Both sides vulnerable. South deals. North S: A Q 3 2 H: A D: Q 10 8 C: A K J 8 3 West East S: 8 7 4 S: 10 9 5 H: K Q 10 7 4 3 H: J 8 2 D: J 7 6 D: 5 4 3 C: 10 C: Q 7 5 3 South S: K J 6 H: 9 6 5 D: A K 9 2 C: 9 4 2 The Bidding: South West North East Pass 2H Dbl Pass 3S Pass 4NT Pass 5H Pass 6S (All Pass) Opening lead: D6 Playing at a club duplicate, I held the North cards when this hand came up. I have to admit that I got excited when partner bid three spades in response to my take-out double. Roman Key Card Blackwood revealed that partner held the ace of diamonds and the king of spades. I suppose I could have asked for other kings but partner was a passed hand and I thought that a small slam was the limit of this hand so I just bid it. I thought for sure that distribution would provide the tricks that were needed - partner could easily have a five or six card spade suit. Declarer won the opening lead in hand with the ace of diamonds. Three rounds of spades took care of the outstanding trumps as I watched with eyes wide. The clubs came home for four tricks and the score was +1430 for a clear top on the board. The discussion that followed was fun. "Partner, I thought you would have at least FOUR spades for your bid." "When I made the bid, I had four spades. Then I saw that I had a club in with my spades, but what could I do?" He did fine. These things happen, more than anyone would want to admit. The lesson is to keep it together. Don't let anyone know that you have made a mistake. Play with confidence and hope for the best. On this hand, with any lead except a heart, declarer could even handle a 4-2 trump split. _______________________________________________________