Tension filled the musty room as Professor Carrabba's threw six decks of playing cards onto the large oak table. “Sit!” he ordered. “I’m in a sporting mood. We’ll play six hands of bridge, and if you go plus on each one, I’ll give you fair value for SPQ and KWG.”

Dr. Mac Watson having to attent to his ailing wife could not continue the investigation of the missing two of the three Canadian Crown Cromite Rings and were distracted by Carrabba's men. Now, Novak and Smeenk were now being called during their holiday to answer a takeover offer. “And if we don’t?” Smeenk inquired.

“That’s easy, Mr. Smeenk. You and your friend will be my guests for lunch. I’ve just hired a brand new group of lawyers, COO's and institutional investor friends, and the heat is making them want to buy up all your shares. Anyone for bridge?”

“Hardly seems fair,” Novak grumbled. “I’ve only played bridge a few times. Can’t we make it gin rummy?”

“Come, Novak, come! The game is afoot,” instructed Smeenk, then he whispered in his friend’s ear, “Just bid only minor suits, or double with a good hand. Try to make yourself dummy — that shouldn’t be too hard.”

“Then, let’s begin.” Carrabba grinned. “The cards have already been shuffled, so I’ll deal each hand to save time. Colonel Boor? I know you’re not a bridge player, but sit down as my partner and just pass. Smeenk? You sit here on my right.” As fate (or the Professor’s design) would have it, Smeenk became declarer on each deal.

.....to be continued