DAILY BRIDGE CLUB

Cy the Cynic says you shouldn’t hit a man when he’s down: In that case, it’s easier to stomp on him.

Unlucky Louie, the man to whom everything bad happens, was declarer at today’s slam and was doubly unfortunate: First he went down, then he had to listen to Cy second-guess his play.

When West led the king of clubs, Louie took the ace, cogitated and led a diamond to his queen. West won and cashed the queen of clubs, and Cy, who was North, wasn’t happy.

“It was cold,” fumed the Cynic, looking at the East-West cards. “Take the A-K of spades, ruff a spade and lead a trump to your ace. When the jack falls from West, ruff your last spade and exit with a club. West must concede a ruff-sluff or lead a diamond from his king.”

Louie was chagrined, but Cy was being “resultish” — a common fault of partners who lack empathy. Cy’s play works as the cards lie but might well have failed. Louie’s play was reasonable; among other things, it might have gained an overtrick. DAILY QUESTION You hold: ♠ J4 ♥ K 10 8 7 ♦ J 10 9 8 4 ♣ A 7. The dealer, at your left, opens one spade. Your partner doubles, and the next player passes. What do you say?

ANSWER: Since your partner promises opening values or more with help for the unbid suits (or a strong hand with a suit of his own), you may have a game. Jump to three hearts to invite game in the most likely strain. If you respond as cheaply as possible, you will promise no values at all.