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.
«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.