A Coup For You

Answering Blackwood would seem to be one of the simpler tasks one faces. Veteran players will be familiar with some issues, two of which are raised in this question posed by a correspondent.

You hold: Q 6, K J T 8 7 5, K , A J 9 4

At IMP’s (vul not provided) you open 1 and your LHO bids 3. Partner cries 4NT and the opponents are now quiet.

First question: Do you show the heart queen with your response?

Let us suppose that you just bid 5. Partner now tries for the grand with 5NT. Do you accept?

Let us suppose that you merely show your diamond King with 6. Partner now signs off in 6.

My correspondent wants to know if you have anything left. I have a rather strong opinion, but I want to hear from others first. What do you think?

A friend sent me a problem that hits an area of great interest. When does one make a negative double? When does one stretch to show a particular suit? What is needed to reopen? When does the responder, having passed after an overcall, show strength?

Our methods are influenced by Phil’s thinking — the negative double promises the higher rankiing off-suit and EITHER the opening suit or the second suit. My corollary is that the bid of the LOWER off-suit can be a stretch. This means that a 2/1 in the lower off-suit might be 8 HCP with shape, a one-round force.

Anyway, here is the hand, neither vulnerable at IMP’s.

Q J 9 8 6, A K 8 7 5, K 6, Q.

Your RHO passes, you bid 1, and LHO bids 2. It goes two passes to you. What is your action?