BRIDGE

IT looked as though declarer had four or five losers in his contract of Four Hearts on this deal but the defenders came to his rescue. "I was only trying to clarify the position for you, partner" was East's apology but his efforts rebounded.

South opened One Heart and West pre-empted with Three Spades. A pass by North would have collected a small plus score but, under pressure, he raised to Four Hearts and all passed.

One hurdle was surmounted when West chose to lead the ace and another diamond, but South's prospects were still bleak. He won the second diamond lead with his king, drew trumps and then led a club in the vain hope that West was holding both the king and queen.

The jack lost to the queen and it was difficult to see how declarer had made much progress.

If East had returned either minor suit (or, indeed, the six of spades) there would have been no story but instead - dutifully sticking to the principle of leading the higher card of a doubleton in partner's suit - he switched to the queen of spades.

I expect that you can see what the sequel will be. Declarer won, cashed his minor suit winners and got off lead with the seven of spades. West was forced to win this and concede a ruff and discard, allowing South to pitch his losing club. "I could have done without that particular position being clarified, thank you," was all that West could bring himself to say.