally with 11+HP, and is applied whenever the RH has a minor based INV+ hand, and denies 3 and 4. The OH should normally accept the transfer on all hands, and even with a singleton , unless he has a clear-cut better alternative. The point is that 2. promises another bid, which will give the OH max info about the RH.

A break of the transfer at this stage either shows a) a long opening suit without additional values (NF 6+) b) an extreme ZAR hand with 6 and 5+./ (any take-out in ./) or c) a hand with 18-19HP (UN)SEMI(BAL) (2NT). A jump to 3 from the OH = 15+HP, 6+ and a hand which should never be allowed to play 2. As it is, a SUBMIN RH could venture a pass on 2 (with long  and an extremely bad hand with max a singleton ), but this is not likely to happen except perhaps once every blue moon (about 0,0067 %), so it should not normally be taken into account.

Since 2. denies 3, it sets up a) ”Impossible Support” = 2, which always shows Hx (PRI) b) ”Impossible Major” = 2, which always shows xx (PRI), c) INV+ with max a singleton  (2NT/3.///) and d) GF with max a singleton  (3NT and higher bids).

All bids from the RH under game level (including 3NT) are INV. 3./ show one natural long suit (6+ card) and is a mild NF INV (which could be based upon only HHxxxx), while 4./ shows one long suit (6+) and is GF. 3/ are RF and INV+. 3 shows 5+. and 4+ (longer in the complementary suit) and 3 shows 5+ and 4+. (longer in the complementary suit). This means that you may bid 3/ even if you have a GF-hand or even stronger. Stronger hands will be shown later through a M CUE. 4/ (GF+) show 6+. and 4+ (4) or 6+ and 4+. (4), (longer in the complementary suit). After the opening sequence 1 - 2. - 2 you can bid 2 (the opposite M - RF) = «Impossible Major» (xx) or 2 (the opening suit - RF) = «Impossible Support» (Hx). (After 1 - 2. - 2, 2 will show «Impossible Major» (xx), while 2 shows «Impossible Support» (Hx).) If you have a doubleton in the opening suit, these two bids are PRI. They will show a certain support in the M, and consequently make the opening suit attractive as a contract suit, especially against a 6 card opening suit.

If the RH does not bid one of these two support bids, but goes straight from 2 to 2NT or higher, he denies having more than max a singleton in the opening suit, which will render that suit more or less useless as a contract suit, unless the OH’s suit is especially long and good.

Since 2/ is RF, the OH should bid the tangent suit (PRI), and after this, the RH can show exactly what he holds (and the following bid pattern will be easy to learn, since it does not matter if the opening suit is  or . Nor does it matter whether the RH has shown a doubleton support on the way or not):

a) 2NT = INV to 3NT with (U/SEMI)SEMI(BAL) 11-13HP. b) 3. = Mild INV with 6+. and 11-13HP (can be .HHxxxx). c) 3 = Mild INV with 6+ and 11-13HP (can be HHxxxx). d) 3 = INV+ with 5+. and 4+ and 11+HP (complementary suit).

72 e) 3 = INV+ with 5+ and 4+. and 11+HP (complementary suit). f) 3NT = GF with 5+. and 5+ or 6+. and 6+ and 11+HP (equally long). g) 4. = GF with 6+. and 14+HP. After the RH has shown at least xx in the opening suit, the opening suit is a contract suggestion, while 4 in the other M is a CUE. With no 2 card support to the opening suit, both M are CUE. 4NT = KCB. h) 4 = GF with 6+ and 14+HP. See 4.. i) 4 = GF with 6+. and 4+ and 11+HP (complementary suit). j) 4 = GF with 6+ and 4+. and 11+HP (complementary suit). k) 4NT = UNBALGF+ with at least nine cards in m (5-4/5-5/6-5) and 18+HP. l) 5. = For play with at least 7 card . and 11+HP. No slam ambitions. m) 5 = For play with at least 7 card  and 11+HP. No slam ambitions.

Over 2 from the RH the OH should bid 2, and after this, 2NT from the RH will be an (UN)SEMI(BAL) INV to 3NT. If the RH has not bid «Impossible Support» or «Impossible Major» on the way, he will deny having as much as two cards in the opening suit, and 2NT will be an UNBALINV with max a singleton in the opening suit.

Over 2 from the RH the OH should bid 2NT with a normal 11-13HP hand (which means that he has got too little to accept a possible 11-13HP INV from the RH). Because the RH in that case has no access to a «normal» 2NT (INV), the OH must accept the INV prematurely by bidding something else than 2NT with at least 14+HP.

If we totally disregard a possible pass from the RH after 1/ - 2. - 2 There will be 3 «roads», along which the RH can choose to stroll:

+1) «Road 1» = 2 (“Impossible Support ”). Shows exactly Hx: 1 - 2. 2 - 2 = ” Impossible Support ”, asks for 2. 2 - ? 2NT/3.////3NT = INV(+) 4.////4NT/5./5 = GF(+). (After 1, 2 will show the «Impossible Support» with Hx) 2) «Road 2» = 2 (”IMPOSSIBLE M ”). Shows exactly xx: 1 - 2. 2 - 2 = ”Impossible Major”, asks for 2NT (by the OH with 11-13HP). ? 2NT (Shows 11-13HP - not enough to accept an 11-13HP INV from the RH). Pass/3.////3NT = INV 4.////4NT/5./5 = GF. (After 1 opening 2 will show «Impossible Major» with xx) 3NT (Accepts 11-13HP INV from the RH (prematurely) and shows 14+HP). 3) «Road 3» = a direct bid of 2NT or higher. Shows max a singleton :

1 - 2. 2 - ? 2NT/3.////3NT = INV(+). 4.////4NT/5./5 = GF(+). (Also after 1 opening 2NT or higher shows max a singleton .)

7.6.1 Further bidding after INV(+) 7.6.1.1 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 3. - ?

In the following, we will treat the bidding development as if the RH has not bid “Impossible Support” or “Impossible Major”. The opening suit is consequently not very attractive as a contract suit, since the RH only has max a singleton there.

On the other hand, if the RH has shown a doubleton support in the opening suit, the opening suit will be closer to becoming the contract suit. Therefore all bids from the OH in the opening suit at the three or four levels in reply to an INV will therefore be a suggested contract.

1 - 2. 2 - 3. = Mild INV with 6+. and max a singleton . The OH should not bid 3NT without having Hx in , for even if the RH in principle should have 11-13HP, he could have as little as .HHxxxx without other entries.

1 - 2. 2 - 3. ? Pass = For play. 3 = A  stopper and 13+HP. Re-INV to 3NT without a  stopper. The RH bids 3 with a half  stopper, 3NT with a  stopper or 4/5. to play. 3 = For play. 6+ good , max .x and a dead MIN (11-12HP) if he has both a  and a  stopper. 3 = 13+HP, a  stopper and asks for a  stopper. The RH bids 3NT with at least Qxx, otherwise 4.. 3NT = 13+HP. For play with stoppers in both  and . 4. = PRE-EMPT INV to 5.. 4 = CUE with .. Asks for CUE. 4 = For play. God 6+. Not slam ambitious. 4 = CUE with .. Denies -CUE. the RH bids CUE/4NT with -CUE, otherwise 5.. 4NT = KCB with .. 5. = For play. Not slam ambitious.

7.6.1.2 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 3 - ?

74 1 - 2. 2 - 3 = Mild INV (11-13HP) with 6+ and max singleton . The OH should not bid 3NT without Hx in , for the RH could have HHxxxx in  without other entries.

1 - 2. 2 - 3 ? Pass = For play. 3 = For play. 6+ good , max x and a dead MIN (11-12HP) if he has both a  and a . stopper. 3 = 13+HP, a  stopper and asks for a . stopper. The RH bids 3NT with at least .Qxx, otherwise 4. 3NT = 13+HP. For play with stoppers in both . and . 4. = CUE with . Asks for CUE. 4 = INV to 5. 4 = For play. Good 6+. Not slam ambitious. 4 = Void in , 6+ and good  support. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in . and good  support. 5 = For play. Not slam ambitious.

7.6.1.3 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 3 - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 3 = INV+ with 5+. and 4+ (longer complementary suit) max a singleton .

1 - 2. 2 - 3 ? 3 = Asks for 3NT with a  stopper. Otherwise: 4./. 3NT = For play. Promises a stopper in . 4. = For play. 4 = For play. 4 = For play. God 6+. Not slam ambitious. 4 = For play with 5 and 6. Max x. and xx. 4NT = KCB with . as trumps. 5. = For play. Not slam ambitious. 5 = For play. Not slam ambitious.

7.6.1.4 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 3 - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 3 = INV+ with 5+ and 4+. (longer complementary) and max a singleton .

1 - 2. 2 - 3 ? 3NT = For play. Shows a stopper in . 4. = For play. 4 = For play. 4 = For play. God 6+. Not slam ambitious. 4 = For play with 5 and 6. Max xx. and x. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = For play. Not slam ambitious. 5 = For play. Not slam ambitious.

7.6.1.5 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 3NT - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 3NT = 15-17HP with a  stopper and at least nine cards in m (5-4/4-5/5-5 or 6./ (6-3+ in m) with a feeble suit), Promises a  stopper.

1 - 2. 2 - 3NT ? Pass = For play. 4. = Sets . as trumps. GF. Asks for a CUE. 4 = CUE with .. 4 = Suggested contract with 6+ strong . 4 = CUE with .. 5. = For play. 4 = Sets  as trumps. GF. Asks for a CUE. 4 = Suggested contract with 6+ strong . 4 = CUE with . 5. = For play. 4 = Suggested contract with 6+ strong . 5. = For play. 5 = For play.

7.6.2 Further bidding after GF 7.6.2.1 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 4. - ?

76 1 - 2. 2 - ? 4. = GF with 6+. (natural). Asks for CUE. (4NT is for play, while CUE followed by 4NT is KCB.)

1 - 2. 2 - 4. ? 4 = CUE with .. 4 = For play. Good 6+. Not slam ambitious. 4 = CUE with .. Denies CUE in . 4NT = For play. (KCB after CUE). 5. = For play.

7.6.2.2 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 4 - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 4 = GF with 6+ (natural). Asks for CUE. (4NT is for play, while CUE followed by 4NT is KCB.)

1 - 2. 2 - 4 ? 4 = For play. Good 6+. 4 = CUE with  as trumps. 4NT = For play. (KCB after CUE). 5. = CUE with  as trumps. Denies a -CUE. 5 = For play.

7.6.2.3 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 4 - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 4 = GF with 6+. + 4+ (longer complementary suit).

1 - 2. 2 - 4 ? Pass = For play. Good 6+. Not good m support. 4 = CUE with .. 4NT = KCB with .. (with a  fit the OH makes a preference bid at the six level).

5. = For play. 5 = For play.

7.6.2.4 After 1 - 2. - 2 - 4 - ?

1 - 2. 2 - ? 4 = GF with 6+ and 4+. (longer complementary suit).

1 - 2. 2 - 4 ? 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. (OH may bid 6. for play after the reply). 5. = For play. 5 = For play.

7.6.3 After a break of transfer:

1 - 2. ? 2 = NB! Break of transfer. Shows at least 6 good  and not necessarily any greater strength than MIN (=11-14HP). More suited for playing 2 than 2 (max a singleton ). 2 = NB! Break of transfer. Shows 5+, 5+ and an extreme ZAR hand. Warns against playing 2. 2 NT = NB! Break of transfer. Shows 5+ and 18-19HP. SUBMIN RH can pass or bid 3./, but the bid is a GF if the RH has 7+HP. 3. = NB! Break of transfer. Shows 5+, 5+. and an extreme ZAR hand. Warns against playing 2. INV. SUBMIN the RH passes or makes a preference bid in . 3 = NB! Break of transfer. Shows 5+, 5+ and an extreme ZAR hand. INV.

1.1 Bids after 1 - 2 (PRE-FER transfer)

2 always shows exactly 3 and is a PRE-FER transfer to 2. The bid can have three different ranges: a) either SUBMIN (3-6HP), b) an INV with 11-13HP or c) a GF with 14+ HP. (The last range, 7-10HP and 3 is shown through 1 - 2).

78 The bid is very difficult to deal with for the opponents, because it can be very weak as well as super strong, and the enemy will therefore be somewhat reluctant to intervene if they do not have a clear-cut bid. (The equivalent after 1 opening, is 2, which is a PRE-FER transfer to 2.)

The transfer to 2 sets up ROMEX Short/Long for the OH (PRI). The sequence 1 - 2 - 2 also sets up ROMEX Long and STENBERG (with a 3 card  support) for the RH (PRI). (The reason why you can’t apply ROMEX Short in the last case is that 2NT is not available, as it must be used to show 14+HP (GF) after a 1 opening. Since you will not always have shortage, it would be appropriate to choose ROMEX Long when you can only have one of them)

1 - 2 ? 2 = 11-17 HDP. For play. NF against a SUBMIN RH (3-6HDP), but is RF (INV) if the RH has 11+HP and GF if the RH has 14+HP. The bid 2 sets up ROMEX Long and Stenberg (14+ and 3).

1 - 2 2 - ? Pass = SUBMIN (3-6HFP) with 3. 2 = ROMEX Long (11-13HFP INV) with 3 and 4. Rejection = 3. 2NT = STENBERG (14+HFP) with a 3 card -support. GF. 3. = ROMEX Long (11-13HFP INV) with 3 and 4.. Rejection = 3. 3 = ROMEX Long (11-13HFP INV) with 3 and 4. Rejection = 3. 3 = PRE-EMPT.

1 - 2 ? 2 = ROMEX transfer to 2NT. 15+HP. Introduction to ROMEX Long. 2NT = OK 3. = ROMEX Long in . (3+.) 15+HP. INV (natural). 3 = ROMEX Long in  (3+) 15+HP. INV (natural). 3 = ROMEX Long in  (3+) 15+HP. INV (the residue). 2NT = ROMEX Short (Singleton ). 15+HP. INV. (the residue). 3. = ROMEX Short (Singleton .). 15+HP. INV. (natural). 3 = ROMEX Short (Singleton ). 15+HP. INV. (natural). 3 = PRE-EMPT in . 11-12HDP. NF with long . 3 = 15+HP. Void in . GF and asks for CUE. 3NT = 18-19HP. (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 5-3-3-2 or 5-4./-2-2. 4. = 15+HP. Void in .. GF and asks for CUE. 4 = 15+HP. Void in . GF and asks for CUE.

4 = 18-19HP. For play. No shortage. No slam ambitions. NF. 4NT = 18-19HP. KCB.

7.7 Bids after 1 - 2 (3+, 7-10HDP)

A direct support 1 - 2 shows exactly 3 and 7-10HDP NF. Sets up ROMEX Short/Long on the OH (PRI).

1 - 2 ? 2 = Introduction to ROMEX Long. 15+HDP or excellent distribution. 2NT = OK. 3. = ROMEX Long in . (3+.) 15+ HDP. INV (natural). 3 = ROMEX Long in  (3+) 15+ HDP. INV (natural). 3 = ROMEX Long in  (3+) 15+ HDP. INV (the residue). 2NT = ROMEX Short (Singleton ). 15+ HDP. INV. (the residue). 3. = ROMEX Short (Singleton .). 15+ HDP. INV. (natural). 3 = ROMEX Short (Singleton ). 15+ HDP. INV. (natural). 3 = PRE-EMPT in . NF. 11-14HDP. 3 = 15+ HDP. Void in . GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 3NT = 18-19 HDP. SEMI(BAL) (5-3-3-2)/SEMISEMI(BAL) (can be 5, 4./ and 2-2). NF. 4. = 15+ HDP. Void in .. GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = 15+ HDP. Void in . GF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = 18-19HDP. For play. No shortage. No slam ambitions. 4NT = 18-19 HDP. KCB with  as trumps.

7.8 Bids after 1 - 2 (PRE-FER structural jump+1)

2 (PRE-FER Structural jump+1) shows 4+, a singleton somewhere (the tangent suit asks where) and 7-10HDP INV. (The equivalent PRE-FER Structural jump+1 after 1 opening is 3..)

1 - 2 ? 2NT = Asks for the singleton. NB! Not ROMEX Long! (NB! If the opponents double 2, a xx will be the ? for the singleton. The replies will then be: 2NT (singelton ), 3. (singelton .) og 3(singelton )).

1 - 2 2NT - ? 3. = Singleton . (Natural).

80 3 = Singleton  (Natural). 3 = Singleton  (The residue).

1 - 2 ? 3. = Natural: 5 and 4+.. Not MIN (with a MIN you bid 3). RF. 3 = Natural. Not MIN (with a MIN you bid 3). RF. 3 = For play. MIN. 3 = 15+HP GF. Max singleton . Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 3NT = 15+HP. (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Many tricks. For play. 4. = Splinter. 15+HP GF. Max singleton .. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = Splinter. 15+HP GF. Max singleton . Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = NF. 15+HDP. No shortage. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with . 18-19HDP.

7.9 Bids after 1 - 2NT (Stenberg)

A jump to 2NT (Stenberg) shows 4+ and 14+HDP GF. The OH is to show any side suit on the three level (PRI) if he has one. 3 shows more than a MIN and asks for a singleton. 3NT shows a (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) hand, and a jump to 4 shows a MIN, and is for play.

1 - 2NT ? 3. = Additional values and a natural suit: 5 and 4+.. 3 = CUE 3 = Asks for a singleton. 3 = Singleton . 3NT = No singleton . RF. 4. = Singleton .. 4 = Singleton . 3 = CUE. 3NT = Rest bid. RF. Asks for CUE. Denies  CUE. Rejection: 4. 4. = CUE. 4 = Void in . SLAM TRY. Asks for CUE. (Rejection: 4). 4 = For play. Doesn’t believe in slam. 4 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in .. SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 5 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 3 = Additional values and natural suit: 5 and 4+. 3 = Asks for a singleton.

3 = Single . 3NT = No singleton. RF. 4. = Single .. 4 = Single . 3 = CUE. 3NT = Rest bid. RF. Asks for CUE. Denies  CUE. Rejection: 4. 4. = CUE. 4 = CUE. 4 = For play. Doesn’t believe in slam. 4 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in .. SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 5 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 3 = Additional values – No side suit. Asks for a singleton. 3 = Singleton . Thereafter: CUE. 3NT = No singleton. RF. Thereafter: CUE. 4. = Singleton .. Thereafter: CUE. 4 = Singleton . Thereafter: CUE. 4 = No singleton. Not slam ambitious. 3 = Additional values and a natural suit: 5 and 4. Thereafter: CUE. 3NT = Rest bid. RF. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4. = CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = For play. Doesn’t believe in slam. 4 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in .. SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 5 = Void in . SLAM TRY. X-KCB. 3NT = Additional values, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). No side suit. (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). 4. = SHORT .. (Singleton) GF. Thereafter: CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = SHORT . (Singleton) GF. Thereafter: CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = MIN (11-14HP) NF. 4 = Void in . X-KCB with . 4NT = KCB 5. = Void in .. GF. X-KCB with . 5 = Void in . GF. X-KCB with .

7.10 Bids after 1 - 3. (PRE-FER structural jump+2) 3. (PRE-FER-structural jump+2) shows 4 and 11-13HDP RF. Can have SHORTAGE. (The RELAY SUIT asks for the SHORT suit.) If the OH bids 3, he has a MIN NF(11- 12HDP). (The equivalent PRE-FER-structural jump+2 after 1 opening is 3.)

82 1 - 3. ? 3 = (the RELAY SUIT) Asks for a possible singleton.

1 - 3. 3 - ? 3 = No singleton. (UN)SEMI(BAL) MIN 11-12HP. NF. 3 = Singleton . Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 3NT = No singleton. (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) 13+HDP. Suggested as final contract. 4. = Singleton .. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = Singleton . Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4. 4 = No singleton. UNBAL13+HDP NF.

1 - 3. ? 3 = MIN (11-12HDP NF). The RH passes with 11-12HP. 3 = CUE. (can be a singleton). 15+HDP. Asks for CUE. 3NT = 15+HP, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Denies any CUE in  and asks for m CUE if the RH has at least 2. CTR in  (=K/singleton) if he has slam ambitions, or return to 4. 4. = SHORT .. 15+HDP. Denies any CUE in . 4 = SHORT . 15+HDP. Denies any CUE in /.. 4 = MIN 11+HDP NF, but trick potential. No short suit. 4 = Void in . 18-19HDP. X-KCB. 4NT = KCB. 5. = Void in .. 18-19HDP. X-KCB. 5 = Void in . 18-19HDP. X-KCB.

7.11 Bids after 1 - 3 (PRE-FER structural jump+3)

3 (PRE-FER-structural jump+3) shows 4 and 7-10HDP. Denies any shortage. A weak PRE-EMPT INV. (The equivalent PRE-FER-structural jump+3 after 1 opening is 3.)

1 - 3 ? 3 = NF. Por play. Should be passed. 3 = GF. Short  or a CUE. 3NT = Additional values, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) 18+HDP. The RH should CUE if not MIN. 4. = Short . or a CUE. Denies any CUE in . GF. 4 = Short  or a CUE. Denies any CUE in /.. GF. 4 = MIN. Good distribution. NF. 4NT = KCB with .

7.12 Bids after 1-3 (=3, 3-6HDP PRE-EMPT)

3 shows 4+ and is a very aggressive SUBMIN PRE-EMPT (3-6HDP). The OH passes or PRE-EMPTs on (bids the game – or even jumps to 5 if this looks right). (The equivalent SUBMIN PRE-EMPT after 1 opening is 3).

1 - 3 ? Pass = MIN. Bad distribution. 3 = SHORT . GF. Asks for any CUE/singleton below game level. 3NT = Additional values, (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). Denies any SHORTAGE and asks for any CUE/singleton up to 4. 4. = SHORT .. GF. 4 = SHORT . GF. 4 = Void in . and X-KCB. 4 = Good distribution. NF. May be a PRE-EMPT. 4NT = KCB. 5. = Void in . and X-KCB. 5 = Void in . and X-KCB. 5 = Please bid the slam with HHxx.

7.13 Bids after 1-3NT (= 14-17HP USEMI(BAL) with max x) A jump to 3NT shows 14-17HP and max a singleton  ( x-1-x-x). If the RH has a doubleton , he should go via 2. and impossible M/support: 1 -2. - 2 - 2  /  before a jump to 3NT (shows 3-2-4-4 eller 1-2-5-5 and 14-17HP). With 18-19HP he should bid: 1 - 2. - 2 - 2  /  before a jump to 4NT (shows 3-2-4-4 eller 1-2-5-5 og 18-19HP).

1 - 3NT ? 4. = 4+. and a SLAM INV. CUE i // accepts. 4NT rejects. 4 = 4+ and a SLAM INV. CUE i / accepts. 4NT rejects. 4 = Spillemelding. 4 = 6 and 5 and a SLAM INV. Pass/4NT rejects, mens m CUE accepts.

8 Replies to opening 1 (5+, 11-19HP)

Just like the opening 1, 1 shows at least 5 and 11-19HP (can be far less in a ZAR hand). The opening suit is always the longest suit of the hand (even if it is thinkable that with a minimum ZAR you could open 1 with 5 and a longer m).

84 PRE-FER transfers are applied at the two level, 2NT is “Stenberg” and all direct jumps show at least a 4 card  support (PRE-FER structural jumps+1, +2 or +3).

1 - 2 shows a 3 card support (no more – no less) and 7-10HP, while the PRE-FER transfer 2 always promises exactly 3 with three different ranges: a) a SUBMIN support (3-6HDP). b) an INV (11-13HDP) or c) a GF 14+HDP (“STENBERG” with a 3 card  support).

1 - 3 is a PRE-EMPT with 4 and SUBMIN (3-6HP). If you do not apply the bid 2//2NT/3./3/3/3 (PRI) at your first opportunity, you deny having more than a doubleton . (Exception: 1-2-2-3(INV)/4 which shows 5+ and 3.)

The same principles apply as after the opening 1. The only exception is the reply 2, (conditioned transfer to 2, showing 4+ and 11+HP), which always shows at least 4. If the RH does not bid 2, he is normally limited to holding no more than 3. Exception: with 4+ the RH should jump (PRI) in his first bid (2//NT/3.///). With 3, however, the RH may choose to show a 5+ before he supports the . The bidding 1 - 2 - 2 - 2 thus shows 5+, 3 and 7-10HDP, 1 - 2 - 2 - 3 shows 5+, 3 and 11-13HDP and 1 - 2 - 2 - 4 shows 5+, 3 and 14+HDP. All the three latter examples contain a double fit. 1 - 2 - 2 - 3 shows 5+, max 2 and 11-13HDP and 1 - 2 - 2 - 4 shows 5+, max 2 and 14+HDP.

When the RH bids 2, the OH is to bid 2 with 3+ (=a kind of PRI receipt). If he has less than 3, the bid 2 can be applied as a NF emergency bid from a weak OH with the same values as already shown in the opening bid (11-14HP)), while everything else is GF.

NB1: There may be «conflicts of interests» here, so if the RH chooses a PRI bid which shows a direct 3 or 4+ support (2/2 or structural fit jumps), he may still have both 4 and 5.

NB2: The RH can still have 4+ with max 10 HP if he bids 1NT or transfers with 2. to 2 which he later passes (possibly with a SUBMIN). The point is that when you bid 2, you will in principle normally have at least an INV.

8.1 After an initial pass

Even when the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are still “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must always be taken into account that the RH has no more than 10HP. However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open,

85 86 he may still have enough for an INV. When he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation.

8.2 The RH’s bids after 1 1 - ? pass = 0-2HP regardless of distribution or 3-6HP with max a doubleton . NF. 1NT = 7-10HP (SEMI/U)SEMI(BAL). Max a doubleton . NF. Can contain both 4- and 5 card . See further development under 1 – 1NT. 2. = PRE-FER transfer to 2. RF. See the further development under 1. 2 = PRE-FER transfer to 2. The RH always has at least 4, 11+HP and normally max 3. The OH should accept the transfer (PRI) with 3+ and 11-17HDP («acknowledge» through 2). This bid is just available after 1 opening. 2 = PRE-FER transfer to 2. 2 always shows 3 and a) 3-6HDP (SUB- MIN), b) 11-13 HP (INV) or c) 14+ HP (GF). (See 1 – 2.) 2 = 7-10HDP and 3. NF. Sets up ROMEX Short/Long on the OH. (See 1 – 2.) 2NT = “STENBERG”, GF with 4+. 14+HDP. (See 1-2NT.) 3. = PRE-FER structural jump+1: 4+, 7-10HDP, RF, and promises a singleton in a side suit. The relay 3 asks where the singleton is. (See 1 – 2.) 3 = PRE-FER structural jump+2: 4+ and 10-13HDP. RF. Can have a singleton. The relay bid 3 (GF) asks where the potential singleton is. (See 1 – 3..) 3 = PRE-FER structural jump+3: 4+ and 7-10HDP. Denies any shortage. Hyper-mild PRE-EMPT INV with good trump support. A return to 3 is for play. RF. (See 1 – 3.) 3 = A 4 card support. A Very aggressive PRE-EMPT. 3-6HP. (See 1 – 3.) 3NT = 14+HP, 2-3-4-4, 2-3-5-3 or 2-3-3-5. MAX doubleton . NF. 4. = Void in .. 4+. GF. 4 = Void in . 4+. GF. 4 = Long 7+. An aggressive PRE-EMPT game 3-14HDP. NF. For play. 4 = A very aggressive PRE-EMPT game. At least 5. 3-10HDP. Normally not 2 Aces. For play.

Even when the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are still “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must always be taken into account that the RH has no more than 10HP. However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open,

86 he may still have enough for an INV. When he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation.

1.3 The RH’s bids after 1 - 1NT (7-10HP, max 2)

The same development as after 1 - 1NT.

8.4 The RH’s bids after 1 - 2. (PRE-FER transfer to 2)

The same development as after 1 - 2.. Exchange the  for .

8.5 The RH’s bids after 1-2 (PRE-FER transfer with 4+)

2 is a PRE-FER transfer to 2. The RH always has at least 4, 11+HP and normally max a doubleton . (Exception: With 3 the RH can choose to show 5+ before supporting the opening suit at the three or the four level. With 4+, however, the RH should always jump, i.e. ignore the  suit and consider  to be the best trumps.

The OH is to accept the transfer (PRI) with 3+ and 11-17HDP («acknowledge» the  by bidding 2). After this the OH can show 4 by bidding  one more time if this seems right or if the RH has not yet astablished  as the trump suit (shown 5). 1 - 2 - 2 - 2 will show 5 and 3 and 7-10HDP, 1 - 2 - 2 - 3 will show 5 and 3 og 11-13HDP and 1 - 2 - 2 - 4 will show 5 and 3 and 14+HDP. 1 - 2 - 2 - 3 will show 5, max 2 and 11-13HDP, while 1 - 2 - 2 - 4 will show 5, max 2 and 14+HDP.

If the OH has less than 3, he can repeat the opening suit with 2 (=11-14HP: MIN emergency bid, which shows no more than already shown), while everything else is natural, GF and shows 15+HP. After 2 will 3 show xxx (INV) and 4. Also after another suit bid showing 15+HP the RH should show his xxx support if he can.

With 3 the OH should bid 2 with 11-14HDP. With 4 he should jump to 3 with 11- 14HDP and to 4 with 15-17HDP. A jump to 3/4./ will be CUE and a SLAM TRY with 4 and 18-19HDP.

1 -2 ? 2 = 3 card  regardless of strength.

1 -2

2 -? 2 = xxx, and 5and 7-10HDP. NB! Double fit! Any new suit = INV. 2NT = 4, max a singleton . 11-13HP. INV. 3. = 4, 5+. (Canapé) and max x. 11-13HP. INV. 3 = 4, 5+ (Canapé) and max x. 11-13HP. INV. 3 = INV with 5+ and max x. 11-13HP. (Can have 4./4 as a side suit.) 3 = 4 + 3. 11-13HP. INV. 3NT = 15-17HP UNBALwith 4 and max a singleton  (1-4-4-4/0-4-5-4/0-4-4- 5). 4. = CUE 14+HP with 5+ and 18+HDP. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4/. 4 = CUE 14+HP with 5+ and 18+HDP. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4/. 4 = For play with 6+. 4 = For play with 3. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in . with 18+HP, 5+ and max a singleton . X-KCB. 5 = Void in  with 18+HP, 5+ and max a singleton . X-KCB.

1 -2 ? 2 = Shows 5 and 11-14HP. An emergency bid which either denies 15+HP or shows an extreme ZAR opening. Max a doubleton . 2NT = Natural INV with 4. 3. = INV with 5+. and 4. 3 = INV with 5+ and 4. 3 = 5+. INV. 3 = 3 (could be Hx) 4 and INV. 3NT = For play (1-5-4-3/1-5-3-4). 4. = 4 and 6+. and GF (14+HDP). Max a singleton . 4 = 4 and 6+ and GF (14+HDP). Max a singleton . 4 = 6+ UNBALand NF (14+HDP). Max a singleton . For play. 4 = 4, 3 and NF (14+HDP). For play. 1 -2 ? 2NT = NB! Transfer break. Shows SEMISEMI(BAL) 18-19HP. 5, max 2. MIN. RF. 3. = NB! Transfer break. Shows ZAR with  and . and max 2. 3 = NB! Transfer break. Shows ZAR with  and  and max 2. 3 = NB! Transfer break. Shows 5+, 4+ and 14+HP GF. Asks for CUE. 3 = NB! Transfer break. Shows 6 and 4. GF. Asks for CUE. 3NT = NB! Transfer break. Shows 18-19HP with 5 and max a doubleton . 4. = NB! Transfer break. Void in ., 5 and 4. Asks for CUE. Rejection: 4/. 4 = NB! Transfer break. Void in, 5 and 4. Asks for Cue. Rejection: 4/.

88 4 = NB! Transfer break. Shows 6+, max singleton  and 15+HP. For play. 4 = NB! Transfer break. Shows good 6+, max 2 and 15+HP. For play.

8.6 Bids after 1 - 2 (PRE-FER transfer with 3)

The transfer to 2 shows 3 and one of three ranges a) a SUBMIN (3-6HP), b) an INV (11-13HP) or c) a GF (14+HP). Sets up ROMEX Long and Short on the OH, and the reply 2 sets up ROMEX Long on the RH (2NT must be free to show a GF). See the development under 1 - 2.

8.7 An opponent interferes after opening 1

The same principles apply as after 1. If an opponent doubles (no matter what opponent), this is regarded as a «no-bid», and the system is ”on”. PRE-FER transfers at the two level as well as Stenberg and PRE-FER structural jumps+1, +2 and +3 are applied. But (exception:) XX shows 11+HP and sets up PEN-X on both hands.

If an opponent bids 1NT (= natural, strong NT) an X will be a PEN-X (and sets up PEN-X on both hands). It is extremely rare that you go to game after strong NT intervention, so all bids from us will be natural and for play.

If an opponent bids 2. or higher, you normally switch to natural bids, with NEG-X, 2/1, support-X/XX (after intervention over the RH’s first bid), CUE, 4th suit (GF), reverse, Splinter, void fit jumps etc. However, 2NT will still be Stenberg even if an opponent bids up to (and including) 2. If you have denied as much as a 3 support, is it PRI to show Hx in the opening suit as fast as possible, while xx can be shown later. If the opponents continue to participate, PRE-FER-X will be applied on both hands. See defence against intervention over 1 opening.

If the RHO bids after the RH has shown suit (regardless of whether the LHO has intervened or not), SUPPORT-X/XX will be applied. These are obligatory at the two level and show additional values on the 3 level.

9 Principles and conventions after opening 1/ 9.1 Fine graded support

We apply a fine-masked reply system both as to honour strength and to fit in the opening suit. There is clear distinction between a superfit (At least xxxx), a fit (at least xxx), a minifit (Hx or xx) and no fit (max x).

9.2 The main principle

The main principle is that 5-4 fits are very functional, actually much better than most other fits. Larry Cohen’s ”The law of the total number of tricks” establishes that if we have 9 trumps together in /, we should normally play (at least) on the 3 level. The contract is either a win, or it will be an excellent sacrifice against whatever contract the enemy might have. This credo is the reason why we jump aggressively, even with as little as 3 HDP, regardless of vulnerability. It is of vital essence that you believe in this principle and bid your cards fully every time you have 4 trumps. After having played this system for 6 years, I have been astonished over how many times this credo has succeeded at the table.

This actually serves several purposes at the same time. Firstly, the RH can show exactly what his hand is worth immediately. Secondly, the possible INV (or lack of INV) which is baked into such bid will not be blurred by hostile action, and thirdly, all such jumps will be quite destructive and will influence the opponents’ plans, whatever they might be, since the enemy will be high up on the 3 level before they can even start to decide whether to bid or not. Even if this credo should be wrong from time to another, some opponents will actually hate to be outbid, and some of them will make ultimate bad sacrifices more often than not.

9.3 PRE-FER structural jumps

With a 4 card fit to the opening M we always jump, either in the trump suit (SUBMIN), in new suit: (Jump+1, +2 and +3, = which may slightly resemble ”Bergen Raises”.) or a jump in NT (= GF “Stenberg” except after an initial pass, in which case it is only an INV). After having established a 9 card fit in a M, a NT contract is no longer any frequent option, and these fit jumps work in two directions simultaneously: a) on the one hand they are constructive fit bids for us, and b) on the other hand they bar, hinder and hamper the enemy (PRE-EMPTs).

9.3.1 PRE-FER structural Jump+1

Jump+1 means that the RH jumps past simple support of the opening suit to one bid higher. (1 – 2 and 1 – 3.). The jump is RF and promises that the RH has at least 4 trumps, 7-10HDP and promises a singleton somewhere. This bid will efficiently do the same job as a ”Mini-Splinter”.

The relay bid (2NT after 1 – 2 and 3 after 1 – 3. ) asks the RH to show his short suit. The singleton should be shown in the following PRI order: 1) a natural suit, 2) a complementary suit (. to  and  to  and the other way around) and 3) The residue (whatever remains). After the reply, the OH can “land” in 3/ (for play) with a bad MIN opening if the singleton suit made it wrong to go to game. Any new suit (other than the relay bid) from the OH will be Cue.

90 9.3.2 PRE-FER structural Jump+2

Jump+2 means that the RH jumps past a simple support of the opening suit and bids 2 suits higher. (1 – 3. and 1 – 3). The bid means that the RH has 4 trumps, 11- 13HDP and may contain a singleton. The bid is RF, and a very strong game application since you have a 9 card fit in M and at least 22 HDP together.

It will surely take some effort to stop below game level, but with MIN on both hands, it can be (and has been) done. To stop before game will certainly provide you with lot of points, since most of the players in the room will not be able to acknowledge the distinction between one and two MIN bids. A new suit from the OH is Cue and GF.

9.3.3 PRE-FER structural Jump+3

Jump+3 means that you jump past a simple support of the opening suit and bid 3 suits higher. (1 – 3 and 1 – 3). The bid means that the RH has 4 trumps and 7-10HDP, and furthermore, he denies any shortage. RF. This means that this jump is a very aggressive PRE-EMPT. The OH lays off in 3/ (for play) with no belief in game, and if he does, the RH should pass (if he knows what is good for him). new suit from the OH is, however, CUE and GF.

9.3.4 “Stenberg” GF jump to 2NT

2NT from the RH after opening 1/ means that the RH has at least 4 trumps and 14+HDP and a GF (a convention named after the Swede Alvar Stenberg). Thus, all direct jumps over 1/ show 4 card support to the opening suit.

A jump to 2NT after the OH starts with 1 M means: a) At least a 4 card support in the opening suit. b) At least 14+HDP. c) A GF and often a SLAM TRY. d) After an initial pass, the bid is an INV.

This convention makes the difference as regards the tranquillity of a bidding sequence. Without further thoughts about RF/GF you can quietly investigate whether there could be a slam or not.

Since the bid 2NT is at least GF, and that you shall almost NEVER play in other contracts than in the opening M, the bid is in itself a SLAM TRY. After 2NT you have conventions enough to determine if both distribution and honours in the suits and potential short suits could be enough for slam.

NB! We also apply “Stenberg” with a 3 card support to the opening M suit on the RH in these two bidding sequences: 1 - 2 – 2 – 2NT and 1 - 2 - 2 - 2NT. 2NT here

91 92 only shows three cards in the opening suit and 14+HP. The principles for bidding after this are exactly the same as after “normal Stenberg”.

Stenberg is also applied after intervention from the enemy quite up to 2.

9.3.5 The OH’s reply to 2NT (Stenberg)

With a MIN (11-12HDP) the OH should jump direct to game in the opening suit: 1 - 2NT - 4 or 1 - 2NT - 4. This is a warning to the RH that the OH is relatively weak.

All other bids than this from the OH show more than a MIN (at least 13+HDP). The bid of a side suit on the 3 level is natural (shows at least four cards in the bid suit.

The bid of 3 in the trump suit shows additional values, (most often 15+HDP) and asks for a short suit (a singleton or void). All subsequent bids after this are CUEs, with the opening suit as trumps.

The bid 3NT shows a (SEMI)SEMI(BAL) hand with 13-14HP without any side suit. This is quite natural, for with 11-12HP the OH jumps to game in the opening suit, and with 15- 17HP he will bid 3 in the trump suit. In special cases, 3NT can be passed when the 2NT bidder a) is not slam ambitious, b) when he believes that there are just as many tricks in NT as in the M (especially in pairs tournaments) or c) when he believes the way to 9 tricks in NT will be easier than the way to 10 tricks in a M.

All direct jumps to a new suit at the four level show a void (in principle) but with very difficult hand it may be an Ace in the bid suit (Ax/Axx). A jump to 4NT after Stenberg is KCB with the opening suit as agreed trumps.

9.3.6 A jump to 3 in the opening suit

A jump to 3 in the opening suit (1 – 3 and 1 – 3) means that the RH has 4 trumps and 3-6HDP. This is a very aggressive PRE-EMPT, but it is quite according to “the Law”. A new suit after that = Cue.

9.3.7 A direct jump to 3/4./(over 1) and 4./(over 1)

(1 – 3/4./ and 1 – 4./) means that the RH has a 4 card trump support and a void in the jump suit. GF. A new suit = CUE. 4NT = X-KCB.

9.3.8 A direct jump to 4 (over 1)/4 (over 1) direct jump to 4 in the opposite M (1 – 4 and 1 – 4) means that the RH has his own, good M. It is always for play. The bid is not slam ambitious, but is a PRE-EMPT game. A new suit = CUE. 4NT = Exclusion KCB in the RH’s bid suit.

92 9.4 PRE-FER transfers

After opening 1/ we apply three different PRE-FER transfers at the two level (up to and including the suit under the opening suit): a) to show a 3 card support, b) to differentiate the HP strength and c) to show other distributional hands, most often with at least INV-strength, with max a 2 card support in the opening suit. However, such transfer bids can also (very seldom) be for play in the transfer suit (1 - 2. - 2 - pass/ 1 - 2 - 2 - pass).

These PRE-FER transfers are: A..1.2. to 2. Shows minor hands with max a 2 card support in the opening suit. The same meaning and development both after 1 and after 1. A..2. 2 to 2. Shows 3 and 3-6HP/11-13HP/14+HP after 1. Shows 11+HP and 4+ after 1. A..3. 2 to 2. Shows 3 and either a) 3-6HDP, b) 11+HDP or c) 14+HDP. Only used after 1.

The OH should normally bid the transfer suit, even with only a singleton in the transfer suit. Thus he will find out exactly what the RH wants to convey. This should be the OH’s strategy every time he has normal MIN hand (11-14HP).

If he deviates from this (breaks the transfer), he must have a very special hand, for example 6 card in a good opening suit (combined with a void in the transfer suit), or an extreme ZAR opening (and max a singleton in the transfer suit). If the OH breaks the transfer with 2NT, he shows 18-19HP.

The OH can also avoid to bid the transfer suit if he determines that there is a great chance that the transfer suit will be passed, and that this will be negative for his side. Yet, it must be pointed out that the RH wants something quite else than passing the transfer suit in almost 99% of all cases. With 11-14HP (and even up to 17HP) the OH should therefore “be a good boy” and always bid whatever he has been asked to bid. This has just as much to do with discipline, as whatever.

9.5 Forcing sequences 9.5.1 XY after 1 – 1 – 1NT

After opening 1/ there is only one sequence that can set up XY without any intervention from the opponents: 1 – 1 – 1NT. But please also notice five cases of XY if the LHO or RHO interfere:

1 – (X) – 1 – (p) – 1NT,

1– (p) – 1 – (X) – 1NT (denies 3), 1 – (1) – X – (p) – 1NT, 1 – (X) – XX – (1) – 1NT 1 – (p) – 1 – (X) – XX (support XX, which shows 3 and also activates XY).

In all these cases the INV/GF function will be handled by XY, which takes PRI (2. INV and 2 GF). All other bids than these are either ROMEX Short (= singleton INV), fit jumps to 3/4./ (over 1) or to 4./(over 1) which show void in the jump suit and a 4+ fit in the opening suit. Other suit bids are no longer forcing (NF).

In addition, a new m on the RH on the 3 level after 1 – 1 – 1NT will always show Canapé (longer m than the M), for otherwise we always repeat a 5 card M rather than to show a 4 card m. Otherwise we follow normal strategy and the system is “on” after X from the RHO, and also after the RHO has bid 1 over 1. Please note that 1 - 4 is for play, as is 1 - 4.

9.5.2 4th suit = GF.

Whenever XY is not available, we must have other criteriae for INV and GF bids. The 4th suit will be GF asking for stopper in the 4th suit on both hands. A stopper is then shown via a NT bid. The 4th suit can also be activated after activity from the opponents.

9.5.2.1 The 4th suit is doubled by an opponent

When the 4th suit is doubled by an opponent, we show what we have in the actual suit:

Pass = No stopper. Partner then redoubles with a stopper and bids NT with one and half stoppers. XX = Half a stopper or a full stopper. Partner bids NT with half a stopper or a full stopper, and pulls in a suit without a stopper. 3NT = A double stopper. Suit bid = A singleton.

9.5.3 Reverse

There is almost nothing called a ”reverse” on the OH after opening 1 in M, as only this sequence may apply: 1 – 1NT – 2 (RF). The RH has, however, number of bidding sequences in which he can show a reverse hand, especially after an intervention from an opponent. A reverse on the RH is not necessarily GF, but it is RF and at least INV. Since all new suits are RF on both hands (when XY is not available), is it not so difficult to handle even very strong hands.

94 10 General Principles after opening 1 in a suit 10.1 PRE-EMPTs 10.1.1 The Opening Hand (the OH)

The OH will very rarely make a PRE-EMPT after a reply from the RH. Almost all his bids will be either directed (asked for), constructive, showing, forcing (RF/GF) or possibly INV.

Some important exceptions: a) Two openings and higher (not 2.) = PRE-EMPT. b) 3. after 1. – 2. = PRE-EMPT. c) 3 after 1 – 2 = PRE-EMPT. d) A jump to 3/4./ directly after opening 1./ = PRE-EMPT. e) A raise to 3/ after 1/– 2/ = PRE-EMPT. f) A jump to 3/ directly after opening 1/ = PRE-EMPT. g) A support bid or a jump in a new suit on the 3 level where XY or ROMEX is available as INV+ = PRE-EMPT.

If an opponent bids and your partner only passes, also the OH can make a PRE-EMPT (possibly also a PRE-EMPT INV), both with and without a jump. Partner should normally pass after such bids, but with an extreme fit and good distribution and 2-3 tricks, he can he PRE-EMPT on, or even bid a game if this seems like the right thing to do. After an initial pass also the OH can make a PRE-EMPT, also after partner’s and/or his own intervention.

10.1.2 The Reply Hand (the RH)

The RH can, however, apply a long row of PRE-EMPTs. Almost all the RH’s raises (or jumps) to 3 in one of partner bid suits will be a PRE-EMPT! Any jump to 4 in a new M (= game) will be for play (a ”PRE-EMPT game”) after all opening bids at the one level. This is just simply practical bridge which furnishes the LHO with a far from easy bid. These principles also apply when you are on the defending side.

Some support-bids at the two and 3 levels after 1/ will also function as PRE-EMPTs (1 - 2//3/ and 1 - 2//3/). A direct jump which shows a new suit is always a PRE-EMPT after 1m (1. - 2/ (= transfer)/ 3 and 1 - 2//3.). Finally, a direct jump support to 3 or 4 in a m is always a PRE-EMPT: 1. - 3./1. - 4. (PRE- EMPT INV) and 1 - 3/1 - 4 (PRE-EMPT INV).

Every time you have XY and/or ROMEX at your disposal, any INV or GF sequence must be introduced by 2./2 (or the equivalent in ROMEX), and if you do not apply these bids (or a (double) jump in your short suit), all other bids will have other meanings than

INV/GF, i.e. be for play or a preference bid or often a PRE-EMPT both with and without a fit in partner’s suit.

10.1.3 PRE-EMPT after an intervention

After an opponent has intervened, a jump in your own or in partner’s bid suit will have a great pre-emptive effect:

1. – (1) – 3. X, new suit and CUE is forcing. 2NT is INV 1 – (1) – 3 X, new suit and CUE is forcing. 2NT is INV 1 – (1) – 3 X, new suit and CUE is forcing. 2NT is Stenberg 1. – 1 – (1) – 3./ X, new suit and CUE is forcing. 2NT is INV. 1 – (2/2NT) – 3 etc. X will show an interest in PEN-X in at least one of their suits. new suit/CUE = RF+. 2NT is Stenberg.

After intervention from the opponents, a PRE-FER –x followed by a suit support will always be en INV.

10.1.4 PRE-EMPT INV

In this system quite a new concept is introduced, namely a «PRE-EMPT INV».

A PRE-EMPT INV is a bid in a m which in some circumstances will function as a PRE- EMPT, but then again under other presumptions it can also be a light INV.

When you make a PRE-EMPT INV, your partner should dive down into his hand his and see if he a) has a better trump support than partner can expect (at least 3+) and b) will this hand be able to produce 3+ additional tricks (ruffs included)? If the answers to both a) and b) are «Yes!», we should treat a PRE-EMPT INV as an INV and go on to game, If the reply to either a) or b) or both is «No», we should pass, and thus treat partner’s bid as just a PRE-EMPT.

Example: (1) - 2NT (both m) – (p) - 3 - (p) - 4. Since 3 is a preference bid which can also be made on 2-1/1-0 fits, 3+ trumps, a short suit (void) and an Ace will increase the possibility of making many unexpected tricks. Thus we should consider a raise to 5.

Other PRE-EMPT INV: 1. - 3. - 4. 1 - 3 - 4 1. - 1 - 1 - 3./ (PRE-EMPT) - 4./ (PRE-EMPT INV).

96 10.1.5 The opening PRE-EMPT

2 is a PRE-EMPT opening with one M (below opening values or 20-21NT/24-25NT). The RH should first discover what suit it is, and then, if possible PRE-EMPT on as high as he dares.

2/2 are PRE-EMPTs with a 5 card M and at least 4 in a m and below opening strength. The RH should pre-empt on with a fit in the opening suit, or go through 2NT to discover what m he has, for then to pre-empt on as high as he dares.

A 2NT opening is a PRE-EMPT opening with both m (at least 5-5 and below opening strength or at least 15+HP). The RH should pre-empt on if he sees a fit. With a very good fit and great trick potential, he can bid 4./ as a PRE-EMPT INV.

All openings at the three and four levels are PRE-EMPTs with at least 6./ or at least 7/ and below opening strength. The RH must assess fit, vulnerability and also the opponents and their potential contracts before he chooses a strategy.

A PRE-EMPT opener should never “come back” later, even if the RH supports him. He should empty his hand in the first bid, and it should now be partner’s task to determine how high our side should bid.

10.2 Negative doubles (NEG-X)

Negative doubles are normally applied on the RH after all 1-openings, when an opponent intervenes with a suit bid. (Exceptions: After the opponents’ pass/X/1/1/1 over 1. and pass/X/1 over 1, it is normally ”system on”.) A NEG-X will primarily show length in an unbid M, but it can also be applied to show ”a hand which you do not want to be passed”.

Notice that if X shows one specific M, as the NEG-X will often do in the PRE-FER system, a new suit on the lowest level will be natural and RF. A jump to 3 or the bid of 3 in this specific suit is a PRE-EMPT. A jump in new suit will thus establish the denoted suit as trumps and show a 4+ card support and a singleton in the jump suit. Correspondingly, a double jump will show a 4+ card support and a void in the jump suit.

Also a SUPPORT-X can be activated during a NEG-X sequence: 1. - (1) – X (NEG) – (1NT/2.///) - X (SUPPORT). The X shows 3.

The system applies NEG-X up to and including 3 and it shows four cards in at least one unbid M. If the opponent’s bid is a M it will be more or less 100% sure that the NEG-X promises 4+ cards in the other M (and often also at least 3 in any unbid m). If both M

97 98 have been bid, the NEG-X shows both m, and if both m have been bid, the NEG-X shows at least 4-4 in the M

After a NEG-X there is no such thing as a reverse any longer for the RH. You bid a higher ranking suit even with a MIN opening. The important thing is whether you can find a fit or not.

The NEG-X is applied like this:

1. If there is a M vacant, the NEG-X shows four cards in this M. 2. If both the M are vacant, the NEG-X shows at least 4-4 in both the M. 3. If both the m are vacant, the NEG-X shows at least 4-4 in both the m.

Since a PEN-X cannot be found directly in NEG-X situations, you can only penalize an opponent via pass, and rely upon your partner to reopen the bidding with a X, which you can pass. Your partner should try to reopen the bidding with a X if he can, whenever his partner has passed in a NEG-X position.

The rule is: the shorter you are in the opponents’ bid suit, the more likely it is that your partner wants you to reopen the bidding with a X.

Please note that a NEG-X is also applied after the opponents’ intervention at the two level over our 1NT opening. The principles are little different, however.

10.2.1 Replies to NEG-X

When partner makes a NEG-X, no suit bid is a reverse for you anymore. Your partner has demanded a new bid from you with his X, and therefore the subsequent bid can never show any additional values, only a fit.

When partner passes in a NEG-X situation, you should not primarily look for additional values, new suits etc. You should rather take good look at what you have in the opponents’ suit. Should you double or not? To double or not to double – that is the question (“Shakespeare Light”).

If you have Qxx or better: Absolutely not! If you have xx: Maybe…Apply your fairest judgement! If you have x or -: Absolutely! Every single day of the week! If you are to bid anything at all, this should take the form of a TO-X double (or a PRE- FER-X), after which partner can pass.

The same is the case after 1NT – (2) – p – (p) – ? Also here you should take good look at what you hold in the enemy suit. Qx = Maybe. Remember that xx is the least you can have which would make it probable that partner would want to penalize the enemy.

98 If the RH did not bid because he was too weak, he must carefully pull out in a suit when the NT OH doubles, and not let the X stand.

10.3 Canapé

A Canapé is never applied on the OH, as the opening suit (/) is always your longest suit. This is also the case with 1 (suited), and to certain extent also with 1., since if you have suited OH, . is always longest suit (Two exceptions: 1. - 1///NT/2. - 2 (= 15+HP) and 1 – 1//NT - 2. (11-14HP). Both these sequences show 5-4 in the m (can be longest in either m, . or ) and 11-14HP.) 2NT will ask for the longest suit.

On the RH, however, you will often apply a Canapé, especially after showing a 4 card M at the one level, e.g. 1 – 1. Example: 1 – 1 – 1NT(/2) – 3./ will always show 4 but a longer ./ (Canapé) and be NF (there are lot of bidding sequences which constitute INV/RF, including XY).

Also, hardly surprising, 1/ – 1NT – 2 - 3. will show a long . and is NF. Likewise quite a number of bidding sequences introduced by 2. over 1/ will show one or both long m. Finally, a long m and a side suit in the opposite M can be shown after the transfer bid 2 over 1.

10.4 Mini-Splinter

The ”Mini-Splinter” functions are in the PRE-FER system after M openings normally performed through ”PRE-FER structural jump+1” when the opponents do not interfere. If an opponent interferes so high that the ”system will be off”, normal “Mini-Splinter” and Splinter go into action. Please note that also ”PRE-FER structural jump+2” can have this function and shows possible singleton. This would, however, be a somewhat stronger edition of «Mini-Splinter».

Only in one position you will have something that resembles a “Mini-Splinter”, namely a direct jump into ROMEX Short after a 1 opening: 1 – 1 – 3./ will show 4 and singleton ./. (Other sequences: 1. - 1 - 2/3, 1. - 1 - 3/, 1 - 1 - 2/3. and 1 - 1 - 3./.)

The main rule is: if the bid of a suit without any jump is Natural and RF, a jump in the same suit will be a “(Mini)splinter” with the last shown suit as the agreed trumps. This rule also applies if an opponent should interfere. Example: 1NT - 2 (transfer) – 2 – 4./4 (3./3 = RF).

10.5 Transfer bids

99 100

PRE-FER is among other things based upon great number of transfer bids.

After 1. opening we transfer at the one level (1//) and also via a PRE-FER jump to 2/2, as transfers to a long M (SUBMIN).

After 1 opening there is also a kind of transfers at the one level, since the bid 1 shows 4+ and the bid 1 shows 4+ (=Switch). In other words, you bid the opposite M.

After 1/ opening there are transfers at the whole two level (2.//) up to and including the suit beneath the opening suit.

After 1NT opening (15-17HP) we either transfer directly at the two level and at the four level (South African Texas: 4. ->  and 4 -> 4). After 1NT opening and transfer, the OH can show a super fit (four cards trump support) in the transfer suit via 2NT (=MAX) or a jump to 3 in the transfer suit (= MIN, but 4+ in the transfer suit).

After 2. opening 2 and 2 will transfer to 2 and 2 (4 card suit). Furthermore, 2NT will transfer to 3. (HHxxxx) and 3. to 3 (HHxxxx). In addition, when the 2. opener shows strong 2NT (22-23), 3 and 3 will transfer to 3 and 3. Mind you: the South-African Transfer (SAT) we apply over 1NT doesn’t apply here. 4./ will show real suit and be a SLAM TRY.

After a strong NT (20-21HP) after a 2 opening, there are transfers on the 3 level (3 and 3 will transfer to 3 and 3), however, again, no SAT at the four level. If the RH bids a m at the four level, it is a natural SLAM TRY.

Every time there is a transfer to one specific suit, it is the system’s strategy that the strongest hand in the pair should normally bid the transfer suit and play the contract. If the OH decides to break a transfer, he should have a surprise or two for the opponents.

If one of the players is considerably stronger than the other one, it is PRI to land the declarer’s play on the right hand (the stronger one). Therefore we will transfer (with the suit below trumps) both on the 3 level (Either to stop there or as a SLAM TRY): 1 - 1 - 2NT - 3 (= transfer to 3, whereupon a pass will show a SUBMIN, while Cue would make it a SLAM TRY) at on the four level: 1 - 1 - 2NT - 4 (= transfer to 4). In the latter sequence there is no slam interest.

Most of the times transfers are applied, the transfer and the subsequent bids will express something special about the hand. Only in a very few cases (hardly more than 0,1-0,4%) the RH will pass a transfer bid. Thus, in the long run, you will be better off by accepting the transfer, than breaking it.

100 10.6 Round Force (RF)

In PRE-FER all new suits are in principle RF, both from the OH and from the RH. This is nice to know, so that you can exploit the levels much better. This principle also applies even if the enemy has opened. A simple intervention will not be RF in itself (may just show a lead), but the partner can bid new suits as RF.

Exception 1: is that the RH’s first bid is light (3-6HP SUBMIN) and has at least a 3 card fit to a new suit from the OH. In addition, he should not have a fit in the OH’s first suit. Then it allowed to pass new suits once in lifetime. The OH should surely also regard any forced mild preference with some scepticism. However, with 7+HP the RH should always make a new bid over any new suit (RF) from the OH.

Exception 2: is that the RH has passed and/or shown a weak hand. If he thereafter shows a m, this will normally be a Canapé: longer m than the M he bid earlier, and a new suit is therefore NF (even as a new suit on the 3 level) and only a fight for a part score.

Exception 3: is when the bidding has gone: 1. – 1 (=4+) – 2. – 2. The RH here shows a normal 7-10HP hand, 5 + 4 and NF. (2 will however still be a RF.) Likewise will 1 - 1//NT - 2. show 11-14HP and 5-4 in the m (can just as well be 5. + 4 as the other way around) and NF. Likewise is 1. - 1x - 2. and 1 - 1x - 2 NF with 11- 14HP (PRI). But: when an 8 card fit is established in M, the bid of the other M will be INV: 1. - 1 - 1 - 2 = 5, 4 and INV.

Exception 4: is a competitive bidding sequence where you have not yet found a fit and one or both opponents are so active that it is unlikely that there can be a game our way. In such cases the bid of a new suit will be RF, while a PRE-FER-X will allow the bid of a new suit (even on the 3 level) as a NF. A Reverse will still be a GF, for a PRE-FER-X is a RF.

Exception 5: is that as a reply to any X which is not a PEN-X (TO-X, NEG-X, PRE-FER-X etc.) the doubler’s partner can bid new suits (even as reverse) as NF.

Exception 6: In a competitive bidding sequence where one opponent has bid a 15- 17(18)NT, it is relatively rare that you push to game (with max 25HP), so new suits will almost never be RF after this. If you want to go to game after a strong NT with the opponents, one or preferably both hands need to possess extreme distributional values.

Exception 7: When there have been three bids at the one level our way, this always sets up XY (PRI). If you are to INV or force to game after this, you must apply 2. and 2 (or a jump into ROMEX Short or a structural fit double jump). If you make other bids than this, they will normally show distribution and be NF.

101 102

Exception 8: If you jump in a new suit on the 3 level (also 2 after 1) after a bid at the one level (as the OH or as the RH) which shows 4M (also after X which shows a specific 4 card M) the jump will show a short suit and a 4+ fit in the last shown suit (= ROMEX Short). This principle is applied in the following bidding sequences:

1. - 1(=) - 2/3./3 shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1. - (1) - x(=) – (p) -2/3 shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1. - 1(=) –3/3 shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1 - 1 - 3./3 shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1 - (p) - 1(=) - x(=) - (p) - 2/3. shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1 - 1(=) – 2/3. shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV. 1 - 1 - 3./3/3 shows a singleton and 4+ and is INV.

Since all new suits are RF, it is normally quite unnecessary to jump in a bidding sequence where we bid alone. A jump steals our own bidding space and should only be applied when this is necessary for the further bidding. A jump in a new suit from the OH will therefore either show a system INV (e.g. jump in singleton or void with fit in partner’s last shown suit) or be natural and if so, it will show 15+HP and structure.

The main rule is: If the bid of new suit on the cheapest level would be natural and RF, a jump in the same suit will show shortage with a good fit in partner’s suit.

10.7 INV

In the “good” old days, we needed 13HP to open, and we often said that “An opening on the one hand plus another opening on the other would be enough for game. However, since PRE-FER player opens relatively light, (on most hands with 11+HP), 11-13H(F)P on the RH will only be enough for an INV. To have enough to force to game the RH should therefore have at least 14H(F)P (or the equivalent in distribution values). All known HP scales have therefore been increased by 1 HP for the RH in this the system, in order to compensate for the light openings. To open lightly will, however, give you obvious advantages, but can very easily make you bid too enthusiastically, if you do not at the same time adjust the replies from the RH.

We redefine the HP limits on the OH like this:

6-10HP = SUBMIN OH (ZAR). 11-14HP = MIN OH. 15-17HP = WITH OH. 18-19HP = MAX OH.

Likewise we adjust the HP limits on the RH as follows:

3-6H(F)P = SUBMIN RH.

102 7-10H(F)P = MIN RH. 11-13H(F)P = INV RH. 14+H(F)P = GF RH.

An INV from the RH will never be made in the form of a raise to 3 as the support of a suit bid by the OH (2 exceptions: a) 1NT – 2. – 2 - 3 and b) when you have had no opportunity to INV in partner’s shown suit, either because you have come too high, or because the opponents have intervened).

Not even the OH can INV like this, for there will always be a trial bid somewhere, and if it is not available because an opponent has interfered, there is always a PRE-FER-X or even a REESE-X followed by a suit support, which will function as an INV. (Exception: If your own PRI bidding or the intervention of an enemy has made it impossible for you to support a suit shown by your partner earlier, such support on the 3 level will constitute an INV.)

After your partner has bid 1NT, 2NT from the RH will never be a normal SEMI(BAL) INV, but shows an UNBALINV with both . and . A normal SEMI(BAL) INV will always go through 2..

INV on both hands will go via: a) Cue in one of the opponents’ (lower) suits, which brings us to the 3 level: 1 - (1) - 2. - (pass) - 2 - (pass) - 2 = INV. b) A jump shift or a reverse bid from the OH will show 15-17HP (may be even stronger) and is RF and INV. c) A jump to ROMEX Short after partner has shown M at the one level is an INV. d) After an 8 card fit in M has been agreed, via ROMEX Short/Long trial bids. e) After 3 bids (or the equivalent) at the one level: the bid of 2. INV or 2 (GF) (XY). f) A PRE-FER-X followed by bid in your own or in partner’s bid suit. g) Cue in the enemy suit after your partner has intervened will show a good raise in partner’s suit. h) A jump to 3 in the enemy suit will be a question about stopper(s). i) 2NT following 2. after 1NT opening is a natural INV. j) 3/ after 1NT - 2. - 2/ (the same M) is an INV with a 4 card support. k) In a competitive bidding sequence, a REESE-X is an INV after the support of a M, while the bid of your common suit is only competing for a part score on the 3 level. 1 - (1) - 2 - (2) - ? (X or trial bid in m = INV, while 3 = for play). l) This last principle also applies in defence: (1) - 1 - (2) - 2 – (3) - ? m) A support of partner’s shown suit on the 3 level which you had no cause or opportunity to support earlier is an INV: 1. - 1 - 2. - 2 - 3 = INV. Or: 1 - (2.) - 2 - (pass) - 2 - (pass) - 3 = INV.

103 104

10.8 Doubles 10.8.1 X is not PEN-X a) A TO-X (Take-Out double) in the 2. hand as well as in the 4. hand will never be a PEN-X. The TO-X primarily aims at revealing M fits. b) A reopening with X in the 4. hand will likewise never be a PEN-X. This is a balancing X. The alternative is to pass, and then the opponents will have easy access to a cheap part score. X in the 4th position will not necessarily promise any M suit. c) A reopening in the 2. hand with an X will also clearly not be a PEN-X. The bidding may e.g. go: (1) – pass – (1NT) - ? The 2nd hand can often deduct that it will be difficult for partner to enter the bidding. Another scenario could be that the second hand will not want to bid a suit that he is weak in. (1.)- p – (1) - p – (2) - X. Here the 2nd hand does not want to double the first time, for even if he has a good opening, a double the first time would denote  and . Since he actually holds  and , he will always wait for the next turn so that the situation has been clarified by the opponents. d) A X from NT OH will always be a TO-X, for NT hand will never ever be able to misuse a PENEX at the one 3 level alone. e) A NEG-X (Negative double) has the intention of finding a 4-4 fit in a M after an opponent has intervened, and thus it can never be a PEN-X. f) A SUPPORT-X (Support double) shows a 3 card support in a M shown by the RH after the RHO has intervened. This is therefore very far from a PEN-X. Notice that the a SUPPORT-X (or XX) will take PRI every time partner has made a suit bid in the 3rd hand and the RHO intervenes. A SUPPORT-X is obligatory up to 2 in the suit partner has shown, and on the 3 level or if the X will bring us up to the 3 level, it will show additional values. g) LEAD-X (e.g. the double of fictive suit) is neither constructive nor PEN-X. The Lead double only intends to suggest good lead for partner (and also possibly to help him find common suit if he should feel like sacrificing over game bid by the enemy). h) A REESE-X (named after the inventor, Terence Reese) can occur both in attack and in defence when both parties have bid (or indicated a common suit) and have supported each other up to the 3 level. Examples:

1 – (2) – 2 – (3) - ? or 1 – (X) – 2 – (3) - ?

104 Here the bid of a free suit under game level would be an unspecified trial bid (INV). However, when there is no such suit to be found, a X will mean an INV, while the bid of 3 is only a fight for the part score. The same principle is applied in defence.

10.8.2 The PRE-FER double (PRE-FER-X)

The PRE-FER-X (PRE-FER double) is a kind of reopening in blurred situations. You may be fighting with the enemy for (at least) a part score. The situation will frequently be that your own side has not agreed on any trump suit yet, and therefore the situation is in way uncertain and dangerous. A PRE-FER-X can be made by both players in the partnership. The PRE-FER-X is normally applied in these situations: a) The bid of a new suit will be RF and even GF (on the 3 level). A PRE-FER-X will, however, permit partner to bid this suit if he can as a NF. b) In a bidding sequence in which one of the partners has made a limited bid, the support of your partner’s suit or a repetition of your own bid suit must be looked upon as fighting for a part score. A PRE-FER-X followed by the support of your partner’s suit or a repetition of your own suit will make it an INV. c) You have hand in which you are not sure whether to play in your own or in partner’s suit. The PRE-FER-X can ask your partner to help you make that decision.

Example: Here you know that you have a good contract in more than one suit:

 Kxxx (partner has 5, a suited distribution and max two cards in  EDxxx  due to his pass (when he could have applied  xxx support-X). But there might be a better M contract . x here. With a MIN, partner cannot bid a possible M,

Partner you for this would be a reverse. The PRE-FER-X, how- 1 – (p) – 1 – (2.) ever, allows you to find out of the lay-out here. p – (p) – X Your partner’s priority will be: With 4 he bids 2, with Hx he will bid 2, with a .–stopper, he will bid 2NT and otherwise he will return to 2. Problem solved! d) You have no good bid for various reasons, but you do have some additional values and feel that you should not throw in the towel yet. Your partner may have a good bid instead?

A PRE-FER-X will make your partner capable to assess the situation, and in extreme situations it can result in a penalty pass if partner has a good defensive hand and no good bid himself.

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The main rule for a PRE-FER-X which is not a PEN-X is: X can be applied by both hands on the 1, 2 and 3 level when the following criteriae are fulfilled: a) Our side has not yet agreed upon any common denomination. b) An opponent has intervened and holds the highest bid. c) Our side has not made any bid that could contain at least an INV. d) If the RH has made such a bid, X will be a PEN-X from the RH, but only a PRE-FER- X from the OH. e) The RH has not made a bid which shows one identified suit or two which the OH can support himself.

A PRE-FER-X normally shows additional values to whatever you have shown already (either in the form of HP or in terms of distribution or both), and the player making a PRE-FER-X wants his partner to make a suit bid. Partner is allowed to count on better playing strength than shown so far, but he may not believe in any better defensive values with the doubler.

The PRE-FER-X can be applied by both hands in competitive situations if a) it is the question of fighting for a part score or b) it is difficult to find a good common denomination. In this last case you can even have strength enough for game or higher after having found suit fit.

The PRE-FER-X is especially competitive and differs extremely much from a PEN-X, especially when the opponents have agreed on a suit.

10.8.3 Penalty doubles (PEN-X)

Sometimes it will appear quite clearly from the context that X will be a PEN-X, and then this is obviously the criterion to be assessed. The higher the bidding has gone, the stronger the PEN-X will be.

All PEN-X on the 1, 2 and 3 levels have the common denominator that they are only proposals. This means that doubler’s partner must be allowed to compare his defensive potential with the bid level, vulnerability and what his partner may expect from his hand based upon his previous bidding. However, these situations do create a PEN-X situation: a) The X of the opponents’ natural NT-opening (or intervention) and natural high NT contracts (2NT and higher) will be a PEN-X unless the situation justifies something else. The X sets up PEN-X (forcing pass) on both hands. However, notice that if the NT bid tends to show other things than a strong NT (e.g. two suits), a X will be a TO-X, and possibly set up a PEN-X in at least one of the enemy suits indicated by the NT bid.

106 b) After an opening – (X) – XX (The XX shows 11+HP and an interest in ”penalizing” the opponents), and it consequently sets up PEN-X on both hands. c) Bids which are defined as at least INV set up a X as a PEN-X on both hands, for if you don’t want to accept an INV it will often be profitable to double an opponent instead. d) Bids from the RH which could imply at least an INV sets up a PEN-X on the RH (but only a PRE-FER-X on the OH). The double will then show that the RH originally had enough for an INV. e) Pass from the RH in a position where he could have applied a NEG-X will encourage reopening with a X, especially if the OH is short in the opponents’ bid suit (”forcing pass”). f) There are no alternative contracts in new suits, and/or the RH can bid a suit bid himself if he wants to fight for a part score. X will then be a PEN-X. g) After a weak opening bid (2/2/2/2NT/3.) and an interference by an opponent, a X from the other the hand will be a PEN-X, and will set up “forcing pass” on both hands.

10.8.4 ROMEX

ROMEX combined Trial Bids (the brain child of George Rosenkranz, Mexico) can be applied after all bids at the two level which establish at least an 8 card fit in /. In addition we apply ROMEX Short (a kind of ”Splinter” bid) via a direct jump from a shown M at the one level to a new suit on the 3 level (to 2 after a shown  suit). Exception: This does not apply to an OH who jumps in his own suit (1. - 1/ - 3. and 1 - 1/ - 3). These bids show 6+ cards in the opening suit and 15-17HP (INV). We do not apply long suit trial bids when we jump directly from 1/, for we apply a jump to 2NT to show 18-19HP hands.

ROMEX Long will often show something like Jxxx or at least xxx in the actual suit (often 3 fast losers), i.e. a suit in need of emergency rescue. Low honours are therefore not especially positive, but K J X will be much better than Q 10 X, and an A is always attractive, especially together with another low honour. A small singleton or a void are regarded as “help” in the suit, while xx will be counted as a ”little help”.

These jump trial bids establish that you have at least eight cards to together in a M. The hand that gives a trial bid will normally be a little underweight, and therefore, The RH will need more than a MIN to accept the INV:

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1) Short suit trial bids: a. SUBMIN hand (3-6HP) Do not accept. b. Wasted honours in short suits (7-10HP) Do not accept. c. WITH hand (7-8HP) Assess the honours. d. MAX hand (9+HP) Accept. 2) Long suit trial bids: a. SUBMIN hand (3-6HP) Do not accept. b. No help in critical suit (7-10HP) Do not accept. c. Help in critical suit (7-10HP) Assess the total picture. d. WITH hand (7-8HP) Assess the help in the suit. e. MAX hand (9+HP) Accept.

The main principle of ROMEX is: short way – short suit and long way – long suit. These sequences set up ROMEX Short and Long after opening 1/ (Please notice that only when a suit has been shown and supported, ROMEX Short and Long is activated):

1 - 2 3 support and 7-10HDP. 1 - 2 3 support and 3-6HDP, 11-13HDP or 14+HDP. 1 - 1 (Jump to 3./ will be ROMEX Short) 1 - 2 3 support and 7-10HDP. 1 - 2 3 support and 3-6HDP, 11-13HDP or 14+HDP.

Over 1. and 1 there will be situations in which a M suit is supported at the two level, and this also sets up both ROMEX Short and Long:

1. - 1 - 2 1. - 1 - 1 - 2 1. - 1 - 1 - 1/1NT/2./ - 2 1. - 1 - 2 1. - 1 - 1 - 2 1. - 1 - 1 - 1NT/2./2/2 - 2 1 - 1 - 2 1 - 1 - 1 - 2 1 - 1 - 1 - 1NT/2.// - 2 1 - 1 - 2

Jump to ROMEX Short: 1. - 1 Jump to 2 and 3 will be ROMEX Short with 4+. 1. - 1 Jump to 3 and 3 will be ROMEX Short with 4+. 1 - 1 Jump to 3. and 3 will be ROMEX Short with 4+. 1 - 1 Jump to 3. and 3 will be ROMEX Short with 4+. 1 - 1 Jump to 3. and 3 will be ROMEX Short with 4+.

Examples of the use of ROMEX:

108 1 - 2 2 = asks for 2NT, whereafter a long suit is INV: 2NT 3. shows 3+.. (Natural). 3 shows 3+. (Natural). 3 shows 3+. (The residue). 2NT = SHORT . (The residue). 3. = SHORT .. (Natural). 3 = SHORT . (Natural). 3 = PRE-EMPT.

This also applies to 1 - 2, 1 - 2 - 2, 1 - 2 and 1 - 2 - 2.

1 - 2 2NT = asks for 3., whereafter a long suit INV: 3 shows 3+ (Natural). 3 shows 3+ (Natural). 3 shows 3+. (The residue). 3. = short . (Natural). 3 = short  (Natural). 3 = short  (Natural). 3 = PRE-EMPT.

After 1. – 1, 1. – 1 and 1. – 1 – 1, 1 – 1, 1 – 1 and 1 - 1 you can both hands jump into ROMEX Short which pre-empts, shows a singleton, establishes an 8 card fit in the last shown suit and saves bidding space.

Even if XY is available (after 3 bids at the one level), a PRE-FER jump direct into ROMEX Short will take PRI above XY when you have a singleton to show an INV hand ”with structure”.

ROMEX can also be applied as a GF and will then be a mild SLAM TRY. To make it that, the ROMEX bidder either bids the game himself after rejection of the INV (= a mild SLAM TRY) or he bids a new suit (CUE) at the four or five level (or even KCB) no matter if his partner has rejected or not (= a strong SLAM TRY). The rejection of a SLAM TRY is to make the lowest bid in the agreed trump suit. You accept the INV through Cue.

10.8.5 SUPPORT-X

A Support X (Support double) is obligatory both at the one and the two level whenever the RHO intervenes after a bid from the RH. This is a clear-cut PRI, no matter what suit partner has opened with at the one level.

Exception 1: When a Support X will force us up to the 3 level: 1. – (X) – 1 – (2) – X. Since 1 shows at least 4, the X always shows 3. But this X is not obligatory since it

109 110 will bring us up to the 3 level. It is therefore allowed to pass with a MIN hand, especially since 1 does not need to show so much (min 3+HP), and the X will therefore show additional values and/or shape.

Exception 2: When an opponent intervenes with a strong 1NT (15-18HP), a double will be a PEN-X, and will set up forcing pass on both hands.

X (XX after X) will always show a 3 card support in it the suit the RH has shown, while a direct support will show four cards in the shown suit. If you bid anything else, you can have no more than maximum a doubleton in your partner’s shown suit.

10.8.6 Reverse and the 4th suit

A Reverse on the RH and the bid of 4th suit are almost always GF. The exception is that XY or Romex or void fit jumps are available. These GF bids (PRI) will more often than not apply when an opponent interferes, and the golden rule is: If you do not have enough HP to bid a reverse or bid the 4th suit, you should either pass or apply a PRE-FER-X.

110 11 Opening 1NT (15-17HP, normally (SEMI)SEMI(BAL))

1NT opening shows a hand with 15-17HP, which is (SEMI)SEMI(BAL). The opening can contain 4 M and 5/6/7 m (6-3-3-2/7-2-2-2) and can even show 4/ together with 5./ (4-2-5-2/4-2-2-5/2-4-5-2/2-4-2-5).

Once in while you can also choose to open 1NT with 4-4-4-1 hands, preferably with a m singleton (or the A singleton) or even on a 14HP hand with 5-6 good m and good intermediary cards, which can be adjusted to a 1NT-opening. Likewise, an 18HP hand with 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 can be reduced to just a 1NT opening.

11.1 Replies to 1NT

1NT - ? 2. = «Drop-dead Stayman». Can be interested in 4M, 5m, INV to 3NT with a SEMI(BAL)/UNBALhand or can be slam ambitious with both M. It can also be a weak UNBALhand which wants to stop at the two level. 2 = Transfer to . 2 = Transfer to . 2 = Transfer to one or both m. (2NT from the RH = longer ). 2NT = Shows an UNBALINV with at least 5-4 in the m. The OH should pull in 3./ with a 4 card support (3. with 3-3). A SEMI(BAL) INV goes through 2.. 3. = Natural INV (HHxxxx in .). Asks for 3NT with .Hx or better. 3 = Natural INV (HHxxxx in ). Asks for 3NT with Hx or better. 3 = Natural INV (HHxxxx in ). Asks for 3NT with Hx or better. 3 = Natural INV (HHxxxx in ). Asks for 3NT with Hx or better. 3NT = NF. No interest in the M. 4. = Transfer to  (South African Texas). 4 = Transfer to  (South African Texas). 4 = NF (”I want to play it myself.”). 4 = NF (”I want to play it myself.”). 4NT = Quantitative raise.

Even when the RH has passed initially, all the principles and conventions of the system are still “on”, unless the opponents have bid in such a way that the system has been corrupted. It must always be taken into account that the RH has no more than 10HP. However, the RH may have 8-10HP and such a distribution that even if he cannot open, he may still have enough for an INV. When he can see a fit, he is allowed to include DP in his equation, or he can have a distributional hand which does not qualify as a ZAR opening.

111 112

11.2 Bids after 1NT – 2.

2. is «Drop-dead Stayman». The OH should only bid 2, 2 or 2.

2. is normally at least INV, but the RH can pass the reply to 2. but after a reply at the two level, any bid from the RH up to and including 2 is «to play» in the cheapest 4-3 fit. The RH then promises at least four  in an otherwise worthless hand (or a hand totally unsuited for playing NT).

If he has 5-4 in the M and is weak, he may apply the “Drop-dead”, and if he has 5-4 in the M and a GF hand, he can jump in his shortest M (”Smolen”), which shows a 5 card suit in the other M after 2 from the OH..

Finally, the RH will always go through 2. in order to INV to 3NT with a SEMI(BAL) hand. 1NT – 2NT will ask for a preference in m at the three level, and promises at least 5-4 in the m.

2. also has the normal “Stayman” impact, and is used to find a 4-4 M fit if the RH has at least INV values, and the relay, 3. after the reply to 2. will be used to find a m fit with hands which could lead to a slam.

1NT - 2. ? 2 = Not 4 M.

1NT - 2. 2 - ? Pass = The best contract. 2 = «Drop-dead». The OH should pass with at least 3. NF. 2 = «Drop-dead». The OH should pass with at least 3. NF.

1NT - 2. ? 2 = Four , may also have four . Pass = The best contract. 2 = «Drop-dead». The OH should pass with at least 3. NF. 2 = Four , can not have four . Pass = The best contract. «Drop-dead».

After any reply to 2., the RH may also bid: 2NT = SEMI(BAL) INV. 8-9HP

112 3. = New search for the m situation. (This is GF and at least a mild SLAM TRY in any m): 3 = five cards in a m (in addition to any previously shown four card M, and in that case a SEMISEMI(BAL) 5-4-2-2 distribution). 3 = Where? 3 =  (corresponding). 3NT = . (the residue). 3 = four cards in .. (corresponding). 3 = four cards in. (corresponding). 3 NT = Not four cards in . or . 3 = 3-3-4-3/3-3-3-4 with 4 card minor. GF and a light SLAM TRY. With 4+ in at least one minor and MAX, the OH should ask for the m: 3 = What minor? 3 =  (corresponding). 3NT = . (the residue). After this, a bid in the shown m at the four level sets the suit as trumps, and asks for a CUE. (Rejection: 4NT). 3 = 4 and 5. GF. ”Smolen”. 3 = 4 and 5. GF. ”Smolen”. 3NT = For play. I was looking for 4-4 in at least one M suit.

11.2.1 ”Drop-dead” Stayman

2. «Drop-Dead Stayman» shows a weak, suited hand with exactly 4 and an unknown short suit (at least 4-4 or 5-3 (with five cards m) in the two other suits). «Drop-Dead Stayman» denies any 5 card M (which are shown through a transfer).

The most typical “Drop-dead” RH is a weak hand with a singleton/void. There may be good reasons to believe that the opponents will take many tricks in that suit, and therefore the RH can apply the “Drop-dead” provided that he has four . This may be a typical RH: 10972 - - - 7542 - .85432. When he bids 2., the OH says 2, and the RH bids 2, which is a “Drop-dead” call. 2 should be passed by the OH if he holds at least three . If not, he should pull in a three+ card m if he has any. If he has three+ cards in both m, he should bid 2NT over 2.

A new suit bid from the RH at the two level is always “Drop-Dead” and looks for the best possible part score in a suit. Both partners should bid as economically as possible («cycle») until a fit (at least 4-3) has been reached.

This convention makes it possible to come to an abrupt stop after the relay (2.) which proves not to take you anywhere. In the worst case scenario you will land in a 4-3 fit.

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If the RH returns with 2as a ”Drop-Dead” over the reply 2 (which denies 4), and the OH has max a doubleton , he should bid 2NT with a 2-3-4-5 or a 2-2-5-4 distribution, whereupon the RH bids his best minor suit (3. if 3-3)as a sign off.

However, if the OH has opened with a 6 card m and a doubleton  he should bid his 6 card suit directly, and he will for sure be in the very best part score:

Examples:

1NT - 2. 2 - 2 ? Pass = At least 3+ and not 4. 2 = 3+ and not 3+. 3./ = For play with 6 m. (2-2-6-3/2-2-3-6.).

1NT - 2. 2 - 2 ? 2NT = Choose between the m. 3./ = For play with 6 card suit.

There is one exception in which the RH can bid «Drop-Dead Stayman» with a natural invitational hand. With at least one 4 card M, 8-9HP and short suit (can even be in ) the RH should check the possibility of 4-4 fit in M. If such fit is not there, he can return with 2NT as a natural INV. You must always go through 2. to invite to 3NT with a SEMI(BAL) hand.

The real value of the “Drop-Dead” Stayman is that it enables you to bid 2. on nearly every hand, and therefore, the opponents will not be so willing to enter into the bidding.

11.2.2 “Smolen”

In “Smolen” the RH has 5-4 in the M and enough HP to go to game (10+HP). Instead of transferring to one M and then bidding the other one, the RH can apply the ”Drop-Dead Stayman”.

If partner bids M, this is excellent, but if he bids 2, the RH can make a jump in his four card M, and this will show a GF with four cards in the jump suit and five cards in the other M. In this way, the contract will always be played by the strong NT hand.

114 The consequence of this is that when the RH first transfers to one M and then bids the other M, this shows exactly an INV.

11.3 Bids after 1NT – 2

2 is a transfer to 2 with 5+. With a 4 card  support the OH should bid 3 with a MIN and 2NT with a MAX. After 2 from the OH:

1NT - 2 ? 2 = OK. Says nothing about the strength, but max 3.

1NT - 2 2 ? 2 = 5 + 4 and INV. (With a GF hand and 5-4 in the M, you must go via 2. “Smolen”). 2NT = INV with exactly 5. 3. = 5 + 4.. At least INV. Tempo force to 3. 3 = 5 + 4. At least INV. Tempo force to 3. 3 = INV with 6. 3 = GF and at least 5-5 in the M. The OH bids 3NT without a fit (2-2-4- 5/2-2-5-4), bids a M game with a MIN and 3+/, 4. with additional values and a  fit (corresponding suit), and 4 (corresponding suit) with a  fit. 3NT = GF with exactly 5. 4. = Max a singleton . with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT = KCB). 4 = Max a singleton  with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT = KCB). 4 = GF with 6+. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with . No SHORTAGE. 4 = Void in  with 6+. (X-KCB). 5. = Void in . with 6+. (X-KCB). 5 = Void in  with 6+. (X-KCB).

1NT - 2 ? 2 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 , 4 and MAX. 2NT = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 and MAX. 3. = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 + 4+. and MAX. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 + 4+ and MAX. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 and MIN. 3NT = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4, MAX. For play with bad . 4 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4. MED/MAX. No slam interest.

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11.3.1 Bids after 1NT – 2

2 is a transfer to  with 5+. With a 4 card  support you should bid 3 with a MIN and 2NT with a MAX. After 2 from the OH:

1NT - 2 ? 2 = OK. Says nothing about the strength, but can have maximum 3.

1NT - 2 2 ? 2NT = INV with exactly 5. May also have 4. The OH bids 3 if he has 4 and accepts the INV: 3./ = Semi-acceptance of the INV with 3+ and 4./. NF. 3 = 4 and 2/3. Accepts the INV. 3 = 3+. Wants to play 3 rather than 2NT. Rejects the INV. 3NT = Not 4 and max 2, but accepts the INV. 4./ = CUE with 3. Good hand. GF. 4 = Accepts the INV with 3. No slam interest. 3. = RF with 5 + 4.. INV+. 3 = RF with 5 + 4. INV+. 3 = INV with 5 + 4. 3 = INV with 6+. 3NT = GF with exactly 5. Contract suggestion. The OH should pass with 2 and make a judgement with 3. 4. = SHORT . with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT = KCB). 4 = SHORT  with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT = KCB). 4 = SHORT  with 6+. Asks for a CUE. (4NT = KCB). 4 = GF with 6+. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with . Denies SHORTAGE. 5. = Void in . with 6+. (X-KCB). 5 = Void in  with 6+. (X-KCB). 5 = Void in  with 6+. (X-KCB).

1NT - 2 ? 2NT = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 and MAX. 3. = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 + 4+. and MAX. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 + 4+ and MAX. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 + 4+ and MAX. 3 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4 and MIN.

116 3NT = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4, MAX. For play with bad . 4 = NB! Breaks the transfer: 4. MED/MAX. No slam interest.

11.3.2 The RHO doubles a transfer bid

If the RHO doubles a transfer bid, the OH should pass with a doubleton in the transfer suit. Otherwise the X is more or less ignored:

West North East South 1NT pass 2 X ? pass = A doubleton . XX = MAX and 4 good . Probably a doubleton . 2 = 3. 2 = MAX, 4 and 4. 2NT = MAX, 4 and BAL. 3. = MAX, 4 and 4.. 3 = MAX, 4 and 4. 3 = MIN and 4.

West North East South 1NT pass 2 X ? pass = A doubleton . xx = MAX and 4 good . Probably a doubleton . 2 = 3. 2NT = MAX, 4 and BAL. 3. = MAX, 4 and 4.. 3 = MAX, 4 and 4. 3 = MAX, 4 and 4. 3 = MIN and 4.

When the OH passes the double (and shows a doubleton in the transfer suit):

West North East South 1NT pass 2 x pass pass ? xx = MAX and SEMI(BAL). 2 = or play with 5+. 2NT = INV with 5+ and (SEMI)BAL. 3. = INV with 5 and 4+.. 3 = INV with 5 and 4+. 3 = GF with . Lacks a stopper in .

117 118

3 = INV with 6+. 3NT = GF with 5+ and (SEMI)BAL. 4. = GF with 6 and SHORT .. Slam-INV. 4 = GF with 6 and SHORT . Slam-INV. 4 = GF with 6 and SHORT . Slam-INV. 4 = GF with 6+. No slam interest.

11.3.3 Bids after 1NT – 2

2 is a transfer to one or both m (normally weak, but may be strong). The OH bids 2NT with longer  (3./3 is then for play) and 3. with longer . or equally long in both m. (Pass or correction to 3 is then for play.)

NB! If the RH after the reply to 2 returns with either a Cue in a M at the three level (which asks if the OH has real m suit or not) or a jump to 4./ (natural), this is a SLAM TRY with long ./. Cue accepts, and 3/4NT will reject the SLAM TRY:

1NT - 2 ? 2NT = Longer  then ..

118 1NT - 2 2NT - ? Pass = For play. 3. = For play. 3 = For play. 3/ = CUE. 3NT = For play. 4. = SLAM TRY with long .. 4 = SLAM TRY with long .

1NT - 2 3. = Longer . or equally long in ./.

1NT - 2 3. - ? Pass = For play 3 = For play 3/ = CUE (SLAM TRY). GF. 3NT = For play. 4. = SLAM TRY with long .. GF. 4 = SLAM TRY with long . GF.

11.4 Bids after 1NT – 2NT

2NT shows an UNBAL hand with both m (5+ and 4+) and with no interest for the M. The OH should pass if that seems right, i.e. with no m fit and double stoppers in the M suits, or bid 3./3 (NF) with a 4 card fit (3. with 3-3). To make an INV with a SEMI(BAL) hand after 1NT, you need to go through 2. («Drop-dead Stayman»).

1NT - 2NT ? Pass = MIN, often 4-4 in the M or SEMI(BAL) 4-3-3-3 with one 4 card M. No good m fit and as a rule a double stopper in both M. 3. = 4+. (can be 3-3) . 3 = 4+. 3 = More than MIN and better . Equally long or longer . (at least 4+.). 3 = More than MIN and better  Longer . (At least 4+). 3NT = For play: MAX and double stoppers in the M. Can see many tricks, but has no slam ambitions.

11.5 Bids after 1NT – 3.///

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3./// is a natural INV with HHxxxx in the bid suit. The OH passes, bids 3NT with the remaining top honour, or 4M if this seems right.

11.6 Bids after 1NT – 4./

4./ is South-African Texas (SAT) and is a transfer to the corresponding M suit (4. to 4 and 4 to 4). The OH bids 4 in right M. SAT is only applied after 1NT. On a stronger NT (20+NT), a jump to 4./ will be a SLAM TRY with a natural m suit.

11.7 Bids after 1NT – 4/

4/ is a natural bid with length in the bid suit (7+). When the RH bids like this, he normally has a surprise for the enemy (often a void in a suit) or an honour or two in need of a guard against the lead (avoidance bid). The OH should pass.

11.8 Bids after 1NT – 4NT

4NT is a quantitative SLAM TRY. The OH should pass with a MIN, and bid with a MAX. See chapter 15 (Slam Conventions).

11.9 An opponent intervenes over 1NT

This defence against intervention applies quite other means than only a NEG-X and Lebensohl.

11.9.1 The opponent doubles: “Nilsland”

If an opponent doubles 1NT (PEN-X) in the 2. hand, we apply ”Nilsland’s Escape” (called so after the inventor, the Swede Mats Nilsland) in the 3. hand. The only contract you are not allowed to play is 1NT doubled: 1NT - (X) - ? Suit = The suit + the next suit (at least 4-4): 2. = . +  2 =  +  2 =  +  2 =  + . 2NT = Weak: 5-5 (in unspecified suits).

XX = Asks for 2., whereupon: 2. - ? Pass = . (One suit)

120 2 =  (One suit) 2 =  (One suit) 2 =  (One suit)

Pass = Asks for XX, whereafter: XX - ? Pass = For play 2. = . +  (at least 4-4). 2 =  +  (at least 4-4). 2 = 5+ INV with an UNBALhand. 2 = 5+ INV with an UNBALhand. 2NT = GF with an UNBALhand.

If an opponent doubles 1NT (PEN-X) in the 4. hand, a XX from the OH shows a MAX hand (16-17HP). A pull in a m will show 5-6 good m and at least one suit with a dubious (or no) stopper. A pull in 2 will show 4-4 in /.

If it goes: 1NT – (p) – p – (X) p – (p) – XX

A XX shows two four card suits, and asks the OH to bid his lowest 3+ suit.

11.9.2 An opponent bids 2NT or higher

If an opponent bids 2NT or higher, a X is a PEN-X (setting up forcing pass on both hands). If the bid shows 2 suits, the X suggests that you are willing to PEN-X at least one of these suits.

11.9.3 An opponent bids an artificial suit

If an opponent bids an artificial suit, X shows five cards in that suit and a willingness to play a part score in the suit. If the opponents’ intervention shows 2 exact suits, X will always suggest that you can PEN-X at least one of these suits.

11.9.4 A bid of 2 in new suit

A bid at the two level in a new (and higher) suit is a NF (sign-off) after an intervention over 1NT, and shows a 5+ card suit.

11.9.5 X is negative at the two level (NEG-X)

X is negative at the two level (NEG-X) when the enemy has bid a natural suit. It shows 2 out of 3 unbid suits. NB! This NEG-X shows a fight in at least two suits and does not 121 122 promise four cards in any unbid M. The meaning of this NEG-X therefore differs from the NEG-X you apply when partner opens in a suit, because now there are three unbid suits, and not only 2.

11.9.6 A jump to the 3 level in M A jump to the 3 level in M shows a 5 card suit with a stopper in the enemy suit.

11.9.7 A Cue in the enemy suit

A Cue in the enemy suit shows four cards in an unbid M (can be both if the intervention was natural bid in a m) and it denies any stopper in the enemy suit.

Example 1: 1NT - (2) - 3 (= 4 without  stopper) - (p) ? 3 = 4 and MAX NT. 3NT =  stopper but not 4. 4./ = Max 3 and denies  stopper. 4 = 4 and MIN NT.

Example 2: 1NT - (2) - 3 (= 4 with/without  stopper) - (p) ? 3NT =  stopper, but not 4. 4./ = Max 3 and denies  stopper. 4/ = 4 card  fit.

11.9.8 2NT/3.// = a transfer to one suit higher

The bid of 2NT up to and including the suit below the enemy suit is a TRANSFER! (including a transfer to the enemy suit.)

2NT = Transfer to 3.. 3. = Transfer to 3. 3 = Transfer to 3. 3 = Transfer to 3.

2NT and 3 in new suit below the enemy suit over any intervention of our 1NT is a transfer! The transfer can be a sign off in the suit above the transfer suit, but is GF if the RH does not after the transfer has been carried out. A new suit after a transfer will show the transfer suit and the new 4 card suit you have bid and is a GF.

A transfer to the enemy suit always shows five cards in an unbid M and denies a stopper in the enemy suit. But: if the enemy intervened with 2, the transfer can be both with

122 and without a stopper. However, it always shows five cards in an unbid M. The OH bids 3NT with xx and stopper. Without a stopper and xx he must fulfil the transfer (= bid 3), whereupon the RH can bid 3NT if he has a stopper. If the RH does not have any stopper either, he should bid a m at the four level or venture a M game on a 5-2 fit.

Example 1: 1NT - (2) - ? X = NEG-X. Has two out of three vacant suits. 2 = 5+ and sign-off. 2NT = Transfer to 3.. 3. = Transfer to 3. 3 = Transfer to 3. 3 = 4 without a  stopper. 3 = 5+ with a  stopper.

Example 2: 1NT - (2) - 2NT - (pass) 3. - (pass) - ? Pass = For play. 3 = 5+. and 4+ GF! Can have 4. The OH bids: 3 = Denies a  stopper. 3 = 5. and 4 +  stopper. 3NT = a  stopper, but not 4. 3 = Denies a  stopper. Not 4. GF 3 = 5. and 4 with a  stopper. GF. The OH bids: 3NT = Not 4. 4 = 4 (4-4-fit). 3NT = A  stopper and max 3.

Example 3: 1NT - (2) - 3. = transfer to 3

1NT - (2) - 3. - (pass) 3 - (pass) - ? Pass = For play 3 = Denies a  stopper. Can have 4. 3 = 4 with a  stopper. 3NT = a  stopper. Not 4.

Example 4: 1NT - (2) - 3 = Transfer to enemy suit. Shows 5. ? 3 = Not a  stopper. 4. 3 = 4 and a  stopper. (You go higher than the enemy suit). 3NT = A  stopper and max 3.

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Example 5: 1NT - (2) - 3 - (pass) 3 - (pass) - ? 3 = 5  with a  stopper. GF. 3NT = a  stopper and 5. 4./ = 4+./ without a  stopper and 5. 4 = 5  without a  stopper.

Example 6: 1NT - (2) - 3 - (pass) 3 = 4 + a  stopper.

1NT - (2) - 3 - (pass) 3 - (pass) - ? Pass = For play. 3NT = For play. 5 with or without a  stopper. 4./ = CUE with . SLAM TRY. 4 = Void with . SLAM TRY. 4 = 5-4 fit in .

Example 7: 1NT - (2) - 3 - (pass) 3NT = a  stopper. MAX 3.

1NT - (2) - 3 - (pass) 3NT - (pass) - ? 4./ = CUE with 6+. SLAM TRY. 4 = Void with 6+. SLAM TRY. 4 = 6+. UN(BAL).

Example 8: 1NT - (2) - 3 – (pass) 3 - (p) - ? pass = For play. 5+. 3 = Denies  stopper. 5+. 3NT =  stopper. 5+. 4. = CUE with . 4 = CUE with . 4 = For play. 4 = Void in . X-KCB. 4NT = KCB with . 5. = Void in .. X-KCB. 5 = Void in . X-KCB.

124 11.9.9 The red thread is relatively simple:

1) X is a NEG-X at the two level (which shows two out of three vacant suits). The NEG-X is a PEN-X proposal at the three level and higher. The bid of any new suit at the two level is for play (NF). 2) If the RH bids 2NT or higher, this is a transfer to the next suit. 3) A transfer to the enemy suit shows five cards in an unbid M without a stopper (can have a stopper if the suit is ) and asks the OH to fulfil the transfer with no stopper. 4) Any bid in the enemy suit always denies a stopper (goes for both hands). 5) Whenever you go higher than the enemy suit, you confirm that you have a stopper! This goes for both hands. 6) A direct CUE in the enemy suit shows four cards in an unbid M without stopper. 7) Otherwise it is normally important to give your partner the cheapest info possible. 8) When the enemy has interfered so high that transfers no longer work at the two level, it is still possible to transfer at the four level (SA-Texas). Obviously, the enemy must not have intervened with 4. or higher. The principle is always that the contract should always be played by the strong hand if this is at all possible.

125 126

12 Opening 2. (”Strong”)

2. opening shows a 20+HP UNBAL hand with any five or six card suit, 22-23NT (without a jump, can have five cards M/m) or a 26-27NT (with a jump, you can have five cards M/m). The opening is a tempo force to the level beneath game (2NT, 3/ or 4./), so there is no “double negative” to remember here. All other replies than 2 from the RH are GF.

What normally occurs with strong openings is that you will learn a lot about the assets on the oH, while the values of the RH are more or less disregarded. In PRE-FER, on the other hand, will the RH make use of transfer bids, which have a wide range of advantages: a) The transfer bids create an artificial extra bidding level at the two (and the three) level, allowing much more info to see the light of day in the course of a far shorter period of time. b) The transfer suit is more often than not the enemy suit, and the normal defence is to double to show the suit. Since we hold the view that such doubles are zero bids, as they do not interfere with our system, the system itself will prevail, and not the hostile defense. c) The OH will initially learn what values the RH has. If these are eatable, we will enter into constructive bidding sequences far earlier than before. d) Then, if the bid made by the RH does not suit the oH, he can choose to ignore it and bid his own suit/NT, just like before. I daresay you will not lose anything at all on applying transfer bids, but you stand to gain a lot.

12.1 Positive replies to 2.

The RH bids positively (GF) if he has at least 5+HP, by bidding:

a) 2 (PRI: 5+HP and at least xxxx in ), b) 2 (PRI: 5+HP, at least xxxx in ), c) 2NT (PRI: 5+HP with at least HHxxxx in .), d) 3. (PRI: 5+HP with at least HHxxxx in ) and e) 3 (PRI: 5+HP with both xxxx in / and HHxxxx in ./)

There is only one negative reply, the “Good-Bad 2”. It is only when the RH bids 2 that you can stop below game, and only after 2 there will be tempo forces to the level below game (2NT, 3/ and 4./).

126 12.1.1 The RH bids 2 or 2: If the RH bids 2 or 2, he may also have a longer m suit, but he denies a m as good as HHxxxx (which will be shown through the special bid 3).

Just like after a transfer on 1., the OH’s 1st PRI after the replies 2/2 will be to bid the RH’s shown M with 3+ in the shown suit (a kind of «receipt»). After this there will natural bidding from the RH, apart from:

a) A jump+1 (3 after 2.-2-2 and 3NT after 2.-2-2), which confirms five cards in the shown M and shows 5-7HP and a singleton somewhere (the relay suit asks where), or b) A higher jump bid than a jump+1 (3NT/4./ after 2.-2-2 and 4.// after 2.-2-2) which confirms five cards in the shown and supported M, 8+HP and a singleton in either the bid suit, the complementary suit or the residue according to normal practice.

Example 1: 2. - 2 2 - ? 2 = 4, 4 and 5+HP. If the OH bids 3, this will ask for a CUE with 4. 3. = Natural: 3, 5+. and asks for support to 4. or 3NT. 3 = Natural: 3, 5+ and asks for support to 4 or 3NT. 3 = 4. Continuation: CUE. 3 = Natural: 3, 4+. Continuation: CUE. 3NT = For play. 4. = Short .. 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = Short . 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = For play with 4+. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play with 4+. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 2NT = 4, not 4 and open to other suit proposals (3-4-3-3). 3. = Natural: 3, 5+. and asks for support to 4. or 3NT. 3 = Natural: 3, 5+ and asks for support to 4 or 3NT. 3 = 4. No shortage. Asks for a CUE. 3 = Natural: 3, 5+. Hx is a good enough support in . 4. = Short .. 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = Short . 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = For play with 4+. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play with 5+. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3. = 4, 4+. and 5+HP. 3 = 4, 4+ and 5+HP. 3 = 5, no singelton. Continuation: CUE.

127 128

3 = 5, 5-7HP and a singleton somewhere. 3NT = Where is the singletion? 4. = Short .. (Natural) 4 = Short . (Natural) 4 = Short . (Residue) 4. = CUE with . asks for CUE. 4 = CUE with . asks for CUE. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with with  as trumps. 3NT = 5, 8+HP and singel . (Residue) 4. = 5, 8+HP and singel .. (Natural) 4 = 5, 8+HP and singel . (Natural) 4 = 5, for play. No singleton. No slam ambitions.

Example 2: 2. - 2 2 - ? 2NT = 4 and open for other suit proposals (3-4-3-3). 3. = Natural: 3, 5+. and asks for support to 4. or 3NT. 3 = Natural: 3, 5+ and asks for support to 4 or 3NT. 3 = Natural: 3, 5+. Hx is a good enough support in . 3 = 4. No shortage. Asks for a CUE. 3NT = For play with 3. Probably a 22-23NT. 4. = Short .. 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = Short . 4+. Asks for a CUE. 4 = For play with 5+. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play with 4+. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3. = 4, 4+. and 5+HP. 3 = 4, 4+ and 5+HP. 3 = 5 and shortage somewhere. 3 = Where er the singletion? 3NT = Short . (Residue) 4. = Short .. (Natural) 4 = Short . (Natural) 3 = 5 and no singleton. 4. = CUE with . asks for a CUE. 4 = CUE with . asks for a CUE. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = For play. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3NT = 5, 5-7HP and shortage somewhere. 4. = Where is the singletion?

128 4 = Short . (Natural) 4 = Short . (Natural) 4 = Short .. (Residue) 4. = 5, 8+HP and short .. (Natural) 4 = 5, 8+HP and short . (Natural) 4 = 5, 8+HP and short . (Natural)

But the OH can also jump to 3/ (the shown M), which shows at least a 4 card support, sets the suit as trumps and is an ETA asking bid. ETA should only be applied by a slam ambitious OH, for the asking bids take a lot of room. After the reply to an asking bid, 4NT will still be KCB. (See ETA).

Example 3: 2. - 2 3 = 4+, sets the trump and is an ETA asking bid. GF.

2. - 2 3 - ? 3 = Jxxx(x) (or worse). 3NT = Hxxx 4. = HHxx 4 = Hxxxx or longer. 4 = HHxxx or longer. 4 = EKDx(x) or longer. If the reply is H or HH, the relay suit under game level ask what honors partner has: H HH Step 1 = The queen or KQ Step 2= The king or AQ Step 3= The ace or AK

If the enemy doubles/bids, DOPI/ROPI will replace the two first bids. All new suits from the OH after the reply to ETA will be EPSILON asking bids. (See EPSILON)

Example 4: 2. - 2 3 = 4+, sets the trump and is an ETA asking bid. GF.

2. - 2 3 - ? 3NT = Jxxx(x) (or worse). 4. = Hxxx 4 = HHxx

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4 = Hxxxx or longer. 4 = HHxxx or longer. 4NT = EKDx(x) or longer. Otherwise, please see the further development under 2. - 2 - 3.

If the OH bids 2NT after any reply at the two level, this shows 22-23HP, but it could also show 26+HP after the replies 2/, for after a positive reply to 2., GF established.

The RH can apply the Puppet Stayman, Transfers and Minor Stayman, regardless of his initial reply (but may pass on 2NT with a close to blank hand after first having bid 2).

Example 5: 2. - 2 2NT = (SEMI)BAL 22-23HP. Can have a 5 card M.

2. - 2 2NT - ? 3. = PUPPET STAYMAN. (See this). 3 = Overføring to . (See this). 3 = Overføring to . (See this). 3 = MINORSTAYMAN. (SLAM INV, promises at least one 4 card m).

The same will be the case if the OH jumps to 3NT (26+HP). The RH applies Puppet Stayman, Transfers and Minor Stayman at the four level.

12.1.2 the RH bids 2NT/3.: If the RH bids 2NT/3. on 2. (= a transfer with HHxxxx in the m), the OH can bid 3./ which sets the suit as trumps and is simultaneously a GAMMA asking bid (See GAMMA). The OH can also with m support and the missing top honor in trumps set the trumps with a jump to 4./, which si a SLAM INV and asks for a CUE (4NT = rejection/no CUE). All other suit bids from the OH are natural 5 cards, with a natural continuation.

The OH can also jump in his own suit after after a reply at the two level (2. - 2 - 3/4./, 2. - 2 - 4./ or 2. - 2 - 4./) . This is a GF, denies more than a doubleton in the RH’s shown M and sets his own bid suit as trumps regardless of what the RH holds in the suit. The continuation is natural (CUE, etc.).

Example 6: 2. - 2NT

130 3. = GAMMA asking bid with . as trumps.

2. - 2NT 3. - ? 3 = .KQxxxx or .AQxxxx (or lengre) 3 = ? 3 = .KQxxxx. 3NT = For play. 4. = .AQxxxx. 4 = .KQxxxxx. 4 = .AQxxxxx. (osv). 3 = .AKxxxx or longer. 3 = ? 3NT = For play. .AKxxxx. 4. = .AKxxxxx. 4 = .AKxxxxxx. (osv). 3 = .AKQxxx or longer. 3NT = Forslag to kontrakt. (.AKQxxx). 4. = .AKQxxxx. 4 = .AKQxxxxx. (osv). After the reply to GAMMA the OH can apply 4NT as KCB or any new suit as EPSILON.

Example 7: 2. - 3. 3 = GAMMA asking bid with  as trumps..

2. - 3. 3 - ? See the development after 2. - 2NT - 3.. (The replies are one step higher).

If the OH does not bid 3./ after 2.-2NT/3. (= HHxxxx in ./), any suit bid is natural, just like in real life, with natural replies from the RH. If the OH bids 3NT over 2.-2NT/3., he normally shows 22-23HP, no m fit and has no slam ambitions. With 26+HP the OH should therefore jump to 4NT, which shows the same thing, but now with slam ambitions. The RH can passe with a MIN, but with additional values he should reply as to a KCB.

12.1.3 The RH bids 3: If the RH has exsactly a 4 card M and at least HHxxxx in a m, this is a very difficult hand to bid. Since the system applies the replies 2NT/3. as a transfer showing HHxxxx in a m, the OH can easily find out if the m suit is running. Therefore, it is not

131 132 necessary to jump directly to 3 and 4. to show a 6+ card suit with one hole (which jumps to 3 and 3 do).

Instead, a jump to 3 shows at least HHxxxx in a m and exactly a 4 card M. The OH will as good as always be able to see which m the RH holds and if he bids it at the four level, this axcepts the m as trumps.

Over the RH’s direct hopp to 3, 3/4./4 from the OH are natural, while 3 is either natural or asks for the M suit (with only , he will rebid 4 after the reply). The RH should now (PRI) show his M suit: («switch»: 3 =  and 3NT= ).

With these agreements it will not only be easier to show a 4 card M and HHxxxx in a m, but other sequences will also be better defined:

2. - 2/ will deny as much as HHxxxx in any m. and

2. - 2/2 2/2 - 3./ will be limited to show at least 5+./, but never as good a suit as HHxxxx.

Example: 2. – ? 3 (Shows at least KQxxxx in a m, and a 4 card M) ?

2. – 3 ? 3 = Which M? 3 = . 3NT = For play. 4./ = A good 6 card suit on his own. GF. 4/ = For play. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3NT = . Pass = For play. 4./ = A good 6 card suit on his own. GF. 4/ = For play. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3 = 5+. GF. 3NT = 22-23HP BAL. NF. The RH applies Puppet Stayman, and otherwise bids any new suit as a natural GF. 4. = 6+.. GF. 4 = 6+. GF

132 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 5. = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 5 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions.

12.2 Other bids from the RH after 2. opening:

If the RH jumps to 3M, he shows a long suit with max one hole (at least KQJ10xx). The OH can investigate the shown suit through a relay bid. If the RH jumps to 3NT over 2., he shows a running, at least 6 card suit (AKQxxx) somewhere (the OH will always be able to see where). 4. will then ask for the length (starts at 6) and 4NT will be KCB with the RH’s running suit as trumps.

2. - ? 3 = 6 with max one loser against void (at least KQJ10xx or better). GF. The relay suit asks about the quality of the suit: 3 = What does the suit look like? 3NT = KQJ10xx or AQJ10xx. 4. = AKJ10xx. 4 = AKQ10xx. 3 = 6 with max one loser against void (at least KQJ10xx or better). GF. The relay suit asks about the quality of the suit: 3NT = What does the suit look like? 4. = KQJ10xx or  AQJ10xx. 4 = AKJ10xx. 4 = AKQ10xx.

3NT = If the RH jumps to 3NT, he shows a running, at least 6 card suit with no side strength (AKQJxx or AKQxxxx). GF. There will be no problems for the 2. opener to see which suit it is. 4. asks how long the suit is. 4 then shows a 6 card suit, 4 = 7 cards, etc.

4. = SAT: Shows 7+ cards in  with max a Q in the top and no side strength. 4 = SAT: Shows 7+ cards in  with max a Q in the top and no side strength.

12.3 Negative reply to 2.: 2 “Good-Bad”

2 from the RH is a so-called «sack post» (PRI: «Good-Bad»: either 0-4HP, or 5+HP which denies a 4 card M and denies HHxxxx in any m). Only after the 2 reply («Good-

133 134

Bad») it will be possible to stop below game. After the reply 2 all bids fra the OH will be natural. There is no double negative and no asking bids etc.

If the OH bids 2NT over 2, he shows a (SEMI)BAL 22-23HP hand, and the RH applies Puppet Stayman and transfers at the three level (and 3 as Minor Stayman).

If the OH bids 3./ over 2, this a tempo force to 3NT or 4./. If the OH bids a M, he must then and there show how many tricks he believes to be able to produce on his hand alone. 3/ shows 9 tricks, 4/ shows 10 tricks etc.

3/ fulfils the tempo force, and a blank RH can therefore pass. The RH should, however, look with major spectacles for something that may be worth a trick on his hand. If he finds it, he should raise to game.

If the OH bids 3. over 2, this is natural 5+. and a tempo force to 3NT/4. (RF). the RH bids: 3 = Natural 3+ (can be the «Bad» 2 with a 4 card M. With 4M and 5+., the OH should introduce this at the three level.) 3 = Shows a «Bad» 2 with 4+. («Switch»: the RH «switches» the replies with 4+ card M.) 3 = Shows a «Bad» 2 with 4+. («Switch») 3NT = «Good» 2 without 3+ and 4+M. He will therefore have 4+., but believes in 3NT. 4. = The «Bad» 2 with a . fit. (the OH may pass 4.). No belief in 3NT. 4 = Shortage with a . fit. GF. 4 = Shortage with a . fit. GF. 4 = Shortage with a . fit. GF.

If the OH bids 3 over 2, this is natural 5+ and a tempo force to 3NT/4 (RF). The RH bids: 3 = Shows the «Bad» 2 with 4+. («Switch»: the RH «switches» the replies with a 5 card M.) 3 = Shows the «Bad» 2 with 4+. («Switch») 3NT = «Good» 2 but not 4+M. Believes in 3NT more than in a  game. 4. = «Bad» 2 with 5+.. No belief in 3NT. Has at least 2. 4 = «Bad» 2 with a  fit. (the OH can passe 4). No belief in 3NT. 4 = Shortage with a  fit. GF. 4 = Shortage with a  fit. GF.

If the OH bids 3 over 2, he shows 5+ and 9 tricks (NF). The RH bids: Pass = Tempo force achieved. «Bad» 2. The absolute worthless hand. 3 = «Bad» 2 with 4+. 2+. GF. 3NT = «Good» 2 but not 3, 4 or 5m. 4. = «Bad» 2 with 5+.. No belief in 3NT. Has at least 2. 4 = «Bad» 2 with 5+. No belief in 3NT. Has at least 2.

134 4 = «Bad» 2 with 3. 4 = «Good» 2, with 3 and a void in . SLAM TRY.

If the OH bids 3 over 2, he shows 5+ and 9 tricks (NF). The RH bids: Pass = Tempo force achieved. «Bad» 2. The absolute worthless hand. 3NT = «Good» 2 but not 3, 4 or 5m. 4. = «Bad» 2 with 5+.. No belief in 3NT. Has at least 2. 4 = «Bad» 2 with 5+. No belief in 3NT. Has at least 2. 4 = Shortage with a -fit. GF. 4 = «Bad» 2, with 3.

Normally, 3NT shows 26+HP, but after the reply 2 the bid 3NT will often suggest a hand which wants to play 3NT. a) A «Bad» RH (0-4HP) should normally pass 3NT, for the OH can have 9 tricks straight in. But with Hxxxxx or better in a M he should transfer to the suit by bidding the suit below the wanted M: 4 to 4 and 4 to 4. b) A «Good» 2-hand (5+HP) can, on the other hand, both transfer, apply Minor Stayman (4 whereupon the OH should bid a possible 4 card m from below and bid 4NT with no 4 card m) and make a SLAM TRY with 4NT (quantitative) afterwards. The OH replies to KCB if he accepts the SLAM TRY.

A direct jump by the OH to game in a suit after the reply to 2. is always to play. The RH should respect this, unless he has a hand good enough for further SLAM inquiries.

12.4 Principles and conventions after 2. 12.4.1 Puppet Stayman

Puppet Stayman and Transfers are used after a strong NT (which may contain five /) with more than 20HP (in.e. NT is the first rebid after 2. and 2 openings.) Puppet Stayman and Transfers are also used after NT bids at the two level (2NT as a bid or an intervention = 15-18HP).

2. - 2// 2NT - ? (=22-23HP) or:

2 - 2/ 2NT - ? (=20-21HP) 3. = Puppet Stayman (= Asks for four or five cards in M) 3 = four cards in one or both M. 3 = four (“Switch”). 3 = four (“Switch”).

135 136

3NT = Was looking for five /. 4. = A SLAM TRY with four-four in the /. 4 = CUE. Sets  as trumps. 4NT = KCB with . 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with . 4 = No slam interest with four-four in /. 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4NT = KCB with  as trumps. 3 = five . 3 = five. 3NT = Denies four/five cards in M. 3 = Transfer with five+ 3 = OK. 3 = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 3NT = NF. Suggested contract. 4. = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 4 = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 4 = NF. No slam ambitions. 3 = Transfer with five+ 3 = OK. 3NT = NF. For play. Suggested contract. 4. = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 4 = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 4 = CUE-bid with  as trumps. Cues. Rejection: 4. 4 = NF. No slam ambitions. 3 = Minor Stayman. 3NT = No four card m. No slam interest. 4. = four cards in ., can also have four. 4 = four cards , not four.. 3NT = NF. For play. Max 2. 4. = Slam interested in .. CUE = Accepts the SLAM TRY. 4NT = Rejects the SLAM TRY (For play) 4 = Slam interested in . CUE = Accepts the SLAM TRY. 4NT = Rejects the SLAM TRY (For play) 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4 = NF. For play. No slam ambitions. 4NT = Quantitative raise.

136 12.4.2 MINOR STAYMAN

After 2NT from the OH (and also after 3NT from the OH), the lowest bid in  from the RH will be Minor Stayman. It asks for a four card m suit, and is a SLAM TRY.

2. - 2 (NB! Appears also after 2 - 2x - 2/3NT and 2. - 2x - 3NT) 2NT - 3 = Minor Stayman. (SLAM TRY and promises at least one four card m). 2. - 2 2NT - 3 ? 3NT = No four card m. No slam interest. 4. = 4., may also have 4. 4 = 4, not 4.. 4 = CUE with . 4 = CUE 4NT = KCB 4 = CUE with . 4NT = KCB 4NT = For play. Not 4. 4 = CUE with .. 4 = CUE. 4NT = KCB. 4 = CUE with .. Denies a  CUE. 4NT = KCB. 4NT = A mild SLAM TRY with .. NF, KCB only after a CUE! 4 = 4, denies 4.. 4 = CUE with . 4 = CUE. 4NT = KCB. 4 = CUE with . 4NT = KCB 4NT = To play. Not 4. 4 = CUE with 4. and 4. 4 = Sets  as trumps (complementary). 4NT = KCB with . 4NT = KCB with .. 4 = CUE with 4. and 4. Suit = CUE with . 4NT = KCB with ..

12.4.3 ASKING BIDS

The strong 2. opener may apply asking bids to find out how good the trumps may be. Asking bids are used under game when the RH has shown

137 138

a) 4 cards in a M or b) HHxxxx in a m. (Examples: When the RH has replied 2 (=xxxx in ) to 2., a jump to 3 (partner’s shown suit) from the OH will be an ETA asking bid). A GAMMA asking bid can be used by the OH after the replies 2NT or 3. to 2.. An EPSILON Asking bid is the bid of a new suit after the reply to ETA or GAMMA. Epsilon asks what CTR the RH has in the bid suit. There is every reason to warn against applying asking bids, unless you have slam ambitions. These asking bids do take a lot of room, and it is therefore essential that a) you need the reply and b) no reply will bring you higher than what is good for you. For this reason you also have the possibility to bid in such a way that you will start a CUE sequence instead of an asking sequence. You also have the possibility to “turn off” further asking bids (normally an EPSILON continuation) by bidding 3NT.

12.4.4 ETA-asking bids:

An ETA Asking bid is used after a 2. opening and 2 (=xxxx in ) or 2 (=xxxx in ) from the RH and then a jump to 3/ (partner's shown suit) from the OH.

2. – 2 ? 3 = four+ and ETA. GF.

2. – 2 3 – ? 3 = Step 1 = Jxxx(x) (or worse). 3NT = Step 2 = Hxxx 4. = Step 3 = HHxx 4 = Step 4 = Hxxxx (or worse). 4 = Step 5 = HHxxx or longer. 4 = Step 6 = AKQx(x) or longer.

If the reply was H or HH, the relay suit under game level will ask what honour(s): H: HH: Step 1 = The Queen (or KQ) Step 2= The King (or AQ) Step 3= The Ace (or AK)

If the enemies double or bid, DOPI/ROPI will replace the two first steps (See this). All new suits from the OH after the reply to ETA are EPSILON asking bids.

NB! ETA can only be used below game level. NB2! If the OH bids NT under game level, this is signal to start CUE bidding.

138 12.4.5 GAMMA Asking bids:

After the replies 2NT or 3. (= Transfers) to 2., the OH can apply 3./3 as a GAMMA Asking bid. They set the trumps and will be followed by EPSILON, unless you bid NT under game level in the suit (3NT).

2. – 2NT (Shows at least HHxxxx in .) ? 3. = 3+.. Sets . as trumps. GAMMA Asking bid.

2. – 2NT 3. – ? 3 = (1st step): .KQxxxx or .AQxxxx. 3 = Which is it? 3 = .KQxxxx. 3NT = For play. 4. = .AQxxxx. 4 = .KQxxxxx. 4 = .AQxxxxx. 3 = EPSILON. 3NT = Return to natural bidding. (CUE). 4 new = EPSILON. 3 = (2nd step) .AKxxxx. 3 = How long? 3NT = .AKxxxx. 4. = .AKxxxxx. 4 = .AKxxxxxx. Etc. 3NT = Return to natural bidding. (CUE). 4 new = EPSILON. 3 = (3rd step) .AKQxxx. 3NT = Return to natural bidding. (CUE). 4 new = EPSILON. 3NT = (4th step) . AKQxxxx. 4. = (5th step) . AKQxxxxx. etc

The same procedure will also occur after 2. - 3. - 3. If there is hostile intervention, DOPI/ROPI is applied for the two first steps.

After the reply to GAMMA, the OH can apply 4NT as KCB or any new suit as EPSILON. Just remember that 3NT is not a suggestion to play, but swiches to natural bidding (CUE).

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12.4.6 EPSILON Asking bids:

After the reply to ETA and GAMMA, (or after a renewed asking bid in the same suit, or after en EPSILON) the OH’s bid of a new suit will be an EPSILON asking bid in that new suit. It asks what CTR the RH has in the bid suit. The RH replies:

1st step = No top honour or CTR in the suit (at least xxx). 2nd step = 3rd CTR in the suit (Q/xx). 3rd step = 2nd CTR in the suit (K/x). 4th step = 1st CTR in the suit (A/void).

If the OH rebids the same EPSILON suit at once, this is a «repeated EPSILON», and asks if the shown CTR was a ruffing CTR or a real CTR:

1st step = Ruffing CTR (based on shortage in the suit). 2nd step = Real CTR (an honour in the suit).

The bid of a new suit after the reply to EPSILON is a new EPSILON, this time in the new suit. The replies are the same.

If the OH has bid EPSILON in two different suits and then returns to the first one again, this is asking for an extra CTR in the suit.

If the RH has shown 3./2./1. CTR.:

1st step = No other CTR in the suit. 2nd step = I also have 2nd CTR (the 1st reply showed 1st CTR.). I also have 3rd CTR (the 1st reply showed 2nd CTR.). 3rd step = I also have 3rd CTR (the 1st reply showed 1st CTR).

Example: 2. – 2 3 – 3 = 1st step = Jxxx(x) (or worse). ? 3NT = Asks for a CUE. 4. = EPSILON in .. 4 = No CTR in .. 4 = 3. CTR. in . (Q/xx). 4 = EPSILON in . 4NT = No CTR i . 5. = Real KTR or ruffing CTR in .? 5 = Ruffing CTR in . (xx). 5 = Real CTR in . (Q) 5 = EPSILON in . 5 = EPSILON in . 140 4 = 2. CTR in .. (K/x). 4NT = KCB. 5. = EPSILON: Any additional CTR in .? 5 = No other CTR in .. 5 = I also have a 3. CTR in .. 5 = EPSILON in . 5 = No CTR in . 5 = 3. CTR in  (Q/xx). 5NT = 2. CTR in  (K/x). 6. = 1. CTR in  (A/void). 4NT = 1. CTR in . (A/void). 4 = EPSILON. 4 = For play. 4 = EPSILON. 4NT = KCB.

It is always wise to plan your EPSILON well, and you should do so thinking what replies you can get without getting into trouble. It normally pays off to start with an EPSILON in the lowest ranking of the two suits which you want to investigate.

NB! If the enemies interfere after GAMMA, ETA or EPSILON, DOPI/ROPI will always take PRI as regards the two first steps.

12.5 When 2. is doubled

2. – (x) - ? Pass = 0-5HP UNBALor 0-7HP SEMI(BAL). At least H10xx in .. Shows an interest for playing 2.x. If the OH redoubles, this is a very strong suggestion to play. xx = Wants to play 2.xx. At least HHxxx in .. 2 = System 2/ = System 2NT = System 3./ = System

12.6 The enemy bids over 2.

Pass = When x or a bid does not fit in or with a very weak hand. x = NEG-X over 2 and 2, otherwise PEN-X (a strong suggestion).

If the enemy bids 3NT or higher, a double is a warning against further bidding, while pass is a RF and shows an interest in higher contracts.

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142 13 Opening 2 (Multi)

Opening 2 is Multi. The opening shows either a weak 2/ (6-10HP ), 20-21NT or 24- 25NT (with a jump).

Vulnerable in the 1st and 2nd hands you should have at least HHxxxx or better (= max suit) in your weak 2M. The hand should be MAX (= 9-10HP).

Vulnerable in the 3rd and 4th hands the weak two opening could be nearly anything, but your partner has the right to expect a trump suit which should at least hold QJTxxx and a MIN (= 6-8HP). Otherwise, your partner should not get over-excited when you open a weak two in the 3rd and the 4th hands.

Unvulnerable in the 1st and 2nd hands the suit should be at least HJxxxx, i.e. a suit which partner can lead without causing a disaster. The weak two may very well contain a MAX (= 9-10HP) but may just as well hold a MIN (= 6-8HP).

Unvulnerable in the 3rd and 4th hands, the opening may be close to nothing, even hold a suit as weak as J9xxxx and a SUBMIN (= 3-6HP). Your partner has no right to be delighted when you open on cards of this calibre.

A weak two opening should never contain any side suit in M, and never as much as 2 Aces, and most of your HP should be in the weak two suit. Unvulnerable it may not be unthinkable to open on a 5 card suit in the 3rd and the 4th hand. However, the suit should in that case be very top-strong.

A weak two opening in the 3rd and the 4th hands may otherwise very well contain an opening hand (= 11+HP), and even a very good opening hand (= 14-15HP). Remember that partner has passed, and he is therefore limited to 10HP. A jump opening, regardless of the vulnerability, is a strategic opportunity which deprives the opponents of much bidding space without causing any danger for your own life and limbs. The partner should be aware of these facts, and should never support to the three level without an especially good fit and a MAX (= 9-10HP).

If the OH rebids 2NT, this is a 20-21NT (or with a jump: 24-25NT). Puppet Stayman, Transfers and Minor Stayman are applied after 2–2/–2NT/3NT.

13.1 Replies to 2 Multi 2 = Bad , maybe better . Asks you to pass with a weak 2, to bid 2 with a weak 2 and to bid 2NT with a 20-21NT (3NT with 24-25NT). A direct jump to 4M is for play with long / no matter if an opponent has bid or not. NB! 4./ is not SAT, but a natural SLAM TRY after NT openings from 20HP and up.

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A direct jump to 4M from the RH is for play with his own long suit, regardless of intervention from the opponents.

2 - ? 2 = Bad in , maybe better in . 2 = For play in . Forces to at least 3 if  is the Weak 2 suit. 3. = Natural RF with 5+.. Bad in the M. 3 = Natural RF with 5+. Bad in the M. 3 = PRE-EMPT if the OH has  (forcing if the OH has ). 3 = PRE-EMPT if the OH has  (GF if the OH has ). 3NT = NF. For play. 4. = A fit in both M. The RH should bid the suit below his M suit, so that the contract will be played by the stronger hand. A mild SLAM TRY. 4 = Weak 2. 4 = Weak 2. 4 = 20-21NT. 4NT = 24-25NT. 4 = A fit in both M. No slam ambitions. The OH should bid his M at the four level. 4 = 7+ and for play. It does not matter what suit the OH has. 4 = 7+ and for play. It does not matter what suit the OH has.

13.1.1 Bids after 2 – 2

2 - 2 ? Pass = For play. Weak 2. 2 = Weak 2. The RH can now find out more about the OH. 2NT is an INV in NT and 3. is a conventional question. 2NT = 20-21NT. (Puppet Stayman, Transfers and Minor Stayman). 3NT = 24-25NT. (Puppet Stayman, Transfers and Minor Stayman).

13.1.1.1 Bids after 2 - 2 - 2 2 - 2 2 - ? pass = For play. 2NT = INV in NT with Max a singleton . 3. = Describe your hand! (Max suit = HHxxxx. MAX strength = 9-10HP). 3 = MIN strength + min suit. 3 = MIN strength + max suit. 3 = MAX strength + min suit. 3NT = MAX strength + max suit. 3 = CUE with .

144 3 = CUE with . 3 = PRE-EMPT. NF. 4. = Shortage in . with . GF. 4 = Shortage in  with . GF. 4 = Shortage in  with . GF. 4 = Spillemelding. NF.

13.1.2 Bids after 2 – 2

2 shows a bad fit in , but forces to at least 3 if the OH has a weak 2. Asks for pass with a weak 2, the bid of 3 with a MIN and , Cue with a MAX and , 2NT with 20-21NT and 3NT with 24-25NT. (Puppet Stayman and transfers also at the four level).

2 - 2 = (NF, RF if the OH has weak 2) ? pass = For play. Weak 2. 2NT = 20-21NT. (Puppet Stayman and transfers at the three level). 3. = CUE with weak 2. MAX HP. 3 = CUE with weak 2. Denies CUE in .. MAX HP. 3 = MIN (max 8 HP and not more than max HJxxxx). 3 = CUE with weak 2. Denies CUE in ./. MAX HP. 3NT = 24-25NT. Puppet Stayman and transfers at the four level).

13.1.3 Bids after 2 – 2NT

2NT from the RH is a RF. NB! The contract is always to be played by the strongest hand if possible. Therefore, a MIN OH should transfer directly with 3 (transfer with a “weak, weak 2”) or 3 (transfer with a “weak, weak 2”). If the OH has a MAX weak two opening («strong weak 2/» (9-10 HP) and at least HHxxxx in the suit), he should bid 3.. The relay bid 3 from the RH asks what M suit it is, and the OH should then “switch” the two M suits: 3 shows a MAX weak 2, and 3 shows a MAX weak 2. There should be no reason to bid stronger, as long as the RH could have only enough for an INV in one M suit and a GF in the other.

2 - 2NT (RF) ? 3. = “Strong weak 2/“ (MAX HP and suit). 3 = What is the suit? 3 = . (“Switch”). 3 = . (“Switch”). 3 = Transfer: “Weak weak 2” (MIN HP and/or suit).

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3 = Transfer: “Weak weak 2” (MIN HP and/or suit). 3NT = 20-21NT. 4. = Puppet Stayman. 4 = At least 4 card M. 4 =  4 =  4 = 5 4 = 5 4 = Transfer to 4. 4 = Transfer to 4. 4NT = Quantitative raise. 4. = SLAM TRY with HHxxxx in .. Asks for a CUE with a fit. 4NT = Negative. 4 = SLAM TRY with HHxxxx in . Asks for a CUE with a fit. 4NT = Negative. 4NT = 24-25NT (NF but partner replies as to KCB with slam ambitions).

13.2 The opponents intervene after 2

After 2 – (x) - ? Pass = At least H10xx in . xx = Show your suit! 2/ = The RH’s own good suit. 2NT = Show your values: ”system on”! 3 = PRE-EMPT in any M. Pull in 3 if  is the suit. 3NT = For play. 4 = Pass or adjust to  if that is your M.

After 2 – (2/) - ? 2NT = Show your values: ”system on”! X = PEN-X if partner has the suit or a strong NT. TO-X if the OH has the other M. 3./ = PRE-EMPT with a 6 card suit (system). 3NT = For play

After 2 – (2NT) - ? X = PEN-X. 3./ = PRE-EMPT med 6./. 3 = Stop in your M: Pass with weak 2 or adjust to 2. 3 = INV if the suit is . GF if the suit is . 3NT = For play. 4. = Bid the suit under your M. 4 = Weak two . 4 = Weak two .

146 After 2 – (3.) - ? x = INV in both M. 3 = Stop in your M. Pull in 3 if  is the suit. 3 = INV if your suit is . GF if you have . 3NT = For play. 4. = Bid the suit under your M. 4 = Weak two . 4 = Weak two . 4 = Bid your suit. 4 = Weak two . 4 = Weak two .

After 2 – (3) - ? x = INV in both M. 3 = Stop in your M. Pass or pull in 3. 3 = INV if your suit is . GF if you have . 3NT = For play. 4. = Bid the suit beneath your suit 4 = Weak two . 4 = Weak two . 4 = Bid your suit. 4 = Weak two . 4 = Weak two .

If there is intervention after 2 – 2NT, 3/4 from the RH will ask for a preference (pass or adjust to ), 3NT will be for play and a X is a PEN-X. From the OH the X of a M bid by the enemy shows that they hit your suit (or that you have a strong NT with at least 4 trumps), and a pass will show the other suit. Otherwise a X of all other bids by an opponent shows a strong NT (PEN-X). Partner will have to decide if the X shall stand or if we have something else (better) in the cards.

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14 Higher Opening bids 14.1 Replies to opening 2 (Tartan): 7-10HP, 5 and 4+./

2NT asks for the other suit. After the reply to 2NT, 3/4 in the shown m is an INV.

A directly bid game is for play with a good own suit. Other bids are natural. A new suit is RF, 3M and 4 m is for play (PRE-EMPT).

After 2 - (X) - 2/3./: 2/3./ is NF unless the OH has both a fit and a MAX.

14.2 Replies to opening 2 (Tartan): 7-10HP 5 and 4+./

2NT asks for it other the suit. After the reply to 2NT, 3/4 in the shown m is an INV.

A directly bid game is for play with a good own suit. Other bids are natural. A new suit is RF, 3 M and 4 m is for play (PRE-EMPT).

After 2 - (X) - 3.//: 3.// is NF unless the OH has both a fit and a MAX.

14.3 Replies to opening 2NT: 5-5 in .+ and 6- 11HP/15+HP

2NT - ? 3§ = Preference. 3 = Preference. 3 = six cards good , and RF (H/XX is enough for a support). 3ª = six cards good , and RF (H/XX is enough for a support). 3NT = NF. 4§ = PRE-EMPT INV. The OH raises with far better values than shown. 4 = PRE-EMPT INV. The OH raises with far better values than shown. 4 = For play. 4ª = For play. 4NT = KCB with § as trumps. 5§ = For play. 5 = For play.

If an opponent interferes, the RH should still PRE-EMPT as high as he dares. All M bids will show 5+ in the suit and are RF.

148 NB! Normally the OH has below opening strength, but he can also have at least 15HP. In that case he will show this through Cue in a M suit after partner’s initial preference bid. That will be a mild SLAM TRY. After 2NT - 3./, a raise to 4./ will be a PRE-EMPT INV. (See this.)

14.4 Replies to opening 3. & 3 (PRE-EMPT)

New suit on the 3 level = natural RF. 3NT = NF. 4 in the same m = PRE-EMPT (interested in possible sacrifice). 4 in the opposite m = CUE with the opening suit. 4/ = For play. 4NT = KCB.

In the 1st and 2nd hand, there should be some restrictions for PRE-EMPTs. a) A PRE- EMPT on the 3 level should contain a good suit (at least HHxxxx in ./). b) You should have no voids and no two side Aces. c) You should not have a three card M in your hand. If you do, it is better that you pass initially and support your partner’s M if you can. The point is not to ruin the opportunities when partner has strong hand.

If partner has passed, all these requirements are superfluous. Then you may open as boldly as you dare. You should, though, have something in the top which will not make it a catastrophe if your partner leads the H from Hx.

14.5 Replies to opening 3/ (PRE-EMPT)

3 = Natural RF (over 3). 3NT = NF. 4. = CUE with the opening suit. 4 = CUE with the opening suit. Denies . CUE. 4 = For play after 3, as well as 3. 4 = For play after 3, as well as 3. 4NT = KCB with the opening suit.

In the 1st and 2nd hand, there are restrictions for PRE-EMPTs. A PRE-EMPT on the 3 level should contain a good suit (at least HHxxxxx in /). Furthermore, you should have no voids and not two side Aces. If partner has passed, all these requirements are superfluous. Then you may open as high and as boldly as you dare. You should, though, have something in the top which enables your partner to lead the suit, also from Hx.

14.6 Replies to opening 3NT (Running m)

4. = Pull-out. Partner should adjust the suit if he has a running .

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4 = Asks for Cue (short suit). The RH’s own good suit. A return to the trump suit on the lowest level = no short suit. A new suit = Cue asking you to show your King if you have one. 4 = For play. 4 = For play. 4NT = Asks for the length of the suit. 5. = seven cards, 5 = six cards etc…

14.7 Replies to opening 4. (Running)

4 = (Relay:) How many? 4 = seven cards. 4 = eight cards. 4NT = nine cards etc. 4 = NF. 4 = NF. 4NT = KCB.

14.8 Replies to opening 4 (Running)

4 = (Relay:) How many? 4 = seven cards. 4NT = eight cards etc. 4 = NF. 4 = NF. 4NT = KCB.

14.9 Replies to opening 4 & 4

4 = NF. New suit at the five level = CUE with the opening suit. 4NT = KCB.

14.10 Replies to opening 4NT (Where is your Ace?)

5. = No Aces. 5 = A. 5 = A. 5 = A. 5NT = Two Aces. 6. = .A. 7NT = 3 Aces.

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15 Slam Conventions

15.1 The Principle of Fast Arrival

When you are in the slam area, you should apply a very good principle: "The Principle of Fast Arrival". This principle states: "The faster you end in a game, the more likely it is that you should be just there, and not higher!" This is a very useful piece of knowledge to write behind your ear whenever you wonder whether to move on towards possible slam.

15.2 Splinter

A “Splinter” is applied in some sequences where it is natural to show shortage. In this system, ROMEX Short assumes the role of Splinter in an uncontested bidding sequence. Splinter in its original form will, however, be applied more frequently after hostile intervention.

If there is a lower bid which will show a singleton (ROMEX Short or PRE-FER Structural Jumps+1 and +2), a jump to the four level will always show a void. Otherwise, such a jump will show shortage.

When Splinter shows either a singleton or a void, the 1st CTR in the suit has not been showed until either the one hand or the other repeats the suit as Cue at the first possible opportunity. You should therefore assume that only a 2nd CTR has been showed.

15.3 CUE Bids

Cue BID is a KEY BID which shows a CTR (= control) in the bid suit. This CTR is either an Ace/a void (= 1st CTR) or a King/a singleton (= 2nd CTR). (The A/K are natural controls, while singleton/void are ruffing CTRs.) We normally bid the controls indiscriminately, but always from the bottom and up, so that suits you skip are suits you do not control. Both partners participate in Cue exchange.

CUE bids can be applied to discover how well the two hands fit together, but also to discover how right it would be proceed towards a possibla slam. You may lack vital controls, and then it would be right to stop before the slam level.

A new suit at the four level after the trump suit and a GF has been agreed (e.g. a jump after a new suit on the 3 level or the 4th suit and then a suit support), shows a CTR in the bid suit and a mild interest for a slam below game level. Please note that if you jump to new suit at the four level, this is normally a short suit (a singleton or a void). If you bid a new suit at the four level without a jump, it is normally Cue with the last bid suit as the agreed trumps (if you don’t know otherwise).

152 1 - 1 1 - 3 1NT - 2 1 - 2 3 - 4. (CUE) 4. (CUE) 2 - 4. (short suit) 4. (short suit)

4NT in the middle of Cue exchange is always KCB.

All CUEs at the five level are small SLAM TRIES, while all CUEs at the six level are big SLAM TRIES.

The most positive bid you can make after Cue is another CUE. The most negative bid you can deliver, is a return to the trump suit on the cheapest level (please note that also 4NT can be a rejection from time to time, especially when the trump suit is a m). A rejection is a powerful warning against going towards slam, for your partner is either too weak to accept the SLAM TRY, or he lacks the controls between your CUE and the trump suit (which is most often the case).

Anyway, there are good reasons to be little careful, for remember that Cue does not only have the intention to plot in all the important key cards, but also to find out (in time) that there are vital key cards missing so that you can avoid the slam. Remember that CUEs under game level are “showing” and not “accepting”, so there is absolutely no reason to skip Cue on the way to a game, unless you are very sure that there can be no slam on the hand.

If an opponent doubles Cue, you should use this for your own benefit. With a 1st CTR in the doubled suit, you redouble, and if you cannot redouble, you should pass, so that your partner can show the 1st CTR in the suit (via a redouble). Not to worry, your partner will not pass a doubled CUE, as the CUE is a GF in the agreed suit (unless he has gone bazooka).

The first time you CUE support one of your partner’s bid suits you show a natural CTR (an A/K), as opposed to a ruffing CTR (void/singleton).

After a Splinter/CUE below game level you are obligated to show any controls you might have on the way up to game. This is only showing controls, and does not accept any SLAM TRY. However, it will help your partner to find out how good a possible slam looks at this stage of the bidding.

With a mega-minimum is it, however, allowed to skip Cue as a gigantic warning to your partner against going any further. This should only happen when it seems unlikely to you from what you know about the common assets that there can be any slam our way.

If partner, however CUE bids on a level over game, it is obligatory to CUE whatever controls you might have up to the next level.

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15.4 A double jump showing shortage

A double jump in a new suit will after a M suit normally show a void in the jump suit (unless no other lower bids could have shown shortage, for in that case, the double jump will show a «Splinter»: either a singleton or a void). NB! The double jump rule does not apply to the opposite M! Such jumps are natural and for play. After a m bid, a double jump will normally show shortage (“Splinter”).

A jump to the five level and all jumps higher than the game level in the agreed trump suit will show a void, and are at the same time X-KCB.

While XY and ROMEX mainly INV to game (ROMEX can also act as SLAM TRY if the Romex bidder CUEs at the four level after the reply), a double jump in new suit at the four level normally displays shortage in the jump suit, and sets the last suit before the jump as trumps (if there is any doubt).

After 1, a direct jump to 3/4./4 shows a void in the jump suit, since there are several structural jumps which will show a singleton. After 1, a double jump to 4./4 will show a void, while 4 will show the RH’s own good, long  suit (may be a PRE-EMPT game). After 1./1, a double jump in a new suit will be a “Splinter” (max a singleton), while a triple jump in a new suit will show a void in the jump suit.

However, there are situations where the OH or the RH cannot show his singleton at the three level, either because the bidding has prevented it or because the enemy have found it convenient to participate. Then a double jump and also a jump will be a “Splinter” showing shortage.

The main rules are: a) If the OH or the RH is limited, so that slam will be on only in exceptional cases, the shortage shown will normally be a void. b) The same is the case when the jump exceeds game level in the agreed trump suit or c) occurs at the five level. Then the jump will show a void and at the same time it will be Exclusion Blackwood (X-KCB).

15.5 Quantitative 4NT på NT

4NT after a NT bid is always a quantitative raise (1NT – 4NT, 2. - 2 - 2NT – 4NT, 2 - 2 - 2NT – 4NT and any raise from 3NT to 4NT). Partner should pass with a MIN and bid on with a MAX or great additional values. In such bidding sequences the possible suit fits will always be in the m suits.

3NT - 4NT ? Pass = Does not accept the quantitative INV.

154 5. = Zero Aces. 5NT = For play: two Aces are missing. 6 New m = Four card suit. 5 = One Ace. 5NT = For play: two Aces are missing. 6 New m = Four card suit. 5 = Two Aces. 5NT = For play: two Aces are missing. 6Ny = four card suit. 5 = Three Aces. Denies 5./. 6New m = Four card suit. 5NT = Three Aces and two four card suits. Partner bids his 4 card suits from below. 6 New m = Four card suit.

15.6 Roman Key Card Blackwood (KCB): 4NT

In Roman Key Card Blackwood (KCB), the trump K is regarded to be the 5. Ace (= Key Card). The trump suit should be agreed before the KCB, and if there should be any doubt, the agreed trump suit is the last bid suit before (a possible jump to) 4NT. This may be the case e.g. when both hands have bid and an opponent interrupts: 4NT is KCB with partner’s last bid suit as trumps.

KCB can be applied by both hands, and in the same way as Cue, KCB can help us to find a specific slam because all the key cards are present. Likewise, the KCB can also help us stop below slam level due to bad trump quality or too many missing key cards.

15.6.1 Replies to KCB

1st step = 5. = Zero or three Aces. 2nd step = 5 = One or four Aces. 3rd step = 5 = Two Aces without the trump Queen. 4th step = 5 = Two Aces with the trump Queen. 5th step = 5NT = One or three Aces and void in a suit. 5 in the cheapest suit below the agreed trumps asks where. The reply is according to “the Natural, Corresponding and Residue” principle. 6th step = 6 New = Two Aces and void in bid suit. 7th step = 6 trumps = Two Aces and void in higher ranking suit.

15.6.2 After the first reply to KCB

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After the RH has shown a certain number of key cards (KC), the 4NT bidder has ample possibilities: a) He can bid 5 in the trump suit for play if there are 2 (or more) missing KC. b) He can bid 6 in the trump suit if only 1 KC is missing, or if all the KC are present, but it seems that there are not enough tricks for a grand slam. c) If the reply was 5. or 5, he can ask for the Queen of trumps. He does this by bidding the next free suit below the trump suit. Later, he can ask for specific kings with 5NT if partner has the trump Q and there is room enough for this (or, if he has the Q himself, he can bid two suits higher than the reply to KCB). You should never ask for the trump Q if you have it yourself, nor if the reply is unsubstantial, in.e. if you can count 10 trumps or more. d) He can bid 5NT asking for specific Kings from below. The King question shows grand slam ambitions and confirms that all 5 KC and the Queen of trumps are present. To save bidding space, also two suits higher than the reply to the KCB can be used to ask for Kings. e) He can also bid 6 in suit below the trump suit after the reply to 4NT. This bid asks his partner to bid a grand slam with a 3rd CTR (the Q or a doubleton) in that suit.

15.6.3 The trump Q question

After the reply 5. (0-3 KC) and 5 (1-4 KC) the cheapest suit bid (below the trump suit and never NT) asks for the Queen of trumps. The replies to the trump Q question are:

5 in the trump suit = Denies the trump Q. 5NT = Confirms the trump Q and 2 Kings or one K in a suit higher than the trump suit. New suit (5 or 6) = Confirms the trump Q and the K in the bid suit. With more than 2 Kings, you always bid the lowest ranking one first. 6 in the trump suit = Confirms the trump Q, but has no side Kings.

You are allowed to ask for the trumps Q even if one KC is missing. This is useful in order to avoid any slams where both trump Q and an Ace are missing.

A useful rule is that you can bid as if you have the Q of trumps if you know that you have at least 10 trumps altogether. The trump will then be 2-1 with the enemy in nearly 80% of all the cases, and even when the trumps break 3-0, you will be able to finesse the Q half the time.

156 15.6.4 The King question

After the reply to 4NT has shown number of KC, (and also after the reply to the Q question) the 4NT bidder can ask for your specific Kings with 5NT. You can also make the same inquiry by bidding 2 suits higher than the reply to KCB. Both these bids will guarantee that you have all 5 KC and the Q of trumps. The responder bids his King if he has one.

If he has two unshown kings or more (none of them in void suit), he should bid 6NT because two kings should normally be enough for grand slam. However, partner may not think two kings is enough, and therefore there is some reason to be little careful anyway. He can also bid the lowest ranking of the kings and then if partner wants to stop in 6, raise to 7 in the agreed trump suit.

The King question will always be grand slam INV. When all Aces are present, the RH should assess the trick potential. If he e.g. has long, running suit which he has not been able to show, or he has significant unshown values (in the form of unshown low honours) this could be enough to go to grand slam.

If the K question bidder bids new suit below the trump suit after the reply, this asks for 3rd round CTR in that suit (the Queen or doubleton). With this 3rd round CTR you should raise the contract to the seven level.

15.6.5 6 in lower suit after reply to 4NT

After the reply to the KCB question. 6 in suit below the trump suit will ask partner to bid grand slam with 3rd CTR (Q or doubleton) in that suit.

15.7 DOPI/ROPI

DOPI/ROPI is applied when the opponents intervene over 4NT (KCB) or over a question that requires stepwise relies. A Double shows 0 (= the 1st step = 0 or 3 Aces). A Pass shows 1 (= the 2nd step = one or four Aces). The first suit (NB! not the trump suit) shows the 3rd step = 2 Aces without trump Q and the 2nd suit shows the 4th step = 2 Aces with trump Q. The equivalent after a double is ROPI: Redouble = 0 (= the 1st step = 0 or 3 Aces), and Pass = 1 (= the 2nd step = one or four Aces).

The reply to DOPI/ROPI sets up the Q question after the reply to KCB (one suit higher than the reply suit, but not the trump suit) and the K question = 5NT (or two suits above the reply to KCB). If the reply to KCB shows that the Q is present or not, one suit higher than that response will be the K question. If your partner has shown void underway, you should not at all show any values in that suit.

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15.8 ”Josephine”

2. - 2 5NT - ? 6. = The Ace or the King. 6 = The Queen. **) 6 = No top honour, but extra length. *) 6 = No top honour, no extra length. 6NT = Two top honours (AK, AQ or KQ) 7 in trumps = Three top honours (A, K and Q)

After the reply 6. you can ask for extra trump length with 6. 6 will show extra length, while 6 denies.

*) When the trump suit is , the 6 reply disappears. **) When the trump suit is , the 6 reply disappears.

When . is the agreed trumps, 5 is “Josephine”. 5NT shows one top honor (A/K/Q), while 6. shows no top honour in the trump suit.

15.9 Exclusion KCB (X-KCB)

Exclusion Blackwood (X-KCB) is only applied in the PRE-FER system in two situations: a) when one hand jumps to a suit higher than game level in the agreed trump suit or b) when a jump to a new suit at the five level sets the last shown suit as trumps. This jump shows a void in the jump suit, and is simultaneously Exclusion Blackwood.

This can be such situation:

1NT - (2) - 3(= shows long ) - (pass) 3 - (pass) - 4/5./5 - (pass) All the three bids by the RH show a void in the jump suit and are X-KCB. or:

1 - 2NT/4./4/4 ? 5.// = X-KCB. Void in the jump suit. Do not show any A/K in the void suit. or:

1 - 3 (shows 11-13HDP, 4+ and can have singleton)

158 ? 5.// = X-KCB. Void in the jump suit. Do not show any A/K in the void suit.

The replies are according to KCB:

1st step = Zero or three Aces (outside the void suit). 2nd step = One or four Aces (outside the void suit). 3rd step = Two Aces (outside the void suit) without the trump Queen. 4th step = Two Aces (outside the void suit) with the trump Queen.

DOPI/ROPI if the enemies interfere with a bid: the 1st step is then X and then Pass (D0 P1). If the enemies double, the 1st step is XX, and the 2nd step = Pass (R0 P1).

15.9.1 The trump Q question The reply to X-KCB sets up the Trump Queen question: the bid of one suit higher than the reply. (The question can easily be posed via the void suit, but not via the trump suit). NB! 7) To deny the trump Queen: Return to the cheapest bid in the trump suit. 8) To show the trump Queen with no side kings: Bid 5NT. 9) To show the trump queen with at least one side king: Bid your lowest side king (but not in the void suit). The lowest suit (except the trump suit) will then ask for more kings.)

Some important points as regards the trump Queen: 1) Never ask for the trump Queen if you have it yourself! 2) If you know about at least 10 trumps altogether, you may say that you have the trump Queen without really having it. With at least 10 trumps there is an 80% chance that the trumps will break 2-1 with the opponents.

15.9.2 The King Question

The reply to X-KCB showed the trump Queen: 5NT asks for Kings if available.

The reply to Exclusion KCB did not show the Queen: 5NT asks for Kings if available.

It goes without saying that the King in the void suit is immaterial and should never be shown.

A return to the trump suit is naturally never any question, but for play, based upon the info that has been brought up to the surface.

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Some important points around the King question:

1) The RH should bid his King in a side suit. 2) The King Question is in itself a BIG SLAM TRY, and guarantees that the 1. CTR is present in all suits in addition to the trump King and Queen. 3) You should never apply the King question if you know that a big slam is off. Bid the small slam as it is instead. 4) As the RH you should never even think about showing the trump king as a king. This king is a Key Card which has already been shown as a reply to KCB/ X-KCB. 5) With two side kings (none of them in the void suit or in the trump suit) the RH should bid 6NT if it is available or raise to 7, even if partner should be satisfied with small slam.

15.10 Acceptance and rejection of SLAM TRY

Over 3NT and over minor bids (when the trump suit has not yet been agreed), a new m at the four level will always be a mild SLAM TRY in the suit. You accept (and then set the suit as trumps) via the cheapest CUE in M, while the rejection will normally be 4NT. Often, 4. will be a SLAM TRY. Cue in M will accept ., while 4 will say that . is not the suit, but perhaps  is. A M CUE will then accept , while 4NT will be a rejection.

15.11 A SLAM TRY in m

A SLAM TRY in m, introduced by 4 in a m (either as new suit or as a repeated suit after partner has ”descended” in 3NT) takes three directions. a) You accept the SLAM TRY via Cue at the four level. This sets the suit as trumps. b) The Rejection of the SLAM TRY is normally 4NT (for play), or (even rarer) 5 in the m suit and (very seldom) 4 in your own bid (long) M. c) A strong OH, in.e. hand which is considerably stronger than the RH, often needs to be «filled in». Therefore 4NT as KCB must be available in addition to Cue (which shows interest and additional values). On such hands, 5 in the m suit is rejection.

In cases where it becomes important to discover if you have a potential minor contract or not, 4. will ask what m you have and simultaneously be a SLAM TRY in at least one m. a. 4 means that you have a  suit, but not a . suit. After 4: a.i. Cue will show slam interest with  as trumps. a.ii. 4NT is a rejection.

160 b. 4/ will be Cue with . as trumps. After this CUE: b.i. 4NT will be a rejection. b.ii. A new CUE will show slam interest with . as trumps. c. 4NT will either deny any m or warn against partner’s slam ambition.

The principle is that you must CUE to show a fit, and only after this, 4NT will be KCB. If you do not make Cue, 4NT will only be a rejection of the SLAM TRY.

Example:

2. - 2 2NT - 3. 3 - 3 3NT - ? Still the RH can have four cards in both m, and be slam interested if you can find a fit. Then the further bidding will go: 4. = SLAM TRY in . (and maybe in ). 4 = Not 4., but 4. 4 = Cue with . 4 = Cue with . 4NT = Not 4. For play. After a Cue, however, 4NT is KCB. 4 = CUE with 4.. 4 = CUE with 4.. 4NT = For play. After a Cue, however, 4NT is KCB. 5. = For play with 4.. 4 = SLAM TRY in . Denies 4.. 4 = CUE with 4. 4 = CUE with 4. 4NT = For play. 5 = For play with 4.

15.12 In a sacrifice position

Say we have found a superfit, and an opponent intervenes with 6x:

In the 2nd hand: pass = Zero or one quick trick. X = Two quick tricks.

In the 4th hand: (partner has passed and shown zero or one quick trick) pass = Two quick tricks. X = One quick trick. (Partner will sacrifice with Zero.)

161 162

Sacrifice = Zero quick tricks.

162 16 Defensive bidding 16.1 Take-out doubles (=TO-X)

A Take-Out double (TO-X) normally shows four cards in the opposite M, and at least 4- 3 in the M over 1m. There is one exception from this, and that is that you also need to double first to show a super-strong hand (16+HP UNBALor 19+HP SEMI(BAL)).

On a winter day you may even have Kxx - x - EDxxx - .Kxxx or the equivalent when you double 1, but in principle the TO-X shows four cards in the other M.

After a TO-X at the two level, 2NT is applied as a PRE-FER Lebensohl (0-6HP). A direct suit bid will therefore show 7+HP.

Partner replies to a TO-X with a suit bid (=0-7HP), a jump (=8-11HP), 1NT (= 8-11HP with a stopper) and Cue (= opening). TO-X has in this system an extended use, since we very rarely apply PEN-X at the one, two and three level. The TO-X thus has much in common with the PRE-FER-X, e.g. that it shows additional values and wants a bid from partner (not pass).

If an opponent applies transfer bids on a 1. opening, the X of the transfer bid will show 5+ cards in the transfer suit and a bid of the transfer suit will equal a TO-X.

16.2 Canapé in defence

Also in defence there will be Canapé bidding. If the one hand makes a TO-X, the other one will bid a M if he has one. If he later in the bidding returns with a m (instead of rebidding/supporting a M), he will have shown four cards in the M and 5 or six cards in the bid m: (1.) – X – (1) - 1 - (2) – p - (p) - 3 must necessarily show longer  than !

16.3 PRE-FER-Lebensohl

A PRE-FER Lebensohl is to be applied by the RH to separate between a hand with at least 7HP and a weaker hand (0-6HP) with a wish to play a part score. The weak hand will be introduced with 2NT, which asks for 3., which can be passed or corrected to a one-suiter. If the RH does not bid 2NT, but any suit at the three level, he promises at least 7+HP. Lebensohl should normally be applied in the following three situations: a) Partner makes a TO-X over the enemy’s M opening at the two level:

(2) X (p) ?

163 164 b) Partner makes a TO-X over the enemy’s support in M at the two level:

(1) X (2) p (p) X (p) ?

A suit bid now shows an OK hand (7+HP), while 2NT will show MAX 6HP and asks for 3. which can be passed or corrected to the right one-suiter. If the doubler is very strong (20+H(F)P), he should not accept the transfer to 3., but normally bid 3. c) In your own bidding when the OH has reversed: 1. (p) 1 (=) (pass) 2 (p) ? and 1. (p) 1 (=) (pass) 2/ (p) ? and 1 (p) 1 (=) (pass) 2 (p) ?

The RH now pushes the emergency brake with 2NT (= PRE-FER-Lebensohl) while all suit bids will be RF and show at least 7HP.

16.4 Intervention with suit bid

At the one level any intervention can be primarily lead directing (8-15HP and 5 card suit that is so good that partner can lead from his Kx), but in principle an intervention should be constructive on the cheapest level. At the two level, intervention almost always shows close to an OH (10-15HP and a 5 card suit in M, or a 6 card suit in m). If both opponents have bid, the intervention may be weaker and only lead directing. With a stronger hand than 15HP you will always make a TO-X before you show your suit.

It can be tempting to intervene with even a 4 card suit, if only it is strong enough. With e.g. AKQx in  it will be easy to bid 1 because:

a) It makes it more difficult for an opponent to bid. b) It almost always generates a good lead and. c) It tends to make an opponent think twice before bidding 3NT with no stopper.

NB! If partner enters the bidding with 1/1, the normal system after 1 and 1 opening is “on” if a) The 3rd hand passes or doubles. b) The 3rd hand bids 1 over 1 intervention. Neither of these bids will corrupt our M system.

16.4.1 Reply to intervention in a suit

164 Partner should reply to an intervention after pass from the next opponent as if partner had opened in the suit. After the intervention 1/ from partner and 1/pass/X by the next opponent, the RH will be able to treat the intervention with “system on”.

A CUE in the enemy suit will normally show a good raise in partner’s bid suit. A jump to 3 in the enemy suit almost always asks partner to bid 3NT with a stopper in the enemy suit.

When you balance at the two level, 2NT from partner will mean that he wants to play 3NT if you have ”full” opening.

16.5 Jump interventions

Jump interventions are PRE-EMPTs and can be very feeble both at the two and the three levels. They should, however, be able to receive without any damage a lead from partner holding Kx!

16.6 A 1NT-intervention

A 1NT intervention shows 15-18HP SEMI(BAL) (also in the 4th hand). The system is “on” as if you had opened 1NT (Drop-Dead Stayman and transfers). If an opponent doubles 1NT, “Nilsland’s Slinkninger” are applied.

16.7 A jump intervention to 2NT

A jump intervention to 2NT shows at least 5-5 in the two lowest unbid suits, and can be strong or weak (a . opening from the opponents showing at least 3. is counted as a shown suit). A weak hand is shown via pass to partner’s preference bid, while the strong hand will be shown via Cue (shows at least 15HP).

16.8 Intervention 2NT without jump

(1M) - pass - (2M) - 2NT (shows 15-18HP SEMI(BAL)). The same system as after 2NT opening (Puppet Stayman and transfers) is applied. If the next hand doubles (PEN-X), “Nilsland’s Slinkninger” are applied at the three level.

16.9 Cue in the opponents’ suit (Marmic)

A direct CUE in the enemy suit shows at least 5-5 in M over any m opening, and at least 5-5 in the other M and an unknown m over a M opening. You can be strong (15+HP) or weak (normally under opening strength). The weak hand will be shown via a pass to partner’s preference bid, while the strong one is shown via another bid.

165 166

If the opponents show both . and , a TO-X will show both  and  (at least 4-4). Cue in . will show at least 5-4 in /, longer  (complementary suit), and CUE in  will show at least 5-4, longer  (complementary suit). In the same way: if the opponents show both  and , a TO-X will show both . and  (at least 4-4). Cue in  will show at least 5-4 in ./, longer . (complementary suit), and Cue in  will show at least 5-4, longer  (complementary suit).

A jump to the three level in the opponents’ opening suit always asks for a stopper. It is also worth to notice that any CUE of the opponents’ only bid suit will always be a RF on both hands, even if this suit may be declared as “short” (less than three cards).

16.9.1 CUE in the enemy suit after intervention

After your own intervention 1/ and pass/X/1 by the next opponent, Cue in the opponents’ opening suit will normally show at least a ”good raise” (8-11HDP). Likewise, if partner has intervened with a m, CUE will always show at least a ”good raise” (8-11HDP). Partner may never pass Cue in the enemy suit. (1.) – X – (1) – P – (2.) – X – (P) - 2 - (P) - ? Both 2 and 3. are now CUES, RF and should not be passed.

16.10 After 3NT-opening by the enemy

X = Shows a «good» opening (13+HP). Interested in a PEN-X. 4. = Both M, longer . 4 = Both M, longer . 4/ = Natural. For play.

16.11 Stopper-showing bids

When an opponent has shown two suits, and we have the possibility to bid both his suits, we show a stopper in the suit we bid.

When an opponent has shown one suit, or there is only one “vacant” suit, we ask for stopper in that suit when we bid it.

166 17 Lead doubles 17.1 LIGHTNER-X

When we double an opponent on the slam level, we are prepared to receive an unnatural lead. We are normally void in a suit, and want to ruff the lead.

Sometimes the context, the bidding and our own hand will lead us in the right direction. If we have no other clues, however, it is normally the first bid suit in dummy which should be led. If the Lightner doubler has bid a suit, this suit shall normally never be led (we would, of course lead it without the double!).

17.2 X of fictive suit

When we double an alerted bid, this is primarily lead directing, especially if the alerted bid did not promise the bid suit. You show top honours and length in the suit, so with a very good fit and an offensive hand partner can think about a sacrifice as well.

17.3 X of NT

When an opponent reaches 3NT (or higher) which your partner doubles, the X is primarily lead directing. Partner should lead in accordance with this PRI order:

1. If only you have bid a suit: he wants you to lead your suit. 2. If only partner has bid a suit: he wants you to lead his suit. 3. If none of you has bid: Lead the first bid suit in dummy. 4. If dummy has not bid any suit: lead any M with no honours. If you are still in doubt: lead your shortest M .

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18 Defensive bidding 18.1 Against strong 1. (Kramsdnas)

We apply Kramsdnas defence (which is Sandsmark spelt backwards) against 1 strong .. The convention can only be applied in the 2nd hand position.

X = Both m (at least 4. and 4). 1 = Both M (at least 4 and 4). 1 = 5+. 1 = 5+. 1NT = At least 5-5 in unspecified suits. 2./// = natural PRE-EMPT in the bid suit.

18.2 Against strong 2. (Transfer)

If the opponents open with a strong 2., there will often be a lot of distribution. In principle any direct intervention over 2. show the nest suit or the two next ones: x = 6 or both M (at least 5-5). 2 = 6 or +. (at least 5-5). 2 = 6 or both m (at least 5-5). 2 = 6. or +  (at least 5-5). 2NT = At least 5-5 in .+. 3. = At least 5-5 in +.

18.3 Against 1NT (Amundsen)

We apply Amundsen’s NT defence (created by Reinert Amundsen of Norway) when an opponent bids (or intervenes with) 1NT. The same principles apply both in the 2nd and in the 4th hand after the following intros:

(1NT) – p – (p) - ? (p) – p – (1NT) - ? p – (p) – 1. – (1NT) - ? 1. – (1NT) - ? 1 - (1NT) - ? and p – (p) - 1 - (1NT) - ?

X = At least as strong (HP) as the NT bidder or number of quick tricks. Always a PEN-X when partner has opened. 2. =  or both M (at least 4 and 4). 2 =  or  + ./. 2 =  + ./.

168 2 = Natural. Only . 2NT = Both . and . Should be at least 5-4. 3x = A natural PRE-EMPT in the bid suit.

An intervention after a strong NT by the enemy can be destructive when not vulnerable. Vulnerable you should make sure that there are tricks enough, so that an intervention will not be catastrophe.

Clarification:

West North East South (1NT) pass (pass) 2. (pass) 2 (x) ? pass = 6+ xx = 5 and 4, (Longer in ) 2 =  and , Longer in  (5-4/6-4) or equally long in M (4-4 or 5-5). 2 = 6 and 4.

18.4 Against “Multi 2”

X = TO-X, at least 13HP and at least 4-3 in the M. Suit = Natural. 2NT = 15-18HP (2NT-the system)

Normally it will pay to wait until the opponents have clarified the opening bid before you take action!

18.5 Against “Ekrens 2”.

X = Shows an opening and at least 4-3 in the M.Interested in penalizing the opponents in at least one M. Sets up forcing pass. Any subsequent x is a PEN-X. 2x = Natural and NF.

18.6 Against “Weak two”:

X = TO-X. After X of weak 2 opening, Lebensohl is applied by the RH. 2NT = 15-18HP (the 2NT system: Puppet Stayman & transfers) 3 in the opening suit = The other M + one of the m.

18.7 Against “Weak three”:

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X = TO-X. Suit bid = Suggested contract. Cue = 18+HP. Find a suit. 3NT = For play. 4NT = 15-17NT. Pass = 11-14HP Suit = 15+HP. Suit bid = At least five cards. At least 13HP at the three level And at least 15HP at the four level. Cue in opening suit = 15+HP and at least 5-5 in two other suits. 3NT = For play.

170 19 Leads and defensive play

19.1 Distributional leads

Nearly every time you are to lead an untouched suit, you should apply distributional leads. This will help your partner understand the full distribution of the hand.

If you lead numbered card (from 2-10), the led card shows how many cards the leader has in the led suit:

HIGH - LOW = 2-4-6-8 cards in the suit. LOW - HIGH = 3-5-7-10 cards in the suit.

When you play an honour in the led suit and return the suit, you should show how many cards you have left in that suit, including the card you play.

If a suit has been bid(/denoted) and supported, the RH normally has at least three cards in the suit, and his lead will show a tendency: A small card will show a top honour in the suit, while a high card (also when led from sequence) denies a top honour in the suit. Leader 3 Dummy K 7 6 2 You J 10 5 4 North leads the 3, and declarer plays low from dummy. Since the 3 shows a top honour in the suit (must be the Q), you need not worry that the declarer will win with his Queen singleton. You put in the 10 and catch the declarer’s single 9. Also when you are on lead later, you apply distributional leads when you touch a new suit, unless you believe that your partner will have better use of the knowledge of whether or not you hold top honour. A low card shows a top honour in the suit, while high cards denies any top honours in the suit.

19.2 Sequence leads

When you have a sequence of honours in the suit you are about to lead from, in.e. combinations of K Q J and 10, you should play the highest from a top sequence and the highest card in a middle sequence.

AKQ(x) The Ace AKJ(x) AKx(x)

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Ax (or small) A

K The King AK KQJ(x) KQT(x) Kx

QJT(x) The Queen QJ9(x) QJ Qx QJ(x) (or the Ace)

JT(x) The Jack KJT(x) JT9(x) JT8(x) JT Jx

KT9 The 10 QT9 T9(x) KT9(x) QT9(x) T9x(x) T9 Tx

K98(x) The 9 Q98(x) J98(x) 98(x) 9x 9

19.3 Partner’s discard on sequence lead a) He should unblock from H X, unless he can see that this will lead to unnecessary loss of tricks.

172 b) He should apply a “come-on” signal if he cannot cover the card in the dummy, or (in principle) if he has a tangent honour (the J or the if the lead was the K and the K and the 10 if the lead was the Q). c) If the led card is an Ace which could show A+K against suit contract: 1) If dummy has Qx or several small: a “come-on” signal from xx/Dxx(x)! 2) If dummy has Qxx or longer: Distribution signal. NB! The leader is primarily looking for ruffing values with you, so if you i. cannot cover the trump in dummy when both have a doubleton or ii. have Qxx or Qxxx, and there is risk that the leader may lead into “ruff and sluff”, you should signal weakness, from a doubleton, as well as from the Q. A ”Come on” signal will always be encouraging, while a weakness signal should always convey warning. iii. If the led card is the King, which could also be from AK (you cannot see the Ace), you should signal distribution. d) If the led card is a King, which most frequently shows KQ (the Ace is in the dummy or on your hand), it is important that you interpret the lead correctly and give your partner the signal he needs: 1) If the Ace is in dummy, and you do not see the Q: weakness signal. 2) If the Ace is in dummy and you see the Q: ”Come on” signal. 3) If you have the A: ”Come on” signal or overtake with the to unblock from the Ax or prevent an awkward continuance with Axx/Axxx. 4) A ”Come on” signal from the J if you can see the in dummy, otherwise: distribution signal. e) If it led card is the Q, the 3rd hand should: 1) Apply ”Come on” signal or weakness signal from tangent honour (=K/J). if dummy holds: a) Axx(x) b) xxx(x) 2) Apply distribution signal in all other cases. f) If it led card is the J, the 3rd hand should: 1) Cover an honour with an honour. 2) Unblock from Hx. Go up with the or the K if dummy has no higher honour than the led card. 3) Discard ”Come on” signal if it is obvious that partner needs this. (This is rare, but if you have an honour which covers dummy’s honour , and dummy discards low card: ”Come on” signal). 4) Discard ”Come on” signal from tangent honour (Possibly unblock tangent honour if that seems to be the right thing to do). 5) Discard distribution signal if you cannot cover the cards in

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dummy, or if dummy is without any honour and you do not have the or the K.

19.4 The Come-on signal

The ”Come on” signal is the lowest card you have in the suit (you always have the lowest card you have ).

After having played a come-on signal, the next card you throw from this suit shows how many cards you have left in the suit (distribution signal). It is, actually, a bit wrong to say that a low card is encouraging, for it should rather be « a lower card succeeded by a higher card».

It is also a kind of encouragement when you play from a new suit in the play phase, and you believe it to be important for partner to learn whether you have played from an honour or not. The lower card you play, the safer it will be for partner to assume that you have played from one of the three top honours (A, K or Q).

Weakness in a suit will be flagged with the 3rd lowest card in your hand (however, the 2nd lowest if the 3rd lowest is too valuable).

There are 4 different ways in which you could encourage partner: a) A direct come-on signal. This means that you play an encouraging, low card as soon as possible. This is the strongest ”Come on” signal you can discard, and normally, it will flag that you are more than just a little bit interested in that suit to be played when partner is to lead. b) Indirect encouragement. This is when you flag weakness (a high card) in several other suits. These discards will appear from time to time when you cannot afford to discard a direct encouragement because it may cost a trick or two. c) A delayed come-on signal. This means that you first discard weakness in one suit and then encourage in another. This flags that you have something in the top of this suit, but you do not want an unconditional switch to this suit by partner. He may, of course switch to it if it seems to be the right thing to do. d) A conditioned come-on signal. The first time you discard, you put in your 2nd or 3rd lowest in this suit, which could be interpreted both ways. The next discard in that suit will determine whether you wanted to flag an interest or discouragement. Discards like that are used when you

174 are not quite certain if you should encourage or discourage the first time. As the play progresses, things might change, and you will know what to do in your next discard.

Encouraging and discouraging signals are applied:

1) Every single time partner plays a new suit for the first time, even in the middle of the play phase. 2) The first free discard should show encouragement/discouragement. 3) On leads in situations in which the defence must take their tricks immediately to score for them. This also applies to leads from AK(x)(x) 4) On Ace leads which could be from AK against suit contracts, partner plays encouraging (small card) from the Q and from a doubleton (ruffing values), in.e. when he wants a continuation of the suit. Otherwise, he discards a high card. 5) On Ace leads or king leads against slam contracts. The lead often denies the next honour, and is preferably looking for a setting top honour with his partner. 6) On the lead of an honour when you have tangent honour or when declarer demands a card from dummy which you cannot cover but you still have a tangent honour.

19.5 Distribution signals

You should apply distributional signals nearly every time an opponent touches a new suit for the first time.

Like the leads, we discard LOW - HIGH from 3-5-7-9 and HIGH - LOW from 2-4-6-8 cards in the suit.

Distributional signals are also applied after a discard in suit has been used for something else (encouraging/discouraging signal/Lavinthal/ a small card showing honour tendency). You always discard distributional from whatever you have left in the suit (unless it may cost a trick).

When partner leads a King (which can be from AK) against a suit contract, you should always flag your distribution.

19.5.1 Exceptions from distributional discards a) NB! Never discard distributionally if it can cost a trick. b) Against NT contracts both players apply HIGH - LOW in the opponents’ first (= best?) suit to flag how well we liked the lead (Smith Peter). High - low = liked the lead (Low – High = did not like the lead). c) In the play phase the lead of a low card will show a top honour in the suit, especially when we know that partner needs this information.

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19.6 Sequence marking

A SEQUENCE is shown when:

I) You follow suit with the lowest cards in the sequence when the suit is played.

II) You discard the highest card in the sequence when you cannot follow suit.

III) You follow suit with an abnormally high card, which should be the highest card in the sequence.

19.7 Lavinthal a) A HIGH card means you want a shift to the highest of the remaining suits. The actual suit is never the trump suit and never the suit played. Make the signal as clear as possible. b) A LOW card means you want a shift to the lowest of the remaining suits. c) An undeterminable card shows no suit preference. d) The Lavinthal signal is applied in the following typical situations:

1) On an opening lead against trump contract, and the leader keeps the trick, while dummy has a singleton, or can take the next trick(s) (E.g. K X/K D (X) (X) in dummy after led Ace). I.e. when dummy commands the suit. Even if the leader does not win the first trick, his partner should show a Lavinthal signal anyway for a later lead from his partner.

2) Always on lead when dummy takes the two next tricks in the suit, no matter if it is NT contract or trump contract. It is quite obvious that you should attack in another suit. Partner may need the info about which of the remaining three suits he can find you with honour(s) in. A small card is the lowest suit, a middle card is the middle suit and a high card is the highest suit.

3) When you as a defender against a trump contract give your partner a ruff, you should simultaneously guide him as to what suit you want in return. This is determined through the value of the card you give him the ruff with.

4) When as defender against NT contract you raise your suit, you should signal Lavinthal with the card that drives out the opponents’ last stopper, if this is possible. Partner will always be in need to learn where he can meet you “at home”.

176 5) When you play a three honour sequence, the way you in which you show your honours can give your partner an indication as to what suit you can guard in the end game. The purpose is not to get squeezed when there is no squeeze!

6) When your partner expects it, e. g. When he has led singleton in suit he knows you have top honours in. The way in which you play your honours will tell him where to hit you.

An odd Lavinthal position will occur whenever all cards in the suit can be correctly placed by both defenders after the lead. Say that you defend against 4 after you have shown 9 through the bidding (1 - 3). When the leader plays the A, and dummy turns out to have three , both of you will know that the declarer (at most) will have only a singleton in the suit. This is a clear-cut case for a Lavinthal signal in trick 1.

19.8 TRUMP ECHO

When an opponent plays his trumps, you should discard inversely:

LOW - HIGH = 2 trumps or 4 trumps. HIGH - LOW = 3 trumps or 5 trumps.

The point is that partner needs to know if he should try to give you possible ruff or if he should play his own long suit, to shorten the declarer’s trumps (make him ”short and strange”).

19.9 SMITH PETER

When an opponent plays a NT contract, and the lead has been distributional from a long suit, the lead can have been from several small cards, or it can have been from a suit with substance. The leader can have hit the bull’s eye, or he can have missed the barn wall.

To discover how good the lead has been, both defenders will flag this the first time declarer plays his "best" suit (this is normally the first thing he does).

LOW - HIGH = No interest for the led suit. HIGH - LOW = A strong interest for the led suit.

19.10 COMBINED DISCARDS

When the first discard in suit shows strength, weakness, Lavinthal or Smith Peter, the next card in it the suit will normally be distributional, and shows the number of remaining cards in the suit.

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178 20 An alternative set of Leads and signals

There is more than one way to skin cat. Leif-Erik Stabell (of Norway, Zimbabwe and South Africa) suggests another approach and another set of leads and signals:

When defending, a pair needs to pass information to each other about distribution and possession of high cards. This is basically done with two types of signals: encouraging/ discouraging and count. A third type of signal is suit preference, which is best used only in specific situations.

20.1 Lead conventions

When leading a small card (9 or lower), there are basically two sensible approaches: Give count, or show interest/disinterest in the suit. If you choose to use attitude leads (show whether you want the suit returned or not), you will run into many situations where you cannot tell what you want partner to play, while if you give count, you can always pass exact information at trick one.

The easiest, and probably also the most efficient lead system is to give count, and hope that partner might be able to work out the high card positions later. The main disadvantage with such a lead system is that declarer necessarily gets the same information, and might take advantage of this in the play. However, you will probably find that accurate count will help partner far more often than it will help declarer. And best of all - you can often lead and discard 'automatically' with useless hands, and leave it to partner to work out the best defence.

When giving count on lead, you can either lead low from an even number, or low from an odd number. You should obviously lead the same way as you give count later in the game (see section 12.3), to keep memory restrain to a minimum. If you feel more comfortable with one of the methods than the other - choose that one, particularly if you are already used to it. Otherwise, you should first of all consider a) Which method gives partner the most accurate information with one card b) Which method requires me to 'lie' most frequently

The last point might seem a bit odd, but if you are playing 'low from an odd number' (3. and 5.) and want to lead from a suit like

A J 9 2 in no-trump, you cannot really lead the 9, as this will cost a trick too often. This means that you have to 'lie' if you want to lead small from this suit.

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Thus, point b) is clearly in favour of 'small from an even number', as you will always be able to afford your 4.highest card from a 5-cardsuit. And if you want to lead from a 3- cardsuit like

J 9 2 the middle card will seldom cost a trick, and will help to unblock if you hit partner's suit.

Point a) is less obvious, as the lead of the smallest card from a suit like

A 10 8 6 2 will make it perfectly clear for partner that you have 5, while the lead of the 6 is ambiguous if you play 'low from an even number' (you could have had A 10 8 6). However, you can make this clearer to partner if you lead the 8 instead, provided the bidding indicates that you can afford it (that is - if both opponents have denied four cards in this suit). So unless you already are familiar with another method, try:

• Smallest card from an even number • Middle card from an odd number

This also applies to leads in the middle of the game, although there are positions (particularly when the full distribution is known) where it makes sense to switch to attitude leads. However, this requires thorough discussions, and is not recommended unless you are 100% sure of the consequences.

20.2 Encouraging/Discouraging

When signalling in a suit, the most common methods are normal signals (high card encouraging) or reverse signals (low card encouraging). A third approach (first used by the famous Blue Team) is to use odd card as encouraging (or similarly even card if you prefer that). The 3 methods are in fact not very different - it all boils down to defining which cards are 'strongest' and which are 'weakest'. Using 'normal' signals, the sequence will be (ignoring honours, which might be used for other purposes):

STRONGEST ────────────── WEAKEST [10] 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 reverse signals, will give this sequence:

STRONGEST ────────────── WEAKEST

180 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [10] while 'odd card encouraging' gives this sequence:

STRONGEST ────────────── WEAKEST 3 5 7 9 [10] 8 6 4 2

The 10 is put in parentheses here, because you might often be unable to signal with it for fear of losing a trick. The same might sometimes apply to 9's and 8's, particularly if you use 'normal' signals.

Regardless of method, it is important that you signal as clearly as possible - never throw an indifferent middle card if you can encourage with a stronger card or discourage with a weaker card. You must decide whether your holding in a suit is strong or weak, and signal as clearly as possible. Thus, if you signal with the 4.strongest card (7, 5 or 9), you either encourage denying any of the stronger cards ([10]/9/8 or 2/3/4 or 3/5/7) or you discourage denying any of the weaker cards (6/5/4/3/2 or 6/7/8/9/ [10] or [10]/8/6/4/2). By looking at dummy and his own hand, partner should seldom go wrong.

The 'normal' way of signalling has the disadvantage of sometimes costing a trick if you want to give a clear signal, while you will often block a suit if you use 'reverse' signals. Both these problems are greatly reduced if you use 'odd' (or 'even') card as encouraging.

Which of these to choose is a matter of taste, but when it comes to unblocking, a 3- cardsuit including the 9 is often the most troublesome holding:

5 4 K Q 8 3 J 9 2 A 10 7 6

West leads the King against a no-trump contract. East will need to encourage, and at the same time unblock the suit with the 9. Odd (or high) card encouraging will do the trick.

5 4 K Q 9 2 J 8 3 A 10 7 6

With East holding the eight instead of the nine, unblocking is no longer necessary, so any signalling system should get this one right. Thus, odd card encouraging is probably

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slightly better than even (or high or low), but the most important factor is to use a method that both players are comfortable with.

20.3 Count

When giving count in a suit, you should apply the same rules as when you lead, provided you give count when leading as well. See section 12.1 for a discussion of the possible methods - low from an even number seems to have a slight theoretical advantage over 'low from an odd number'.

However, consider the following suit again:

5 4 K 10 8 3 Q 9 2 A J 7 6

West leads the 3 of this suit against a no-trump contract, and South captures the Queen with the Ace. A few tricks later, East is on lead, and has to play the 9 to roll up the suit. Move the 6 from South to East, however, and any card will do, as long as West knows to continue the suit.

This is a very frequent situation: If partner leads a suit where you have three cards, you will almost always have to unblock if you return the suit (immediately or at a later stage). This means that

• When you lead to a trick, play the card that you would have played if you were to lead that suit originally.

• When you give count by discarding or following to a trick, then give count from your remaining holding.

This means that if you are not on lead, you do not have to remember what you started with in a suit to follow correctly - just look at what you are left with, and play the middle card from an odd number, and the smallest from an even number.

If you play the suit yourself (and the suit has already been played by partner or declarer), you have to switch. Lead your highest card from a remaining doubleton, the smallest from a remaining 3(or 5)-cardsuit, and a high a card as you can afford from a remaining 4-cardsuit.

If you fear that this will be too difficult to remember, you might consider using 'small from an odd number' instead. In that case, there is no need to 'switch' when returning a suit - you give count from your remaining holding whether you lead or discard.

182 20.4 When and how to signal

In some situations, partner will need to know your strength in a suit, and in other situations, your count will be most useful. It is important that both players agree on the positions where the various signal apply. Unless you have already discussed this with your partner, the following guidelines might help:

• Never put more than one meaning into a signal - is should either be encouraging/discouraging or give count, but not both.

• Always signal as clearly as possible.

• Encourage/discourage when

- partner leads a suit. - you cannot follow suit, but make your first discard in another suit.

• Give count when

- declarer leads a suit (also the trumpsuit). - you discard from a suit where you have already encouraged or discouraged.

• Encourage

- if partner leads an honour (presumably from a sequence) and you know you have an honour touching partner's sequence.

If partner leads a King (using standard leads), encourage with the Ace or Jack. If partner leads an Ace, encourage with the Queen or King.

- from a doubleton if partner leads the Ace (hopefully from A K) in a suit contract.

If dummy also has a doubleton, you should only encourage if you want partner to play 3 rounds of the suit.

- when you can see that it is right for the defence to continue the suit.

If partner leads a 9 against a no-trump contract (nearly always from 3 to an honour) and you see 3 in dummy and have 4 yourself, you can encourage. From 3 to an honour, however, you should generally discourage, since declarer must have 4.

• Exceptions

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- Switch from encouraging/discouraging to giving count if partner leads the 'wrong' honour.

That is, if partner leads the King and the Queen is in dummy, you should give count. If partner leads the Ace with the Queen in dummy, you encourage from the King, or from a doubleton in suit contract.

This means that you should lead King from A K against slams, since you want partner to give count if the Queen or Jack turns up in dummy (why Jack? Because declarer could have a singleton Queen!).

- Switch to suit preference (see sec. 12.5) if partner leads an honour against a suit contract and dummy has a singleton.

Once in a while, you might want partner to continue the suit. In this case, try to play an indifferent suit-preference card, or give suit preference to a suit in which there is clearly no future for the defenders.

20.5 Suit preference

Suit preference signals (play a low card to indicate a switch to the lowest suit, a high card for a switch to a higher ranking suit = Lavinthal), should be used when:

- Attempting to give partner a ruff

- When partner is leading an Ace against a suit contract and dummy has a singleton.

- The third an subsequent discard from a suit (having encouraged/ discouraged and given count already).

- Partner is trying to find an entry to get a ruff.

Examples: a) Partner leads the King and then the Ace - showing (normally) A K bare.Your play to the King was encouraging/discouraging (unless the Queen was in dummy - then you give count instead), your play to the Ace is suit preference. b) Partner leads Ace and another in a suit where dummy has K Q. Your play to the second trick is suit preference.

Be careful to put other interpretations into the signal, as 'when both players know that a switch is required'. In some cases, only one might know......

184 Examples:

 Q J 10

 2  8 7 5 4

After 1 NT - 3 NT from the opponents, partner leads 2 - hopefully 4th best. Unless another suit looks more promising, you should encourage with the 5. This tells partner that it is safe to continue the suit from his side in the critical case when he has led from four to the King.

If you think it is more logical to give count in a situation like this (when you cannot beat dummy), consider then what you will do in this case:

 Q J 10

 2  A K 6 4 3

Again, partner leads 2 after 1 NT - 3 NT from the opponent, this time obviously from a doubleton. Looks like a very good lead from your point of view, but if you don't have a quick entry, you will have to duck this trick. However, if you gave count in the first situation, how can you now convince partner to continue hearts when he gets in...... ?