Political Shuffle

Re “Who’s Who in Washington? Russians Consult the Cards,” Sept. 13: There’s a reason for just 36 cards. That’s how many you need to play the Russian national card game called “Durok,” which loosely translates to “stupid fool!” This is a game that produces no winner, but only a loser. We were taught the game by my newly adopted Russian son, who has yet to lose a family match. Something for the jack of hearts (President Bush) to consider next time he enters bilateral negotiations with the Kremlin.

Jeff Gottesfeld

Sherman Oaks