BRIDGE

South topped the jack of diamonds with the ace and played off the ace of spades . The jack of spades drove out the queen as East then played three rounds of hearts. Declarer ruffed, drew the last trump, cashed the club ace and led the five of clubs to dummy's ten.

When East could not produce the queen, he could claim the contract, N-S +140.

The play had revealed that East held length in three suits (intimating club shortness) and had shown up with 15 HCP. It was therefore clear to finesse West for the club queen.

North's leap to three spades had jammed the auction, to be sure, and was duly passed out. However, East should not pass the weak jump raise. He knew that partner owned spade shortness and should venture four diamonds holding a solid 15 HCP with a strong six-card suit.

The minor suit game would likely roll home when partner displays a singleton spade, the heart queen and the ace of diamonds. Ten tricks should be available when partner does not hold the ace of diamonds but modest trump support.

South would not advance to the major suit game and East will easily bring home ten tricks for a satisfying result of +130.