BIn Bach's day, the dominant compositional style was imitative counterpoint. That style eventually gave way to the style of melody and harmony, but composers in any era must study counterpoint: the combination of musical lines.

Similarly, aspiring bridge players must learn the elements of card play - such as suit establishment. In today's deal, what is South's best play for 3NT after he wins the first heart?

ROUTINE PLAY

Suppose South leads a club to dummy's king at Trick Two. If East takes the ace to return a heart, South wins, leads a club to the queen, concedes a club and has nine tricks. But if East ducks the first club - a routine play for a capable defender - South can't set up the clubs and return to dummy to cash the good clubs.

South's correct approach is to play low from dummy on the first club, forcing East-West to win. South wins the heart return and leads his last club to the king and ace. He can return to dummy with the ace of diamonds to run the clubs.

DAILY QUESTION

You hold: S J 9 6 3 2 H A K Q D K Q J C 8 2. Your partner opens one diamond, you respond one spade and he bids two clubs. What do you say?

ANSWER: Slam is possible if partner has a shapely hand or a hand with extra strength. A jump to three diamonds would be acceptable if forcing, but many pairs treat responder's jump-preferences as invitational. Bid two hearts, a forcing bid in the "fourth suit." Give partner room to continue describing his hand.