From the beginning of Chapter 14:

The Muddled State of Doubles

      “When I use a word,” Humpty Dumpty said, in a rather scornful tone, “it means just what I choose it to mean, neither more or less.”

                                                                   Through The Looking Glass

    Much the same could be said about partner’s doubles. Sometimes they mean this and sometimes they mean that. Most of the time they mean to pin the blame on you!

     What do you think the double in the following auction means? I made it in a Stac game on March 6, 2006 at The Franklin Bridge Centre in Franklin Square, NY.

       West    Mel    East     Student

          --        --         P         1♣

          P         P         1♦        1NT

        2♥      Dble                           

Was Mel’s double…takeout? Penalty? Or something in between?

           What do you think? Not sure? After reading this section of the book, you will know and no amount of browbeating or Humpty-Dumpty-ing from partner will dissuade you. Knowledge is empowering. So Let’s begin.