BRIDGE

This week, we have been looking at fourth-suit game-forcing. This occurs on the second round of the auction after the opener has bid two different suits and the responder has bid a third suit. When the responder rebids in the fourth suit, it is artificial. He is probably uncertain of which game will be best but might be thinking about a slam.

In reply, if the opener has a stopper or two in the fourth suit, he usually bids no-trump. Often, the responder will want to reach three no-trump but does not have a stopper in the fourth suit. (Responder, with the fourth suit well held, can bid notrump himself.) Without a fourth-suit stopper, or with no interest in notrump, opener does something else.

Perhaps, as here, he gives preference for the opener’s first-bid suit, which leads to the final contract of five diamonds. If North had rebid three notrump, South would have passed, and the contract would surely have died. Luckily, North investigated further.

What did South do after West led the heart king?

South had to lose one spade and one diamond, but just in case the trump split was bad, declarer had to be careful. He won with dummy’s ace, then ran the diamond 10. When West ducked, declarer continued with the diamond nine. West ducked again, but South played off the club king and club jack before leading a third trump. West won with the ace and tried to cash the heart queen, but declarer ruffed, drew the last trump, ran the clubs and conceded a spade. extravagant individuals will lead to unnecessary purchases followed by regret.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23): Problems with services for your home will cause disruptions in your routine. Overindulgence on your part or someone else’s will lead to problems. Think before you act.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22): Expand your mind by engaging in conversations that offer intriguing points of view or unusual thoughts. If you reveal your true feelings, you’ll alleviate unwanted stress you’ve been harboring.

SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21): You’ll attract people who exaggerate and could lead you astray. Back up, trust in yourself and your beliefs. The grass isn’t greener on the other side of the fence.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan.

19): Work quietly on projects that require your utmost attention and that lead to personal happiness. If you step outside your comfort zone, you’ll realize how capable you are of handling people, discord and unexpected changes.