CHAPTER III
Preparation and Progression 

LAW 7 - CONTROL OF BOARD AND CARDS 

A. Placement of Board

When a board is to be played, it is placed in the centre of the table until play is completed.

B. Removal of Cards from Board

Each player takes a hand from the pocket corresponding to his compass position.

1. Counting Cards in Hand before Play

Each player counts his cards face down to be sure he has exactly 13; after that, and before making a call, he must inspect the face of his cards.

2. Control of Player's Hand

During play each player retains possession of his own cards, not permitting them to be mixed with those of any other player. No player shall touch any cards other than his own (but declarer may play dummy's cards in accordance with Law 45) during or after play except by permission of the Director.

C. Returning Cards to Board

Each player shall restore his original 13 cards to the pocket corresponding to his compass position. Thereafter, no hand shall be removed from the board unless a member of each side, or the Director, is present.

D. Responsibility for Procedures

Any contestant remaining at a table throughout a session is primarily responsible for maintaining proper conditions of play at the table.