CHAPTER III
Preparation and Progression 

LAW 6 - THE SHUFFLE AND DEAL 

A. The Shuffle

Before play starts, each pack is thoroughly shuffled. There is a cut if either opponent so requests.

B. The Deal

The cards must be dealt face down, one card at a time, into four hands of thirteen cards each; each hand is then placed face down in one of the four pockets of the board. The recommended procedure is that the cards be dealt in rotation, clockwise

C. Representation of Both Pairs

A member of each side should be present during the shuffle and deal unless the Director instructs otherwise.

D. New Shuffle and Redeal

1. Cards Incorrectly Dealt or Exposed

There must be a new shuffle and a redeal if it is ascertained before the auction begins for both sides (see Law 17A) that the cards have been incorrectly dealt, or that a player could have seen the face of a card belonging to another hand.

2. No Shuffle, or No Deal

No result may stand if the cards are dealt without shuffle from a sorted pack, or if the deal had previously been played in a different session.

3. At Director's Instruction

Subject to Law 22A, there must be a new shuffle and a redeal when required by the Director for any reason compatible with the Laws (but see Law 86C).

E. Director's Option on Shuffling and Dealing

1. By Players

The Director may instruct that the shuffle and deal be performed at each table immediately before play starts.

2. By Director

The Director may perform the shuffle and deal in advance, himself.

3. By Agents or Assistants

The Director may have his assistants, or other appointed agents, perform the shuffle and deal in advance.

4. Different Method of Dealing or Predealing

The Director may require a different method of dealing or predealing.

F. Duplication of Board

If required by the conditions of play, one or more exact copies of each original deal may be made under the Director's instructions.