North A K 6 5 2 9 3 J 8 7 5 J 9 West J 10 3 K 7 5 Q 10 K 10 5 4 3 East 7 A Q J 6 2 A 4 A Q 7 6 2 South Q 9 8 4 10 8 4 K 9 6 3 2 8 The bidding: East South West North 3 3 2 4 East led the A

I have mentioned on several occasions that experts can read a hand. It is not that hard to do; try it!

East opened proceedings with the ace and a small diamond, South's king winning the second round. The club switch pleased East, who won his queen, but the club ace continuation was ruffed by South. North-South have an easy set at this point if they play three rounds of spades, but South did not yet have enough information. Partner's values might be in hearts.

South shifted to a low heart. East won the ace and queen for his side's fourth trick. On the third round of hearts, West's king fell to North's deuce of spades. In the lead for the first time, North played the standard two rounds of spades. These cards remained: (See second diagram.)

North 6 5 -- J 8 -- West J -- -- K 10 5 East -- J 6 -- Q 7 South Q -- 9 6 3 --

North reviewed the bidding. All count cards were accounted for, so South could only have begun with the Qxxx plus the king of diamonds for his three bid.

Accordingly, North played a third round of spades. After taking his queen, which drew West's last spade, South's diamonds completed the set.

If North had no knowledge of the distribution from the diagramed position, it would be dangerous to lead a third round of spades. An opponent might have the QJ, in which case he could draw North's spades and set with club winners. A simple review of the bidding gave North the solution.