Alton becomes entangled in the world of bridge, first learning how to play the game and then picking up on common moves. His younger sister, Leslie, also takes interest in the game. Alton's friend Cliff remains unimpressed. He notes how unusual the game is - when Trapp plays with Wallace, his other partner with whom he plays once a week, they break a very rare seventy percent game, though argue profusely afterwards. In this time, Alton notes that his uncle is very good at the game, and is almost a Grand Life Master, but he has not yet won a national tournament, something Gloria advises Alton not to mention. Alton attempts to befriend Trapp, learning that he once had a bridge partner named Annabel King who was the sister of his wife. Alton's parents, however, push him to talking about Trapp's will, as they are in need of money after Alton's father lost his job.
