Principle of Fast /Slow Arrival
The Principle of Fast/Slow Arrival states that in game-forcing auctions, you jump immediately to game with a minimum hand and no interest in slam. With extra strength and slam ambitions, you make minimum bids to leave room for slam exploration. There are 2 special cases of this principle.
1) The principle does not apply to natural bids in Notrump.
Opener's rebid of 2NT after 1S/2C shows 12 to 14 HCP, while a rebid of 3NT shows 15 to 17 HCP. To show 18 or 19 HCP, Opener rebids 2NT and then bids 4NT (not Blackwood!) if Responder bids 3NT.
Similarly, Responder's rebid of 2NT after 1S/2C:2D shows 12 to 14 HCP, etc.
2) Auctions where Responder can support Opener's suit at either the 2, 3 or 4 level.
If the auction goes 1S/2C:2D, 1S/2D:2H, or 1H/2C:2D - in each of these auctions, Responder with 3 card support for Opener's major will want to show it with his next bid. He can do so with one of 3 bids. (Note that with 4 card support, Responder will have used Jacoby 2NT or a splinter).
a) A raise at the 2 level shows 15 or more points and interest in pursuing slam (slow arrival).
b) A raise to the 3 level shows a hand with most of his strength in the 2 suits he has bid. It should have no more than a Queen in the 2 suits he has not bid, and no singleton. Opener should only consider slam if he has controls in these 2 (unbid) suits.
c) A raise to the 4 level shows a minimum hand with no slam ambitions(fast arrival).
Those of you who use Hardy as the bible for the 2 over 1 game forcing system will note that the above does not agree with Hardy. I think it is more logical, though, and it is what I suggest. I want to hear what you think.
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