LEAD WITH THE ACES

ANSWER:

It is tempting to get your spades into play now, since this may be your last chance to bid the suit you want led at a convenient level. But I think I’d settle for raising diamonds, for two reasons. First, raising partner and limiting your hand as soon as possible helps him visualize your assets better. Second, if you bid spades, you may later have to raise diamonds to a higher level than you would like.