QUICK CROSSWORD

Dale E. Turner, an actor, said, “Some of the best lessons we ever learn are learned from past mistakes. The error of the past is the wisdom and success of the future.”

Correct — but it is still true that, despite numerous admonitions from teachers and authors, many bridge players do not think at trick one. They immediately and blindly plow forward.

To try to cure this trait, David Bird has written “Trick One” ( Master Point Press).

Englishman Bird is best known for his amusing books, but he is a good writer who explains things clearly. In 16 declarer- play and seven defense chapters, he covers the ground thoroughly. There are then 28 declarer- play and 16 defense problems to try, the diagramed deal being one of them.

How should South plan the play in four spades after West leads the heart eight?

South seems to have only three losers: one spade, one heart and one diamond. What might go wrong?

West appears to have led from a short suit. If he also has ace- nine- fourth of spades, he might be able to get a trump promotion. Note that that happens if declarer wins the first trick. West takes the second or third trick with his spade ace and leads his second heart. East wins and plays a third heart, and West’s spade nine must take a trick.

Since East would probably have bid with six hearts headed by the king- queen- jack, South should duck the first trick, take the second with his heart ace, cross to dummy with a club and play on spades ( carefully allowing for East’s having the bare ace). Copyright United Feature Syndicate

( Asia Features)