A. 4C. If partner has AKxxx in clubs we’re losing a spade, heart (or two spades) and a diamond, but may well pick up the club queen. With that hand we’ll pick up 4 tricks against 3D. If partner has Axxxx in clubs and a useless honour in diamonds, say the Q, we’ll be losing 4 tricks, and probably still picking up 4 tricks against 3D. So, -130 (pass) v +150/-100 (four clubs).
B. 3N. Would expect partner to have at least 8/9 HCP for a negative double at the 2-level. 3N or 5C? Seems an academic question, as it’s now or never for a 3N bid.
C. 1S. How will 2S (5-3) play compared to 3C (6-2)? I will prefer playing in 3C, I think, but the most accurate way for me to get there is through 1S, not a direct 3C.
D. D5. Double to begin with which starts Lebensohl, meaning partner’s 2S shows 0-7. If 3H from me then asks for a stop in hearts, that’s the choice. Partner will know I have a big hand to be thinking about 3N opposite his holding. Partner will then bid 3N or 3S (both of which I pass) or 4H (with x/void in H and 5-7 HCP).
E. 5C. I’m at the top end of the 1N response range. Partner could well be 1444 – a 1D opening would be consistent with that and the auction. If 6C has chances, that is the spot. Partner would need AK in both red suits and the K of clubs – is that unreasonable? How best to pursue 6C? 4C looks a bit “ok, I’ve got to bid, so here it is (sigh)”. 5C looks better
F. 2C. This looks pretty close to a 2S invite plus – all the HCP are working, but I’d probably prefer the minor holdings to be switched for that. 3D doesn’t look right. Which leaves 2C. It’s likely that West will bid 2S over my 2C, then if partner passes I can bid 3C and if partner does anything stronger, I can bid 3S asking for stop.
G. Pass. Partner looks to be short in diamonds and could be 55 or 64 in the majors or 5404. I’d like to give him another chance to bid so I can choose the right suit. Presumably, pass is forcing if x is definitely penalty and would shut partner up?
H. HQ. Opener is minimum but responder, who has no shortness, is 19 HCP ish – strong enough for slam opposite an opener who has shown a minimum hand. Which means partner has nothing, so let’s not dream about a club ruff. If I held the heart ten, the lead of the Jack might be tempting. As it is declarer is likely to see the ten (in hand or dummy) and it’s odds-on then that declarer will ask if the lead of the J denies the Q. Partner saying “yes” and me saying “usually” will see the Director arrive.