DAILY BRIDGE CLUB

Eddie Kantar is one of the world's most prolific bridge authors, and surely the most readable and engaging. Among Eddie's many fine books, I can especially recommend "Defensive Tips for Bad Card Holders," a big compendium of advice to improve your defense.

Today's East's bid of three hearts is "intermediate." Against four spades, he takes two hearts and cashes the ace of clubs. How should West signal?

Kantar wisely notes that the purpose of a signal is to direct the defense.

"A third heart will promote your jack of trumps to the setting trick, so why gamble that South has another club? Signal with the deuce, and wait for partner to come through for you by leading a third heart."

"Defensive Tips for Bad Card Holders," $26.95 postpaid, with a "Facts of Bridge Life" pamphlet free, from Kantar, 2700 Neilson Way #334, Santa Monica CA 90405. Also, see kantarbridge.com for instructive features and information on his other books. Save on shipping more than one. DAILY QUESTION You hold: S 10 5 H 9 3 D K Q 10 8 6 C Q J 6 4. Both sides vulnerable. The dealer, at your left, opens one heart. Your partner overcalls one spade, and the next player bids two hearts. What do you say?

ANSWER: You have some values and would like to compete, but you can't launch out into a minor suit at the three level. Many pairs handle this situation with a "responsive double," showing length in the unbid suits. Discuss any new convention with your partner.