Source: The Day – 29 Nov 1991
“Why do these things happen to me?” Unlucky Louie pleaded.
“What now?” I sighed, knowing I would hear about it whether or not I asked.
Dealer South N/S Vul
|
 Q 4
 7 3
 A K J 6 5 4 2
 4 2 |
|
| 10 9 8 7
Q 9 5
Q 10 9 8
9 5 |
|
K 6 5 2
10 8 6 4
—
J 10 8 7 6 |
|
A J 3
A K J 2
7 3
A K Q 3 |
| West |
North |
East |
South |
|
|
|
2NT |
| Pass |
6NT |
Pass |
Pass |
| Pass |
|
|
|
“We got to a good six notrump,” Louie began, displaying today”s deal, “and West”s spade lead was covered by the queen, king, and ace. Of course, I decided to take the safety play by playing low from both hands on the first diamond.”
“Very good,” I nodded. “You guard against West”s holding all four diamonds.”
Plays the Queen
“”Now what do you do,” Louie asked, “when you lead a diamond, and West plays the QUEEN?”
I laughed.
“Admit it,” Louie said. “You”d take the ace, just as I did, expecting an overtrick. And you”d go down, just as I did.”
“West applied a false carding principle.” I said. “Go ahead and play a card you”re known to hold, or will soon be known to hold.”
“Oh no.” Louie growled. “West was a beginner. He said he played the queen to force out the ace.”
“Well,” I said, “he succeeded.”
And Louie stalked away.
