Many players would be tempted to declare “no-trumps” with this hand,
but the declaration of hearts is sound. No risks should be taken with
a strong heart make when one weak suit is held.
TRICK 1.--There are two lines of play that could be adopted
by the dealer in this hand, one to exhaust the trumps and try for
the spade suit, the other to try to establish a ruff in the weaker
hand. The former course is preferable. As Z holds but one trump, the
adversaries would probably prevent the ruff. To make the spade suit
an entry card may be necessary. Y takes the lead, in order to save
Z’s entry card.
TRICK 8.--This position will be appreciated by all students
of the game. Z has three good spades and the commanding diamond, Y
the losing trump and the ace of clubs. Should Y now lead a diamond
and take Z’s re-entry card, the adversaries’ trump would stop the
suit. Leading the losing trump is a clever play.