Number: 181 UK £3.95 Europe €5.00 January 2018 Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quiz

This month we are dealing with hands that have fewer than six points. You are West in the auctions below, BRIDGEplaying ‘Standard Acol’ with a weak no- (12-14 points) and four-card majors.

1. Dealer East. Love All. 4. Dealer East. Love All. 7. Dealer East. Game All. 10. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ A 4 3 2 ♠ 9 8 6 ♠ Q 8 7 6 ♠ 8 6 5

♥ J 7 6 N ♥ 4 2 N ♥ Q J 3 2 N ♥ 7 N ♦ 9 7 6 5 3 W E ♦ 10 9 8 7 6 W E ♦ 4 2 W E ♦ J 7 6 3 2 W E ♣ 2 S ♣ K 4 3 S ♣ 7 6 5 S ♣ 9 8 7 4 S

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 2NT Pass 2♣ Pass ? Pass 2♠ Dbl Pass ? 2♦ Pass 2♥ Pass ? ?

2. Dealer East. Love All. 5. Dealer North. Love All. 8. Dealer North. Love All. 11. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ J 4 3 2 ♠ 5 3 2 ♠ 4 3 ♠ Q 7 3 2

♥ 4 2 N ♥ 4 3 2 N ♥ A 7 6 N ♥ 4 N ♦ A 9 7 3 W E ♦ J 8 7 6 5 W E ♦ 9 8 4 3 W E ♦ K 9 3 2 W E ♣ 6 5 4 S ♣ 4 2 S ♣ 9 7 6 5 S ♣ 9 8 7 4 S

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 3♥ 3♣ Dbl Pass 2♣ Pass ? Pass Pass Dbl Pass ? 2♦ Pass 2♠ Pass ? ?

3. Dealer East. Love All. 6. Dealer East. Love All. 9. Dealer North. N/S Game. 12. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ A 9 8 7 ♠ 7 5 3 2 ♠ K 9 8 7 6 ♠ K 8 7 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 7 6 N K 8 7 6 4 3 N 2 N 7 N ♦ 4 3 2 W E ♦ 9 4 W E ♦ 5 4 W E ♦ 8 7 6 3 2 W E ♣ 9 8 4 3 S ♣ 3 S ♣ J 7 6 4 3 S ♣ 9 7 6 5 S

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ 1♥ 1♦ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 2♦ 2♣ Pass ? Pass 1♠ 2♣ 2♠ ? 2♦ Pass 3♥ Pass Pass Pass 3♣ Pass ? ? Answers on page 41 Answers on page 43 Answers on page 45 Answers on page 47 Mr Bridge Holidays - Croatia 2018

1–15 May 2018 from £1499 sharing Bernard Magee at Hotel Eden, Rovinj 1 – 8 May hosted by Bernard Magee. 8 – 15 May hosted by Will & Sylvia Parsons Bridge: Land based holidays allow time One week holidays available from £1139 per person sharing for a full bridge programme, which gives you the opportunity Rovinj is situated on the western coast of Istria in Croatia, the largest peninsula on the Adriatic to enhance your bridge skills, but coastline, a one hour drive from Trieste, 2 ½ hours from Zagreb. Boasting a rich natural and there is also time to both visit the cultural heritage with beautiful landmarks such as the old town, the Golden Cape Park Forest, local area and just sit back and protected islands and coastal area, Rovinj has many loyal visitors from all parts of the globe and relax. Over the fortnight the bridge has developed into a popular tourist destination. The climate is warm and semi-dry, there are programme includes four seminar 134 sunny days in a year, which makes Rovinj the third sunniest spot in the Adriatic. & set hand sessions, every evening, teams event Hotel Eden is wedged right between a peninsula covered by a one hundred year old park forest and the ever popular bidding and a quiet cove. The old city centre of Rovinj is just a 20 minute walk away. quiz. You can play as much or as little as you wish and the

excursions* are fitted around the bridge programme to maximise your enjoyment. Singles: There is a sole occupancy supplement of £12 per room per night. If you are a single bridge player please do not worry about being on your own. We will always be able to find you a partner and you can always have a game. As well as there being other singles in the same situation as yourself, there is the Mr Bridge team who will be happy to partner you if required.

Will & Sylvia Parsons Call Mr Bridge on 01483 489961 or visit www.mrbridge.co.uk Half only, including flights from Gatwick. Birmingham, Manchester & Edinburgh flights may be available at a supplement. Terms and conditions apply. These holidays have been organised for Mr Bridge by Great Little Escapes LLP, ATOL 5933. *Excursions are not included in the price of the holiday.

Croatia Advert - A4 v5 option 2.indd 1 05/12/2017 10:00 Features this month include: BRIDGE 1 Bidding Quiz by Bernard Magee 5 Mr Bridge Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH 7 Bidding Quiz by Bernard Magee ( 01483 489961 9 Choosing the Right Contract by Andrew Kambites [email protected] 11 Choosing the Right Contract Quiz www.mrbridge.co.uk by Andrew Kambites shop: www.mrbridge.co.uk/ 12 Comparable Calls – Part 1 by David Stevenson mrbridge-shop 13 Choosing the Right Contract Answers Publisher and by Andrew Kambites Managing Editor Mr Bridge 14 4-4-4-1 Hands by Bernard Magee Bridge Consultant 15 Declarer Play Quiz by David Huggett Bernard Magee 16 House of Lords v House of Commons, 2017 bernardmagee by Shireen Mohandes @mrbridge.co.uk 19 Bridge With Angela reviewed by David Huggett Cartoons & Illustrations Marguerite Lihou 19 Defence Quiz by www.margueritelihou.co.uk 20 Julian Pottage Answers Your Questions Technical Consultant 23 Declarer Play Answers by David Huggett Tony Gordon 25 Defence Quiz Answers by Julian Pottage Typesetting & Design 26 Playing Cards from Spain by Paul Bostock Ruth Edmondson [email protected] 28 Elayne Burnton’s Wonderful Convention by Proof Readers Julian Pottage 30 How to Handle Your Cards by Ian Dalziel Mike Orriel 32 Playing in the Club by Jeremy Dhondy Catrina Shackleton Richard Wheen 34 David Stevenson Answers Your Questions Customer Services 36 Managing Your Trumps by Michael Byrne Catrina Shackleton 38 Lives and Times - Part Five by Shireen Mohandes [email protected] 41 Bidding Quiz Answers (1-3) by Bernard Magee Events & Cruises ( 01483 489961 42 Catching Up with Jessica Galt 43 Bidding Quiz Answers (4-6) by Bernard Magee [email protected] Megan Riccio 45 More Tips by Bernard Magee [email protected] 45 Bidding Quiz Answers (7-9) by Bernard Magee Sophie Pierrepont [email protected] 46 Readers’ Letters 47 Bidding Quiz Answers (10-12) by Bernard Magee & Charities Maggie Axtell 48 The Diaries of Wendy Wensum [email protected] 49 Seven Days by Sally Brock Address Changes ( 01483 485342 Elizabeth Bryan REDUCE THE COST OF YOUR POSTAGE [email protected] Postage stamps for sale at 90% of face-value, all mint with full gum. Quotations for commercial quantities available on request. Printed in the UK by The Magazine Values supplied in 100s, higher values available as well as Printing Company 1st and 2nd class (eg 2nd class: 100x38p+100x18p). www.magprint.co.uk ( 020 8422 4906 e-mail: [email protected]

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 3

SAD NEWS with confidence. I will GOFFIE’S STAMPS report on the progress of CLUB bookings for the Winter INSURANCE 2018/2019 programme in the next issue. Every club should If you are able to book a be covered and my Winter cruise before the inclusive package, 31st December 2017, the If you need stamps for a to suit clubs of up to Odyssey Club discount is club mailing or for your own 300 members for less 10% instead of the usual 5%. use try Clive Goff’s stamp than £75 per year, is This last month has seen service. That he is our most the right package at the passing of two really SELF EXPLANATORY loyal advertiser says it all. the right price. loyal Mr Bridge team See his advert on page 3. members; Patrick Dunham Contact FIDENTIA and Anne Marie Rennie. TRAVEL INSURANCE for a quote Patrick has hosted lots of Genesis Choice, advertised ( 020 3150 0080 events for Mr Bridge over in the adjacent column, do [email protected] the years and on a number seem to cater for all medical of occasions he was joined conditions and eventualities. by his wife Vicki. For many of you he has been a regular FIRESIDE CHATS face at the Ramada Resort Hotel, Grantham, Lincs. Anne Marie regularly travelled together with her husband Duncan, both For those with Pre-existing as valued team members. health conditions Over the last few years they Congratulations and (No Age Limit) were lead hosts and worked jolly well done Voyages l Travel Insurance with , pictured online Medical Screening together as a solid team. to Antiquity. above, is to join my growing band of contributors. He l Cover for medical Patrick’s funeral is on 18th CLUB INSURANCE conditions, up to a high December in Burton on is a leading American level of severity, even a Trent and Anne Marie This year we celebrate writer and bridge thinker. terminal prognosis the approximate tenth I think his relaxed style Rennie’s funeral will be l No age limits on 3rd January in the anniversary of the will suit readers and l Wirral. If you would Mr Bridge bridge club his work translates to Instant online cover like further details, insurance scheme. This has, Acol easily enough. We fully understand that please call my office. like any living thing, grown you may wish to speak to from small beginnings FESTINA LENTE us direct about cover and Both will be greatly and now provides peace your medical conditions So what are my New Year’s and assure you of the best missed and our thoughts of mind to more than 500 are with their families resolutions? I don’t appear attention by senior staff bridge club committees up on a direct phone line that at this sad time. to have made any last year. and down the land. I asked does not require you to I certainly can’t find any hold or press buttons for V2A CRUISES Fidentia, the insurers, if they would cover the cost of record of having done so. departments. Thumbing through the Enclosed with this month’s posting a copy of BRIDGE ( issue is a brochure to each participating back issues of BRIDGE 01268 524344 promoting the Voyages to club for the coming year. that was a first. This year We look forward to Antiquity bridge cruise They have agreed to do I will just hurry slowly. speaking with you soon programme. this. Well done them. I think it could be fun. Email: sales@ genesischoice.co.uk The facing page lists the Let me remind you that Happy New Year. Website: www. selection of voyages that for just £75, a club of up to Mr Bridge genesischoice.co.uk feature bridge. Those 300 members is covered Genesis Choice Ltd are an printed in pink in the annually for public liability STOP PRESS appointed representative of NDI advert already have and a whole variety of other Insurance and Reinsurance To Bernard & Helen, a son. Brokers Ltd who are authorised around 40 bookings and contingencies. Full details Alfred James Forrest Magee. and regulated by the Financial readers should feel able to and an application form Conduct Authority No.446914 book their bridge holiday can be sent on request. Details & photo next month.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 5

Bernard Magee’s Acol Bidding Quiz

This month we are dealing with hands that have fewer than six points. You are West in the auctions below, playing ‘Standard Acol’ with a weak no-trump (12-14 points) and four-card majors.

1. Dealer East. Love All. 4. Dealer East. Love All. 7. Dealer East. Game All. 10. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ A 4 3 2 ♠ 9 8 6 ♠ Q 8 7 6 ♠ 8 6 5 ♥ J 7 6 N ♥ 4 2 N ♥ Q J 3 2 N ♥ 7 N W E W E W E W E ♦ 9 7 6 5 3 ♦ 4 2 S ♦ 10 9 8 7 6 S S ♦ J 7 6 3 2 S ♣ 2 ♣ K 4 3 ♣ 7 6 5 ♣ 9 8 7 4

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 2NT Pass 2♣ Pass ? Pass 2♠ Dbl Pass ? 2♦ Pass 2♥ Pass ? ?

2. Dealer East. Love All. 5. Dealer North. Love All. 8. Dealer North. Love All. 11. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ J 4 3 2 ♠ 5 3 2 ♠ 4 3 ♠ Q 7 3 2 N N N N ♥ 4 2 ♥ 4 3 2 ♥ A 7 6 ♥ 4 W E W E W E W E ♦ A 9 7 3 S ♦ J 8 7 6 5 S ♦ 9 8 4 3 S ♦ K 9 3 2 S ♣ 6 5 4 ♣ 4 2 ♣ 9 7 6 5 ♣ 9 8 7 4

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 3♥ 3♣ Dbl Pass 2♣ Pass ? Pass Pass Dbl Pass ? 2♦ Pass 2♠ Pass ? ?

3. Dealer East. Love All. 6. Dealer East. Love All. 9. Dealer North. N/S Game. 12. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ A 9 8 7 ♠ 7 5 3 2 ♠ K 9 8 7 6 ♠ K 8 7 ♥ 7 6 N ♥ K 8 7 6 4 3 N ♥ 2 N ♥ 7 N W E W E W E W E ♦ 4 3 2 ♦ 5 4 S ♦ 9 4 S S ♦ 8 7 6 3 2 S ♣ 9 8 4 3 ♣ 3 ♣ J 7 6 4 3 ♣ 9 7 6 5

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♣ 1♥ 1♦ Pass 1♥ 1♠ 2♦ 2♣ Pass ? Pass 1♠ 2♣ 2♠ ? 2♦ Pass 3♥ Pass Pass Pass 3♣ Pass ? ?

My Answers: My Answers: My Answers: My Answers:

1...... 4...... 7...... 10......

2...... 5...... 8...... 11......

3...... 6...... 9...... 12......

Answers on page 41 Answers on page 43 Answers on page 45 Answers on page 47

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 7 Mr Bridge UK Events

Tutorial Events with Bernard Magee PROGRAMME DAY 1 Chatsworth Hotel Elstead Hotel Four-Night Break at 1500 Mr Bridge Bournemouth BH1 3QP 2-4 February £252 the Trouville Hotel, Welcome Desk open Supporting Majors Tea or coffee on arrival Sandown, From 1745 to 1830 13-15 April £258 £399* Ruffing for Extra Tricks Isle of Wight Welcome drinks 1830 to 2000 Thursday to Monday Dinner Elstead Hotel 15-19 February 23-25 February £252 2015 BRIDGE 1 Distributional Hands DUPLICATE PAIRS 4-4-4-1 Hands and Sacrificing DAY 2 Inn on the Prom www.mrbridge.co.uk 0800 to 0930 Denham Grove Mon-Wed *Price includes ferry fare Breakfast Near Uxbridge, UB9 5DG for two adults in one car. 5-7 March £252 1000 to 1230 Supporting Majors SEMINAR & PLAY of SET HANDS or DUPLICATE BRIDGE Gourmet Food and Duplicate (Just Duplicate Events) at Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor 1230 to 1330 Cold Buffet Lunch Mondays to Wednesdays 1400 to 1645 From £349 12-14 March Doubles BRIDGE 2 TEAMS of FOUR 9-11 April Finding Slams (Bernard Magee Events) Ramada Resort, Grantham DUPLICATE PAIRS Marston, Lincs NG32 2HT (otherwise) 1815 to 2000 Dinner Just Duplicate Tutorial Events 2015 BRIDGE 3 DUPLICATE PAIRS Ramada Resort Ramada Resort DAY 3 Grantham Grantham 0800 to 0930 19-21 January £199 16-18 February £212 Breakfast Hosted by John Ronan Leads and Defence 1000 to 1230 Hosted by John Ronan SEMINAR & PLAY Chatsworth Hotel 2-4 February £199 of SET HANDS or Worthing BN11 3DU Hosted by Sheila Rogers 11-13 May £218 DUPLICATE PAIRS Stayman and Transfers 2-4 March £199 (Just Duplicate Events) Hosted by Elaine Duff Hosted by Sheila Rogers 1230 to 1400 20-22 April £208 Sunday Lunch (weekend events only) 1-3 June £208 Denham Grove

Hosted by Gary Conrad 27-29 April £228 1400 to 1645 Finding Slams BRIDGE 4 DUPLICATE PAIRS Chatsworth Hotel Hosted by John Ronan 16-18 February £212 Elstead Hotel Inn on the Prom Hosted by Val Heath Full Board St Annes On Sea FY8 1LU 2-4 March £212 11-13 May £228 Leads and Defence Hosted by John Cobbett Hosted by Hilary Levett No Single 18-20 May £218 15-17 June £228 Supplement* Hosted by Sheila Rogers Stayman and Transfers Hosted by Sandy Bell Denham Grove ( 01483 6-8 April £218 Chatsworth Hotel 489961 15-17 June £218 8-10 June £228 www.mrbridge.co.uk Please note there are no seminars, Further into the Auction Two Bridges Hotel set hands or prizes at these events. Hosted by Will Parsons *subject to availability. Single Dartmoor PL20 6SW supplement applies at Two Bridges. About Duplicate Pairs by Andrew Kambites

Choosing the Right Contract

need to start my new series on du- 2) If an opponent doubles you, it is If you bid 4♠ and go one off because plicate pairs with a warning. Most forcing to a redouble. 3♠ is the limit of the hand, your team players enjoy a good game of bridge EHA might be fun but it is not sound, total is -100 and -140 which is -240. Imaking little or no adjustment for the and it can be argued that it is contrary This means you lose 6 IMPs. method of scoring, pairs or teams. I to the laws of bridge which require you Suppose 4♠ depends on a . hope to open your eyes to the unique, to always try your best. By bidding 4♠ you gain 10 IMPs if the and sometimes surprising special tac- A brief statement of the theme that finesse is right and lose 6 IMPs if the tics that make a really good pairs play- reoccurs throughout this series might finesse fails. er. I hope you understand the points be helpful here. By bidding game you clearly gain in I am making, and perhaps you will the long term. You are highly unlikely make some adjustments to your game, laying duplicate pairs you to know that game is solely on a but do not overdo it! I remember once should try to estimate as well finesse, but the desirability of bidding giving a seminar on a bridge holiday Pas is possible how other pairs games if in doubt is obvious. with the theme of If the hand belongs holding your cards are likely to do. to you, your opponents should not be al- Your target then is to try to beat f in doubt you should be bidding lowed to steal the contract undoubled. I their score (or at least equal them). vulnerable games at teams was trying to help players deal with the Ibecause you stand to gain far club bidding bully who will never let This can often lead to bids or plays that more than you stand to lose. you buy a contract. You bid to 3♥. He would be considered foolish playing bids 3♠ (having already bid 1♠ and 2♠ teams-of-four or . How about if you are not vulnerable? with no encouragement from his part- If you bid and make 4♠ your team ner) and gets away with -100 and a top. total is +420 and -170 which is +250. When I directed the next evening ses- Finding the right level That translates to gaining 6 IMPs. sion of bridge my first call was, ‘What If you bid 4♠ and go one off because is the score for 2♥ doubled with four Most players have been told that you 3♠ is the limit of the hand your team overtricks?’ This was from the days should not miss vulnerable games total is -50 and -140 which is -190. This before you could look up the score on at teams. I will look at the reasoning means you lose 5 IMPs. the back of the cards from the bidding behind this. Again it is desirable to bid game box. The whole evening was an orgy of You are playing teams. Suppose you if it turns out to be on a finesse, but doubling. They had registered the last have agreed with your partner. the margin of 6 IMPs to 5 IMPs is far part (not letting opponents play un- The bidding has reached 3♠ and you closer. doubled), but not the first part (if the are considering whether to pass or bid hand belongs to you). Please consider 4♠. You do not know this but your ou can afford to use your making measured adaptations to your opponents have passed 3♠ at the other judgement when deciding play, but I am not advocating the EHA table. How does the maths work out? Ywhether or not to bid a system (pronounced Eee Har) beloved Suppose you are vulnerable. If you marginal non-vulnerable game at of juniors. You don’t know the EHA pass 3♠ you will clearly have a flat teams. system? ‘Every Hand an Adventure’ board. There are two basic rules: If you bid and make 4♠ your team Does the same apply at pairs? Look at 1) No opponent is allowed to play a total is +620 and -170 which is +450. Traveller A. Pair 11 are considering contract undoubled. That translates to gaining 10 IMPs. carefully whether to be in 3♠ or 4♠.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 9 Traveller A just makes or makes with an overtrick. to 3NT and that might go off. There is The pairs who bid 4♠ get a minus score only one way that your result might be N/S Con- N/S By Trks NS+ NS– when it fails, which loses out to those improved by raising to 2NT, partner no tract MPs in a silly contract. might continue to 3NT which might 1 3♠ S 10 170 9 make. The percentage action at pairs is 2 4♠ S 10 620 17 n pairs it does not pay to stretch probably to pass 1NT, but you do need 3 4♠ S 10 620 17 to thin games. By settling for a to be phlegmatic about the result. You healthy plus score you always will get more tops than bottoms, but 4 1NT S 8 120 0 I beat those who have lost their on occasion you might be the only pair ♠ 5 3 S 10 170 9 way. in the room to miss game. It is worth 6 4♠ S 10 620 17 commenting that two tops and one 7 3♣ S 10 130 2 Are you still unconvinced? Spend a bottom is 66.7%, more than enough to

8 3♠ S 10 170 9 little time looking at the travellers at win most pairs session. your club after an evening’s pairs. I At this stage it is worthwhile for me 9 4♠ S 10 620 17 suspect you will find that on almost to consider the mathematics of bidding 10 3♣ S 11 150 4 all the boards there is one or more silly games. Beginners are taught that with 11 3♠ S 10 170 9 score. a combined total of 25 points and two So the priority has changed from balanced hands you should be in game. Some pairs have played in 4♠, some accurate investigation of game It is necessary to stress that if your game have stayed in 3♠, and a few have contracts into getting a plus score. goes off that doesn’t necessarily mean played in rather inferior contracts. 4♠ Your partner opens 1NT (12-14 that you have done something wrong. is on a finesse which succeeds. Pairs 1, points). What is your bid on Hands C The natural caution of inexperienced 5, 8 and 11 score 9 Match Points (MPs) and D? players (wanting the perceived security for staying in 3♠+1. Pairs 2, 3, 6 and 9 of a plus score) must be balanced by score 17 MPs for 4♠. the fact that if you are ruled by fear you Now look at the traveller if the vital Hand C Hand D will be a loser at bridge. Perhaps it is finesse loses (Traveller B). ♠ A Q 4 ♠ A Q 4 true that the tipping point for bidding ♥ K 7 6 ♥ K 7 game tends to be 25 points, but it is Traveller B ♦ 7 4 3 2 ♦ 9 8 4 3 not true that 24 point games are awful, ♣ Q 4 2 ♣ Q 10 6 2 while 25 point games are brilliant. It N/S Con- N/S By Trks NS+ NS– no tract MPs is more a sliding scale, where it just about becomes worthwhile to bid a 1 3♠ S 9 140 17 Whether playing teams or pairs I game with 25, always assuming the 2 4♠ S 9 100 3 would pass with Hand C. You can hands are really worth 25 points. That 3 4♠ S 9 100 3 count 11 points but the hand is not is not to say that you should worry too 4 1NT S 7 90 8 worth 11 points. The 4-3-3-3 shape much about missing the occasional 25 point game. You cannot work on the 5 3♠ S 9 140 17 contains just one suit where length tricks can be developed, and as you principle that you will never miss a 25 ♠ 6 4 S 9 100 3 have no honours in that suit it will point game, with the result that you 7 3♣ S 9 110 10 be hard to develop. You have no repeatedly go off when you have fewer 8 3♠ S 9 140 17 intermediate cards (tens and nines). than 25 points. Look again at Hand

9 4♠ S 9 100 3 Your maximum combined strength C. If you bid 2NT then partner will is 25 points and even if partner has bid 3NT with some 13 point hands, 10 3♣ S 10 130 12 a maximum of 14 points, game is meaning you will be in 3NT with 24 11 3♠ S 9 140 17 likely to be at best borderline, maybe points. Equally he will sometimes have on a finesse. I would pass vulnerable 12 points and go off in 2NT. Bridge Pairs 1, 5, 8 and 11 score 17 MPs for at teams, but with a little reluctance is not maths, where you find a single staying in 3♠. Pairs 2, 3, 6 and 9 score given the high premium given to ‘correct’ answer to everything and get only 3 MPs for 4♠-1. bidding vulnerable games: maybe the 98%. Look at the two boards together. The are right. pairs in 3♠ score 9 and 17, a total of 26. Hand D is better than Hand C. You The pairs in 4♠ score 17 and 3, a total have two four-card suits which might Slams of 20. Clearly over a period of time be developed and your intermediate when luck evens out the more cautious cards are better. I would raise to 2NT The advice to avoid borderline games pairs are the winners. So why is this? at teams. Pairs is somewhat different. at pairs applies even more to slams. The answer lies in the three pairs If I raise to 2NT there are two Unless the slam is pretty obvious you who ended up in contracts that were things that can go wrong: if partner will score reasonably well just being clearly not desirable. The cautious is minimum 2NT might go off. If in the right game, because there will pairs always beat them, whether 3♠ partner is maximum he might raise always be some pairs in the wrong

Page 10 BRIDGE January 2018 game, or even miss game give up on slam and aim to completely. get your good score by being Bidding grand slams is in the right denomination. Choosing even more against the odds Raise partner’s 1NT to 3NT, unless you can count 13 and having given them no the Right tricks (15 if partner is play- information let them find ing it). Some pairs always the right lead, if there is one. miss slam completely so Even if you have missed a Contract Quiz even if you play an excellent slam, you know full well grand slam in a small slam that some pairs are likely to by Andrew Kambites you won’t score badly. The be in 5♦, so you won’t score really bad score is for pairs badly. (Answers on page 13) who ambitiously push to a With Hand F you certain- grand slam and fail. ly intend to play in a slam. 1. Playing pairs at game all you open 1♥ and your partner How about a grand slam? It responds 1NT. What is your second bid with Hands A, B is worth remembering that and C? Finding the right playing in a safe 6NT will denomination score better than other pairs in 6♦. Unless I was very sure Certainly both a of my system agreements I Hand A Hand B Hand C contract (if one is available) would settle for a good plus ♠ K 8 7 ♠ K 8 7 ♠ K 8 7 and no trumps (if sensible) score in 6NT. ♥ K J 3 2 ♥ K J 3 2 ♥ K J 3 2 are likely to outscore a mi- We now come to the vexed ♦ Q 5 3 ♦ K 10 3 ♦ K J 3 nor suit contract. question of the relative mer- ♣ A K 3 ♣ A K 3 ♣ A K J its of a major suit contract compared to no-trumps. To Hand E play in a major suit requires ♠ K 7 6 one extra trick (for exam- ♥ K 7 ple +620 in 4♠ loses out to 2. You are playing pairs at game all. What is your second ♦ A K Q 5 4 3 3NT+1, scoring +630). Ex- bid as North with Hands A and B? ♣ Q 2 perts cannot agree on this and various questions re- South North occur over and over again. 1♥ 1♠ For example: 3♠ ? Hand F (i) With game values and ♠ K J 6 4-3-3-3 shape (four ♥ K 7 spades) do you look for ♦ A K Q 5 4 3 a spade fit with Stay- Hand A Hand B ♣ A 2 man or settle for 3NT? ♠ Q 5 4 3 ♠ K J 6 5 4 2 (ii) With a weakish hand ♥ 8 5 ♥ Q 4 and a 5-3-3-2 shape ♦ Q J 7 ♦ 8 6 You hold Hand E and part- (five spades) do you pass ♣ Q J 7 2 ♣ 9 6 2 ner opens 1NT. Do you in- 1NT or sign off in ♠2 ? vestigate slam (maybe bid- All I can advise you is to ding 3♦) or settle for 3NT? make a decision and stick The one option you don’t to it. I always use Stayman have is looking for safety in scenario (i). I always sign 3. You are playing pairs at game all and your partner in 5♦, because even mak- off via a transfer in scenario opens 1NT. What do you bid with Hands A, B and C? ing an overtrick in 5♦ (620 (ii). The complex disagree- if vulnerable) will compare ments of experts are beyond very poorly to those making the scope of this series. At Hand A Hand B Hand C 3NT with one or two over- least I don’t wear myself out ♠ A 9 7 ♠ A 9 7 ♠ A K 8 tricks. Although bidding by agonizing over the same ♥ K Q 8 6 5 3 ♥ 3 ♥ A 3♦ cannot theoretically be decision every time it oc- ♦ ♦ ♦ faulted, what do you intend curs. A K 5 Q 5 J 10 5 to do if partner raises to 4♦? You can become a very ♣ 3 ♣ A K Q 8 6 5 4 ♣ A K Q 6 5 4 Is 4NT then an attempt to successful pairs player play in 4NT or Blackwood? whatever your views and The simplest strategy is to practices on this topic. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 11 David Stevenson answers your Frequently Asked Questions Comparable Calls New Laws Part 1

here was a new Law book of the cancelled call, or case, the purpose (asking partner published in 2017 by the C. It has the same purpose (eg an whether he has a four card major) Laws or relay) as the cancelled is the same so it is a CC under C. TCommittee, who oversee the laws in call all countries. There are many minor So how does this work? If a player changes and some fairly important Let us look at some examples. makes an insufficient bid and the changes, which we shall look at in a next player does not accept it then later article. Not all the rules that apply 1. You open 1♠ out of turn, which is if it was natural and he corrects it at the bridge table are laws, some are cancelled. Now partner, who is the to the lowest sufficient natural call, regulations which are decided by the dealer, passes, RHO passes and there is no penalty. If he corrects it national body and even in some cases you open 1♠. This has the same or to a CC there is no penalty. If he does by the club. What agreements you are similar meaning as your original neither then his partner is silenced allowed to play and what calls require 1♠ so it is a CC under A. for the rest of the auction and there alerting and announcing are examples 2. Partner opens 1♣ and you bid 1♠. may be lead penalties. There are a few of regulations. RHO points out he has not called. complications so this should be read There is also one very important He bids 1♥. You play double as from the Law book or Mr Bridge’s major change which I shall address showing 4+ spades and 6+ points Yellow book but this is the basis. here concerning Insufficient Bids and which is the same as the original If a player makes a call out of turn Calls out of Turn. In order to lessen 1♠ so double is a CC under A. and the next player does not accept the punishment for these errors (and 3. Partner opens 1♣ and you bid 1♠. it then it is cancelled and the bidding to less affect the rest of the field) the RHO points out he has not called. reverts to the correct player. When it lawmakers have tried to make it easier He bids 1♥. You play double as gets back to the player who made the for the offender by allowing him to showing four plus spades and 8-11 call out of turn then if he corrects it replace his mistake with a Comparable points which is not the same as to a CC there is no penalty. If he does Call. the original 1♠ but is a subset so not then his partner is silenced for double is a CC under B. one round only (a change from the What is a 4. You open 2♠ out of turn showing previous Law book) and there may be Comparable Call? five spades, five cards in a minor lead penalties: in this case, the call out and a weak hand. Partner deals of turn is unauthorised information. I shall call it a CC for this article. and passes, RHO opens 1♥ and Again there are a few complications so Suppose you make an illegal call, you play a form of where this should be read from the Law book either out of turn or an insufficient 2♥ shows a weak hand with spades or Mr Bridge’s Yellow book but this is bid and it is cancelled. In most cases, and clubs. Is 2♥ a CC? Yes, because the basis. when you get to make your first legal it shows a subset of the 2♠ opening. call it is a CC if it shows pretty much 5. Partner opens 2NT, RHO passes Example Rulings what the illegal call showed, or it is a and you respond 2♣. You play more specific example, so the illegal ordinary Stayman over 1NT and Perhaps we should go through a couple call does not tell partner anything the 2NT. Is 3♣ a CC? It used to depend of actual rulings. CC does not tell him. on whether you thought you were In the first one, West opens 2NT The actual laws are that a call is a CC responding 2♣ to 1NT or meant (showing a weak hand with a club suit) if: to respond to 2NT. There are some and North bids 2♣ which is insuffi- hands where you would respond cient. When the director has read out A. It has the same or a similar Stayman over one but not over all the possibilities he will offer East meaning as the cancelled call, or the other. In fact, the intent does the chance to accept 2♣: if he does B. It shows a subset of the meanings not matter now since, in either then it becomes legal and the bidding

Page 12 BRIDGE January 2018 goes on from there, which means someone could now Answers to Choosing the bid 2♦ or 2♠, for example. If he does not then North can Right Contract Quiz on page 11 bid anything he likes, or can pass. If it is a CC then the In each of the questions below, you are playing pairs at game all. bidding continues normally, so what calls are CCs? Ap- parently 2♣ was meant as 1 You open 1♥ and your points but you have 3 Your partner opens 1NT. showing either six or partner responds 1NT. a 4-3-3-3 shape What do you bid with six spades, which is played What is your second bid and no intermedi- Hands A, B and C? over a 1NT opening in with Hands A, B and C? ates (tens or nines). some clubs. Surely none of Not worth 3NT. Also pass, double, 3♣, 3♦, 3NT partner might find Hand A or any higher bid is a CC – Hand A it hard to enter his ♠ A 9 7 look at the rules again. But ♠ K 8 7 hand to take finess- ♥ K Q 8 6 5 3 what about 3♥ or 3♠? Sure- ♥ K J 3 2 es. ♦ A K 5 ly these are CCs under B ♦ Q 5 3 ♣ 3 above. Thus the player could ♣ A K 3 choose one of these and the 2 What is your second bid auction proceeds normally: as North with Hands A if he chooses anything else and B? Hand B his partner must pass for the Hand B ♠ A 9 7 remainder of the auction. ♠ K 8 7 ♥ 3 A simpler example is ♥ K J 3 2 Hand A ♦ Q 5 where North opens 1NT and ♦ K 10 3 ♠ Q 5 4 3 ♣ A K Q 8 6 5 4 his partner bids 2♦ (transfer ♣ A K 3 ♥ 8 5 to hearts) but East has not ♦ Q J 7 called, so it is out of turn. ♣ Q J 7 2 Assuming West does not ac- Hand C cept the call out of turn, if Hand C ♠ A K 8 East passes South repeats his ♠ K 8 7 ♥ A 2♦ without penalty. If East ♥ K J 3 2 Hand B ♦ J 10 5 bids anything else we have ♦ K J 3 ♠ K J 6 5 4 2 ♣ A K Q 6 5 4 to consider CCs so suppose ♣ A K J ♥ Q 4 he bids 2♣ (natural). Now ♦ 8 6 bids of 2♥, 3♥ and 4♥ (and ♣ 9 6 2 Hand A Bid 4♥. Slam might I suppose 6♥) are subsets Hand A Pass. Your part- be possible with a of 2♦ (transfer) because a ner has shown 6-9 perfect fit, but can transfer shows hearts but points. You have South North you find this out? may be any strength so these somewhere be- 1♥ 1♠ If you play transfers bids are CCs, and anything tween 22 and 25 3♠ ? bid 2♦ and raise the else is not a CC and silences points. 2♥ rebid to 4♥. partner for one round. If partner has a Hand A Pass. Partner has Hand B Bid 3NT. If there is Another way of looking at maximum nine shortage in the mi- a lead to beat it, CCs is that if the call the of- points game is un- nor suits so a lot give the defenders fender made illegally gives likely to be better of your as little information some information to part- than borderline. honours will be as possible and let ner that the replacement Settle for the safe wasted. them find it. call does not it is not a CC, part score at pairs. Hand C Bid 6NT. 6♣ will but if it gives no extra infor- Hand B 4♠. You have only score poorly if 6NT mation then it is a CC. Hand B 2NT. Your 17 HCP six points, but they makes. You prob- Is this concept easy? No, means you and are very valuable. ably cannot find and I expect to be answer- partner could have The ♥Q (partner’s out enough to bid ing queries on CCs in my 26 points. This is suit) will be gold a grand slam so bid column for years, but I just about worth in- dust. the highest scoring hope I have gone some way vestigating game. The ten card trump small slam. to clarifying this difficult fit will also be very 6NT is certainly a concept. ■ Hand C 2NT. You have 19 powerful. practical bid. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 13 Bernard Magee DVDs – Number Thirty-Eight

4-4-4-1 Hands

his DVD deals with everybody’s you open in a major). The reason for be your plans with these opening least favourite type of hand avoiding a major opening is because of hands? – the 4-4-4-1 shape – most the implications of your rebid. Tsystems struggle to deal with this In Acol when you rebid in a second shape efficiently. It starts by dealing suit, you are generally assumed to have ♠ K Q 9 6 with weak opening hands, but then five cards in your first bid suit. This ♥ K Q 10 4 goes through gradually stronger hands means that whatever you choose to ♦ K Q 3 2 so you get an overview of opening open with a 4-4-4-1 hand you are going ♣ 5 hands from 11-25 points with the 4-4- to end up lying in some way. As always 4-1 shape. with lies in bridge – it is better to lie The first major point is that it is about a minor than a major, hence the Open 1♥, but plan to rebid in no- rarely right to open light with this emphasis on opening a minor. trumps if your partner responds kind of shape. This is because Acol A 4-4-4-1 hand with a singleton 2♣ – you are telling a lie, but at least does not handle these hands very well club should be your least favourite and you show your strength and only and you can sometimes describe them therefore if you are vulnerable, with guarantee four cards in hearts. better if you pass first. A 4-4-4-1 hand no tens or nines, you might consider can be perfectly described in one call passing a 12-count. As your point if your opponents open in your short count goes up your options widen: ♠ K Q 9 6 suit: a take-out double. Therefore, you with 15-17 points you can choose to ♥ K Q 10 4 are more likely to pass with 12 points lie by rebidding no-trumps if your ♦ A K J 2 than open light with 11 points. partner bids your singleton. With 17+ ♣ 5 The standard opening bids with 12- you can choose to make a rebid 14 points on a hand you have chosen – note that with just four-card suits to open are: you should have at least 17+ high card With extra strength you can afford points to make a reverse. to make a reverse with your rebid, so 1-4-4-4: spade singleton Generally, unless planning to rebid start with 1♦ and plan to rebid 2♥ over open 1♦ in no-trumps, with stronger 4-4-4-1 a 2♣ response. 4-1-4-4: heart singleton hands you should open in a minor suit. open 1♦ Finally, when you are 20+ you still 4-4-1-4: diamond singleton have a problem because with three ♠ A K 9 6 open 1♣ suits to show you do not really want to ♥ 4 4-4-4-1: club singleton start at the two-level with an artificial ♦ A K J 2 open 1♥ bid. Therefore, you will often have to ♣ A K 4 3 open 1♣ or 1♦ with some very strong The modern rule is: opening 4-4-4-1 shapes: you just have to hope someone else makes a bid so You have 22 HCP, but you should start With a red suit singleton open the that you get the chance to bid again. low to increase your chance of find- suit below the singleton. There is of course the option with a ing a fit. Considering you actually With a black suit singleton, open the singleton to open 2NT or even want someone to respond, you do best middle of the three touching suits. with a singleton if you are feeling to start with the lowest call possible: adventurous. 1♣. You will be relieved if partner re- Note that you try to open a minor Here are four examples that were sponds or if someone , so you suit (only with a singleton club do covered in the first half – what would can really start describing your hand.

Page 14 BRIDGE January 2018 posite, so he uses Key Card ♠ A K 9 6 Blackwood and bids the ♥ K Q J 4 slam. DECLARER ♦ K Q J 2 The DVD finishes with ♣ K the reopening double, when PLAY you open in a suit and then find the opponents enter- Another strong hand with ing the bidding. If they bid QUIZ 22 HCP – this time you your short suit then you can might risk a two-level open- ask your partner to bid, by by David Huggett ing – with your singleton making a take-out double: (Answers on page 23) ♣K, 2NT is not a bad bid. I would not count the ♣K ou are South as declarer playing teams or rubber bridge. at full value, but even halv- ♠ A K Q 4 ♠ 7 6 YIn each case, what is your play strategy? ing it you with 20½ ♥ 4 N ♥ 9 8 7 6 W E points. It is a gamble open- ♦ A 9 8 2 S ♦ 5 4 ing 2NT, but two thirds of ♣ K 9 8 2 ♣ A 7 6 5 3 ♠ ♠ the time you are likely to 1. A K 4 3. Q 10 9 ♥ ♥ be safe, plus any time your K A 7 6 5 ♦ ♦ partner has length in clubs. West North East South 7 6 4 2 Q J 3 ♣ ♣ The reason it is two thirds 1♦ 1♥ Pass 2♥ J 6 4 3 2 K Q 2 Dbl Pass 3♣ All Pass is because if your left hand N N opponent has the ♣A when W E W E on lead, then he will most West opens in the suit below S S likely lead a low card. his red suit singleton: 1♦, ♠ ♠ In the second part of the North overcalls 1♥ and East 8 6 5 2 A K J 8 2 ♥ ♥ DVD, I deal with 4-4-4-1 has nothing to say. South A 8 6 4 2 ♦ ♦ hands beyond the opening raises to 2♥ and West could K 8 A 6 ♣ ♣ bid. Sometimes your part- go quietly and pass. Howev- A K 5 A J 10 5 3 ner bids one of your suits, er, with the perfect shape for which makes life much eas- a take-out double – support ♠ ier and much more exciting for all the unbid suits – it is You are declarer in 3NT You are declarer in 7 and ♦ ♥ – your singleton becomes highly likely that you have a and West leads the 3. West leads the Q. How ♦ an important asset: fit somewhere. If you have East plays the Q. How do do you plan the play? a fit, then it is always right you plan the play? to bid – to compete for the ♠ A K J 4 ♠ Q 9 8 7 6 partscore – either to make ♥ K Q J 4 N ♥ A 8 7 your contract or to go one W E ♦ Q J 5 2 S ♦ 3 off and get a better score ♠ ♠ ♣ 2 ♣ A 6 5 4 than letting the opponents 2. 7 5 2 4. A 7 3 2 ♥ ♥ make their contract. 10 8 7 3 A 2 ♦ ♦ Here, when you double, A J 10 9 5 ♣ ♣ West East East shows his clubs and J 10 6 A Q 10 6 3 1♥ 1♠ you find a great fit: you N N 4♣ 4NT should make at least ten W E W E 5♥ 6♠ tricks in clubs. Learning to S S compete for partscores is ♠ ♠ West opens 1♥ and after such an important aspect of A K J 6 5 ♥ ♥ the 1♠ response West gets duplicate bridge and hands A K Q J 4 K Q 9 ♦ ♦ excited: evaluating for his with the right distribution K 7 2 A K J 10 8 7 ♣ ♣ singleton he goes for game, make it easy. 8 7 J 9 but rather than simply rais- The DVD deals with all ing to 4♠, he jumps to 4♣: aspects of bidding hands ♥ ♦ a showing the with the 4-4-4-1 shape. It You are declarer in 4 and You are declarer in 6 and ♠ values to raise to 4♠, but gives you the chance to fi- West leads three rounds of West leads the K. How do also showing a shortage in nally solve all the problems clubs. How do you plan you plan the play? clubs. you have with this shape of the play? East’s hand fits perfectly hand and also to get excited with a shortage in clubs op- about the shape. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 15 House of Lords v House of Commons, 2017 by Shireen Mohandes

n the friendliest of spirits, the Your partner opens the bidding House of Lords v House of with 2♣ (Acol strong, artificial). You ♠ 10 7 6 4 Commons annual bridge match respond 2♦. Partner now bids 2♥ ♥ Q Itook place on 2nd November, 2017. (game forcing, natural). Your bid? ♦ K Q 8 As the players convened, it emerged ♣ Q J 9 4 2 that whilst some partnerships were ♠ A K J 3 2 ♠ 8 experienced, others had not even met The event was sponsored by ♥ A K 10 9 6 2 N ♥ 8 5 4 3 W E Lord Stanley Kalms (Stanley ♦ A ♦ 9 5 their partner before. Would there S be bidding catastrophes? Would the Kalms), who partnered Lord ♣ A ♣ K 8 7 6 5 3 Lords retain the cup? Would we see Oaksey (Patrick Oaksey QC) for ♠ Q 9 5 any huge unwarranted penalties? the 24-board encounter, held ♥ J 7 at the Palace of Westminster. ♦ J 10 7 6 4 3 2 Board 3: ♣ 10

Sitting East, you hold the same cards as If you choose to bid 3♠, a splinter bid, Evan Harris, former Liberal Democrat showing your heart support, then the West North East South MP for Oxford and Abingdon. partnership is almost certain to reach Archie Patrick Evan Stanley the grand slam in hearts. Evan elected Hamilton Oaksey Harris Kalms to bid 3♥ (showing a better hand Pass Dealer South. E/W Game. than bidding 4♥). Archie Hamilton, 2♣ Pass 2♦ Pass ♠ 8 not able to determine if there was a 2♥ Pass 3♥ Pass N ♥ 8 5 4 3 spade loser, or indeed an unlikely but 6♥ All Pass W E S ♦ 9 5 possible heart loser, settled for 6♥. ♣ K 8 7 6 5 3 North, Patrick Oaksey, led the ♦K. Let’s not walk away from the deal yet. Declarer wrapped up 6♥+1, +1470. What do you think of the South hand? Non-vulnerable first in hand, some aggressive players may start with 3♦. West might try double, 4♦ or even an ebullient 5♦.

Board 4:

Dealer West. Game All. ♠ 9 8 6 ♥ A ♦ Q 9 7 5 ♣ J 10 7 6 2 ♠ A 10 7 3 ♠ K Q J 5 4 2 ♥ J 10 9 6 N ♥ 7 5 2 ♦ 6 3 W E ♦ A 10 S ♣ Q 9 5 ♣ A 4 ♠ ♥ K Q 8 4 3 The winners: The House of Commons ♦ K J 8 4 2 Left to right: Robin Squire, Michael Mates, Tommy Sheppard, Duncan Brack, ♣ K 8 3 Bob Blackman (captain), Lord Hamilton (back), Evan Harris (front), Bridget Prentice

Page 16 BRIDGE January 2018 Another top spade was played and ruffed. Declarer could have escaped for one down, but, catering for a 4-1 break he went two off, +500 to East- West.

Board 5:

Assume that you have the same cards as Evan Harris. Evan, sitting East, held this unexciting collection:

Dealer North. Game All. ♠ 7 5 3 N ♥ J 10 9 7 5 W E S ♦ 7 4 2 ♣ 6 2

The Tony Berry Trophy for the best play went to Evan Harris & Lord Hamilton He saw this auction: (who retained the title he won last year) for their defence against 3NT on board 5. They are shown with Tom Townsend (columnist for the Daily Telegraph) who was West North East South judge for the prize. (Left to right: Lord Hamilton, Tom Townsend, Evan Harris) Archie Patrick Evan Stanley Hamilton Oaksey Harris Kalms West North East South minor-suit loser. If, instead, he leads a 1NT (12-14) Pass 3NT Archie Patrick Evan Stanley club, his partner’s suit, declarer wins All Pass Hamilton Oaksey Harris Kalms the , cashes ♣A, draws trumps, Pass Pass 1♠ Dbl ruffs dummy’s last club, and plays ace What would you lead? 2♠ 3♣ 3♠ 4♣ and another diamond. Pass 5♣ Pass Pass Dbl All Pass The Teams ♠ — What should South have bid at his first ♥ A House of Lords turn? North-South had no agreement ♦ Q 9 7 Lady Henig (capt) to play Michaels cue bids (and in ♣ J 10 and Lord Howard any case, 2♠, vulnerable, might have ♠ 7 ♠ K 4 N Lord Oaksey ♥ J 10 9 6 ♥ 7 5 2 been a bit too high). He settled for a W E and Lord Kalms take-out double, where others would ♦ 6 S ♦ 10 2♥, and when he heard his ♣ — ♣ — Susie Allfrey/Lord Caithness* partner voluntarily bid 3♣, he placed ♠ — and James Cooper him in the upper range of a hand that ♥ K Q 8 4 Lord Skelmersdale has initially passed (7-10 points) with ♦ K J and Lady Blackstone ♣ — five or more clubs. South competed *Susie Allfrey played the first ♣ by bidding 4 , and North chose to half, Lord Caithness the second bid on to game. North can infer that his partner is short in spades, after all, Because of the heart blockage, N/S House of Commons the opponents have bid and supported can’t untangle their tricks, and North spades. But if we consider that he has has to give a and discard. Only a Bob Blackman (capt) already stated his values and he’s at the diamond or a low heart and Tommy Sheppard lower end, maybe that final bid was too beats 4♠. Michael Mates pushy. West certainly thought so, and Against 5♣, the opening lead was and Robin Squire ♠ expressed his opinion. the K, ruffed in dummy. North took Bridget Prentice As it happens an East-West contract stock, and feared an adverse 4-1 club and Duncan Brack of 4♠ might well have been a lucky break. He unblocked his ♥A, and make. If South leads ♥K he crashes played a diamond towards the South Evan Harris his partner’s ace, and declarer gets hand. East, seeing those heart winners and Lord Hamilton the hearts going in time to discard one in dummy, took his ace immediately.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 17 Evan selected the ♠7 (top of nothing). This was a blow to declarer, sitting BERNARD MAGEE’S North as the hand was as follows: INTERACTIVE TUTORIAL CDS

♠ 10 9 8 2 ♥ K Q 6 ACOL ADVANCED DECLARER ♦ 9 8 5 ♣ A K J BIDDING ACOL BIDDING PLAY ♠ K J 6 4 ♠ 7 5 3 l Opening Bids and l Basics l Suit Establishment N ♥ A 3 ♥ J 10 9 7 5 Responses in No-trumps W E l Advanced ♦ A Q ♦ 7 4 2 S l Slams and Strong Basics l Suit Establishment ♠ 9 8 7 5 3 ♣ 6 2 Openings in Suits ♠ A Q l Weak Twos l Support for Partner l Hold-ups ♥ 8 4 2 l Strong Hands £76 ♦ l Pre-empting l Ruffing for K J 10 6 3 l Defence Extra Tricks ♣ Q 10 4 l Overcalls to Weak Twos l Entries in l No-trump £66 l Defence to 1NT No-trumps Openings l Doubles On the deal there are two stoppers in and Responses l Delaying every suit, including spades. But this l Two-suited £96 Drawing Trumps l Opener’s and attacking lead meant that the defence Overcalls Responder’s Rebids l Using the Lead were ahead in the race to get the spades l Defences to l Minors and Misfits l Trump Control going. Declarer finessed at trick 1, los- Other Systems ing to the ♠K. Spades were continued. l Doubles l Endplays & l Misfits and Declarer tried to set up his , Avoidance l Competitive Distributional by taking a finesse, but when that lost, Auctions Hands l Using the Bidding the defensive tally of tricks came to two spades, one heart and two dia- monds, defeating the contract by one trick, giving East-West +100. ADVANCED DEFENCE FIVE-CARD Paul Bowyer, on behalf of the DECLARER MAJORS & EBU, prepared an excellent booklet PLAY l Lead vs No-trump Strong No-Trump containing commentary on the hands. Contracts l Making Overtricks l Opening Bids l Lead vs He pointed out that if, instead, the in No-trumps & Responses ♥J was led (surely a popular choice), Suit Contracts l Making Overtricks l No-Trump then the defence can still prevail. l Partner of Leader in Suit Contracts Openings The ♥A must be played at trick 1, and vs No-trump West must start the attack on spades l Endplays Contracts l Support ♦ for Partner immediately. When in with the Q, l Avoidance l Partner of Leader again, play a spade, and finally, when vs Suit Contracts l Slams l Wrong Contract in with the ♦A, take two spade tricks. & Strong Openings l Count l Simple Signals l Rebids Squeezes l Attitude l Minors In the past few years, the House l Counting £81 £76 Signals & Misfits £89 of Lords has invited young bridge the Hand l Discarding l Pre-empting players for a tour, and bridge l Trump Reductions with Peers from the All Party & Coups l Defensive Plan l Doubles Parliamentary Group. Baroness l Playing Doubled l Stopping Declarer l Overcalls Henig facilitated the most recent Contracts visits, and continues to champion l Counting l Competitive bridge in the Palace of Westminster. l Safety Plays the Hand Auctions

Make your cheque payable to Mr Bridge and send to: Mr Bridge, After 24 hard-fought boards and a Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH nice tea (I had four cream cakes and ( 01483 489961 www.mrbridge.co.uk/mrbridge-shop two scones), the Commons defeated System: MAC OSX (Intel chip), Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 or 10, 8mb RAM, CD-ROM the Lords by 36 IMPs. ■

Page 18 BRIDGE January 2018 Bridge With Angela by Angela Tompson DEFENCE Reviewed by David Huggett QUIZ Published by A.L.Fleming. ISBN 0 9518970 3 9 £7.95 from Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 by Julian Pottage (Answers on page 25) must confess to never situation. Again the notion having heard of either of a reverse bid is almost ou are West in the defensive positions below playing Ithe author or this book impossible to teach as any Ymatchpoint pairs with only North/South vulnerable. Both previously, but it is now in bridge teacher will tell you, sides are using Acol with a 12-14 1NT and 2♣ Stayman. its fifth publication and it but here it is explained well. is not hard to see why. I Everything you would want taught for many years at to know is contained in this 1. ♠ K 7 2 3. ♠ J 7 3 Adult Education classes 84-page volume. Opening ♥ 5 ♥ K J 8 5 and although I was very bids, responses and overcalls ♦ Q 10 9 5 2 ♦ 9 2 much against the use of are all dealt with, together ♣ Q J 9 2 ♣ K 9 6 2 bridge flippers at the table with some more sophisticated ♠ 10 6 ♠ A K 10 6 2 – because they became a ideas like cue bids and ♥ 10 8 2 N ♥ Q 10 2 N substitute for thinking – I was splinter bids that have ♦ K 8 6 3 W E ♦ 5 3 W E S S always aware of how useful become voguish as the game ♣ A K 8 5 ♣ J 8 5 a concise, well-documented has developed. Elementary treatise would be for the declarer plays are made student to read after the to look – well – elementary West North East South West North East South lesson, for reinforcement of and there are some useful 1♠ 1♦ what had been taught. To guidelines on defensive Pass 2♠ 3♥ 3♠ 1♠ Dbl Pass 2♦ my mind this is just such a techniques that should 4♥ 4♠ Pass Pass All Pass publication. In short, this is be a part of everyone’s Dbl All Pass a complete guide to Acol arsenal. Most of the popular You cash the ♠A-K. Partner as it was originally devised, conventions are dealt with, You lead the ♣A: ♣2, follows once (with the ♠8) with four-card majors and but I was amazed to come ♣3 and ♣4. How do you and then discards the ♣10. a weak no-trump and, across one I had never heard continue? How do you continue? as a nod to modernity, of, called McKendrick. (I won’t includes some currently tell you what it is and, to be popular conventions. honest, you won’t really need Although a lot of the to know. Apart from this, 2. ♠ K Q J 10 7 4 2 4. ♠ Q J 10 2 content demands little more the conventions discussed ♥ 9 8 5 3 ♥ A 3 than a good memory from are pretty sensible ones.) ♦ A 10 ♦ K Q 10 9 5 the reader, I was particularly I really did like this book, ♣ Void ♣ 10 5 impressed by the way some but it has to be stressed that ♠ 9 8 ♠ 8 7 N difficult topics were sensibly if you are learning the game ♥ N A K ♥ Q 8 W E W E dealt with. For example, the with a view to becoming a ♦ Q 8 4 2 ♦ S S 8 7 6 4 2 responsibilities of the partner world champion or even a ♣ 10 8 7 5 4 ♣ A K Q 9 of a take-out doubler are top tournament player, then two-fold; they must not only the discussed indicate which suit they want is a bit of a dinosaur and West North East South West North East South to play in but they must also you may find it hard to get a 1NT 1NT indicate the strength of their like-minded partner. These Pass 2♥1 Pass 2♠ Pass 2♣ Pass 2♠ hand if they have been forced days it’s all two-over-one Pass 4♠ All Pass Pass 4♠ All Pass to bid and this is something and transfer responses to 1Transfer to spades that is so hard to teach. The one club. Finally, I really liked You lead the ♣A: ♣5, ♣2 responder underbids and the entreaty near the end of You lead the ♥K: ♥3, and ♣3. How do you con- the doubler overbids, often the book where it implored ♥2 and ♥6. How do you tinue? things fall into place and you to ‘always have your bid’ continue? that is so infuriating. Here and to ‘never open light’. Try the author explains how telling that to some of our top things should work in this players. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 19 Julian Pottage Answers your Bridge Questions

How Should We Bid to a Slam?

Teammates 1♥-1♠-2♦-3♦-5♦. We because it means that South’s opener, responder would struggled with were playing 1♠ as like values are mainly in the minors. need game forcing values. Qthis hand. a forcing 1NT; as South If, as in your examples, holds four spades, the ♣♦♥♠ opener has promised extra response would be the values, responder does not Dealer North. Love All. same in natural methods. Everything I read need to be as strong as ♠ Void With ♦K-Q-9-x in support, about fourth suit 11+. The principle is that the ♥ A K 10 9 2 South’s 2NT bid at your Qforcing says that fourth suit shows ♦ A 10 8 6 4 table is rather debatable. you need at least 11 HCP to sufficient combined strength ♣ K 10 2 If the bidding continues, bid it. Does that apply when to commit the partnership you might get the chance partner has reversed – for to the level that the fourth N W E to show a club stopper on example 1♣-1♠-2♦-2♥? suit bid is taking you. S the next round whereas you Also, what about On the 1♣-1♠-2♦-2♥ ♠ Q 10 9 7 will never convince partner 1♥-1♠-3♣-3♦? After sequence, opener has ♥ 8 7 that you have such massive opener’s jump shift the already forced for one ♦ K Q 9 5 support if you bid 2NT. auction is already game round and suggested 17+ ♣ A 9 8 On your teammates’ forcing. Could responder’s points. 8+ points therefore auction, North’s 2♦ is second bid be indicating suffices for responder’s certainly not forcing. Given no appetite for either of game forcing 2♥ bid. North South that a fourth-suit bid of 3♣ partner’s suits and asking On the 1♥-1♠-3♣-3♦ 1♥ 1♠ is available, I do not think if opener has a diamond sequence, opener has 2♦ 2NT 3♦ on the next round should stop for 3NT? Or could 3♦ already created a game 3♦ be forcing either. If North have some other meaning? force. Responder does not bids 3♣, South bids 3♦, Mike Johnson by email. need anything extra to bid 1. Is 2♦ forcing? although I do not think this 3♦, although admittedly it 2. Is 3♦ forcing? What is really helps you to reach 6♦. The point count would be an unusual choice South’s best course of action? A possible sequence is: requirement of 11+ on a six-point hand. While 3. Is North’s 3♦ the A for responder might have a hand best continuation? North South only applies in the specific without rebiddable spades 4. If North bids 3♣, fourth 1♥ 1♠ situation that opener has bid or tolerance for hearts or a suit forcing, how should 2♦ 3♦ two suits without reversing or diamond stopper, another South reply and what is 4♣1 5♣2 jumping and the fourth suit possible hand type is a strong the best sequence to get 6♦ forcing bid by responder is hand with slam interest, but to the diamond slam? below the three level (and insufficient support for either Simon Gottschalk, 1This is a showing the you follow the normal of opener’s suits to commit Pendolyan, Glamorgan. ace, king or a shortage in clubs Acol rule that fourth suit to either one of them. (similar from Andrew Elliot). and slam interest. forcing is only as forcing Sometimes opener uses 2A return cue bid also showing as high as 2NT). fourth suit forcing, in which You happen a control in clubs while denying If the fourth suit forcing case the minimum strength to ask about a a control in either major. The bid is at the three level and would exceed 11 unless A deal I played. lack of the ♠A or ♠K in the South opener has not promised responder has already Our auction was hand is good news to North more than a minimum promised game values.

Page 20 BRIDGE January 2018 As South I didn’t bid a weak suit that you are cue bid as just any very 3♣ or 1♦-1♥-2♥-3♣. know how to rebid never going to play in? strong hand, you would The not forcing at all Qafter the 1♠ overcall The auction works make the same bid, albeit situation is less common and we missed 3NT. much more easily after without getting over the in an uncontested auction. I did not want to a 1♥ response. South is same level of description. An example is 1♠-1NT-2♥- do anything that happy either to double 1♠ Partner cannot pass a bid 3♣. Responder has shown showed hearts. or make a 2♦ reverse. of the opposing suit. a lot of clubs in a hand It is difficult to say what The problem with starting too weak to respond 2♣. the best contract is at with a double is that partner In these auctions where Match Points. matchpoints. If West has will very likely bid clubs, after the new suit was not game Dealer South. E/W Game. the ♣Q, 3NT could easily which it will be difficult to forcing, one player or the ♠ 10 fail. If East has it, 3NT show both your suits. There other had already made ♥ A Q 7 2 makes with overtricks, is also a slight chance a limit bid (the raise to 2♥ ♦ Q 7 4 3 outscoring any suit contracts partner will leave in the or the 1NT response). ♣ J 8 4 2 below the slam level. double. I am not sure from In an uncontested auction On your actual auction, your comment whether where the new suit is a third N W E North should not pass 3♦. South would have left in suit and the partnership S The initial 1♦ response only 1♥ doubled. The doubler’s has not agreed a suit then ♠ A K 6 promised five or six points. partner needs quite a I think it is going to be ♥ 8 North has rather more stack in opener’s suit to game forcing. 1♠-2♥-3♦ ♦ A K J 5 than that and knows of a leave in the double. or 1♠-2♦-2♠-3♣ are both ♣ K 10 7 6 5 two-suit fit in the minors. If you had to guess the examples of auctions where North could continue with final contract with one bid, the new suit at the three 3♥ showing values in the you would bid 6♠. The level is game forcing. West North East South suit or go back to clubs. 4♠ overcall is incredibly 1♣ cautious. Apart from ♣♦♥♠ Pass 1♦ 1♠ 2♠ ♣♦♥♠ a heart, what do you Pass 3♣ Pass 3♦ really expect to lose? Please could All Pass At love all, West you give your opened 1♥. ♣♦♥♠ Qopinion on the How should we have bid? QNorth held: following hands involving Fraser McLeod, For some time now a competitive auction. Southampton. I have played that ♠ A K Q 9 5 4 Qa new suit bid at After the 1♠ overcall, ♥ 3 the three level (by opener Hand 2 South seems to ♦ A K Q 8 7 2 or responder), is forcing to ♠ 8 5 4 2 ♠ J 9 7 3

have three options: ♣ Void game. However, having ♥ A K 4 N ♥ Q 10 9 6 A W E double, 2♠ and 3♥. discussed this with other ♦ Q 10 8 S ♦ A K Playing Acol, double just players, it is clear that this is ♣ J 9 4 ♣ 6 3 2 shows a good hand with no She went straight to 4♠. not a normal understanding. other suitable bid. It does not South had two red jacks. No one seems to particularly suggest hearts. 4♠ ended the auction. agree with me. West North East South A 3♥ splinter shows the North made 12 tricks with Some say it is Pass strength of the hand, the the spades being equally for one round and others Pass 1♦ Pass 1NT diamond support and divided. Any lesser bid say it is not forcing at all. Pass 2♦ Dbl Pass the shortage in hearts. by North would not have No-one says it is 2♠ 3♦ Pass Pass This describes the hand received a reply from South forcing to game. 3♠ All Pass rather better than either yet 4♠ seemed wrong. What is your view on this? double or 2♠ does. Can you help? Bruce Paul by email. Four pairs passed out Given the four-card club Janet Brierley, the deal. We were two support, I do not really like Hazel Grove, Stockport. In some situations down but would have got North’s 1♦ response. You a new suit at a good score if only one are not going to want to If you play Michaels, A the three level is down. Is it OK for East to play in diamonds. You are whereby a 2♥ cue forcing to game, in others double, thinking N/S have heading either for a club A bid shows a two- forcing for one round and limited their hand? Should contract or perhaps hearts suited hand with spades sometimes not forcing at all. West bid on after pushing or no-trumps. If the values and a minor, this is an The forcing for one them to the three level? were in diamonds, I could excellent way to start bidding round option can occur Angela Buckley, see a case for it – but why the hand. If you play a 2♥ via a trial bid eg 1♥-2♥- Leeds.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 21 It seems reasonable the expected 4♠ from South, East has previously shown jump in spades. for East as a passed North cue bids 5♥. South eight or maybe nine tricks 3Knowing that opener’s first suit A hand to double 1♦. might then work out that but can now count twelve. is longer, East gives preference Once East does not open either minor-suit ace would The 5NT bid confirms that back to clubs. or act over 1♦, West has justify bidding a slam. all the are present and 4West shows the heart cover, no business whatsoever Alternatively North might expresses interest in a grand completing a fine description of in later bidding 3♠. continue with 4NT over 4♠, slam. Having denied game the hand. The reopening double making the reasonable forcing opening values, East has done its job in push- assumption that East holds could hardly hold a better I do not think there are ing the opponents up a the ♥A and therefore that hand. If West merely has two any close decisions level. When you have already any ace South shows in bare aces, he should not be along the way. succeeded in driving the reply to 4NT is useful. looking for a grand slam. opponents a level higher ♣♦♥♠ than they wanted to go, you ♣♦♥♠ ♣♦♥♠ need an exceptional hand Can you explain to justify bidding again. On the hand below, Please could how experienced West has only four spades, playing Benji, we you give a Qpartnerships poor ones at that and no Qbid as follows: Qrecommended find a diamond slam? ruffing value; furthermore, bidding sequence on the diamond holding may the hand below? be more useful defen- ♠ Q 10 9 5 4 ♠ A West opened and there ♠ Q

sively than offensively. ♥ A 8 7 N ♥ K Q J 9 was no intervening bid- ♥ A Q 8 7 5 W E 5 3 2 ding from North-South. ♦ A K Q 10 S ♣♦♥♠ ♦ A J 10 9 ♦ K Q 3 ♣ A 8 2 ♣ K ♣ A 3 N As North in fourth ♠ K J 10 6 ♠ 9 7 5 W E N S seat, you pick up ♥ A K J W E ♥ 10 5 4 Qa big black two West East ♦ 5 S ♦ Q J 8 7 ♠ A 10 6 suiter and face this problem: 2♣ ♣ A K 7 4 3 ♣ Q J 8 ♥ K 9 2 2♠ 3♥ ♦ 9 8 7 5 4NT 5♥ ♣ 10 9 3 ♠ A K Q 5 4 3 5NT 6♥ My partner and I got it ♥ Void Pass wrong on the night and in ♦ 3 protracted discussion the Our bidding proceeded ♣ K Q J 9 6 5 The 6♥ bid shows following day couldn’t 1♥-2♥-4♥. a virtual ♠K. agree on how we should Geoff Simpson by email. How would the bid it. West North East South experts bid this hand? Sean Haffey, Playing five-card 3♥ Pass Dennis Adams by email. Hook, Hampshire. majors, most Pass ? A people would bid Although I usually The sequence I the same way as you (those Bob Parker by email. play that the 2♠ recommend is playing four-card majors A response promises A as follows: would respond 1NT). If you play a two of the top three Realistically, you are not convention known honours, most of your West East going to reach a slam. Even A as non-leaping sequence seems fine. I do 1♣ 1♦1 with the perfect fit, you Michaels, North might bid recommend playing some 2♠2 3♣3 are going to need some 4♣ to show a strong two- form of Key Card Blackwood, 3NT4 reasonable breaks in both suiter with clubs and spades. in which case East’s reply red suits to make 6♦. Most pairs will not be playing to 4NT would be something 1A 1NT response should show For most mortals, it is that, in which case, as the more encouraging than 5♥. a stronger hand than East has impossible to reach every hand is too slam orientated The one bid with which I (8-10 points). good slam without bidding to settle for 4♠, the only strongly disagree is East’s 2With a strong opening hand, too many bad ones along sensible alternative is 4♥. 6♥. Once West bid 5NT, East West makes a natural forcing the way. ■ This must show some sort of has to bid the grand slam. two suited hand including Whatever 6♥ showed (sorry spades (North would bid 4NT I do not understand your E-mail your questions (including your postal address) with both minors or double comment about a virtual ♠K), for Julian to: [email protected] on other good hands). Over it did not convey this monster.

Page 22 BRIDGE January 2018 Answers to David Huggett’s Play Quiz on page 15

This looks like a finesser’s paradise and 1. ♠ A K 4 you might draw trumps ending in dummy 4. ♠ A 7 3 2 ♥ K to finesse the spades. If that loses and a ♥ A 2 ♦ 7 6 4 2 spade is returned then you are on two- ♦ 9 5 ♣ J 6 4 3 2 way guess for the queen of diamonds – ♣ A Q 10 6 3 ♠ 9 7 3 ♠ Q J 10 and you deserve to get it wrong! Strangely ♠ K Q J ♠ 10 9 8 4 ♥ Q 7 3 2 N ♥ J 10 9 5 you should take no finesses at all and the ♥ 8 6 5 N ♥ J 10 7 4 3 ♦ A J 9 3 W E ♦ Q 10 5 contract is 100% guaranteed once hearts ♦ Q 6 2 W E ♦ 4 3 S S ♣ 10 8 ♣ Q 9 7 are not 4-0. After drawing trumps simply ♣ K 8 4 2 ♣ 7 5 ♠ 8 6 5 2 play spades from the top and lose the ♠ 6 5 ♥ A 8 6 4 third one to the queen, most likely. But ♥ K Q 9 ♦ K 8 whoever wins is in an unenviable position, ♦ A K J 10 8 7 ♣ A K 5 for a black suit return will yield a ruff and ♣ J 9 discard while a diamond return will find the queen for you. You are declarer in 3NT and West leads You are declarer in 6♦ and West leads the ♦3. East plays the ♦Q. How do you the ♠K. How do you plan the play? plan the play? Without the spade lead the contract The opening lead has done you no 3. ♠ Q 10 9 would have been excellent, depending harm at all and it would appear that West ♥ A 7 6 5 on a successful finesse in either minor, has led from a four-card suit headed by ♦ Q J 3 but here you absolutely need the club the ace. So if you can make four club tricks ♣ K Q 2 finesse to work so that you can dispose the contract is secure via two spades, two ♠ 7 5 ♠ 6 4 3 of your losing spade. But if you try that hearts, one diamond and four clubs. But ♥ Q J 10 8 3 N ♥ K 9 4 immediately then if either defender there is a catch. If you play three rounds ♦ K 8 7 5 W E ♦ 10 9 4 2 started with a doubleton club they would S of clubs then there will be no way back ♣ 9 4 ♣ 8 7 6 be able to ruff the ace, forcing you to to the and the defenders ♠ A K J 8 2 overruff and your discard would be gone. will be able to set up a winning spade ♥ 2 To prevent this happening you must cash to defeat you. Once seen, the answer is ♦ A 6 the two top diamonds first. If the queen simple. Just lead a low club at trick two ♣ A J 10 5 3 falls then you can draw the last trump and play low from dummy. You retain the and hope for the club finesse to work top cards in the suit for entries. and, if not, then as long as trumps are You are declarer in 7♠ and West leads 3-2, if anyone does ruff the ace of clubs the ♥Q. How do you plan the play? it will be with the master trump while you This grand slam isn’t as lay down as pitch your spade loser. ■ 2. ♠ 7 5 2 you might have hoped and it looks as ♥ 10 8 7 3 though you might be forced to take the ♦ A J 10 diamond finesse for the thirteenth trick. ♣ J 10 6 A grand slam on a 50-50 shot isn’t ideal DUPLICATE ♠ Q 10 6 ♠ 9 8 4 3 however, so you have to look around BRIDGE RULES ♥ 5 2 N ♥ 9 6 to see if you can improve the odds and ♦ 9 8 6 4 W E ♦ Q 5 3 indeed you can. S SIMPLIFIED ♣ A K 5 2 ♣ Q 9 4 3 If trumps break 3-2, which is around (otherwise known as the Yellow Book) ♠ A K J a 68% chance, then you should be OK. ♥ A K Q J 4 Win the heart in dummy and ruff a heart by David Stevenson only ♦ K 7 2 high. Return to dummy with a club and Fully Revised 2017 95 ♣ 8 7 ruff another heart high, then use a trump £5 to get back to dummy and ruff the last heart high and finally draw trumps. You Available from Mr Bridge You are declarer in 4♥ and West leads jettison your losing diamond on the third ( 01483 489961 three rounds of clubs. How do you plan spade and you will have pulled off a www.mrbridge.co.uk the play? perfect dummy reversal.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 23

Answers to Julian Pottage’s Defence Quiz on page 19

West North East South another spade to score a ruff, East must 1. ♠ K 7 2 1NT have a good reason to discard such an ♥ 5 Pass 2♥1 Pass 2♠ encouraging club – it would surely have ♦ Q 10 9 5 2 Pass 4♠ All Pass been possible to discard a low club or ♣ Q J 9 2 1Transfer to spades low heart if wanting a ruff. You should ♠ 10 6 ♠ 8 3 trust your partner and switch to a club. N ♥ 10 8 2 ♥ A K Q 9 4 3 You lead the ♥K: ♥3, ♥2 and ♥6. How If you ignore the and blithely W E ♦ K 8 6 3 S ♦ J 4 do you continue? play a third spade, declarer can avoid ♣ A K 8 5 ♣ 10 6 3 Despite the discouraging signal, you losing two clubs either by taking the ♠ A Q J 9 5 4 should continue hearts, hoping to score heart finesse or by cashing the ♥A and ♥ J 7 6 a ruff later. The real question is what to then endplaying your partner with the ♦ A 7 lead at trick three. third round of trumps. ♣ 7 4 While you could switch to a diamond hoping to find partner with the ♦K, this will not give a quick . Declarer, if West North East South holding the ♠A, will simply take the ♦A 1♠ and draw trumps. Since you really want 4. ♠ Q J 10 2 Pass 2♠ 3♥ 3♠ to find partner with the ♠A, you should ♥ A 3 4♥ 4♠ Pass Pass play a trump at trick three. This proves ♦ K Q 10 9 5 Dbl All Pass necessary as the cards lie because ♣ 10 5 declarer would be able to win a diamond ♠ 8 7 ♠ A 6 5 You lead the ♣A: ♣2, ♣3 and ♣4. How in hand and then throw dummy’s two ♥ Q 8 N ♥ J 7 6 5 4 2 do you continue? remaining hearts on the ♣A-K to avoid ♦ 8 7 6 4 2 W E ♦ 3 S Since the ♣3 was the lowest outstanding the ruff. ♣ A K Q 9 ♣ 7 4 2 club, partner cannot have a doubleton. ♠ K 9 4 3 You want to switch rather than set up ♥ K 10 9 dummy’s clubs. If partner holds the ♦A, ♦ A J you can take two diamond tricks – but ♣ J 8 6 3 there is unlikely to be a rush to do so. If 3. ♠ J 7 3 declarer holds the ♦A, you would like the ♥ K J 8 5 first diamond lead to come from partner ♦ 9 2 West North East South – and you want it to come before declarer ♣ K 9 6 2 1NT plays clubs to set up dummy’s clubs. You ♠ A K 10 6 2 ♠ 8 Pass 2♣ Pass 2♠ therefore switch to the ♥8. ♥ Q 10 2 N ♥ 9 6 4 3 Pass 4♠ All Pass ♦ 5 3 W E ♦ Q J 10 8 S ♣ J 8 5 ♣ A Q 10 3 You lead the ♣A: ♣5, ♣2 and ♣3. How ♠ Q 9 5 4 do you continue? ♥ A 7 You might think to cash a second club 2. ♠ K Q J 10 7 4 2 ♦ A K 7 6 4 lest it run away. Then again, seeing ten ♥ 9 8 5 3 ♣ 7 4 cards in diamonds and a no-trump bid ♦ A 10 on your right, partner must be short in ♣ Void the suit. In this case you want to keep an ♠ 9 8 ♠ A 6 West North East South entry for giving him a ruff. ♥ A K N ♥ 10 4 2 1♦ Since a ruff will be possible if partner W E ♦ ♦ Q 8 4 2 S J 6 5 3 1♠ Dbl Pass 2♦ has the singleton ♦A, a small singleton ♣ 10 8 7 5 4 ♣ Q J 6 3 All Pass diamond and the ♠A or a void diamond, ♠ 5 3 you should go for it. ♥ Q J 7 6 You cash the ♠A-K. Partner follows once Yes, you risk conceding 12 tricks if ♦ K 9 7 (with the ♠8) and then discards the ♣10. partner has a diamond and none of the ♣ A K 9 2 How do you continue? ♠A, ♦A or ♥K – but the risk is surely worth While it might look attractive to play taking. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 25 A History of Playing Cards: Part Thirteen by Paul Bostock Playing Cards from Spain

pain is probably the first European Country to have playing cards – they are referred to in 1371. A bridge player encoun- tering Spanish cards for the first time would immediately notice how different they look. The Spanish pack will normally contain 48 cards – twelve in each of four suits (nine cards and three court cards in each). The suit designations are Sdifferent – they translate as , , and (corresponding with Spades, Hearts, Diamonds and Clubs). The court cards are different too, the Spanish cards have a mounted ‘Cavalier’ in place of the Queen. If, like ours, the cards were initially used for gambling perhaps it was thought inappropriate to have a Queen in the deck?

Modern (1970) Spanish standard set by Heraclio Fournier of Vitoria, Spain. These are the three court cards in the suit of Swords. The King is numbered 12, as there are twelve cards per suit. The figures have not been made double-ended. The 11 is a Cavalier where we might have expected a Queen. The spaces in the rectangular box near the edge of the card are called pintas – there are two for each card here. Each suit has a different number.

Unlike most of the world’s patterns – notably the English, French, German and some Italian patterns – Spanish cards never became double ended. There is therefore no distinction in pattern between the ancient and the modern cards. The cards illustrated below come from the City of Toledo and their date is 1574. The author does not have the good fortune to own an original set, but these are a wonderful 1998 reproduction by the Museo de Santa Cruz de Toledo printed by Comas.

Cards by Phelippe Ayet, from Sixteenth Century Toledo. Left to right, the Cavalier of Swords (compare this with the modern example above), Ace of Coins and five of Swords. The Maker’s name appears on each of these, and several other cards.

Page 26 BRIDGE January 2018 Regions

The Spanish continue to make cards to this day, the most successful maker being Fournier of Vitoria (in Northern Spain), whose cards sell well in Britain. Fournier are now allied with the United States Company and produce International as well as Spanish cards. Fournier’s native pattern is ‘Castilian’, and this has become one of two standard patterns commonly used in Spain itself (the other being the ‘Catalan’ version). The so-called ‘National Pattern’ – the most traditional – is now actually made for export, mostly to Central and South America. Some experts list regional variations of these patterns, but these are not as These English made tables clearly differentiated as we see in Italy (soon to follow in this series) and, without offer superb quality and have wishing to be controversial, sometimes extra categories serve to confuse more the genuine Pelissier hinges. than they help. Choose from the great value Spanish makers have also produced non-standard cards, usually in the 48 card Club, the Premier or the format of course. Examples include subjects like Don Quixote, Spanish history, elegant Royal. regional costumes and satire and humour. Special Prices for Bridge Club orders of 5 or more. Around the World

The Spanish Pattern is important beyond Spain too. From early on, cards of a very similar style appear in several of the Italian regional patterns and in southern (where they are referred to specifically as ‘’ cards). To be careful, it would not be correct to say that they were adopted in those regions. More accurately, the national boundaries have evolved over time, and the areas using Spanish playing cards from the outset would have been the Mediterranean areas of what are now Southern Spain, Southern France and North Western Italy. Club Table with traditional green felt playing surface £159.00 As you would expect, the Spanish pattern has been adopted throughout most of Central and South America too. At the same time, the English or international standard would be easily recognised and widely available because of the popularity of bridge, poker and so on. There were Mexican makers of playing cards in the 16th century, and playing cards have been made in Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico and Uruguay (and possibly elsewhere). ■

Premier Table, bevelled edges and baize playing surface £199.00

Royal Table, elegant surround and baize playing surface £249.00 Mexican Cards c 1940, full of local character. Order online or by phone Left to right, the Knave of Batons, the Cavalier of Cups and the King of Swords. www.designsforbridge.co.uk

01483 270 100 The author is a Court Assistant in the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing SR Designs for Bridge Cards – see www.makersofplayingcards.co.uk. Many more sets of cards are Unit A1, Send Business Park, illustrated on the author’s website www.plainbacks.com Send, Woking, Surrey GU23 7EF

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 27 Robin Hood’s Bridge Adventures by David Bird

Elayne Burnton’s Wonderful Convention

aid Marian had persuaded method. You don’t have to guess how have been unbiddable.’ Robin Hood to give up an many aces partner has.’ A hand or two later, the Burntons afternoon to play social Robin Hood struggled to feign reached another slam. Mbridge with some friends of hers. interest in this revelation. How While he was pleased to see Marian much longer did Marian intend to enjoying herself, he had no interest in play? Back in the forest, the outlaws’ Dealer North. N/S Game. prolonging the event. thoughts would be turning towards ♠ 7 5 ‘The sun will be set in an hour,’ supper already. ‘That’s a clever idea,’ ♥ A Q J 10 7 3 observed Robin Hood. ‘Shall we stop he replied, reaching for the king of ♦ 5 4 there?’ spades. ♣ 10 9 2 ♠ J 10 6 4 ♠ 9 3 Marian peered out of the window. Peryth Burnton won the spade lead N ‘It’s not often I have the chance of a with dummy’s ace and lost no time in ♥ 9 2 W E ♥ K 8 6 5 4 friendly game like this,’ she replied. ditching his spade losers on the top ♦ J 10 7 2 S ♦ 9 ‘Anyway, the sun looks quite high to hearts. His next move was a club to the ♣ K Q 8 ♣ J 7 6 4 3 me. It’s you to deal, Peryth.’ queen, winning the trick. ♠ A K Q 8 2 The players picked up these cards: Elayne Burnton looked somewhat ♥ Void worried as she watched proceedings. ♦ A K Q 8 6 3 Had Peryth forgotten to draw trumps? ♣ A 5 Dealer South. Love All. That was unlike him. ♠ A 10 A trump to dummy’s king was ♥ A K Q 5 followed by a second round of clubs West North East South ♦ K 6 3 2 to the . Maid Marian showed out Robin Elayne Maid Peryth ♣ 9 6 3 when the ace of trumps was played, Hood Burnton Marian Burnton ♠ K Q J 6 ♠ 9 8 4 2 2♥ Pass 3♦ N but this caused declarer no problem. ♥ 10 8 7 2 W E ♥ J 9 6 3 He continued with the ace of clubs, Pass 3♥ Pass 4NT ♦ Q 10 7 S ♦ 9 not caring whether Robin Hood ruffed Pass 5♦ Pass 6♦ ♣ 7 5 ♣ K 10 8 4 with his master trump. The fourth All Pass ♠ 7 5 3 round of clubs could be ruffed in the ♥ 4 dummy. Pleased that the last rubber might turn ♦ A J 8 5 4 ‘Ah, good, twelve tricks,’ observed out to be a very quick one, Robin Hood ♣ A Q J 2 Mrs Burnton, smiling at her husband. led the ♣K. Peryth Burnton won with ‘It didn’t cost.’ the ace and played the ace of trumps, ‘What didn’t?’ all following. He paused for thought. West North East South ‘Well, I rather thought you’d If he played another top trump, which Robin Elayne Maid Peryth forgotten to draw trumps,’ his wife seemed normal enough, he would then Hood Burnton Marian Burnton replied. need the spades to break 3-3. 1♦ Robin Hood was impatient for the Perhaps it was better to play the Pass 1♥ Pass 2♣ next hand to be dealt. ‘Peryth played ♠A-K and then ruff a spade. If spades Pass 4NT Pass 5♥ it well,’ he said. ‘Hearts first and clubs were indeed 3-3, nothing would be Pass 6♦ All Pass next. Absolutely right.’ lost. No-one would be able to overruff Elayne Burnton was not listening. and he’d be in dummy to throw his Elayne Burnton leaned towards Robin ‘What a debt we all owe to the Duke club loser on the ♥A. Yes, and then Hood. ‘That’s the Richmond 4NT,’ of Richmond,’ she remarked. ‘Without he would make the contract even if she informed him. ‘It’s a very good his 4NT convention, the slam would trumps turned out to be 4-1.

Page 28 BRIDGE January 2018 Feeling somewhat exhausted by his one is sour too, I’ll have a few words to Robin Hood led the ♦10 and a low card analysis, Peryth Burnton played the say to Mistress Samson.’ was played from dummy. ace and king of spades. When he ruffed The thick green glasses were soon Maid Marian was about to play the a third round of spades with the ♦5, refilled and play restarted. Both sides king when she realised that this could East showed out but had no trump left had scored a game when this deal serve no purpose, whoever held the for an overruff. Robin Hood gritted his arrived: ♦Q. She played the ♦7, an encouraging teeth as Marian signal, and discarded a heart. Burnton won with ‘That worked the queen. He well,’ Peryth ex- cashed the major claimed. ‘Play the suit aces then a ace of hearts, will club to the king you, my love.’ won the next trick. Declarer dis- ‘That’s a bit lucky,’ carded his club said Burnton, who loser and eventu- then led a second ally had to sur- round of clubs render a trump from dummy. trick. That was Robin Hood the defenders’ won with the ♣10, only trick and the not impressed by slam was his. declarer’s use of ‘Well played, the Richmond Peryth,’ his wife 4NT with at least exclaimed. ‘And two top losers in you bid it well too. clubs. He contin- Not many players ued with the ♦9, would be brave setting up a trick enough to bid a in that suit for the slam opposite a defenders. Feeble Two.’ Maid Burnton crossed Marian nodded to dummy with her agreement. the ♥10, discarded ‘Peryth’s playing a diamond on the like a champion ♠K and ruffed a today,’ she said. ‘Don’t you agree, Rob- spade in his hand. ‘That’s a bit lucky,’ in?’ Dealer South. Game All. he said, when the ♠Q fell from Robin Robin Hood managed a small nod of ♠ K J 7 5 2 Hood’s hand. the head. In truth, he had rarely seen ♥ 10 6 4 After ruffing his remaining club such an absurd use of the Richmond ♦ J 6 2 with dummy’s last trump, he called for 4NT. How lucky Peryth had been with ♣ K 8 the established ♠J, East following suit. the lie of the cards, too. If trumps had ♠ Q 8 3 ♠ 10 9 6 4 Away went his last diamond and all N broken 3-2 instead of 4-1, Marian ♥ 8 3 W E ♥ 9 7 2 now depended on whether West held would have overruffed the third round ♦ 10 9 8 S ♦ K 7 5 the outstanding trump and could ruff of spades. Declarer would then have ♣ A Q 10 4 2 ♣ J 7 6 the trick. lost a club trick too and gone one ♠ A ‘That’s a bit lucky,’ said Burnton down. Ah well, at least he should now ♥ A K Q J 5 when Robin Hood followed impotently be back at camp in time for supper. ♦ A Q 4 3 with a low club. With a triumphant ‘After such a big rubber to you, we ♣ 9 5 3 glance at his wife, he faced his last two must be granted a chance of revenge,’ cards, the king and queen of trumps. Maid Marian declared. ‘The sun has The slam was his. hardly moved an inch. Dusk is a long West North East South ‘Well done, my love,’ exclaimed way off.’ Robin Elayne Maid Peryth Elayne Burnton. ‘Another excellent Peryth Burnton smiled to himself, ‘I Hood Burnton Marian Burnton success for the Richmond 4NT.’ can see that Robin is keen to be off,’ he 2♣ Her husband rose to his feet. ‘I tell said. ‘I’ll open another bottle of apple Pass 2♠ Pass 3♥ you what we’ll do,’ he announced. ‘I’ll wine. That will persuade him to stay Pass 4♥ Pass 4NT top up our glasses and we can all drink for a few more hands. Perhaps we were Pass 5♣ Pass 6♥ a toast to the best bidding convention unlucky with that first bottle. If this All Pass ever invented. The Richmond 4NT!’ ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 29 Teacher’s Corner – Teaching Tips from Ian Dalziel How to Handle Your Cards

wonder how many bridge teachers Hence, even if you don’t care that your towards the table. Don’t count your teach their students how to handle poor card holding may cost you the cards tilted upwards which can show and hold playing cards? I suspect odd trick, you are spoiling the game partner every card in your hand. Ivery few. How many articles have been for others – and surely you don’t want Counting three at a time is quickest. written about this important subject to do that? If you count them one at a time ensure in bridge publications? I think this I will now look at the various aspects you don’t turn each card to the side might be the first. of card handling. thus exposing the end cards to your Yet, nowadays, many people taking RHO. Don’t flap them, just slide them up bridge have never really played over each other. cards before and need to be shown This skill is rapidly becoming how to handle them – and others have redundant at duplicate because of Sorting your cards acquired bad habits. It’s essential, computer dealt hands – and a good You should do this efficiently whilst therefore, to teach these skills in class, thing too, as the shuffling done before ensuring you don’t expose any cards. as part of the early lessons and at the duplicate games is usually quite Don’t pick up the cards one at a time table. inadequate. I talked at length about as this is slow. After counting, lift the Some students naturally handle shuffling in BRIDGE 159 so won’t cards in one movement towards you their cards very well indeed; others say much here. At rubber bridge the without exposing the bottom card to quickly pick up the skills when shown dealer’s partner should shuffle for the your opponents. Spread out the cards by the teacher. But some never do. whole time his partner is dealing, into a fan shape and sort the cards They get irritated if I keep reminding about 30 seconds. A decent shuffle is whilst holding them vertically at all them at the table – they just don’t see essential to give truly random hands. times. Don’t sort the suits between it as important and feel they have so your fingers as that shows everyone many other things to learn. Dealing the shape of your hand and almost Those with good card management Like shuffling, this is also becoming certainly exposes the face of many skills are not necessarily the better redundant at duplicate. If dealing is players. Some very weak players required, several boards can be dealt at handle their cards impeccably, and once; anyone can deal any board and a some good players do not. isn’t required. All that’s needed is No one wants to see their opponent’s to deal one card at a time and ensure cards, but some players hold their 13 cards go in each slot. cards so badly it’s almost impossible The director should watch out for any not to see part of their hand. You ‘clever’ person who deals the cards five politely tell them to their cards at a time without shuffling ( and they make an attempt to do so but style) to give ‘more interesting hands’. soon revert to form. If someone asks At rubber bridge, the dealing is done you to, ‘hold up your cards,’ then you in full view of the players and the cards can be sure many others have noticed should be dealt flat or tilted towards but not said anything. the table. If you deal the cards at an If an opponent unintentionally upward angle, your partner could see sees your card(s), they are perfectly every card as it’s dealt. entitled to act on it (Law 74C.5), but no-one wants to do so and it might Counting your cards give them an ethical dilemma. They This is required at duplicate and either try to forget what they have seen you should do so in a manner that and thus mess up their own play, or doesn’t expose any of your cards. The take advantage and feel guilty about it. cards should be counted flat or tilted

Page 30 BRIDGE January 2018 cards. you will sometimes have a ‘hidden You should put the suits red/black/ card’ causing errors in bidding and red/black or black/red/black/red (vary play until the card ‘appears’. the order) with the highest cards on As you play each card, you should the left as shown in all hand diagrams. compact your fan. If you leave gaps, Don’t put your suits in ranking order you may be showing the shape of your (♣/♦/♥/♠), it might make your bidding hand to the others. If you find you easier but you may convey information sometimes suffer from ‘buried card about the shape of your hand every syndrome’, then note the shape of your time you play a card. Don’t move your hand after sorting 4432, 5332, 4441 etc trumps to the left of your hand when and add these numbers to ensure you the bidding is over or when dummy have 13 visible cards. goes down. Don’t re-sort your hand, as declarer, to mirror dummy. When Holding your cards up you run out of a middle suit, don’t re- This means holding your cards sort your hand to alternate the colours vertically thus viewing them at an as this tells everyone you are now void angle (fig 4). Don’t hold your cards at in the last suit played. You would be an angle, perpendicular to your line of amazed at the number of players who vision as you would read a book (fig 5). lead a singleton and immediately re- The font used for the rank of each card sort their hand; I’m sure their partner is deliberately ‘long’, as they are meant is oblivious but declarer may notice. to be viewed at an angle and thus If you take twice as long as everyone shorten to normal size. If your cards else to sort your cards, you will either are held vertically, they can’t be seen hold up the table or will have to rush by opponents no matter how low you your bidding. Sorting the cards isn’t are holding them. If your cards are at easy if you are not a ‘card player’, so an angle or curved, they might be seen practice at home – start with a few no matter how high your hold them. cards and then build up to 13. If you are always the last at the table to finish Putting down dummy sorting your cards, then speeding As long as you have your cards sorted up will give you more time to think with highest on the left then you can about your bidding. You can never bid put down dummy efficiently, one suit perfectly but you can, with practice, at a time, without twisting your wrist sort your cards quickly. Get someone (fig 6). Don’t put the cards down one at who is good at it to show you how. a time as that wastes valuable time and is irritating to opponents. Making a fan Once your cards are in order, close Dummy your hand then spread your cards into Put down dummy neatly; each suit a compact fan. Do this by clamping should not be too compact or too the bottom left of all the cards between spread out. Ensure that the rank and your right thumb and middle finger suit of each card is showing. In fig 7 (the pivot) now use your left thumb clubs are correct, diamonds are the to spread each card while your left wrong way round, spades are too middle finger catches the end of the spread out and hearts are too close card behind it and acts as a brake. (Vice together. versa if you are left handed, I think?). Some people cannot do this and have This topic would be an ideal subject to place each card one at a time into the for a YouTube video, I’m not skilled fan; this, of course, takes longer. enough to produce one but hope The cards should come to a point at someone else will. I can’t claim that the bottom (fig 1). You should be able I have succeeded in getting all my to hold them between your thumb students to handle their cards properly, and middle finger. If not, your fan is far from it, for it’s not easy. However, I too spread out (fig 2) you will have to hope that this article will highlight the curve your cards and the end cards need for players to ensure they possess will be visible to your opponents (fig or acquire these skills and for teachers 3). If your fan is like a ‘dog’s breakfast’, to include them in their lessons. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 31 About the EBU by Jeremy Dhondy Playing in the Club

My name is Jeremy Dhondy and I am the Chairman of the . This column is to answer questions or comments about the EBU that you might have. If you have a comment or a question I would be happy to hear from you. [email protected]

Are Life Masters and other do however have a battle to keep and at the end of a session a player highly ranked players membership on an upward curve approached the tournament director Qkilling the club scene by because new members are needed and said, ‘When are you going deterring newcomers? each year to replace those who have to announce it?’ He didn’t really What is the point of handicap grown too old or infirm to come to understand what she was talking about pairs if the ranking of the event is the club and it is certainly true that we and explained where the results would ignored for master point purposes? have had an ageing membership for be displayed, but it turned out she This shows me why the club scene is some years. had done well enough in her match to dying out with ever smaller numbers As I have remarked before, those become a life master after many years attending. Why bother to be cannon clubs who have a sound and successful and wanted to know when this would fodder for players who are already teaching programme are the ones be publicly announced. The director overloaded with master points? Such which will survive and prosper in the was not overly sympathetic when he players only want to pair with each medium or long term. finally understood but it does show, at other and not act as friendly partners Where clubs are too small or don’t least in North America, how seriously or mentors to newbies. have their own premises this is some take master points. obviously more difficult, but groups In England the scheme has been When players learn and feel of clubs or the county could offer going for just over 60 years and if confident enough to attend a teaching which would benefit all. you play a couple of times a week and Anormal club session they are, It’s one advantage of belonging to never venture outside your club then at first, going to struggle to get a good a national organisation. One large becoming a life master is not likely to result but with practice their results county is undertaking a membership happen. will improve. In those clubs which have promotion campaign at present and One criticism of is a strong teaching programme there are decided it wished to offer help to one that they are a reward for longevity as often players who will act as mentors or two unaffiliated clubs as well as much as they are for quality of play. for those who are inexperienced. In the affiliated ones. Sadly one that it Nearly seven years ago it was decided large clubs there may be a novice game targeted closed down through lack of to try something else to run alongside to provide a stepping stone to the main members just before the programme masterpoints and that is the National game. could start. This will happen to Grading Scheme. clubs affiliated or unaffiliated unless This works by calculating a current Are clubs dying? they take steps to secure their own grade for each player based on the last membership. 80 or so sessions that they have played. The idea that the ‘club scene’ is dying The value of your current grade is the does not accord with facts I’ve seen. Masterpoints scheme’s estimate of the percentage Indeed clubs affiliated to the English score that you would achieve, on Bridge Union have seen attendances and the NGS average, if partnering another player increase since Universal Membership I played a game in an American with the same grade. If you partner a was introduced in 2009. Clubs National in Toronto a few years ago strong player you will need to do better

Page 32 BRIDGE January 2018 to keep your grade and if you partner The role of the a weaker player you won’t have to do club Committee so well. It does provide interest and BERNARD apart from the front page is the most Belonging to a club committee can popular page on the whole of the EBU be a thankless task but it can provide website. People like looking to see an opportunity for those who want to MAGEE if they have improved (or perhaps if make their club more successful. their friends and acquaintances have So far this article has talked of TUTORIAL dropped). practical things that can be done, but there is also the element of making the Handicapping club an inclusive place where people DVDS want to come. and stratification If there isn’t a mix of players then £25 per DVD If you play twice a week at the same club what about doing something to SET 7 then 104 pairs’ duplicates per annum, encourage this and make the club a 37 MORE SIGNALLING all of which are very similar, might be friendlier place? I look at different times when you a bit samey after a while. Some clubs What about a Xmas party where it is signal and the messages you might run simultaneous pairs (EBED ones the done thing to play with someone want to give. and charity ones eg for Children in who is not your regular partner? What Need), others run an occasional teams about an event like the ones suggested 38 4-4-4-1 HANDS competition or individual. All of this above which encourages players to Everybody’s least favourite type is to provide a bit of variety. mix? If the club is big enough how of opening hand. I will be going The idea of a handicap is not new about a game once a week or month through the methods for choosing or exclusive to bridge and it provides restricted to players of a certain rank the right suit to open as well as coping with responses. a change and may see some different or perhaps running two distinct players at the top of the field. Golfers sections on the same night? 39 DRAWING TRUMPS play off a handicap and so do croquet There are many possibilities open This seminar sounds straightfor- players. It means you can still have a to clubs but perhaps the biggest one ward, but we will not be simply game even if you are mismatched to is the atmosphere created to make drawing trumps, we will be con- some extent. If the 24 handicap golfer newcomers and relative beginners sidering the reasons for delaying. is playing someone who is quite good welcome to the game. If they go round Keeping control of trumps is an and plays off six then he or she will the room and are told they played or important part of declarer play. have to give one stroke per hole. If the bid a hand wrongly or are sneered at 40 FIVE-CARD MAJORS handicap is realistic it should make for for their inexperience, then perhaps Popular around the world, this a competitive game where one might they won’t be so keen to come back method is becoming more popular not exist otherwise. and all the work done to create a good here. A club competition using handicaps atmosphere and provide a programme 41 FUNDAMENTALS can be organised on, say, a monthly players want is spoiled. Does your club OF DEFENCE basis for a championship. The use the Best Behaviour at Bridge code handicaps can be worked out by and make sure it is followed? Defence is by far the hardest aspect of bridge: this seminar seeks someone in the club or be based on Let me end by telling you the story to show the building blocks that NGS ranking. However, masterpoints of two successful unaffiliated clubs. can start you off on a wonderful are awarded on the unadjusted The first has a strong teaching journey. If you can get the basics ranking. programme, a novice duplicate twice right then the more complicated If masterpoints are important then per week and a successful ordinary aspects of defence can follow. a slightly different alternative is to try duplicate. Most novice players won’t 42 SUPPORTING £105 a stratified tournament. This divides move to the more experienced game MINORS set of 6 the players into categories A, B and because some of the members are not Minors are not as important as C according to masterpoint rank. At very pleasant. majors, but we have to bid them the end of the competition there is an The second is similar but the owner and it is important to know overall ranking for masterpoints and a won’t allow this sort of behaviour your system. Bidding more 3NT separate ranking for B and C also with and asked a few players who would contracts will get you better scores, their own masterpoints. not change not to return. In his club but being able to spot a minor suit The EBU run a week of stratified novice players do move up to the slam will put you a cut above. pairs each March in clubs across the stronger game. They don’t always country. This might not work in a do well to start with but they have a Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 small club with only a few tables but pleasant time and are encouraged can provide an alternative in medium to return. There is a lesson there www.mrbridge.co.uk/shop and larger clubs. somewhere. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 33 David Stevenson Answers Your Questions on Laws and Ethics

Should Dummy Indicate Which Hand is on Lead?

Some dummies You must take you not to if you asked him. Is North correct? If always indicate no notice of the If, as I suspect, it was an not, would he be correct Qto their partner A wrong explanation, opponent who reprimanded if he, North, had called the hand from which they in fact you must do you they have no right to the director after he had should be leading by everything possible to instruct you in this way. It is made a bid but before East holding a hand on the table avoid taking any advantage rude and unnecessary: if they makes his second bid? behind dummy when the since your partner’s have any worries they should Christine Bates by email. lead is to be from dummy, answer is unauthorised call the director not instruct thereby preventing declarer information to you. you. If it happens again While many rulings from making a mistake. If, at the end of the auction, I should call the director are given without Is this practice incorrect you finish up as declarer and tell them that your A bothering to read or correct, and is it either or dummy you must inform opponents are upsetting you. from the Law book this banned or recommended, the opponents then. You should only happen when or merely tolerated? should really call the director ♣♦♥♠ the director is quite sure Tim Sharrock, before explaining to them. of the rules. This is very Blunham, Bedford. On the other hand if you East opened unlikely to be true with the become a defender you the bidding, recent changes for calls out I believe this is do not tell the opponents QSouth passed, of turn and insufficient bids. illegal since it is not until the end of the hand. then West made an A look at the Law book will A one of dummy’s I can imagine people insufficient bid which he confirm the following. rights, and a lot of people asking what happens if the then changed to a pass. Once attention is called to find it very annoying. Of opponents go wrong before At this point, before an irregularity, all four players course opponents do a lot you tell them. The answer is bidding, North called the are required to call the of annoying things which we that the director will adjust director in order to confirm director. It makes absolutely tolerate but I would suggest to the score. But when to tell that East now had to pass no difference at any time them it is better not to do it. them is laid down in the laws. throughout. As director I who calls the director. checked with West who Once a player who makes ♣♦♥♠ ♣♦♥♠ had not been aware of the an insufficient bid changes it implications of changing to something else, the fact he I make a bid and I was reprimanded his bid to something totally did not know the implications an opponent asks for looking at my different. Because of is his own fault and he Qmy partner what Qpartner whilst he West’s lack of knowledge, I may not choose something my bid means. My partner was thinking about the believed that he could take else once he finds out the then gives the wrong bidding? Is this not allowed? back his pass and make his implications. Players must explanation of my bid. Heather Vale by email. insufficient bid sufficient or learn to call the director and At what stage must I make a comparable bid. not make rulings themselves. correct my partner’s answer? It is not a particularly However, North, a more Once the director arrives, If I do it straightaway, good idea to look experienced director than she should explain the I am giving my partner A at your partner myself, stated that was not rules and then offer North information. If I wait until because it might provide correct and that West should the chance to accept the the end of the bidding, I may some information about a have called the director as insufficient bid. If he does be putting my opponents hand, for example, if he is soon as his insufficient bid so it becomes legal and at a disadvantage. looking worried, but it is a was pointed out to him and the bidding goes on from Mark Swerling, very trivial thing and I do not that East’s subsequent pass there. If he does not accept Elstree, Hertfordshire. believe a director would tell throughout must stand. it then there are two cases. If

Page 34 BRIDGE January 2018 the attempted replacement at that table called me Looking at the five points we failed to call, pass in this case, is over and claimed that that EBU’s document find game, never mind the considered a comparable call board should be scored Qon alerts and slam in clubs. The director then the bidding can continue as played, ‘as they didn’t announcements, which I find was called and decided without penalty, however it want to miss out on a top.‘ hard to interpret, I see that a to treat it as a misbid and is difficult to see how pass The director had left almost strong opening two should not a psyche. I do not can be a comparable call to immediately, and so had be announced as either understand this decision. the insufficient bid since it the E/W pair, but I and ‘Strong forcing‘ or ‘Strong What is your view? presumably does not have another scorer felt that an non-forcing‘. But what sort Julie Kennedy by email. a similar meaning to the average should be awarded of forcing – for one round, insufficient bid, nor defines for the misplayed board. to game, to slam or ...? A psyche is a a subset of the hands shown Later that evening and the Steve Bailey, deliberate act, by the insufficient bid, nor next morning e-mails were Shalford, Guildford. A while a misbid has the same purpose as the received from both North is accidental. This was insufficient bid. So if it is not and South quoting various If, when your partner clearly deliberate so it was a comparable call then East rules. North kept quoting opens a strong two, a psyche. It is difficult to has to pass throughout. ‘Play of Wrong Cards‘ on A you are allowed to see why the director should Two very simple rules page 48 of the Yellow Book. pass then you say, ‘Strong, think otherwise. In fact it emerge. First, players For the sake of harmony, not forcing.’ If you are not makes little difference since should call the director and as E/W seemed allowed to pass you say, both are legal: the only when something goes indifferent to the outcome, ‘Strong, forcing.’ It does not problems come if partner wrong. Second, directors we scored the board as matter how far it is forcing. has fielded the misbid or should read complicated played. The thing that The idea of announcements psyche since these are laws from the Law book, or rankles is that the wrong is to give a little more detail dealt with differently. Mr Bridge’s Yellow Book. board wasn’t played – the than an alert, or a failure right board was played, to alert, would give, but not ♣♦♥♠ ♣♦♥♠ but the wrong way round. a lot of detail. It is always Please could you advise open to the opponents to This question I am a regular how the situation should ask the caller’s partner, or assumes the scorer for our bridge have been dealt with? to consult the system card, Qis established and Qclub. Generally Roy Betteridge by email. if they need to know more. not on the twelfth trick. things move along happily, In the case in question, but an incident arose a few When something ♣♦♥♠ declarer revoked, won the weeks ago which has now happens during an trick and all subsequent been settled, although, as A evening’s bridge it I was East and the tricks. However the revoke scorers we would really like is the responsibility of the bidding started: card did not win the trick to know whether the correct director to sort it out and Q on which the revoke took procedure was followed. decide what should happen, place and had no effect That evening we played a no-one else, and this should West North East South on the remainder of the six-table double hesitation be indicated to the director. 1♠ play, which would have Mitchell movement, where Once the board was Pass 1NT Dbl 2♥ gone the same way in the most of the N/S pairs are played, giving averages is absence of the revoke. static. We had movement illegal. Boards are scored It turned out that South Is it one trick or two cards on the tables. as played unless a pair had opened with four HCP to the defence? On the last round there was has played the board and the following hand: Dermot Paddon, Didcot. an arrow-switch, which the previously, even when they director didn’t announce until have not been played as the If the revoke card did after one table had started movement says they should ♠ 10 9 8 6 3 2 not win the revoke to play the first of their three be. So the pair that played ♥ K J 10 4 2 A trick then one trick is boards, without the arrow- N/S is given the score for ♦ 6 transferred to the defence. switch. That table played the N/S. After all they played it ♣ 10 Whether the revoke affected first board without an arrow- and obtained that score. the result is not relevant switch, but then switched the If scoring by computer, since the penalty tricks are last two boards and played the program should have I had 19 points and putting partly to try to stop players them correctly. The director a feature to arrow-switch my partner with about revoking. ■ indicated that he would leave a board: if it does not, me, as scorer, ‘to sort it out‘. then a manual adjustment As everyone finished will be required. E-mail your questions on bridge laws to: [email protected] playing, North and South

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 35 Michael Byrne on Managing Trumps Managing Your Trumps

his month we are going to start ruffing in the long trump hand, as this is no time like the present, so you ruff looking at making tricks with gains you nothing. a spade in dummy at trick two. You trumps and utilising your best As with all general rules it works for can lead a trump back to your hand, Tasset to make sure you make as many most cases and will stand you in good and whether the opponents win the tricks as you can. stead on the majority of hands. Whilst ace or they can’t stop you ruffing There are many ways you can use there are situations in which you can your other spade and drawing trumps, ruffing to increase the number of break it, (and we will see some later coming to ten easy tricks. tricks you make as declarer but first on) if you usually heed it then you will Note that it would be a mistake let’s look at one potential pitfall: find you have more trumps than you to play a trump at trick two – whilst used to. it is fair to say that if trumps are 2-2 The general plan with trumps is that even the waiter next door would make ♠ A 5 4 ruffing in the short hand increases ten tricks, if trumps are 3-1 then the ♥ Q J 3 your number of tricks, whilst ruffing defence can win the trump and play ♦ 7 5 4 2 in the long hand at best breaks even. one back. ♣ A 10 2 You will notice I am careful to use When you ruff a spade and try

N the term short hand and not the term to come back to your hand with a W E S dummy. diamond they might win the ace and This is because sometimes dummy lead their last trump. Admittedly this ♠ 2 has more trumps than declarer – would be unlikely (requiring West to ♥ A K 10 7 2 frequently in fact when a transfer bid have three trumps to the ace and the ♦ A K 6 3 has been used in response to a 1NT or ♦A) but regardless it is bad technique. ♣ 9 7 3 2NT opening. The general rule is this, ‘Always draw Let’s see a simple hand where you the trumps straightaway, unless there need to ruff losers in dummy: are losers to be ruffed in the short You bid sensibly to 4♥ and get the lead hand, in which case ruff them first.’ of the ♠K. Every single beginner I have When you have a lot of losers to be ever taught would immediately start ♠ 5 ruffed in dummy then you need to by ruffing a spade, and no amount of ♥ J 8 3 2 plan carefully how best to come back lessons will ever convince them to do ♦ Q 7 6 3 to your hand, sometimes this can anything else, it is simply a matter of ♣ A K 7 3 include crossing back in the trump experience. N suit itself. W E Of course whilst it looks as if ruffing S a spade gets you an extra trick, in fact it just gives you a trick to which you ♠ A 7 3 ♠ 4 were entitled to all along. All it does ♥ K Q 10 5 4 ♥ Q 6 5 3 is weaken your trump control, as your ♦ K 2 ♦ Q 8 7 6 advantage in trumps is lessened. ♣ 10 8 4 ♣ Q J 4 2

The right way to play this hand is just N W E to draw the trumps in three or four S rounds (if they are 5-0 you will need a You bid to 4♥ and the opponents lead miracle to make it) and then play three the ♠K which you win with the ace. ♠ A 6 5 2 rounds of diamonds. If the diamonds You have eight top tricks once the ♦A ♥ A K J 10 7 break 3-2 you make it, if they don’t you is dislodged so you need to ruff both ♦ A K 2 will go one down. spades in dummy to bring your total ♣ 6 The general rule is this – avoid up to ten. As the saying goes – there

Page 36 BRIDGE January 2018 You bid boldly to 6♥ and ♥A and ruff another spade, very weak trump suit. luxury get the ♠K lead. With nine come back to the ♦A and bridge mat top tricks you need to take ruff your fourth spade, East Just £24.99 three ruffs in the dummy will take the opportunity ♠ A 9 6 4 plus £4.99 p & p to be certain of making 12 to discard his second dia- ♥ 4 3 tricks. (Remembering that mond. Whether you try to ♦ K Q 7 2 a 3-3 diamond break is only get back to hand by playing ♣ A 4 3 luxury 36% you resolve to find a a diamond or a club East N plan that doesn’t need a will get a diamond ruff. W E bridge mat S Just £24.99 huge slice of luck). Note that on that hand plus £4.99 p & p You will need three en- it was important to get all ♠ 8 7 5 2 tries back to your hand, and three ruffs in dummy to ♥ A K 7 6 you will have to use the ace bring our trick total up to ♦ A 3 and king of diamonds as 12. Had dummy held four ♣ J 8 5 well as one of your trumps. diamonds headed by the In which order should you queen and jack then the play do everything? would have been very sim- You arrive in 4♠ and the op- As a general rule use your ple, needing only two spade ponents lead the ♥J. What side suit entries first be- ruffs we would have ruffed you want to do is ruff two fore the opponents have a the first spade low, come hearts in dummy. chance to throw anything back to the ♥A and ruffed What about if you start away, so at trick two ruff the second spade with the drawing trumps by playing Thick woven surface makes a spade and come back to queen, drawn trumps – easy ace and another? an idealThick playing woven surface and the ♦A. Ruff another spade as pie. Sadly the opponents protectssurface your makes table. Very popular with Bridge low and come back to the Sometimes we need to might draw a third round, Clubs.an 78cmsideal wideplaying so it fits ♦K and when that works draw some trumps before and leave you with only one a standardsurface 80cms and card table you are home, ruff the last we ruff our losers but not all trump in each hand. What protects your table. spade with the queen of of them. about if instead you draw PaddedThickVery woven popular table surface with makesbag. trumps and then play the A good piece of technique no trumps? No good, as an ideal£39.00Bridge playing +Clubs. £4.99 surface p&p and last trump back to your is to leave the master trump the fourth heart might be 78cmprotects wide your table.so it Very popular with Bridge hand to draw all the trumps outstanding, meaning that overruffed with the hand fits a standard and lose a club at the end. if there is one trump out that has only a doubleton Clubs. 78cms wide so it fits a standard80cm card80cms table.card table (If diamonds are 3-3 you’ll and it is a boss you should trump (you would survive if actually make an overtrick leave it there and go about the hand with three trumps Padded table bag. but this is largely irrelevant your business in another overruffed as effectively £39.00 + £4.99 p&p since even at duplicate pairs suit. it would be with a trump very few will be in a slam). This is most commonly trick). Why all this worry about seen when you hold a nine The solution is to duck Large enough to take a standard 80cms bridge table. Made from how we get back to our card fit missing the queen: a trump (low from both tough nylon with carrying straps hand? Let’s have a look at hands) and then cash the and Velcro fixing. Ideal for the full deal: ace when you regain the storing or carrying your table. ♠ A K J 6 5 lead. That way you have Order online or by phone drawn exactly two rounds www.designsforbridge.co.uk N ♠ 4 W E of trumps. Now you can go Large enough to take a standard S ♥ Q 6 5 3 about your business in the 0148380cms bridge table.270 Made 100 from toughLarge nylon enough with carrying to take straps a ♦ Q 8 7 6 ♠ 10 7 3 2 other suits and not worry standardandSR VelcroDesigns 80cmsfixing. for Bridge Idealbridge for ♣ Q J 4 2 about a ruff or overruff. Unitstoringtable. A1, or MadeSend carrying Business from your tough table. Park, ♠ K Q J 9 3 ♠ 10 8 7 To make your game you Send,nylon Woking, with carrying Surrey GU23 straps 7EF Order online or by phone ♥ Void N ♥ 9 8 4 2 You cash the ace of trumps, will need to find trumps and Velcro fixing. Ideal www.designsforbridge.co.uk ♦ J 9 5 3 W E ♦ 10 4 for storing or carrying S everyone follows and you 3-2, but even if the trumps ♣ K 10 7 3 ♣ A 9 8 5 cash the king, following are 4-1 your good technique 01483your 270 table. 100 ♠ A 6 5 2 the old rule ‘eight ever, nine will mean that you go only OrderSR Designs online orfor by Bridge phone ♥ A K J 10 7 never’. When the queen of one down, barring a miracle www.designsforbridge.co.ukUnit A1, Send Business Park, ♦ A K 2 trumps remains in hiding in the side suits. Send, Woking, Surrey GU23 7EF ♣ 6 you start ruffing your losers Next month we are going 01483 270 100 and let the queen ruff in at to continue examining the SR Designs for Bridge its leisure. subject of ruffing by looking Unit A1, Send Business Park, If you win the ♠K and ruff This next hand below is at hands where you ruff in Send, Woking, Surrey GU23 7EF a spade, come back to the harder in that it involves a both hands. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 37 A Blast From the Past by Shireen Mohandes Lives and Times

This fifth and final part picks up the story in 1953 and describes five decades of a happy family life for Louisa Chamberlain and George Lengyel, and the family and descendents of the late .

Part 5: 1953-2009

eorge Lengyel and his wife Márta were denied bridge club in London. After George’s divorce, Louisa left asylum in the UK, deported and directed to return her Abbey Road flat and moved to Amsterdam into lodgings, to Indonesia. Daughter Marianne said, ‘Fortunately, and lived there for a short while until she and George married Gthe plane stopped in Paris, and France granted them political in 1956. It was the start of a long and happy life for them. asylum. But Paris was then a depressed and sad city, more Louisa was a loving and generous stepmother to Evi and than usually unfriendly as it came to terms with its divided Marianne. Such was the closeness that Christmas Eve was and defeated past. Whilst being stateless and living abroad, traditionally spent with them all, including Márta, together. our parents were not allowed to visit England together in case Dutch citizenship was granted to George, his ex-wife they disappeared into the general population.’ Marianne and Márta, and the daughters in 1961, after five years of her sister Evi were allowed to remain at boarding school in residency. Marianne explained that her father’s reputation England; holidays were spent in B&Bs and rented apartments as a bridge player (winning several national championships, when one of their parents visited them. representing Holland in the 20th European Team Championships in Palermo, Italy, in 1959 (see BRIDGE 148, pp24-25), and at the 1st in Turin, September 1952: The British Bridge World Italy, in 1960), along with their fluency in Dutch and contacts The B.B.L. Simultaneous Pairs Contest on July 9th was in the Dutch community in Java, were contributing factors. played at approximately 50 Clubs. The winners from the Now, having obtained Dutch citizenship, George and Louisa whole country were H. Lever and G. Lengyel of the were able to move back to London, which they very much Hamilton Club with 72.6%. A very high percentage. wanted to do. He started a very successful stamp business Congratulations, gentlemen. named Philatelia Ltd. No doubt his economics studies at university in Hungary and his fluency in seven languages Note: the H Lever in the article was Norman Harold Lever, contributed to the international success of his business. Baron Lever of Manchester, PC (1914-1995). He was a British barrister and Labour Party politician. He and had a relationship that lasted 13 years in the 1940s and 50s.

In 1955 George and Márta left Paris for Amsterdam. At last, the family could actually be together in a family home again. George found it hard to get a job and, despite successes at the rubber bridge table, he did not earn enough to support the family. Márta, an intelligent determined woman, got a good job and worked hard; she was promoted several times over the following years. But the marriage was not on track, and Márta wanted to get divorced. Interestingly, Marianne explained that they had to be settled to get divorced. So once settled, in Amsterdam, they did divorce. Louisa (Chamberlain) Stern and George had known each other for some time, having previously met at The Hamilton Louisa and Rep, the co-owner of The Hamilton

Page 38 BRIDGE January 2018 A deal reported in the Bulletin of the Hungarian Bridge Association in 1997

The necessary play was now to ruff a club back to hand (so Dealer South. E/W Game. West North East South that West now has more trumps than South). Then to play ♠ 8 7 5 4 3 George winning hearts. ♥ 6 Lengyel Examine the four-card ending: ♦ Q 7 4 1♥ ♣ 10 6 5 4 Pass Pass 4♠ 5♦ Dbl All Pass ♠ 8 7 N ♥ — W E ♦ 7 S ♣ 10 ♠ 6 ♠ — ♠ A K Q ♥ K 10 9 8 4 ♥ — N ♥ — W E ♦ A K 10 6 5 ♦ J 9 3 2 S ♦ — ♣ A K ♣ — ♣ Q ♠ 6 ♥ — Contract: 5♦ doubled by South. Opening lead: ♣7. ♦ A K 10 Declarer was certain that West was void in spades, and that ♣ — diamonds broke 4-1 or worse. Knowing his opponents he reckoned West held the ♥A, and anyway, he needed that card to be on his left, leaving East without an immediate Declarer played his ♠6, and poor West was obliged to trump entry. East needed to be kept off lead at all costs. his partner’s winner, and, to boot, was endplayed. The third Looking at the North/South hands, it seems that there are defensive trick disappeared. three losers: the ♥A, a spade and a trump, let alone the The full deal was: problem of coping with a bad trump break. So, deploying good technique he set about a plan to establish his side suit, hearts, to keep the danger hand off lead (East), and to ♠ 8 7 5 4 3 engineer a play to collapse two losers into one. ♥ 6 He won the first trick in hand and led a diamond towards ♦ Q 7 4 dummy. West played the ♦8 and East showed out (no ♣ 10 6 5 4 surprises there …). Now he played a heart towards his hand, ♠ Void ♠ A K Q J 10 9 2 N and seeing the ♥J on his right played the ♥K. West won his ♥ A 7 5 3 2 ♥ Q J W E ace and returned a club, won in declarer’s hand. ♦ J 9 8 3 2 S ♦ Void Continuing with the plan of setting up the heart suit, he ♣ 9 8 7 ♣ Q J 3 2 ruffed a heart, and was delighted to see the ♥Q fall on this ♠ 6 trick. ♥ K 10 9 8 4 By this stage declarer knew that East’s shape was: 7-2-0-4 ♦ A K 10 6 5 and West started with 0-5-5-3. So, the remaining cards are ♣ A K known to be:

If you are wondering: can the contract be defeated? It ♠ 8 7 5 4 3 cannot. Even if the defence leads a trump, and/or plays one ♥ — when in with the ♥A. As an aside, you may wonder what ♦ 7 might happen if West ducks the ♥K? Declarer can make ♣ 10 6 an overtrick by ruffing out East’s other heart honour, then ♠ — ♠ A K Q J 10 9 taking a ruffing finesse against ♥A, arranging to ruff a club N ♥ 7 5 3 ♥ — along the way to arrive at a similar ending. W E ♦ J 9 3 2 S ♦ — ♣ x ♣ x x Postscript. What would you have bid at South’s second turn, ♠ 6 after hearing 4♠ on your right? ♥ 10 9 8 I created a poll on the site www.bridgewinners.com to see ♦ A K 10 6 what their members would do. ♣ — As the magazine goes to print: 63% voted for double (take out), and 22% for 5♦, and 15% passed.

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 39 Back in 1949 George said he was averaging £150 per week his report of a tournament in Beirut by saying, ‘If you want winnings at rubber bridge (that’s about £5,000 in today’s the perfect holiday, here is a trip for you: go to the next money). Now, in London, in the 1960s, he played rubber Bridge Congress in Beirut. You will find a most charming bridge at The Hamilton, Crockfords, the Eccentric, Curzon welcome, parties you will never forget, beautiful beaches Club, and The London School of Bridge. The last was founded with a fortnight of sunshine from dawn to dusk, and last but by (né Nico Goldinger 1906-1989), the father not least you will play with famous stars from all over the of MBE, in 1951. The more typical cut-in world under ideal conditions. All the prizes offered this year rubber bridge was played in clubs in the UK. But many of his were fantastic: over £5,000 (sterling) in cash as well as cups. lucrative private and rubber bridge games were arranged as First prize for the individual was a large and beautiful bowl a set game, with partnerships. of solid gold!’ In the mid-1960s Marianne and Evi both married The full article can be found here: http://s3-eu-west-1. Englishmen. Márta decided she wanted to leave Amsterdam amazonaws.com/ebumagazine/1964-10.pdf and live in London, to be closer to her daughters. So, she left George and Louisa enjoyed their later years in London and her job at the Hilton Hotel Group to join McGraw Hill, the in Lake Como, Italy. Louisa played a lot less bridge, spending American publishing firm, in the London office, as secretary plenty of time with Marianne and Evi’s families and their to a director. children, and her nieces and nephews from her six siblings. George’s successes extended to teaming up with Omar Márta Lengyel did not remarry, and died in 1982. George Sharif, and winning many prize money events in Europe and survived until 2005, and Louisa reached her century, passing Lebanon. The luxurious Swiss destination of St Moritz, the away in September 2009. venue of many high-stake rubber bridge games, was where So, has the tradition of playing bridge been passed on to he played with a complete stranger, in top class mixed pairs, later generations of the Sterns, Chamberlains and Lengyels? and won. Yes it has. Paul’s grandson, David Stern (now just retired) plays in Kent and London. George’s grandson, Clark Pits, can be met across the green baize at The Wimbledon Bridge Club and The Portland, amongst other places. Have they met? Not yet, even though both of the grandads married ‘the same Louisa’.

George, 1960

George continued to play, mainly rubber bridge, but also competition bridge, winning The Tollemache Cup for Middlesex with a team which also included Dorothy Alan Redman (Honor’s husband), Evi, George Lengyel, Shanahan, Jim Sharples, Bob Sharples and Joe Amsbury. Honor (Louisa’s sister), Louisa Lengyel, Claire and Peter He wrote occasional articles, for example, in the October (children of Alan and Honor) 1964 edition of The British Bridge World, where he started See BRIDGE 179

Author’ s note: Two of Louisa’s half-sisters (her mother, Hilda had a second family, she married Sir Samuel Gurney-Dixon) fondly remember their sister, George, and Paul. When I first started researching this series of articles I was doubtful I would come across anyone still with us who knew Paul Stern. Since then, I have four contacts, and possibly two more. I would like to thank the members of the Stern, Chamberlain and Lengyel families for their help. Richard Fleet and John Townsend have helped with historical research. Valentine Ramsey (Guy’s son) provided support, and I am grateful to have been able to rely on Guy Ramsey’s writing so often. Contacts at the bridge federation and players in The Netherlands (Nancy de Boer) and Hungary (Balázs Szegedi, György Kuttner) have dug deep into their records. The latter pair have taken a keen interest in these biographies, and the articles are to be translated into Hungarian for their members to enjoy. ■

Page 40 BRIDGE January 2018 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 1-3 BERNARD on the Cover and page 7 MAGEE

only choose to respond if you think you TUTORIAL 1. Dealer East. Love All. will find a better contract by doing so. ♠ A 4 3 2 ♠ K 6 5 You have three-card club support so you ♥ J 7 6 N ♥ A Q 4 3 have no reason to think that 1♣ will be a DVDS ♦ 9 7 6 5 3 W E ♦ 2 poor contract and with no good suit of S ♣ 2 ♣ A K 8 7 6 your own you should be happy to pass. The problem with responding 1♦ (or SET 1 1♠) is that your partner may well rebid in 1 Ruffing for Extra Tricks West North East South hearts or no-trumps which will not leave 1♣ Pass you very well placed. 2 Competitive Auctions ? The rules are in place for a reason 3 Making the Most and you should only break them if you of High Cards 1♦. Your bidding rules tell you that you genuinely hope to improve the contract. £25 should only respond with six or more 1♣ is a fine contract, whereas your 4 Identifying per DVD points, although with support you can bid partner’s jump to 2NT will leave you & Bidding Slams on some weaker hands with distribution. much too high if you choose to respond. 5 Play & Defence Without support you might choose to pass, but remember what the aim of the of 1NT Contracts auction is? 3. Dealer East. Love All. 6 Doubling & Defence You are aiming to find your side’s best ♠ A 9 8 7 ♠ K 2 against Doubled contract: surely with a singleton in your ♥ 7 6 N ♥ A 9 8 Contracts partner’s suit 1♣ is not likely to be the ♦ 4 3 2 W E ♦ J 6 5 S best contract for your side. Therefore, ♣ 9 8 4 3 ♣ A K 6 5 2 you choose to respond and hope your SET 2 partner does not rebid 2♣. 7 Leads If you are choosing to respond then West North East South 8 Losing Trick Count make the response that gives the most 1♣ 1♥ space to find the best contract: 1♦. ? 9 Making a Plan Diamonds are your longest suit and by as Declarer ♦ ♣ responding 1 you give space for your 2 . This time you have genuine support 10 Responding to 1NT partner to rebid in a second suit which for your partner’s suit, but you still have you could pass. a pretty poor hand. Counting losers will 11 Signals & Discards Here the auction should start 1♣-1♦- bring a total of ten. Without a bid from 12 1♥ and you should then pass: 1♥ is a the opponents, pass would be the best much better contract than 1♣. choice, since your hand is so poor you do not want to encourage your partner SET 3 too much. However, with the opponents 13 2. Dealer East. Love All. coming in to the auction it is important to 14 Pre-Emptive Bidding ♠ J 4 3 2 ♠ A 10 6 stretch to show support. (Note you should ♥ 4 2 N ♥ A K 8 not show your spades because you are 15 Splinter ♦ A 9 7 3 W E ♦ 6 4 2 too weak.) In competitive auctions if you & Cue Bids S ♣ 6 5 4 ♣ A K 9 2 are ever thinking of making a bid, but £105 16 Avoidance set of 6 feel you are borderline, then if your bid is Play a supporting bid, it will often be right to West North East South stretch. The reason for this, is that once a 17 Play & Defence at Pairs 1♣ Pass partnership has found its fit, it can then 18 Thinking Defence ? compete further. Your 2♣ response will allow your partner to push on to 3♣ – this Pass. Once again you are faced with contract might go down, but the score of the choice of breaking your bidding -50 will be a triumph, much better than Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 rules: generally, with five or fewer points the opponents making a partscore in www.mrbridge.co.uk/shop the responding hand should pass. You hearts. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 41 Catching Up with Sally Brock

y father died on October vulnerable, but we like to promise 22nd, at 11am. When I left some values and three-card support for Dealer South. N/S Game. you last month I was just 2♥ so I would otherwise have had to ♠ 8 Moff to see him in the care home he had pass). It was hard for South to envisage ♥ Q 9 8 5 3 been in for the previous week or so. a slam, so he simply raised to 4♥. ♦ 9 4 2 I was there on the Monday when the ♣ A K 5 2 ♠ K Q J 9 7 4 2 ♠ 10 3 doctor told him that there was noth- N ing more they could do for him other Dealer South. Game All. ♥ 10 W E ♥ A K 7 4 2 than make him comfortable. His kid- ♠ 10 9 8 6 4 ♦ Q 3 S ♦ J neys had packed up and dialysis was ♥ 10 6 4 3 ♣ 10 8 6 ♣ Q 9 7 4 3 not working for him. I stayed with ♦ 6 ♠ A 6 5 my brother for a couple of nights and ♣ J 6 4 ♥ J 6 ♠ A J 7 2 ♠ Q 5 3 ♦ A K 10 8 7 6 5 spent a lot of time at my father’s side. N On the first day he seemed rather ener- ♥ 9 2 W E ♥ 7 5 ♣ J gised by the thought that his death was ♦ A 9 4 2 S ♦ K 8 5 3 imminent and wanted to ring all his ♣ K 5 3 ♣ 10 9 8 2 friends to tell them and to say goodbye. ♠ K When our team was North-South, this But by the second and third he was ♥ A K Q J 8 was the auction: sleeping most of the time. I sat by his ♦ Q J 10 7 side, telling him how I felt about him, ♣ A Q 7 West North East South how I was always so proud when I was 1♦ a child (and later) that I had the best 3♠ Dbl Pass 5♦ parents in the world, how he had been West led a trump. Declarer won All Pass such a fantastic influence on my life. and played the ♦J, won by West. He Eventually I said goodbye and drove continued with a second trump and West led his singleton heart and three back to London, expecting him to die now declarer played the ♠K. West won rounds of the suit promoted a trump in the next couple of days. But he lasted and switched to a club (nothing else trick for the defence and 5♦ went another two and a half weeks. And as is better) and ten tricks were easy. 13 down one. time went on I felt worse and worse, IMPs for us. When we were East-West things got now wishing I could go back and see Meanwhile the other semi-final was a bit higher … him, but by then I was in Beijing (he an exciting affair between teams cap- had insisted I should not change my tained by Bertie Black and Alexander West North East South plans). I had travelled onwards to New Allfrey. The Allfrey team had built up 1♦ Zealand before he actually died. And a substantial lead, and in the seventh 4♠ Dbl Pass 6♦ that was accompanied by a feeling of set, the Black pairs both had terrible All Pass relief, that he was at peace at last. sessions. But they discovered they had That was in the background for all played in the same direction at both Maybe I should have doubled to try this period. We played in the tables, so that set had to be scrapped. to persuade Barry to lead a heart, but final weekend, winning a tough semi- We had finished our match and gone I was worried that a double might final match against John Reardon, out to dinner. It looked as if the Allfrey suggest short spades and encourage Richard Butland, Peter Law, Pat Collins team were going to be certain winners him to lead his suit. Anyway, with and Bill Hirst. We were down for most and we went to bed expecting to be hearts promised by dummy, he chose of the match but the tide turned in Set facing them the next day. However, the a spade lead. Declarer won the ♠A, 7 when we gained 32 IMPs and moved Black team managed to win by 1 IMP* ruffed a spade in the dummy, played ahead in the match, by 20 IMPs. This – the same margin as in their quarter- his two top clubs discarding a heart, was one of my favourite boards (see final match. crossed to hand with the ♦A and hand in next column). In the final we never got going and managed to ruff a second spade in the What would you open with the South were completely outplayed, eventually dummy as I was out of both spades and hand? In the other room South chose losing by some three-figure margin. trumps. 6♦ made. 16 IMPs to them. 2NT. North transferred into spades This was a particularly nasty board: Midway through October, I flew to and passed his partner’s 3♠ rebid. Beijing to play in the Hua Yuan Elite Two down. One of Barry’s pet hates *Allfrey won at the table by 123-120 Women’s Bridge Tournament. We is to open 2NT on off-shape hands, IMPs; however they were fined 13 started with a two-day pairs event in so he opened 1♥. West doubled and I IMPs for slow play whereas Black only which Fiona and I finished second. bid 3♥ (maybe a bit too enthusiastic accumulated 9 IMPs in fines! And then a four-day teams in which

Page 42 BRIDGE January 2018 we all played pretty badly and finished Answers to Bernard Magee’s sixth out of eight. I was not pleased with much that we did in the event, Bidding Quizzes 4-6 but I liked this slam we bid against the winning American team: on the Cover and page 7

Dealer East. E/W Game. is very rarely right to double for penalties, ♠ A 5 4. Dealer East. Love All. which is why all experts play take-out ♥ 6 5 ♠ 9 8 6 ♠ 4 2 doubles in these situations. ♦ K J 10 2 ♥ 4 2 N ♥ A K 8 7 Your partner overcalled to start with ♣ K Q J 9 8 ♦ 10 9 8 7 6 W E ♦ A 4 3 and has now followed up with a double. S ♠ K Q J 9 2 ♠ 10 7 4 ♣ K 4 3 ♣ A Q 5 2 He is showing a hand with short hearts N ♥ 9 4 W E ♥ Q J 8 7 2 and support for the other suits. However, ♦ A 9 8 6 5 3 S ♦ Q 7 4 you know he holds five spades, which ♣ Void ♣ 7 6 West North East South means rather than introducing your ♠ 8 6 3 1♥ 1♠ longest suit, you can simply support his ♥ A K 10 3 Pass 2♠ Dbl Pass spades: 3♠. ♦ Void ? Remember that you are not showing ♣ A 10 5 4 3 2 strength by making this bid. 3♦. You have a pretty lousy hand, so 3♠ has chances of making, but even quite rightly passed on the first round, one down will be OK if 3♥ is making. West North East South but you are now faced with responding Pass 1♣ to your partner’s double. On the early 1♠ 2♠ Pass 4♦ rounds of an auction with no no-trump 6. Dealer East. Love All. Dbl Pass Pass Rdbl bids, doubles are generally for take-out, ♠ 7 5 3 2 ♠ 9 Pass 4♠ Pass 5♥ particularly when your opponents have ♥ K 8 7 6 4 3 N ♥ 2 Pass 6♣ All Pass found a fit. ♦ 9 4 W E ♦ A K 8 7 6 5 S Your partner’s double shows a strong ♣ 3 ♣ A K 8 7 6 It didn’t turn out well for West to opening hand with short spades. He start with her shorter suit. Partner’s wants you to choose your best suit, bear- 2♠ bid showed her own club suit and ing in mind that he has already shown West North East South was forcing to game. My 4♦ was a his longest suit (hearts). 1♦ Pass splinter bid and it was helpful of West You have no support for hearts, but with Pass 1♠ 2♣ 2♠ to double, enabling me to show first- a five-card suit of your own, you should Pass Pass 3♣ Pass round control. A couple of cue-bids simply bid 3♦. You are not showing any ? followed just in case the grand slam strength by doing this – you are simply was on, but we settled for 6♣ (though doing as your partner asked – picking 3♦. Another miserable collection of the grand would have made because of your best suit. 3♦ is a good contract. cards, but you have a decision to make. the favourable heart position). Your partner has made three bids and In the other room they never really might need your help. He started with got to grips with the hand and settled 5. Dealer North. Love All. diamonds and has now bid clubs twice. for game. ♠ 5 3 2 ♠ A K J 7 4 By bidding his second suit twice, he The shopping was better than the ♥ 4 3 2 N ♥ 7 shows at least five clubs, but having bridge. I left late on the evening of ♦ J 8 7 6 5 W E ♦ 10 9 2 started with diamonds, that suit will be S the closing dinner to fly on to New ♣ 4 2 ♣ A K Q 3 equal in length or longer. Your partner Zealand to meet up with Briony. She clearly has a distributional hand, but he met me at the airport and we drove needs you to choose the best suit for the to Mount Manganui where she had West North East South partnership. booked an apartment with a balcony 1♥ 1♠ 3♥ Note that your heart suit does not come overlooking the sea for three nights. Pass Pass Dbl Pass into the equation – your job is to give We did not do a lot – just enjoyed each ? preference between your partner’s suits. other’s company and the beautiful Choosing between your partner’s suits surroundings. Then we moved inland 3♠. Your hands have been getting never shows any strength, it is simply an to Lake Taupa. This time it was an Air progressively worse and you have almost attempt to find your partnership’s best fit. B‘n’B but just as good, an apartment hit rock bottom with this one. You do not Clearly with two diamonds and just one with a balcony overlooking the lake. really feel like bidding anything, but there club you should bid 3♦. This makes such We did not do a lot on our first day, will be times that your partner asks you to. a difference: 3♦ is a great contract, whilst but … ■ When your opponents find an early fit, it 3♣ is ugly. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 43

More Tips from Bernard Magee Answers to With a Minor Suit Fit Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 7-9 Consider No-Trumps on the Cover and page 7 aking nine tricks is make sure the partnership has much easier than stoppers in all the suits for a Mmaking eleven so no-trump contract to work. this makes 3NT more desira- Another time when thinking that he is not asking you to ble than five-of-a-minor. Add about no-trumps comes up is 7. Dealer East. Game All. specifically pick a major, but to this the extra points that can opposite a minor suit overcall: ♠ Q 8 7 6 ♠ A K 5 2 to pick your best suit outside be scored in no-trumps, and ♥ Q J 3 2 N ♥ K 4 clubs. As diamonds is your W E it means that when playing ♦ 4 2 S ♦ A K 6 5 longest suit outside clubs, you duplicate bridge, you should Dealer North. Love All. ♣ 7 6 5 ♣ A 9 3 respond 3♦, and this is a per- always consider a no-trump ♠ 6 5 3 ♠ A 2 fectly good contract. contract when you have found ♥ A K 2 N ♥ 9 8 W E a minor suit fit. Both members ♦ J 10 8 7 S ♦ 9 4 3 West North East South of the partnership should have ♣ K Q 7 ♣ A J 10 6 5 4 2NT Pass this in their mind: of course, ? 9. Dealer North. N/S Game. you do need a bit of extra ♠ K 9 8 7 6 ♠ A Q 5 3 2 N strength to consider the no- West North East South 3♣. ♥ 2 W E ♥ 9 8 6 5 trump contract. 1♥ 2♣ Pass When your partner opens at ♦ 5 4 S ♦ 9 3 3NT the two-level, five points is not ♣ J 7 6 4 3 ♣ A 9 such a bad holding. Here, ex- ♠ Q J 5 ♠ 8 2 Sitting West after your part- pecting partner to hold 20-22 ♥ 2 N ♥ A K 5 ner’s overcall you might be points, you should be going West North East South W E ♦ A K 8 7 S ♦ 9 4 3 tempted to support clubs, but for game. 1♥ 1♠ 2♦ ♣ A K 8 7 2 ♣ Q J 9 5 4 your heart stoppers should With both four-card majors ? push you towards no-trumps. in your hand, you should use For a two-level overcall you your conventions. Bid Stay- 4♠. West East should expect partner to have man, 3♣, to see if your part- When the vulnerability is in 1♣ 3♣ a six-card suit or 12+ points ner has four of a major. Here, your favour and you have a 3♦ 3♥ and a five-card suit. Either of he will respond 3♠ and you distributional hand with sup- 3NT these holdings make 3NT a can raise to 4♠. port, then make sure you bid good shot. Your spades are your hand to the full – bid to East shows his strength and poor, but when the opponents the level of your fit and make club support with a raise to have bid a suit you focus on life as difficult for your oppo- 3♣, but now both players turn stoppers in their suit because 8. Dealer North. Love All. nents as possible. Your part- their attention to no-trumps. you expect them to lead it. ♠ 4 3 ♠ A 9 7 2 ner has shown five spades Clearly West is worried about Bidding 3NT is a gamble, but ♥ A 7 6 N ♥ K Q 5 4 for his overcall and you hold W E hearts, so he bids a natural- bidding no-trumps with mi- ♦ 9 8 4 3 S ♦ A K 7 2 five spades too – that makes ish 3♦ – showing strength in nor-suit fits tends to work. ♣ 9 7 6 5 ♣ 2 a ten-card fit. Bid to make ten the suit. East then shows his Here your partner has a tricks – 4♠. It is a big leap, strength in hearts and now particularly weak overcall, but but the theory is that if you West feels he can risk 3NT. with six running clubs, 3NT West North East South go down, you will give away There are nine tricks off the is straightforward on just 22 3♣ Dbl Pass less than they would make for top and a tenth if the defence combined points. Interestingly, ? their contract. lead spades. 5♣ may well be there are only nine tricks in 5♦ (or 4♥) would be worth defeated – two top spades a club contract as well – the 3♦. 600+ whilst 4♠ will go just and a possible diamond loser. same nine tricks. 3♣ scores Doubles of pre-empts are for one down, costing 100 points Since both players are think- 110, whilst 3NT scores 400. take-out. Your partner is ask- if you get doubled. Your pre- ing about no-trumps after a It is important to be greedy ing you to bid your best suit emptive raise makes it difficult minor suit fit is found, most of when playing duplicate pairs, – you do not need a certain for North-South to work out the bidding is aimed towards so whenever you have a minor number of points, you just at what level they should play, no-trumps, so that you show suit fit, you should consider a need to help your partner let alone in which denomina- where your strength lies to no-trump contract. ■ find your side’s best fit. Note, tion. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 45 however a part score is to the rules of bridge. achieved, just about every Once or twice I have READERS’ other hand. In fact, whenever attempted tentatively to a contract is made but suggest the proper usage game is not bid. This has an and why, but on the whole unintended consequence. am met either with amused By making no difference condescension or with, ‘this is LETTERS to the score whether a pair just a friendly club – I who makes, say, nine tricks only come to enjoy myself.’ in a suit contact has bid at I like the analogy with the RETIREMENT file of Articles of Interest. the one, two or three level speed restriction laws; I I am sorry to tell you that (See BRIDGE 179). – 140 if a major suit, 110 if sometimes wonder what my article for BRIDGE May I suggest another a minor suit – this scoring would be said if I joined a 181 will be my last. tip for making a game system places duplicate on game of bowls and decided We both knew the column flow more smoothly? a different footing to rubber to start my turn two feet had a limited life but I never When calling for bridge when only tricks bid up the green, because I really knew when it would cards from dummy, use count ‘below the line’. This wished to enjoy myself. end till I wrote this last article. the terms high or low means that the two bidding Mrs Brenda Frisby, The well has run dry. whenever possible to systems that underlie the two Oakham, Rutland, Leics. When I started the column, reduce the possibility of games are radically different. I wondered if there was passing on unauthorised I wonder if whoever it NEW PLAYERS enough material for a year information to players was that devised duplicate I am forming a new group and was amazed that it sitting at adjacent tables. was aware of beginners, all of whom lasted for 30 months. I have found that if novices of having thus created this are members of the Woburn Thank you for giving me are introduced to this quickly, ‘schism’? It could easily Sands Bowls Club. the opportunity to write the they soon get used to it. have been avoided if at the As we don’t play bowls column and for the freedom Gay Young, outset for instance, duplicate during the winter, it was to write what I want. Thank Beaumaris, Wales. bridge scoring had given, suggested I might like to you too for having such not a standard 50 points teach some of the members faith and letting the column MISTS OF TIME bonus for a part score, but a bridge. I have done the run for this long. It has It was very interesting to bonus equal to the contract EBU training course for been a challenge and an read How Duplicate was bid. Thus 1♥+2 would score teachers and taken some honour to write alongside Invented by Ian Dalziel in the 30+90=120, 2♥+1 would pupils into my home, all the great writers and November issue of BRIDGE. score 60+90=150 and 3♥ of whom I am delighted to bridge experts whom I have However, I was surprised bid and made would score say, have continued to play admired for many years. that no mention was made 90+90=180; as opposed at the local bridge club. I have taught bridge for as to how duplicate scoring to a score of 140 in all This is a bowls club over 40 years in my own was first devised and by three instances as now. venture. It will take place unique way. The column has whom. In particular, how did It is ironic that adopting in the bowls club so we enabled me to pass on my the practice of awarding the what seemed to be contract are looking for boards, ideas to others and from the 50 point bonus for a part- bridge’s rule for part scores cards, bidding boxes, table feedback many teachers have score come into being? into the rules of duplicate cloths and score cards. found them useful. I have At first sight this might bridge has in fact caused I wondered if you knew had over 600 requests for the seem to have come straight the two games to move of any clubs who wanted to freebies I offered in BRIDGE. out of the rules for contract apart, but it’s too late sell their bridge equipment I could never really bridge, where a bonus to think of that now. or who had any to spare? predict which articles would of 50 points is given to John MacLeod by email. I would be delighted to generate demand for my whichever side has a part pay a reasonable sum but material. My flashcards got score in the event of an STOP CARDS bowls clubs are not very rich. 82 requests while some uncompleted rubber. I was very interested to read Many thanks for all you do other ideas, which I thought In rubber bridge, a rubber your November article on the for bridge, when I advertised were equally good, got is only uncompleted when correct use of the Stop card. this new venture I was almost no requests at all. some rare external event I play regularly in two amazed at the responses. Ian Dalziel by email. takes place, for example, small clubs and occasionally Bridge is definitely when play is halted when it socially with friends and I am not dying. SUGGESTION is time to catch the last bus literally the only person to Leslie Geddes, Woburn I am adding Ian Dalziel’s home. In duplicate bridge use the Stop card according Sands, Milton Keynes. ■ article How Duplicate Was Invented to our club Mr Bridge, Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH. [email protected]

Page 46 BRIDGE January 2018 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 10-12 BERNARD on the Cover and page 7 MAGEE TUTORIAL as the ♠Q. What at first appeared to be a 10. Dealer East. Love All. rather rubbish hand has now turned into ♠ 8 6 5 ♠ A K a gold mine and you need to tell your DVDS ♥ 7 N ♥ A K 9 4 3 partner. ♦ J 7 6 3 2 W E ♦ 4 The principle of fast arrival says: in a S ♣ 9 8 7 4 ♣ A K Q 5 2 forcing auction, the supporting bid that SET 4 leaves more space is the stronger – 4♠ is 19 Defensive Plan a weak bid whilst 3♠ would be stronger. West North East South However, you also have the option of a 20 Further into the Auction 2♣ Pass splinter bid, which would get your whole 21 Weak Twos 2♦ Pass 2♥ Pass hand off your chest – a jump to 4♥ shows ? spade support, heart shortage and the 22 Trump Control potential for a slam. 23 Sacrificing £25 2NT. Your first response to 2♣ on a With his perfect fit opposite your per DVD weak hand is 2♦, a negative bid showing splinter, East should be able to bid to the 24 Improving fewer than seven points. If your partner grand slam. Bridge Memory then rebids in a major suit, you can make a second negative on a really weak SET 5 hand: 2NT. 12. Dealer East. Love All. 25 Defence as Partner 2NT shows 0-2 points and slows the ♠ K 8 7 ♠ A Q 2 of the Leader auction down. It also makes it easy for ♥ 7 N ♥ A K Q J 10 4 3 your partner to show a second suit if ♦ 8 7 6 3 2 W E ♦ 9 26 Aggressive Bidding S he has one. Here East would rebid 3♣ ♣ 9 7 6 5 ♣ A K at Duplicate Pairs and you should raise to 4♣. As you are 27 Strong Opening Bids likely to be short in hearts, East might be tempted to gamble on 6♣, hoping to ruff West North East South 28 Take-Out Doubles away his heart losers. 2♣ Pass 29 Suit Establishment 2♦ Pass 3♥ Pass in Suit Contracts ? 11. Dealer East. Love All. 30 / Defending ♠ Q 7 3 2 ♠ A K J 10 9 6 3♠. Your partner has opened 2♣ and Against a 1NT Opening ♥ 4 N ♥ A 7 6 then jumped to 3♥ over your negative ♦ K 9 3 2 W E ♦ A 6 response. This is a strange thing to do S SET 6 ♣ 9 8 7 4 ♣ A K since 2♥ would have been strong and forcing. It is reserved for hands with 31 Counting Defence very strong and solid suits. This kind 32 Extra Tricks West North East South of bidding sequence is used to set the in No-Trumps 2♣ Pass denomination for the partnership, ‘I am 2♦ Pass 2♠ Pass wasting the bidding space for a good 33 Supporting ? reason partner – I want to tell you that Partner £105 my hearts are so good that whatever is 34 Finessing set of 6 4♥. You make a negative response to the in your hand (even if you hold a void) we 2♣ opening but then when your partner can play with hearts as trumps.’ 35 Bidding rebids 2♠, you need to re-evaluate your The advantage of this kind of bid is Distributional Hands hand. Your partner is suggesting he can that now you do not need to worry about 36 Coping with Pre-Empts make game in spades, so if you can telling him where your length is, all you imagine making two tricks from your need to do is show where your strength is. hand, then you can contemplate a slam You bid 3♠ to show where your only contract. Your ♦K might be worth a trick control is – this is exactly what your part- Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 and surely you will have a good chance ner wanted to hear and allows him to bid www.mrbridge.co.uk/shop of making a ruff or two in hearts as well to 6♥ with confidence. ■

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 47 The Diaries of Wendy Wensum Episode 69: An Italian Jaunt Part 2: Venetian Dreams

Spouse and I are on holiday in the resort of Limone on the shores of Lake Garda with friends, Millie and Justin. hile Millie and Justin stayed uneasy intermittent glances between be adjusted to five hearts doubled in the hotel to play yet more the North-South pairing. Hattie now minus about six for a greater score. I bridge, Spouse and I sped converted to five diamonds, promptly think it fair to say that Happy Hattie Walong modern roads in a luxurious doubled by Millie. was not amused by this challenge and coach on a day trip to Venice, once de- explained vigorously that five clubs scribed by Charles Dickens as a ‘hallu- simply offered an alternative contract. cination’. We joined huge crowds mass- Dealer West. North-South Game. Millie who was diligently studying the ing towards the quayside. Long queues ♠ A K 8 4 system card pointed out that there was formed to catch the fleets of fully ♥ Void no mention of this option on the card. loaded ferries heading to the famous ♦ A 4 The French speaking director uttered island city. A scorching sun shone ♣ K J 10 9 7 6 4 the immortal phrase, ‘Quelle damage?’ fiercely from a relentless sky. Venice ♠ 7 6 3 ♠ 9 5 2 and concluded, on the grounds it was looked tired and weary. It was awash ♥ A 4 2 N ♥ K Q 10 9 8 7 a top anyway, that we had not been W E with hordes of tourists from the mas- ♦ Q J 10 3 S ♦ 9 damaged and the score would stand. sive cruise liners moored in the lagoon ♣ A Q 8 ♣ 5 3 2 The traveller revealed that most of the and towering over its faded buildings. ♠ Q J 10 field played in club part scores making It was not the Venice of my memories, ♥ J 6 5 3 ten tricks for plus 130. One South had not so much a disappointment, merely ♦ K 8 7 6 5 2 played in the four-three fit in a spade an awareness of its diminished glory. ♣ Void game for two off and minus 200. I mused on what now seems a long- As we moved for the next round, gone era when as students, Spouse and Millie commented, ‘I should follow I backpacked through France to Ven- West North East South Oscar Wilde’s advice: forgive your ice during a summer vacation. We en- Millie Henry Wendy Hattie enemies – nothing annoys them more.’ joyed today’s excursion visiting famil- 1NT 2♣1 Pass 4♥ ‘Is that a real quote or did you make it iar sights but it was a tiring day and we Pass 5♣ Pass 5♦ up?’ I enquired. ‘If he didn’t say it, he were pleased to return to the comforts Dbl All Pass should have done,’ replied Millie. of our hotel for dinner. 1Two-suited overcall with hearts and a minor. After such a busy day in Venice In the evening Millie and I decided and the unfortunate incident during to play in the duplicate pairs. Millie made the unfortunate lead of bridge, I took Spouse for a stroll in the Circumstances were such that this the ace of clubs which Hattie ruffed balmy night air up the hill through board occurred against Happy Hattie, in hand. Hattie glared at a sorrowful- the olive groves. The view of the neat a name ironically penned by Millie on looking Henry before tackling modern resort with the calm waters of account of Hattie’s gloomy perspective trumps. She first played the king and Lake Garda behind was a rewarding on life in general and bridge in then small to the ace getting the bad panorama as the turmoil of the day particular. At the time, there seemed news that there were two trumps to tumbled away. My mind returned once to be nothing untoward about the lose. Two hearts were then discarded, again to those student days when on deal other than perhaps the strange one on the king of clubs and another that evening in Venice, Spouse and I distribution (see next column). on the fourth spade. The contract ambled arm in arm around the canals As dealer, Millie opened a weak no- was two off vulnerable for plus 500 in an age when the world seemed trump. After a great deal of thought, our way. Hattie then turned on poor quieter, more peaceful. Perhaps in Henry, as North, overcalled two Henry in a manner that seemed to Venice at this very moment, with the clubs, alerted by Hattie. Their system counter the good intentions of Best hoards of tourists now back on their card indicated a two-suited hand Behaviour at Bridge. At this point, cruise ships, those still on the city with hearts and a minor. Somewhat Millie called the TD. She suggested island were still enjoying its magic. flummoxed by this discovery, I very politely that she assumed the Perhaps I had been too critical. ‘Come decided to pass. Hattie with a club four heart bid agreed the contract and on,’ said Spouse, ‘You’re very distant void and four-card heart support bid that five clubs and five diamonds were this evening. I prescribe a brandy.’ the heart game. Millie passed and cue bids aiming for a slam. Millie’s With his arm round my waist and now Henry hesitated for a long time conclusion was that we had been my head on his shoulder, we walked before converting to five clubs, with damaged and the current score should slowly back to the hotel. ■

Page 48 BRIDGE January 2018 Seven Days by Sally Brock

Thursday Friday Dealer North. N/S Game. We had to set alarms this morning in ♠ A 9 2 After getting up in a leisurely manner order to be up and out at 10 (you can ♥ K Q 9 5 3 our first stop is the Botanical Gardens. tell we are on holiday). Then we go on ♦ A 5 It’s quite unlike anything I’ve seen the Huka Falls jet, a sort of speedboat ♣ Q 9 4 before – a beautifully planted (mostly version of the Maid of the Mist. We go ♠ K 8 7 3 ♠ J 5 with trees) park that you drive ♥ ♥ along the river at great speed, with lots 10 4 N Void through, stopping for a short walk of fast 360 degree turns, right up to the ♦ K J W E ♦ Q 10 9 8 whenever it takes your fancy. Then Huka Falls. Quite good fun but not S 7 6 4 3 2 after a coffee stop we play mini golf. quite the adrenalin thrill it promised ♣ 8 7 5 3 2 ♣ K J Tomorrow night we are going to eat (thank goodness). Then we go for a ♠ Q 10 6 4 out in a restaurant and the loser of the walk entitled Craters of the Moon. ♥ A J 8 7 6 2 mini golf has to choose where. You It is amazing landscape, with lots of ♦ Void can tell that neither of us likes being hot bubbling mud pools and steam ♣ A 10 6 the one to choose. I take an early lead, coming out of the ground all over the but Briony is improving all the time. place. I’ve never seen anything quite She goes first and manages to score like it. Lunchtime and it’s the Café At both tables the bidding starts with par (two) at the final hole. I need to d’Arté, combination café/gallery with a strong no-trump by North and a 5♦ score two to win, and three to draw lots of mosaics – including an outdoor overcall. (we have not decided what happens mosaic sitting room. Lots of ceramic Our South bid 5♥ and is left to play then). It is unusual for me to beat flowers on poles that I might have there (slowly by North). Briony at anything, but this time I bought to go in my window boxes if I Their South bids a more exuberant manage it. I wonder where we’ll go for didn’t have to worry about getting them 6♥. So West leads the ♦K. You win the dinner. In the afternoon we go and sit home. Then back to the apartment for ♦A discarding the ♣6, draw trumps, in some hot springs – somehow sitting a snooze before heading off into town and ruff a diamond. West plays the ♦J in a swimming costume in bath-hot for a bit of shopping – Briony wants on the second round, and East is void water doing absolutely nothing is a to buy some stuff to make Hallowe’en in hearts. How do you plan the play? very pleasant way to pass the time. outfits etc for her girls. A cup of coffee You need to play someone to hold a and cake on the waterfront and then doubleton spade honour and hope to home for a quiet evening in, including endplay him with it to lead away from a two-hour online session. his ♣K. If East has the doubleton ♠K Saturday Just because I am on the other side and the ♣K, then he can unblock the Today there is a change of of the world doesn’t mean I am out of ♠K under the ♠A to defeat you, so it is accommodation. We move to a touch. Every morning when I wake best to play him for the ♠J by running lakeside hotel very close to the airport up, my phone is full of emails. My the ♠Q. for our last night. So we need to get London Super League team managed In the event West does not cover, so up early to pack up our things and be a 17-3 win without me. And this deal you run the ♠Q and then play a spade ready to leave by ten o’clock. Saturday is doing the rounds – you might like to the ♠9 and East’s ♠J. As the cards lie is market day in Taupo. It is not that to cover up the East-West hands before you can’t go wrong now and the slam exciting but I manage to find some reading on: rolls in. earrings. After a coffee stop we go to

BRIDGE January 2018 Page 49 our new place. It is on a part of the ordinary queue through immigration Guess where? You’ve got it – a Chinese lakeside where there is development or go for international transit. restaurant! Then I have a haircut, do a between the road and the lake and we Eventually I opt for the latter but that bit of shopping and head home, looking decide to upgrade our room to one means I can’t leave the airport. Oh forward to a lazy evening catching up with a lake view. It is amazing – there well, it was a cheap hotel and I don’t with past episodes of Casualty and is a little bit of grass, then a path, then have as long a wait as I was expecting. Holby City. However, I can’t seem to a little bit more grass and then the I try the hourly hotel, but it is full. I make our TV work properly, and even lake. The view is spectacular, though eventually get a coffee and spend a Toby can’t help this time, so I settle for the day is very misty. After a snooze, couple of hours on a reclining chair an early night. we go for a swim in the hotel’s pool. right at the far end of the terminal Again, the water temperature is that away from everyone, snoozing in the of a hot bath. Surely this is natural, winter sunshine. Then a KFC meal (to as it would cost a fortune to sustain if avoid needing to eat on the plane) and Wednesday artificial. We stay in the pool reading I make my way to gate E10. I am up early getting ready, then wake our books for a while. There is a 10km This leg is not as bad as it might be Toby up and go to pick up Barry to go walkway, just a few feet from our back either. I am in a row of three with the to the funeral. A bit of a panic sets in door, so later on while Briony reads aisle on one side and a free seat on the because we are running late, partly her book I go for a walk. I pass lots of other. It drags a bit, but the earphones because I haven’t allowed enough time, rivulets running into the lake, all of here are better than on the other flight and partly because Barry is a little which are marked ‘Danger: hot water’ so I can actually hear the movies – I late. After we get on to the open road so clearly all the hot water is natural. watch three of them and do countless I stop to allow Barry to take over the In the evening we go out to dinner, to Sudokus. It’s a treat to find Barry there driving. I do not want to risk speeding a steak bar, as a last-night treat. to meet me when I eventually land. (with my 13 penalty points) whereas We make our way to my flat on public he is prepared to take a chance. In transport – it makes such a difference the first 20 minutes or so, he shaves to have him there helping me with nine minutes off our arrival time, so Sunday/Monday my luggage and making sure I don’t now we can relax. First we go to the I am woken at 6.30 by a text on my sleep past the stop. Oh, it is good to crematorium where there is a rather phone telling me that my 9.25 flight be home. After a cup of tea, I unpack, impersonal short service that doesn’t from Taupo to Auckland has been have a shower and start the tedious touch me at all. Then we go back to my cancelled. Wonderful! After waiting job of the laundry. What’s for dinner? father’s flat for coffee. The idea is that 20 minutes as requested, I ring up and Chinese takeaway. as well as having coffee, close friends am told all they can do is put me on the and family members can take some 1.20 flight instead. An extra four-hour keepsakes. When my parents moved wait at the airport, just what I need to this flat in early 2016 they had a when I am about to embark on a 43- Tuesday big clear-out and a lot of things went hour journey. I guess I am lucky that it I have a half decent night’s sleep – I to charity shops or to the tip. They doesn’t really matter. I had been going have definitely got a lot better with held on to a lot of really nice things to go into the city for a few hours as I jetlag too. Actually I think it is more but we know they are not really worth have never been and now I won’t have that my sleep on normal nights isn’t anything so the more we can find a time. But, oh yes I will, as my flight very good so when there is jetlag it good home for the better. Then it is from Auckland to Beijing is delayed as doesn’t make much difference. I take time to go to Biddestone, where they well. So when I arrive I put my bags an over-the-counter sleeping pill and lived for most of their married lives, for into storage and get the Skybus into read on my phone until I fall asleep, the church service. The grandchildren Auckland and wander around the and when I inevitably wake up in the do a magnificent job with the eulogies. harbour area for a while, stopping for night, I go back to reading until I fall My sister-in-law reads a brilliant poem a delicious ice cream and later a glass asleep again. Seems to work pretty by Sir Henry Wotton that just about of wine. Then it’s back to the airport well. sums it all up: for my flight. By some miracle I get a When I was in China, David Burn, whole row of three seats to myself so as who was there as our coach, kindly She first deceased. soon as we have taken off I raise all the agreed to take a bag of dirty laundry He for a little while tried armrests and lie down and sleep for home for me so I didn’t have to lug it to live without her, eight hours, something I have never around New Zealand. He did the same liked it not and died. done before on a long flight. for me a couple of years ago when we I was supposed to get into Beijing at were in India and I have been trying to Then we adjourn to the pub for a 4.30 in the morning, and have booked take him and Frances out for dinner fabulous spread and a chance to talk a hotel for what is the rest of the night. to say thank you ever since. As they to everyone who has made the effort to But I can’t work out how to do that. are free for lunch we meet up with come, particularly from afar. It is truly I don’t know whether to get in the them and my dirty laundry for lunch. the end of an era. ■

Page 50 BRIDGE January 2018