PLAYING TO THE SCORE
Correct dealer’s play is closely influenced by the state of the score. The game is an important goal which should never be hazarded for the sake of an extra trick; but, if this goal is not assured, the loss of a few extra points in an effort to reach it, demands but small consideration.
When there is the slightest chance that the adversaries may win the game on your deal, hasten to secure the tricks needful to insure its safety. Many times the game can only be won or saved in case the cards lie in a certain position, and the dealer must assume that the cards are favourably placed and play the hand accordingly.
When the game is saved, but with no possibility of winning it, the seventh trick should be the objective point in the dealer’s play. When you cannot reach game, never hazard the odd trick in an attempt to win two tricks. In a no-trump declaration, the risk would be twenty-four points for a possible gain of twelve points; and if you lose the odd trick, it may enable the adversaries to win the game on their deal.