In the past (January 31 and February 4, 2016), I have offered some acerbic commentary on the game of “Bridge” and the new rules that govern bidding. My personal preference has always been to abide strictly and religiously to the protocol of bidding set down by The Master of bridge — Charles Goren (1901-1996). His prowess prompted the world to refer to him as “Mr. Bridge.”

However, since 2016, I have ever-so-slowly edged toward the newfangled “Standard American” system of bidding. Donna plays this system and each time we’ve gone to play bridge with friends, she has to remind me what the “Stayman Convention” is. Over the years, I tend to forget from week to week.

During the Covid shutdown, we’ve begun playing a bit more bridge — online. http://www.bridgebase.com has allowed us to play with friends or strangers. Last weekend, we began playing “Speedball” — a one hour 12 hand game where it is possible to acquire “Masterpoints.” Up until yesterday – January 26, 2021 – I had never earned a Masterpoint. Well Pilgrims – fasten your seatbelts. Yesterday, Donna and I played Speedball. Our first three hands, my astute Goren-inspired defense allowed me to set our opponents three times. At the end of the hour and Donna and I were each awarded 0.18 Masterpoints for our stellar play. I figure at this rate, I will be a Life Master (300 Masterpoints) by the year 2116. Hmmmm . . . maybe if I play twice a day. . . . .