DAILY QUESTION

HIGH HEART

If West ruffed the third heart, South would still succeed if the trump finesse won. If instead East ruffed, South could overruff and would still have chances. But, alas, West ruffed the second high heart and cashed a diamond.

“The man goes down when he’s cold for 13 tricks,” North grumbled.

That comment was ungenerous; North should have commiserated with South, who made the correct play and was unlucky.

You hold: AQ972♥ 53 84 A K 10 6. Your partner opens one heart, you respond one spade and he bids two clubs. What do you say?

ANSWER: You must commit to game, and a raise to three clubs would only invite. Jump to four clubs, forcing. Some players might stall with a super-scientific “fourth-suit” bid of two diamonds, but the obvious, simple action — raising your partner — has something to recommend it.