[blml] Could have known

[Tim West-Meads]

Sven wrote:
 
> This last question illustrates a fact that for a long time has had me
> completely baffled: In Norway (and I believe equally much in our 
> neighboring countries) we assume that the players do not cheat unless
> we are convinced that they do. Similarly we assume that infractions of
> law are accidental unless we are convinced that they are deliberate.
> After all we consider Bridge a game for Gentlemen (and ladies).

Of course - and the very essence of a gentleman is someone who would be 
horrified to gain from an innocent mistake which *resembles* a ploy a 
cheat might try deliberately.  We have the "could have known" laws 
available to protect gentlemen against such occurrences and thus assume 
the mistake to be accidental and adjust the score.

Personally I would only stop to consider motive if I basically *knew* the 
guy was a cheat (and even in Norway there will be some) and was prepared 
to issue a penalty.

Tim