Once a ringman identifies the location of a bidder to the auctioneer, what should he do next?

Once a ringman identifies the location of a bidder to the auctioneer, the most appropriate action is to allow the auctioneer to watch that bidder. This is critical because the auctioneer needs to maintain control over the bidding process and respond to bids in a timely manner. By observing the bidder, the auctioneer can gauge their interest and how much they are willing to bid, which helps keep the auction flowing smoothly.

The ringman serves as a support to the auctioneer, facilitating communication and ensuring that all bidders are acknowledged without disrupting the auction's pace. Allowing the auctioneer to concentrate on the identified bidder ensures that the auctioneer can make informed decisions on offers and manage the bidding effectively.

While other actions may seem beneficial, they could lead to confusion or disruptions in the auction process. For instance, bidding on behalf of the bidder could lead to miscommunication, while ignoring them doesn't capitalize on potential bids. Calling out a bidder's name could be distracting and could also lead to ambiguity in the auction process. Thus, the most effective strategy is for the ringman to let the auctioneer focus on the observed bidder.