United States
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 1999

Commission File Number 1-3880

National Fuel Gas Company
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

        New Jersey                                 13-1086010
(State or other jurisdiction of                  (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)                   Identification No.)

 10 Lafayette Square                                  14203
  Buffalo, New York                                (Zip Code)
 (Address of principal executive offices)

                                 (716) 857-6980

Registrant's telephone number, including area code

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

     Title of each class              Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $1 Par Value, and                  New York Stock Exchange
Common Stock Purchase Rights

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES X NO

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to

Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ X ]

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant amounted to $1,907,786,000 as of November 30, 1999.

Common Stock, $1 Par Value, outstanding as of November 30, 1999:
38,966,378 shares.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for 1999 are incorporated by reference into Part I of this report. Portions of the registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held February 17, 2000 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 1999

Contents

Part I                                                                   Page
------                                                                   ----

ITEM 1  Business

   THE COMPANY AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES.......................................19
   RATES AND REGULATION...................................................21
   THE UTILITY SEGMENT....................................................22
   THE PIPELINE AND STORAGE SEGMENT.......................................22
   THE EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION SEGMENT.................................22
   THE INTERNATIONAL SEGMENT..............................................22
   THE ENERGY MARKETING SEGMENT...........................................23
   THE TIMBER SEGMENT.....................................................23
   SOURCES AND AVAILABILITY OF RAW MATERIALS..............................23
   COMPETITION............................................................24
   SEASONALITY............................................................25
   CAPITAL EXPENDITURES...................................................26
   ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS..................................................26
   MISCELLANEOUS..........................................................26
   EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY......................................26

ITEM 2  PROPERTIES

   GENERAL INFORMATION ON FACILITIES......................................27
   EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES..................................28

ITEM 3 Legal Proceedings..................................................29


ITEM 4 SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS................29

Part II
-------

ITEM 5 Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related
       Shareholder Matters................................................29


ITEM 6 Selected Financial Data............................................30


ITEM 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
       Condition and Results of Operations................................31


ITEM 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk........57


ITEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data........................57


ITEM 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
       Accounting and Financial Disclosure................................89

Part III
--------

ITEM 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant................89


ITEM 11 Executive Compensation............................................89


ITEM 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management....89


ITEM 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions....................89

Part IV
-------

ITEM 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K..90


Signatures................................................................93


This combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K contains "forward-looking statements" as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements should be read with the cautionary statements included in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K at Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A), under the heading "Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements." Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, those statements that are designated with a "*" following the statement, as well as those statements that are identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "predicts," "projects," and similar expressions.

PART I

ITEM 1 Business

The Company and its Subsidiaries

National Fuel Gas Company (the Company or Registrant), a registered holding company under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended (the Holding Company Act), was organized under the laws of the State of New Jersey on December 8, 1902. The Company is engaged in the business of owning and holding securities issued by its subsidiary companies. Except as otherwise indicated below, the Company owns all of the outstanding securities of its subsidiaries. Reference to "the Company" in this report means the Registrant or the Registrant and its subsidiaries collectively, as appropriate in the context of the disclosure.

The Company is a diversified energy company consisting of the six reportable business segments. This report includes two newly-reported segments - Energy Marketing and Timber - and no longer includes the previously reported "Other Nonregulated" segment. As a result of these refinements in the Company's reportable segments, where appropriate in this report the information for 1998 and 1997 has been restated from the prior year's presentation to conform to the 1999 presentation.

1. The Utility segment operations are carried out by National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation (Distribution Corporation), a New York corporation. Distribution Corporation sells natural gas and provides natural gas transportation services through a local distribution system located in western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania (principal metropolitan areas: Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Jamestown, New York; Erie and Sharon, Pennsylvania).

2. The Pipeline and Storage segment operations are carried out by National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation (Supply Corporation), a Pennsylvania corporation, and by Seneca Independence Pipeline Company (SIP), a Delaware corporation. Supply Corporation provides interstate natural gas transportation and storage services for affiliated and nonaffiliated companies through (i) an integrated gas pipeline system extending from southwestern Pennsylvania to the New York-Canadian border at the Niagara River, and (ii) 29 underground natural gas storage fields owned and operated by Supply Corporation and four other underground natural gas storage fields operated jointly with various major interstate gas pipeline companies. SIP holds a one-third general partnership interest in Independence Pipeline Company (Independence), a Delaware general partnership. Independence, after receipt of regulatory approvals and upon securing sufficient customer interest, plans to construct and operate the Independence Pipeline, a 370-mile interstate pipeline system which would transport about 900,000 dekatherms per day (Dth/day) of natural gas from Defiance, Ohio to Leidy, Pennsylvania.*

3. The Exploration and Production segment operations are carried out by Seneca Resources Corporation (Seneca), a Pennsylvania corporation. Seneca is engaged in the exploration for, and the development and purchase of, natural gas and oil reserves in the Gulf Coast Region of Texas and Louisiana, and in California, Wyoming and in the Appalachian region of the United States.

4. The International segment operations are carried out by Horizon Energy Development, Inc. (Horizon), a New York corporation. Horizon engages in foreign energy projects through the investments of its indirect subsidiaries as the sole or substantial owner of various business entities. Horizon is the sole shareholder of Horizon Energy Holdings, Inc., a New York corporation which in turn, owns 100% of Horizon Energy Development B.V. (Horizon B.V.). Horizon B.V. is a Dutch company whose principal assets consist of a majority ownership in (i) Severoeeske teplarny, a.s. (SCT), a company with district heating and power generation operations located in the northern part of the Czech Republic; (ii) Prvni severozapadni teplarenska, a.s. (PSZT), a wholesale power and district heating company that is located in the Czech Republic in close proximity to SCT; and (iii) Teplarna Kromeriz, a.s. (TK), a district heating company located in the southeast region of the Czech Republic.

5. The Energy Marketing segment operations are carried out by National Fuel Resources, Inc. (NFR), a New York corporation engaged in the marketing and brokerage of natural gas and electricity and the performance of energy management services for industrial, commercial, public authority and residential end-users throughout the northeast United States.

6. The Timber segment operations are carried out by Highland Land & Minerals, Inc. (Highland), a Pennsylvania corporation, and by a division of Seneca known as its Northeast Division. Highland owns four sawmill operations in northwestern Pennsylvania and processes timber consisting primarily of high quality hardwoods. The Northeast Division of Seneca markets timber from its New York and Pennsylvania land holdings.

Financial information about each of the Company's business segments can be found in Item 7, MD&A and also in Item 8 at Note I - Business Segment Information. The discussion of the Company's business segments as contained in the business segment discussion on pages 7 to 16 of the paper copy of the Company's combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, is included in this electronic filing as Exhibit 13 and is incorporated herein by reference.

The Company's other wholly-owned subsidiaries are not included in any of the six reportable business segments and consist of the following:

o Upstate Energy Inc. (Upstate) (formerly known as Niagara Energy Trading Inc.), a New York corporation engaged in wholesale natural gas marketing and other energy-related activities;

o Niagara Independence Marketing Company (NIM), a Delaware corporation which owns a one-third general partnership interest in DirectLink Gas Marketing Company (DirectLink), a Delaware general partnership. DirectLink was formed to engage in natural gas marketing and related businesses, in part by subscribing for firm transportation capacity on the Independence Pipeline;

o Leidy Hub, Inc. (Leidy), a New York corporation formed to provide various natural gas hub services to customers in the eastern United States through a 50% ownership of Ellisburg-Leidy Northeast Hub Company (a Pennsylvania general partnership);

o Data-Track Account Services, Inc. (Data-Track), a New York corporation which provides collection services principally for the Company's subsidiaries; and

o NFR Power, Inc. (NFR Power), a New York corporation capitalized by the Company in 1999 which, while not actively generating electricity at this time, is designated as an "exempt wholesale generator" under the Holding Company Act.

No single customer, or group of customers under common control, accounted for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues in 1999.

Any reference to a year in this report is to the Company's fiscal year ended September 30 of that year unless otherwise noted.

Rates and Regulation
The Company is subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under the broad regulatory provisions of the Holding Company Act, including provisions relating to issuance of securities, sales and acquisitions of securities and utility assets, intra-Company transactions and limitations on diversification. The SEC and some members of Congress have advocated, on either a stand-alone basis or in conjunction with legislation which would deregulate the electric industry, the repeal of the Holding Company Act. The proposed legislation currently under consideration would transfer certain oversight responsibilities to the various state public utility regulatory commissions and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and would expand the access of these bodies to the books and records of companies in a holding company system. Such legislation could actually increase regulation of the Company, especially at the state level. Previous SEC rule changes, however, have reduced the number of applications required to be filed under the Holding Company Act, exempted some routine financings and expanded diversification opportunities. The Company is unable to predict at this time what the ultimate outcome of current or future legislative and/or regulatory initiatives will be and, therefore, what impact such efforts might have on the Company.*

The Utility segment's rates, services and other matters are regulated by the State of New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC) with respect to services provided within New York and by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PaPUC) with respect to services provided within Pennsylvania. For additional discussion of the Utility segment's rates and regulation, see Item 7, MD&A under the heading "Rate Matters" and Item 8 at Note B-Regulatory Matters.

The Pipeline and Storage segment's rates, services and other matters are regulated by the FERC. SIP is not itself regulated by the FERC, but its sole business is the ownership of an interest in Independence, whose rates, services and other matters will be regulated by the FERC. For additional discussion of the Pipeline and Storage segment's rates and regulation, see Item 7, MD&A under the heading "Rate Matters" and Item 8 at Note B-Regulatory Matters.

The discussion under Item 8 at Note B-Regulatory Matters includes a description of the regulatory assets and liabilities reflected on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets in accordance with applicable accounting standards. To the extent that the criteria set forth in such accounting standards are not met by the operations of the Utility segment or the Pipeline and Storage segment, as the case may be, the related regulatory assets and liabilities would be eliminated from the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets and such accounting treatment would be discontinued.

In the International segment, rates charged for the sale of thermal energy and electric energy at the retail level are subject to regulation and audit in the Czech Republic by the Czech Ministry of Finance. The regulation of electric energy rates at the retail level indirectly impacts the rates charged by the International segment for its electric energy sales at the wholesale level.

In addition, the Company and its subsidiaries are subject to the same federal, state and local regulations on various subjects as other companies doing similar business in the same locations.

The Utility Segment
The Utility segment contributed approximately 49.4% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Additional discussion of the Utility segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below in this Item 1 under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," in Item 7, MD&A and in Item 8 at Notes B-Regulatory Matters, H-Commitments and Contingencies and I-Business Segment Information.

The Pipeline and Storage Segment
The Pipeline and Storage segment contributed approximately 34.6% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Supply Corporation currently has service agreements for substantially all of its firm transportation capacity, which totals approximately 1,943 million cubic feet (MMcf) per day. The Utility segment has contracted for approximately 1,126 MMcf per day or 58% of that capacity until 2003 and continuing year-to-year thereafter. An additional 25% of Supply Corporation's firm transportation capacity is subject to firm contracts with nonaffiliated customers until 2003 or later.

Supply Corporation has available for sale to customers approximately 62.8 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of firm storage capacity. The Utility segment has contracted for 26.0 Bcf or 41% of that capacity, in service agreements with remaining initial terms of approximately 4 to 7 years and continuing year-to-year thereafter: 23.3 Bcf - 4 years; 2.0 Bcf - 7 years and 0.7 Bcf - 5 years. Nonaffiliated customers have contracted for the remaining 36.8 Bcf or 59% of firm storage capacity; 12.1 Bcf or 19% of total storage capacity is contracted by nonaffiliated customers until 2003 or later. Supply Corporation has been successful in marketing and obtaining executed contracts for storage service (at discounted rates) as it becomes available and expects to continue to do so.*

Independence has filed with the FERC signed precedent agreements providing for firm transportation service totaling about 629,000 Dth/day for ten years, out of total proposed transportation capacity of about 900,000 Dth/day. The customer for 500,000 Dth/day of that total is DirectLink, which is owned by the sponsors of the Independence Pipeline, including NIM.

Additional discussion of the Pipeline and Storage segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Notes B-Regulatory Matters, H-Commitments and Contingencies and I-Business Segment Information.

The Exploration and Production Segment
The Exploration and Production segment contributed approximately 6.2% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Additional discussion of the Exploration and Production segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Notes A-Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, F-Financial Instruments, I-Business Segment Information, J-Stock Acquisitions and M-Supplementary Information for Oil and Gas Producing Activities.

The International Segment
The International segment contributed approximately 2.0% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Additional discussion of the International segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Notes F-Financial Instruments, I-Business Segment Information and J-Stock Acquisitions.

The Energy Marketing Segment
The Energy Marketing segment contributed approximately 1.8% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Additional discussion of the Energy Marketing segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Notes F-Financial Instruments and I-Business Segment Information.

The Timber Segment
The Timber segment contributed approximately 4.1% of the Company's net income available for common stock in 1999.

Additional discussion of the Timber segment appears in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, below under the headings "Sources and Availability of Raw Materials" and "Competition," Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Note I-Business Segment Information.

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials Natural gas is the principal raw material for the Utility segment. In 1999, the Utility segment purchased 112.4 Bcf of gas. Gas purchases from various producers and marketers in the southwestern United States under long-term (two years or longer) contracts accounted for 66% of these purchases. Purchases of gas in Canada and the United States on the spot market (contracts of less than a year) accounted for 29% of the Utility segment's 1999 gas purchases. Gas purchases from Southern Company Energy Marketing L.P. and Dynegy Marketing and Trade represented 17% and 13%, respectively, of total 1999 gas purchases by the Utility segment. No other producer or marketer provided the Utility segment with 10% or more of its gas requirements in 1999.

Supply Corporation transports and stores gas owned by its customers, whose gas originates in the southwestern and Appalachian regions of the United States as well as in Canada. SIP, through Independence, proposes to transport natural gas produced in Canada and in the midwestern United States.

The Exploration and Production segment seeks to discover and produce raw materials (natural gas, oil and hydrocarbon liquids) as described in the business segment discussion contained in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, Item 7, MD&A and Item 8 at Notes I-Business Segment Information and M - Supplementary Information for Oil and Gas Producing Activities.

Coal is the principal raw material for the International segment, constituting 45% of the cost of raw materials needed to operate the boilers which produce steam or hot water. Natural gas, fuel oil, limestone and water combined account for the remaining 55% of such materials. Coal is purchased and delivered directly from the Mostecka Uhelna Spoleenost, a.s. mine for Horizon's largest coal-fired plant under a contract where price and quantity are the subject of negotiation each year. Natural gas is imported by the Czech Republic government from Russia and the North Sea and is transported through the Transgas pipeline system which is majority owned by the Czech Republic government and purchased by the International segment from two of the eight regional gas distribution companies. Fuel oil used to fire certain of the boilers is purchased from both domestic Czech Republic and foreign refineries.

The Energy Marketing segment depends on an adequate supply of natural gas and electricity. In 1999, this segment purchased approximately 34.5 Bcf of natural gas and approximately 73,000 megawatt hours of electricity.

With respect to the Timber segment, Highland requires an adequate supply of timber to process. Highland, however, mainly processes timber which is located on land owned by Seneca, and therefore, the source and availability of this segment's primary raw material are generally known in advance.

Competition
Competition in the natural gas industry exists among providers of natural gas, as well as between natural gas and other sources of energy. The continuing deregulation of the natural gas industry should enhance the competitive position of natural gas relative to other energy sources by removing some of the regulatory impediments to adding customers and responding to market forces.* In addition, the environmental advantages of natural gas compared with other fuels should increase the role of natural gas as an energy source.* Moreover, natural gas is abundantly available in North America, which makes it a dependable alternative to imported oil.

The electric industry is moving toward a more competitive environment as a result of the Federal Energy Policy Act of 1992 and initiatives undertaken by the FERC and various states. It is unclear at this point what impact this restructuring will have on the Company.*

The Company competes on the basis of price, service and reliability, product performance and other factors.

Competition: The Utility Segment
The changes precipitated by the FERC's restructuring of the gas industry in Order No. 636 are redefining the roles of the gas utility industry and the state regulatory commissions. State restructuring initiatives are under way, with regulators in both New York and Pennsylvania adopting retail competition for natural gas supply purchases. However, the Utility segment's traditional distribution function remains largely unchanged. For further discussion of state restructuring initiatives refer to Item 7, MD&A under the heading "Rate Matters."

Competition for large-volume customers continues with local producers or pipeline companies attempting to sell or transport gas directly to end-users located within the Utility segment's service territories (i.e., bypass). In addition, competition continues with fuel oil suppliers and may increase with electric utilities making retail energy sales.*

The Utility segment is now better able to compete, through its unbundled flexible services, in its most vulnerable markets (the large commercial and industrial markets). The Utility segment continues to (i) develop or promote new sources and uses of natural gas and/or new services, rates and contracts and (ii) emphasize and provide high quality service to its customers.

Competition: The Pipeline and Storage Segment Supply Corporation competes for market growth in the natural gas market with other pipeline companies transporting gas in the northeastern United States and with other companies providing gas storage services. Supply Corporation has some unique characteristics which enhance its competitive position. Its facilities are located adjacent to Canada and the northeastern United States and provide part of the link between gas-consuming regions of the eastern United States and gas-producing regions of Canada and the southwestern, southern and midwestern regions of the United States. This location offers the opportunity for increased transportation and storage services in the future.*

SIP, through Independence, is competing for customers with other proposed pipeline projects which would bring natural gas from the Chicago area to the growing Northeast and Mid-Atlantic United States markets. In combination with expansion projects of Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation and ANR Pipeline Company, Independence intends to provide the least-cost path for this service and will access the storage and market hub at Leidy, Pennsylvania.* It is likely that not all of the proposed pipelines will go forward and that the first project built will have an advantage over other proposed projects.* Independence is attempting to be the first of the proposed projects approved by the FERC and the first built.* If completed, the Independence pipeline would likely create opportunities for increased transportation and storage services by Supply Corporation.*

Competition: The Exploration and Production Segment The Exploration and Production segment competes with other gas and oil producers and marketers with respect to its sales of oil and gas. The Exploration and Production segment also competes, by competitive bidding and otherwise, with other oil and natural gas exploration and production companies of various sizes for leases and drilling rights for exploration and development prospects.

To compete in this environment, Seneca originates and acts as operator on most prospects, minimizes risk of exploratory efforts through partnership-type arrangements, applies the latest technology for both exploratory studies and drilling operations and focuses on market niches that suit its size, operating expertise and financial criteria.

Competition: The International Segment
Horizon competes with other entities seeking to develop foreign and domestic energy projects. Horizon, through SCT and PSZT, faces competition in the sales of thermal energy to large industrial customers. Currently, electric energy sales are made to the regional electric distribution companies. The Czech Ministry of Finance has announced plans to privatize these distribution companies. While it is expected that these plans will increase competition at the retail level of the electric energy market, it is unclear at this point what impact this privatization will have on the wholesale electric energy market.* Both SCT and PSZT sell electricity at the wholesale level.

Competition: The Energy Marketing Segment The Energy Marketing segment competes with other marketers of electricity and natural gas and with other providers of energy management services. Although the deregulation of electric and natural gas utilities is a relatively new occurrence, the competition in this area is well developed with regard to price and services and derives primarily from both local and regional marketers.

Competition: The Timber Segment
Highland competes with other sawmill operations and Seneca competes with other suppliers of timber. This competition may be local, regional, national or international in scope. These competitors, however, are primarily limited to those entities which either process or supply high quality hardwoods species, such as cherry, oak and maple as veneer, or saw logs or export logs ultimately used in the production of high-end furniture, cabinetry and flooring. The Timber segment markets its products both nationally and internationally.

Seasonality
Variations in weather conditions can materially affect the volume of gas delivered by the Utility segment, as virtually all of its residential and commercial customers use gas for space heating. The effect on the Utility segment in New York is mitigated by a weather normalization clause which is designed to adjust the rates of retail customers to reflect the impact of deviations from normal weather. Weather that is more than 2.2% warmer than normal results in a surcharge being added to customers' current bills, while weather that is more than 2.2% colder than normal results in a refund being credited to customers' current bills. In the International segment, district heating operations in the Czech Republic are also subject to the seasonality of weather.

Volumes transported and stored by Supply Corporation may vary materially depending on weather, without materially affecting its earnings. Supply Corporation's rates are based on a straight fixed-variable rate design which allows recovery of all fixed costs in fixed monthly reservation charges. Variable charges based on volumes are designed only to reimburse the variable costs caused by actual transportation or storage of gas.

Variations in weather conditions can materially affect the volume of gas and electricity consumed by customers of the Energy Marketing segment.

The activities of the Timber segment vary on a seasonal basis and are subject to weather constraints. The timber harvesting and processing season occurs when timber growth is dormant and runs from approximately September to March. The operations conducted in the summer months focus on pulpwood and on thinning out lower-grade species from the timber stands to encourage the growth of higher-grade species.

Capital Expenditures
A discussion of capital expenditures by business segment is included in Item 7, MD&A under the heading "Investing Cash Flow" and subheading "Expenditures for Long-Lived Assets."

Environmental Matters
A discussion of material environmental matters involving the Company is included in Item 7, MD&A under the heading "Other Matters" and in Item 8, Note H-Commitments and Contingencies.

Miscellaneous
The Company had a total of 3,807 full-time employees at September 30, 1999, 2,401 employees in all of its U.S. operations and 1,406 employees in its International segment. This represents a decrease of 3.47% from the 3,944 total employed at September 30, 1998.

Agreements covering employees in collective bargaining units in New York were renegotiated in November 1997, effective December 1997, and are scheduled to expire in February 2001. Agreements covering most employees in collective bargaining units in Pennsylvania have been renegotiated, effective November 1998, and are scheduled to expire in April and May 2003.

The Company has numerous municipal franchises under which it uses public roads and certain other rights-of-way and public property for the location of facilities. When necessary, the Company renews such franchises.

Executive Officers of the Company(1)

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Name and Age                 Current Company Positions and Other Material
                             Business Experience During Past 5 Years(2)
---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Bernard J. Kennedy           Chairman  of  the  Board  of  Directors since March
(68)                         1989,  Chief  Executive  Officer  since August 1988
                             and   Director   since  March  1978.   Mr.  Kennedy
                             previously  served  as  President from January 1987
                             to July 1999.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Philip C. Ackerman           President since  July 1999 and Director since March
(55)                         1994.  Mr. Ackerman  has  served  as Executive Vice
                             President of Supply Corporation  since October 1994
                             and  President  of Horizon  since  September  1995.
                             He previously served as Senior Vice President  from
                             June   1989  to  July  1999  and  as  President  of
                             Distribution   Corporation  from  October  1995  to
                             July 1999.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Richard Hare                 President  of  Supply  Corporation since June 1989.
(61)                         Mr. Hare previously served as Senior Vice President
                             of  Penn-York  Energy  Corporation  from  June 1989
                             until  its  merger  into Supply Corporation in July
                             1994.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

David F. Smith               President  of  Distribution  Corporation since July
(46)                         1999.  Mr.  Smith  previously served as Senior Vice
                             President of  Distribution Corporation from January
                             1993 to July 1999.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

James A. Beck                President   of   Seneca   since  October  1996  and
(52)                         President  of  Highland since March 1998.  Mr. Beck
                             previously  served as Vice President of Seneca from
                             January 1994 to April 1995  and as  Executive  Vice
                             President  of  Seneca  from  May 1995  to September
                             1996.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Joseph P. Pawlowski          Treasurer since  December  1980.  Mr. Pawlowski has
(58)                         served  as  Senior  Vice  President of Distribution
                             Corporation  since   February  1992,  Treasurer  of
                             Distribution   Corporation   since   January  1981,
                             Treasurer of Supply Corporation since June 1985 and
                             Secretary of Supply Corporation since October 1995.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Gerald T. Wehrlin            Controller  since  December  1980.  Mr. Wehrlin has
(61)                         served  as  Senior  Vic  President  of Distribution
                             Corporation  since April 1991, Controller of Seneca
                             since September 1981 and Vice  President of Horizon
                             since  February 1997.  He   previously   served  as
                             Secretary  and  Treasurer of Horizon from September
                             1995  to February 1997.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

-------------------------- -----------------------------------------------------

Name and Age                 Current Company Positions and Other Material
                             Business Experience During Past 5 Years(2)
---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Walter E. DeForest           Senior  Vice  President of Distribution Corporation
(58)                         since August 1993.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Bruce H. Hale                Senior  Vice  President of Supply Corporation since
(50)                         February  1997 a nd Vice President of Horizon since
                             September  1995.   Mr. Hale  previously  served  as
                             Senior  Vice President of Distribution  Corporation
                             from January 1993 to February 1997.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Dennis J. Seeley             Senior  Vice  President of Distribution Corporation
(56)                         since February 1997.  Mr. Seeley  previously served
                             as Senior Vice President of Supply Corporation from
                             January 1993 to February 1997.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

Robert J. Kreppel            President  of  NFR  since  March 1995.  Mr. Kreppel
(42)                         previously  served  as  Vice  President of NFR from
                             February 1992 to March 1995.

---------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------

(1) The Company has been advised that there are no family relationships among any of the officers listed, and that there is no arrangement or understanding among any one of them and any other persons pursuant to which he was elected as an officer. The executive officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.

(2) The information provided relates to positions within the Company and, where identified, the principal subsidiaries of the Company. Many of the executive officers have in the past served or currently serve as officers for other subsidiaries of the Company.

ITEM 2 Properties

General Information on Facilities
The investment of the Company in net property, plant and equipment was $2.4 billion at September 30, 1999. Approximately 59% of this investment is in the Utility and Pipeline and Storage segments, which are primarily located in western New York and western Pennsylvania. The remaining investment in property, plant and equipment is mainly in the Exploration and Production segment (29%), which is primarily located in the Gulf Coast, southwestern, western and Appalachian regions of the United States, the International segment (9%) which is located in the Czech Republic, and the Timber segment (3%) which is located primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania. During the past five years, the Company has made significant additions to property, plant and equipment in order to expand and improve transmission and distribution facilities for both retail and transportation customers, to augment the reserve base of oil and gas, and to purchase district heating and power generation facilities in the Czech Republic. Net property, plant and equipment has increased $808.3 million, or 52%, since 1994.

The Utility segment has the largest net investment in property, plant and equipment, compared with the Company's other business segments. The net investment in its gas distribution network (including 14,773 miles of distribution pipeline) and its services represent approximately 58% and 29%, respectively, of the Utility segment's net investment of $919.6 million at September 30, 1999.

The Pipeline and Storage segment represents a net investment of $466.5 million in property, plant and equipment at September 30, 1999. Transmission pipeline, with a net cost of $145.3 million, represents 31% of this segment's total net investment and includes 2,583 miles of pipeline required to move large volumes of gas throughout its service area. Storage facilities consist of 33 storage fields, 4 of which are jointly operated with certain pipeline suppliers, and 482 miles of pipeline. Net investment in storage facilities includes $85.1 million of gas stored underground-noncurrent, representing the cost of the gas required to maintain pressure levels for normal operating purposes as well as gas maintained for system balancing and other purposes, including that needed for no-notice transportation service. The Pipeline and Storage segment has 29 compressor stations with 74,646 installed compressor horsepower.

The Exploration and Production segment had a net investment in property, plant and equipment amounting to $674.8 million at September 30, 1999.

The International segment had a net investment in property, plant and equipment amounting to $203.5 million at September 30, 1999. PSZT's net investment in district heating and electric generation facilities was $147.5 million; SCT's net investment in district heating and electric generation facilities was $55.0 million; and TK's net investment in district heating facilities was approximately $1.0 million.

The Timber segment had a net investment in property, plant and equipment of $88.9 million at September 30, 1999. Located primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania, the net investment includes 4 sawmills and approximately 140,000 acres of timber.

The Utility and Pipeline and Storage segments' facilities provided the capacity to meet its 1999 peak day sendout, including transportation service, of 1,909 MMcf, which occurred on January 5, 1999. Withdrawals from storage of 687 MMcf provided approximately 36% of the requirements on that day.

Company maps are included on pages 2 and 3 of the paper copy of the Company's combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, and are narratively described in the Appendix to this electronic filing and are incorporated herein by reference.

Exploration and Production Activities
The information that follows is disclosed in accordance with SEC regulations, and relates to the Company's oil and gas producing activities. A further discussion of oil and gas producing activities is included in Item 8, Note M-Supplementary Information for Oil and Gas Producing Activities. Note M sets forth proved developed and undeveloped reserve information for Seneca. Seneca's oil and gas reserves reported in Note M as of September 30, 1999 were estimated by Seneca's qualified geologists and engineers and were audited by independent petroleum engineers from Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. Seneca reports its oil and gas reserve information on an annual basis to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The basis of reporting Seneca's reserves to the EIA is identical to that reported in Note M.

The following is a summary of certain oil and gas information taken from Seneca's records:

Production
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
For the Year Ended September 30                                             1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Average Sales Price per Mcf of Gas(1)                                      $2.20            $2.45             $2.60
Average Sales Price per Barrel of Oil(1)                                  $12.85           $12.15            $20.63
Average Production (Lifting) Cost per Mcf
  Equivalent of Gas and Oil Produced                                       $0.46            $0.45             $0.35
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

(1) Prices do not reflect gains or losses from hedging activities.

Productive Wells
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At September 30, 1999                                   Gas               Oil
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Productive Wells                       - gross          1,934             895
                                       - net            1,801             845
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Developed and Undeveloped Acreage
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At September 30, 1999
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Developed Acreage                      - gross             636,221
                                       - net               558,651

Undeveloped Acreage                    - gross           1,043,757
                                       - net               753,106
-------------------------------------- ---------------- ------------------------

Drilling Activity
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Productive                           Dry
                                                       --------------------------------------------------------------
For the Year Ended September 30                              1999      1998      1997       1999      1998      1997
                                                       --------------------------------------------------------------

Net Wells Completed                  - Exploratory          12.95     10.72      4.21       5.64      4.97      3.49
                                     - Development          95.26     14.11      1.84       4.75      2.00      1.60
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Present Activities
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At September 30, 1999
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wells in Process of Drilling           - gross          13.00
                                       - net            10.01
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

South Lost Hills Waterflood Program
In Seneca's South Lost Hills Field (acquired in 1998 as part of the HarCor Energy, Inc. and Bakersfield Energy Resources, Inc. acquisitions) a waterflood project was initiated in 1996 on the Ellis lease in the Diatomite reservior for pressure maintenance and recovery enhancement purposes. Currently there are 27 injection wells and 88 production wells in the program. The total injection and production from this waterflood project are 7,000 barrels of water per day and 400 barrels of oil per day, respectively.

ITEM 3 Legal Proceedings

For a discussion of various environmental matters, refer to Item 7, MD&A of this report under the heading "Other Matters" and to Item 8 at Note H-Commitments and Contingencies.

ITEM 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

No matter was submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 1999.

PART II

ITEM 5 Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related Shareholder Matters

Information regarding the market for the Registrant's common stock and related shareholder matters appears in Note D-Capitalization and Note L-Market for Common Stock and Related Shareholder Matters (unaudited) under Item 8 of this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K, and reference is made thereto.

On July 1, 1999, the Company issued 700 unregistered shares of Company common stock to the seven non-employee directors of the Company, 100 shares to each such director. These shares were issued as partial consideration for the directors' service as directors during the quarter ended September 30, 1999, pursuant to the Company's Retainer Policy for Non-Employee Directors. These transactions were exempt from registration by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, as transactions not involving any public offering.

ITEM 6  Selected Financial Data
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30                             1999             1998            1997             1996            1995
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary of Operations (Thousands)
Operating Revenues                                 $1,263,274       $1,248,000      $1,265,812       $1,208,017        $975,496
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Expenses:
  Purchased Gas                                       405,925          441,746         528,610          477,357         351,094
  Fuel Used in Heat and
    Electric Generation                                55,788           37,837           1,489                -               -
  Operation and Maintenance                           323,888          319,769         286,537          309,206         292,505
  Property, Franchise and Other Taxes                  91,146           92,817         100,549           99,456          91,837
  Depreciation, Depletion and
    Amortization                                      129,690          118,880         111,650           98,231          71,782
  Impairment of Oil and Gas
    Producing Properties                                    -          128,996               -                -               -
  Income Taxes                                         64,829           24,024          68,674           66,321          43,879
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    1,071,266        1,164,069       1,097,509        1,050,571         851,097
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income                                      192,008           83,931         168,303          157,446         124,399
Other Income                                           12,343           35,870           3,196            3,869           5,378
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income Before Interest Charges and
 Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries            204,351          119,801         171,499          161,315         129,777
Interest Charges                                       87,698           85,284          56,811           56,644          53,883
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries              (1,616)          (2,213)
                                                                                             -                -               -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income Before Cumulative Effect                       115,037           32,304         114,688          104,671          75,894
Cumulative Effect of Change in
  Accounting                                                -           (9,116)              -                -               -

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Income Available for Common
  Stock                                              $115,037         $ 23,188        $114,688         $104,671        $ 75,894
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Common Share Data
  Basic Earnings per Common Share                       $2.98            $0.61(1)        $3.01            $2.78           $2.03
  Diluted Earnings per Common Share                     $2.95            $0.60(1)        $2.98            $2.77           $2.03
  Dividends Declared                                    $1.83            $1.77           $1.71            $1.65           $1.60
  Dividends Paid                                        $1.82            $1.76           $1.70            $1.64           $1.59
  Dividend Rate at Year-End                             $1.86            $1.80           $1.74            $1.68           $1.62
At September 30:
Number of Common Shareholders                          22,336           23,743          20,267           21,640          21,429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Property, Plant and Equipment (Thousands)
  Utility                                            $919,642         $906,754        $889,216         $855,161        $822,764
  Pipeline and Storage                                466,524          460,952         450,865          452,305         463,647
  Exploration and Production                          674,813          638,886         443,164          375,958         339,950
  International                                       203,452          202,590             942            1,274              70
  Energy Marketing                                        489              353             123               41              54
  Timber                                               88,904           38,593          34,872           24,680          22,146
  All Other                                                63                -             173              172             420
  Corporate                                                 7                9              11               15             131
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Net Plant                                    $2,353,894       $2,248,137      $1,819,366       $1,709,606      $1,649,182
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Assets (Thousands)                           $2,842,586       $2,684,459      $2,267,331       $2,149,772      $2,036,823
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capitalization (Thousands)
Common Stock Equity                                 $ 939,293        $ 890,085       $ 913,704        $ 855,998       $ 800,588
Long-Term Debt, Net of Current Portion                822,743          693,021         581,640          574,000         474,000
Total Capitalization                               $1,762,036       $1,583,106      $1,495,344       $1,429,998      $1,274,588
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) 1998 includes oil and gas asset impairment of ($2.06) basic, ($2.04) diluted and cumulative effect of a change in depletion methods of ($0.24) basic and diluted. Refer to further discussion of these items in Notes to Financial Statements, Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

ITEM 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Results of Operations

1999 Compared with 1998
The Company's earnings were $115.0 million, or $2.98 per common share ($2.95 per common share on a diluted basis), in 1999. This compares with 1998 earnings of $23.2 million, or $0.61 per common share ($0.60 per common share on a diluted basis). Earnings for 1998 included a $79.1 million (after tax) non-cash impairment of the Exploration and Production segment's oil and gas assets and the non-cash cumulative effect of a change in accounting. The 1998 accounting change, which was a change in depletion methods for the Exploration and Production segment's oil and gas assets, had a negative $9.1 million (after tax), or $0.24 per common share, non-cash cumulative effect through fiscal 1997, which was recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 1998. Excluding these two non-cash special items, earnings for 1998 would have been $111.4 million, or $2.91 per common share ($2.88 per common share on a diluted basis).

The increase in 1999 earnings of $3.6 million (exclusive of the two non-cash special items in 1998) is the result of higher earnings in the Utility, Timber, Energy Marketing and International segments and in Corporate operations. These higher earnings were offset in part by reduced earnings in the Exploration and Production segment. The Pipeline and Storage segment's earnings remained level with the prior year. Additional discussion of earnings in each of the business segments can be found in the business segment information that follows.

1998 Compared with 1997
The Company's earnings were $23.2 million, or $0.61 per common share ($0.60 per common share on a diluted basis), in 1998. These earnings include the two non-cash special items discussed above. Without these two non-cash items, earnings for 1998 would have been $111.4 million, or $2.91 per common share ($2.88 per common share on a diluted basis). This compares with earnings of $114.7 million, or $3.01 per common share ($2.98 per common share on a diluted basis), in 1997.

The earnings decrease in 1998 was attributable to lower earnings of the Company's Utility, Exploration and Production and Energy Marketing segments, offset in part by higher earnings in the Pipeline and Storage segment and in the International and Timber segments (both of which incurred a loss in 1997). Additional discussion of earnings in each of the business segments can be found in the business segment information that follows.

Discussion of Asset Impairment and Cumulative Effect of a Change in Depletion Method
Seneca follows the full-cost method of accounting for its oil and gas operations. Under this method, all costs directly associated with property acquisitions, exploration and development are capitalized, up to certain specified limits. Due to significant declines in oil prices in 1998, Seneca's capitalized costs under the full-cost method of accounting exceeded these limits at March 31, 1998. Seneca was required to recognize an impairment of its oil and gas producing properties in the quarter ended March 31, 1998. This charge amounted to $129.0 million (pretax) and reduced net income for 1998 by $79.1 million.

Effective October 1, 1997, Seneca changed its method of depletion for oil and gas properties from the gross revenue method to the units of production method. The units of production method was applied retroactively to prior years to determine the cumulative effect through October 1, 1997. This cumulative effect reduced earnings for 1998 by $9.1 million, net of income tax. Depletion of oil and gas properties for 1999 and 1998 has been computed under the units of production method.

Earnings (Loss) by Segment
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                        1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Utility                                                                 $56,875          $51,788           $57,220
Pipeline and Storage                                                     39,765           39,852            36,760
Exploration and Production (1) (2)                                        7,127          (64,110)           20,359
International                                                             2,276            1,279            (3,348)
Energy Marketing                                                          2,054              787             1,567
Timber                                                                    4,769            1,904              (609)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total Reportable Segments                                            112,866           31,500           111,949
All Other                                                                  (162)             143               171
Corporate                                                                 2,333              661             2,568
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Total Consolidated (1) (2)                                          $115,037          $32,304          $114,688
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Before Cumulative Effect of a Change in Accounting in 1998
(2) Exclusive of the non-cash asset impairment, 1998 earnings for the Exploration and Production segment and Total Consolidated would have been $15,004 and $111,418, respectively.

Utility

Revenues

Utility Operating Revenues
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                   1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Retail Revenues:
    Residential                                                        $581,022         $612,647          $709,968
    Commercial                                                          101,482          123,807           167,338
    Industrial                                                           15,903           18,068            22,412
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        698,407          754,522           899,718
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Off-System Sales                                                       29,214           44,479            43,857
  Transportation                                                         77,600           62,844            49,285
  Other                                                                   2,134            9,335            (1,494)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       $807,355         $871,180          $991,366
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Utility Throughput - (MMcf)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30                                               1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Retail Sales:
    Residential                                                          71,177           71,704            85,676
    Commercial                                                           13,885           16,405            22,640
    Industrial                                                            4,144            4,298             5,134
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                         89,206           92,407           113,450
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Off-System Sales                                                       12,469           16,192            14,051
  Transportation                                                         64,284           60,386            57,875
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        165,959          168,985           185,376
Intrasegment Throughput                                                    (198)            (306)             (565)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        165,761          168,679           184,811
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues for the Utility segment decreased $63.8 million in 1999 compared with 1998. This resulted from a reduction in retail and off-system gas sales revenue of $56.1 million and $15.3 million, respectively, and a reduction in other operating revenue of $7.2 million. These decreases were partly offset by an increase in transportation revenue of $14.8 million.

The recovery of lower gas costs (gas costs are recovered dollar for dollar in revenues) and the general base rate decrease in the New York jurisdiction effective October 1, 1998 caused the decrease in retail gas revenue. The recovery of lower gas costs resulted from both lower retail volumes sold of 3.2 billion cubic feet (Bcf) and a lower average cost of purchased gas (see discussion of purchased gas below under the heading "Purchased Gas"). Despite weather that was colder than the prior year, retail volumes sold decreased, mainly due to the migration of residential and small commercial retail customers to transportation service. This is the result of customers turning to marketers for their gas supplies while using Distribution Corporation for gas transportation service. (Restructuring in the Utility segment's service territory is further discussed in the "Rate Matters" section that follows). Transportation revenue increased and volumes are up 3.9 Bcf as a result of the migration noted above and because of colder weather. Off-system revenue is down due to lower volumes sold of 3.7 Bcf. Off-system sales are a function of demand in the northeast markets. Record storage levels at the beginning of the 1998-99 heating season and a warmer than normal winter in 1998-99 reduced demand for off-system sales. The margins resulting from off-system sales are minimal.

The decrease in other operating revenue of $7.2 million is due primarily to a $7.2 million gas restructuring reserve reducing revenue in the current year, $6.0 million of revenue recorded in 1998 as a result of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audits and $0.5 million of a revenue reduction in the current year due to a final IRS audit settlement. These items are offset in part by a $7.1 million lower refund provision recorded in 1999 as compared with the 1998 refund provision. The gas restructuring reserve is to be applied against incremental costs resulting from the New York Public Service Commission's (NYPSC) gas restructuring efforts (the NYPSC's gas restructuring efforts are further discussed in the "Rate Matters" section that follows). The revenue related to the IRS audits represents the rate recovery of interest expense as allowed by the New York rate settlement of 1996. The refund provision represents the 50% sharing with customers of earnings over a predetermined amount in accordance with the New York rate settlements of 1996 and 1998. All of these items are included in the "Other" category of the Utility Operating Revenue table above.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating revenues for the Utility segment decreased $120.2 million in 1998 compared with 1997. This resulted from a reduction in retail sales revenue of $145.2 million offset in part by higher off-system sales revenue, transportation revenue and other revenue of $0.6 million, $13.6 million and $10.8 million, respectively.

The decrease in retail gas revenue was caused by the recovery of lower gas costs offset in part by a general base rate increase in the New York jurisdiction effective October 1, 1997. The recovery of lower gas costs resulted from a decrease in retail gas sales of 21.0 Bcf and a decrease in the average cost of purchased gas (see discussion of purchased gas below under the heading "Purchased Gas"). While the decrease in gas sales also reflects, in part, the migration of residential and small commercial retail customers to transportation service, the major reason for the decrease stems from warmer weather which was on average 13.8% warmer in 1998 than in 1997 (see Degree Days table below).

The increase in other operating revenue of $10.8 million is due primarily to $6.0 million of revenue recorded in 1998 as a result of IRS audits, as discussed above, and $7.9 million of refund pool revenue, as discussed below, offset in part by a $4.7 million higher refund provision recorded in 1998 as compared with 1997. The refund provision represents the 50% sharing with customers of earnings over a predetermined amount in accordance with the New York rate settlement of 1996.

As part of the 1996 rate settlement with the NYPSC, Distribution Corporation was allowed to utilize certain refunds from upstream pipeline companies and certain credits (referred to as the "refund pool") to offset certain specific expense items. In September 1998, Distribution Corporation recognized $7.9 million of the refund pool as other operating revenue and recorded an equal amount of Operation and Maintenance (O&M) expense in accordance with the settlement agreement.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
In the Utility segment, 1999 earnings were $56.9 million, up $5.1 million from the prior year. This was largely because the settlement of the primary issues of IRS audits of years 1977-1994 had a negative impact on earnings in 1998. In addition, adjustments made relating to the final settlement of these audits had a positive impact to earnings in the current year. Absent the IRS audit items, earnings of the Utility segment were up $0.6 million from the prior year.

Lower O&M and interest expenses, a lower refund provision in the current year (as noted in the revenue discussion above), positive adjustments for lost and unaccounted-for gas related to 1998 and 1999 and slightly colder weather (which mainly benefits the Pennsylvania jurisdiction), were the positive contributors to earnings this year. These items offset the costs associated with the current year's early retirement offers (which totaled $5.6 million, pretax, for this segment), as well as the effects of a rate settlement that included a $7.2 million rate reduction in New York that became effective October 1, 1998 and a special $7.2 million (pretax) reserve to be applied against incremental costs resulting from the NYPSC gas restructuring efforts, as discussed above.

The impact of weather on Distribution Corporation's New York rate jurisdiction is tempered by a weather normalization clause (WNC). The WNC in New York, which covers the eight-month period from October through May, has had a stabilizing effect on earnings for the New York rate jurisdiction. In addition, in periods of colder than normal weather, the WNC benefits Distribution Corporation's New York customers. In 1999, the WNC in New York preserved earnings of approximately $0.6 million (after tax) as weather, overall, was warmer than normal for the period of October 1998 through May 1999. Since the Pennsylvania rate jurisdiction does not have a WNC, uncontrollable weather variations directly impact earnings. In the Pennsylvania service territory, weather was 4.0% colder than 1998 and 9.9% warmer than normal. The Pennsylvania jurisdiction's colder weather in 1999 compared with 1998 increased earnings by approximately $0.5 million (after tax).

1998 Compared with 1997
Utility segment 1998 earnings were $51.8 million, down $5.4 million from 1997. This decrease was largely the result of the Utility segment incurring interest expense in 1998, net of related rate recovery, in connection with the settlement of the primary issues relating to the previously referred to settlement of the IRS audits. Absent this interest expense, the Utility segment's earnings were down $1.6 million as compared to 1997. Warmer weather in 1998 compared with 1997 was the primary cause of the decrease.

Partly offsetting the earnings decrease caused by warmer weather, the Utility segment experienced a decrease in O&M expense as a result of management's continued emphasis on controlling costs. Also contributing to this decrease, 1997 O&M expense included $0.9 million of pretax expenses associated with an early retirement offer to certain Pennsylvania operating union employees in 1997.

In 1998, the WNC in New York preserved earnings of approximately $7.9 million (after tax) as weather, overall, was warmer than normal for the period of October 1997 through May 1998. In the Pennsylvania service territory, weather was 15.7% warmer than 1997 and 13.4% warmer than normal. The Pennsylvania jurisdiction's warmer weather in 1998 compared with 1997 lowered earnings by approximately $4.0 million (after tax).

Degree Days
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                              Percent (Warmer)
                                                                                                 Colder Than
                                                                                      --------------------------------
Year Ended September 30                           Normal         Actual               Normal            Prior Year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  1999:                            Buffalo        6,848          6,179                (9.8%)            4.5%
                                   Erie           6,223          5,607                (9.9%)            4.0%
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  1998:                            Buffalo        6,689          5,914                (11.6%)           (12.9%)
                                   Erie           6,223          5,389                (13.4%)           (15.7%)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  1997:                            Buffalo        6,690          6,793                1.5%              (5.7%)
                                   Erie           6,223          6,395                2.8%              (5.5%)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Purchased Gas
The cost of purchased gas is currently the Company's single largest operating expense. Annual variations in purchased gas costs can be attributed directly to changes in gas sales volumes, the price of gas purchased and the operation of purchased gas adjustment clauses.

Currently, Distribution Corporation has contracted for long-term firm transportation capacity with Supply Corporation and six other upstream pipeline companies, for long-term gas supplies with a combination of producers and marketers and for storage service with Supply Corporation and three nonaffiliated companies. In addition, Distribution Corporation can satisfy a portion of its gas requirements through spot market purchases. Changes in wellhead prices have a direct impact on the cost of purchased gas. Distribution Corporation's average cost of purchased gas, including the cost of transportation and storage, was $3.82 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) in 1999, a decrease of 7.5% from the average cost of $4.13 per Mcf in 1998. The average cost of purchased gas in 1998 was 3% lower than the $4.26 per Mcf in 1997.

Pipeline and Storage

Revenues

Pipeline and Storage Operating Revenues
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                   1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Firm Transportation                                                     $91,659          $93,362           $92,027
Interruptible Transportation                                                476              985               831
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                         92,135           94,347            92,858
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Firm Storage Service                                                     63,655           62,850            64,147
Interruptible Storage Service                                               173              655                74
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                         63,828           63,505            64,221
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Other                                                                    12,820           13,131            15,615
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                       $168,783         $170,983          $172,694
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Pipeline and Storage Throughput - (MMcf)
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30                                               1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Firm Transportation                                                     300,242          298,738           291,164
Interruptible Transportation                                              8,061           14,310             9,138
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                        308,303          313,048           300,302
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues decreased $2.2 million in 1999 compared with 1998. The decrease resulted primarily from lower firm transportation revenue of $1.7 million, lower interruptible transportation and storage service revenue of $1.0 million, lower net revenues from unbundled pipeline sales and open access transportation of $0.8 million and an accrual for a gas imbalance payable of $1.0 million. These items were offset in part by higher firm storage service revenue of $0.8 million and higher cashout revenue of $1.3 million.

Approximately $1.0 million of the decrease in the firm transportation revenue related to "pass through" type items (i.e., surcharges and refunds) that correspondingly reduced O&M expense, thus having no bottom line earnings impact. Interruptible transportation and storage service revenue decreased (and interruptible volumes transported decreased 6.2 Bcf) as a result of full storages at the beginning of the 1998-99 heating season and a warmer than normal winter in 1998-99; thus Supply Corporation lacked available storage space to service interruptible customers. Lower interruptible storage service generally results in lower interruptible transportation. The higher cashout revenue (a cash resolution of a gas imbalance whereby a customer pays Supply Corporation for gas it receives in excess of amounts delivered into Supply Corporation's system by the customer's shipper) is offset by an equal amount of purchased gas expense, thus there is no bottom line earnings impact.

Transportation volumes in this segment decreased 4.7 Bcf. Generally, volume fluctuations do not have a significant impact on revenues as a result of Supply Corporation's straight fixed-variable (SFV) rate design. However, as mentioned above, lower interruptible transportation volumes did negatively impact revenue for 1999.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating revenues decreased $1.7 million in 1998 compared with 1997. The decrease resulted primarily from lower net revenues from unbundled pipeline sales and open access transportation of $1.8 million, lower firm storage service revenues of $1.3 million and lower cashout revenue of $1.1 million. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in firm transportation revenue of $1.3 million (resulting from demand charges related to the incremental expansion of this segment's Niagara import facilities) and higher interruptible transportation and storage service revenues of $0.7 million.

Transportation volumes in this segment increased 12.8 Bcf. As noted above, generally, volume fluctuations do not have a significant impact on revenues as a result of Supply Corporation's SFV rate design. However, the increase in capacity stemming from the above noted incremental expansion contributed to higher demand charge revenue. Higher interruptible transportation volumes also increased revenues.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
Earnings in the Pipeline and Storage segment remained at $39.8 million for 1999 and 1998. Lower revenues, as discussed above, and nonrecurring income in 1998 from a buyout of a firm transportation agreement by a customer in the amount of $2.5 million (pretax), were offset by lower O&M and interest expenses. Items causing lower O&M expense in 1999 when compared to 1998 include the establishment of reserves, in 1998, for preliminary survey and investigation costs associated with a proposed incremental expansion project and a natural gas gathering project (mainly due to lack of interest in furthering these projects). In addition, Supply Corporation recognized a base gas loss at its Zoar Storage Field in 1998. In total, these three items amounted to $3.7 million of pretax expense in 1998. In 1999, Supply Corporation reversed $0.8 million (pretax) of the gathering project reserve as it recovered that amount from its former project partner. Also in 1999, Supply recovered, through insurance, $0.7 million (pretax) related to the Zoar base gas loss. Several significant items also increased O&M expense in 1999 when compared to 1998, including early retirement offers in 1999 (which totaled $1.4 million, pretax, for this segment) and the 1998 reversal of a portion of a reserve set up in a prior period for a storage project. Supply Corporation was able to recover approximately $1.0 million (pretax) by selling preliminary engineering, survey, environmental and archeological information from this storage project to the Independence Pipeline Company (the Independence Pipeline project is discussed further under "Investing Cash Flow," subheading "Pipeline and Storage").

1998 Compared with 1997
In the Pipeline and Storage segment, earnings for 1998 of $39.8 million increased $3.1 million when compared with 1997. This was mainly due to Supply Corporation's portion of interest income from the previously mentioned settlement of IRS audits. Additional income tax expense related to certain unsettled issues was also recorded. Absent these IRS audit items, earnings would have been down $0.3 million when compared with 1997. This decrease reflects the lower revenues, as discussed above, and an increase in O&M expense. These items were offset in part by lower interest expense and a buyout of a firm transportation agreement by a customer in the amount of $2.5 million (pretax). The higher O&M expenses resulted primarily from the above noted establishment of reserves associated with a proposed incremental expansion project and a natural gas gathering project and the base gas loss at Zoar Storage Field. Partially offsetting these increases in O&M expense was the reversal of a portion of a reserve set up in a prior period for a storage project and the fact that 1997 O&M expense included $1.0 million of pretax expenses associated with an early retirement offer.

Exploration and Production

Revenues

Exploration and Production Operating Revenues
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                       1999             1998               1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
  Gas (after Hedging)                                                  $83,229          $82,910            $84,024
  Oil (after Hedging)                                                   52,050           34,069             34,147
  Gas Processing Plant                                                  11,751            4,937                  -
  Other                                                                   (36)            2,356              1,089
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
                                                                      $146,994         $124,272           $119,260
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues increased $22.7 million in 1999 compared with 1998. Oil production revenues, net of hedging activities, increased $18.0 million as production increased 54% (mainly the result of West Coast production from the properties acquired in 1998). Gas production revenue, net of hedging activities, increased $0.3 million due to higher production (also mainly the result of West Coast production from the properties acquired in 1998). Refer to the tables below for production and price information. Revenue from Seneca's gas processing plant, acquired as part of the HarCor Energy, Inc. (HarCor) and Bakersfield Energy Resources (BER) acquisitions in May and June 1998, was up $6.8 million. These items were partly offset by a negative mark-to-market revenue adjustment related to written options of $1.3 million. Refer to further discussion of written options in the "Market Risk Sensitive Instruments" section that follows and in Note F - Financial Instruments in Item 8 of this report.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating revenues increased $5.0 million in 1998 compared with 1997. The main reason for the increase was the $4.9 million in revenues related to the gas processing plant acquired in 1998, as noted above. While this gas processing plant contributed a large amount of revenue, this revenue was basically offset by an equal amount of expense.

Gas production revenues, net of hedging activities, decreased $1.1 million as a result of decreased production, offset in part by higher gas prices (after hedging). Refer to the tables below for production and price information. The gas production declines were mainly due to the shut-in of production during the Gulf hurricane season and tropical storms, as well as the expected decline in production of West Cameron 552 and delays in drilling due to lack of rig availability in the first half of the year. Oil production revenues, net of hedging activities, were basically even with 1997 as increased production was offset by lower oil prices (after hedging). The increase in oil production was mainly the result of West Coast production from the properties acquired in the Whittier Trust Company, HarCor and BER acquisitions.

Production Volumes
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Year Ended September 30                                                   1999             1998               1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Gas Production (million cubic feet)
  Gulf Coast                                                            28,758           29,461             32,377
  West Coast                                                             3,977            2,146              1,135
  Appalachia                                                             4,431            4,867              5,074
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
                                                                        37,166           36,474             38,586
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Oil Production (thousands of barrels)
  Gulf Coast                                                             1,373            1,228              1,404
  West Coast                                                             2,633            1,376                490
  Appalachia                                                                10               10                  8
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
                                                                         4,016            2,614              1,902
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------

Average Prices
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Year Ended September 30                                                    1999             1998               1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------
Average Gas Price/Mcf
  Gulf Coast                                                              $2.15            $2.40              $2.60
  West Coast                                                              $2.28            $2.14              $1.79
  Appalachia                                                              $2.44            $2.88              $2.79
  Weighted Average                                                        $2.20            $2.45              $2.60
  Weighted Average After Hedging                                          $2.24            $2.27              $2.18

Average Oil Price/bbl
  Gulf Coast                                                             $15.18           $14.69             $21.37
  West Coast(1)                                                          $11.62            $9.85             $18.49
  Appalachia                                                             $14.73           $16.80             $21.28
  Weighted Average                                                       $12.85           $12.15             $20.63
  Weighted Average After Hedging                                         $12.96           $13.03             $17.95
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- ------------------

(1) 1999 and 1998 includes low gravity oil which generally sells for a lower price.

Seneca utilizes price swap agreements and options to manage a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas and crude oil. Refer to further discussion of these hedging activities below under "Market Risk Sensitive Instruments" and in Note F - Financial Instruments in Item 8 of this report.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
In the Exploration and Production segment, 1999 earnings of $7.1 million are down $7.9 million (exclusive of the two non-cash special items in 1998) when compared with 1998. This is largely because the settlement of the primary issues of IRS audits of years 1977-1994 had a positive impact on earnings in the prior year. Absent the IRS audit items, earnings of the Exploration and Production segment were down $1.4 million from the prior year. Depressed oil and gas prices for much of 1999 were the main reason for these lower earnings. Higher oil and gas production revenue, as noted in the revenue section above, was offset by increases in lease operating, depletion and interest expense related mainly to Seneca's acquisition activity in 1998. The increase in the gas processing plant revenue of $6.8 million was largely offset by an increase in related expenses of $6.2 million.

1998 Compared with 1997
Earnings in the Exploration and Production segment were $15.0 million in 1998 (exclusive of the two non-cash special items), down $5.4 million from 1997. This segment's 1998 earnings include interest income related to the previously mentioned settlement of IRS audits. Without the positive contribution from this interest income, earnings would be down $12.1 million when compared with 1997. This decrease was mainly because of low oil prices, decreased gas production (for reasons discussed in the revenue section above) and higher lease operating and interest costs related to Seneca's acquisition activities in 1998. These circumstances more than offset the positive contribution to earnings that resulted from higher oil production and higher gas prices (after hedging).

International

Revenues

International Operating Revenues
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

   Heating                                                               $71,974          $49,560            $1,887
   Electricity                                                            34,158           22,774                 -
   Other                                                                     913            3,925                23
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                        $107,045          $76,259            $1,910
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

International Heating and Electric Volumes
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30                                                     1999             1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

   Heating Sales (Gigajoules) (1)                                     10,047,042        7,116,776           262,615
   Electricity Sales (megawatt hours)                                  1,138,980          763,848                 -
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

(1) Gigajoules = one billion joules. A joule is a unit of energy.

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues increased $30.8 million in 1999 compared with 1998. The increase in revenues as well as the increase in heat and electric volumes, as shown in the tables above, reflects the fact that 1999 was the first year in which a full twelve months of sales and revenues are included for PSZT. Sales and revenues for 1998 include only eight months of activity as PSZT was acquired in February 1998.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating  revenues  increased  $74.3 million in 1998  compared  with 1997.  The
increase  primarily  reflects  100% of the  revenues  of SCT and PSZT for  1998.

Horizon acquired a 34% equity interest in SCT in April 1997, subsequently increasing that interest to 36.8% by September 30, 1997 (and thus accounted for its investment in SCT under the equity method in 1997). During 1998, Horizon increased its ownership in SCT to 82.7% as of September 30, 1998. In February 1998, Horizon acquired a 75.3% equity interest in PSZT and subsequently increased its ownership interest to 86.2% as of September 30, 1998. The consolidation method was used to account for the investments in SCT and PSZT during 1998.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
The International segment's 1999 earnings were $2.3 million, or $1.0 million higher than 1998 earnings. The current year's earnings reflect a full twelve months of results from PSZT, while the prior year only included eight months of earnings. The contribution from these additional months in 1999 was offset in part by higher interest expense during 1999. In addition, 1998 earnings included a $5.1 million pretax net gain associated with U.S. dollar denominated debt, which did not recur in the current year. This debt was converted to a Czech koruna denominated loan in December 1998.

1998 Compared with 1997
The International segment's earnings of $1.3 million in 1998 were up $4.6 million when compared to the loss recognized in 1997. This segment realized increases from Horizon's share of earnings from its two main investments in district heating and power generation operations located in the Czech Republic.

Because of the change in the nature of operations of the International segment over the past three years, earnings comparisons between 1999, 1998 and 1997 may not be meaningful. Future revenues from district heating operations are expected to fluctuate with changes in weather.*

Energy Marketing

Revenues

Energy Marketing Operating Revenues
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                          1999             1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Natural Gas (after Hedging)                                               $97,514          $86,877           $70,054
Electricity                                                                 1,551              253                 -
Other                                                                          23               57                44
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                          $99,088          $87,187           $70,098
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Energy Marketing Volumes
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30                                                      1999             1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Natural Gas - (MMcf)                                                       34,454           26,453            21,024
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues increased $11.9 million in 1999 compared with 1998. This increase reflects higher marketing volumes as NFR customers increased from 5,476 at September 30, 1998 to 17,480 at September 30, 1999. Over 75% of the increase in customers was residential.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating revenues increased $17.1 million in 1998 compared with 1997. This increase reflects higher marketing volumes as NFR customers increased from 1,307 at September 30, 1997 to 5,476 at September 30, 1998.

NFR utilizes exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options to manage a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas. Refer to further discussion of these hedging activities below under "Market Risk Sensitive Instruments" and in Note F-Financial Instruments in Item 8 of this report.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
The Energy Marketing segment's 1999 earnings were $2.1 million, an increase of $1.3 million over 1998 earnings. Volumes of natural gas marketed have increased 30% to 34.5 Bcf in 1999 from 26.5 Bcf in 1998 and margins were up from the prior year. These positive contributions to earnings were partly offset by higher expenses for labor, office expense and advertising.

1998 Compared with 1997
The Energy Marketing segment's earnings for 1998 of $0.8 million were $0.8 million below 1997 earnings. Although volumes of natural gas marketed were up
5.4 Bcf, lower earnings reflect lower margins and higher O&M expense in 1998. The increase in O&M expense mainly resulted from expansion of NFR's customer base into new market areas.

Timber

Revenues

Timber Operating Revenues
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                          1999             1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Operating Revenues                                                        $31,117          $17,805           $11,536
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

1999 Compared with 1998
Operating revenues for the Timber segment increased $13.3 million. This increase was primarily the result of higher timber sales by Seneca of $3.6 million and increased log sales and kiln dry lumber sales of $4.9 million and $4.2 million, respectively, by Highland. Revenue growth reflects the increased investment by this segment in timber and sawmills.

1998 Compared with 1997
Operating revenues for the Timber segment increased $6.3 million as a result of higher timber sales by Seneca and increased lumber sales resulting from Highland's purchase in 1998 of two new lumber mills. Highland also had a full year of production from the mill it purchased in January 1997.

Earnings

1999 Compared with 1998
Timber segment earnings of $4.8 million in 1999 were up $2.9 million when compared with 1998. As noted above, timber revenues increased by 75%. These higher revenues were partly offset by higher O&M, depletion and interest expenses. Earnings growth reflects the increased investment by this segment in timber and sawmills.

1998 Compared with 1997
Timber segment earnings of $1.9 million in 1998 were up $2.5 million when compared to the loss recognized in 1997. Higher revenues from the operations of two new sawmills purchased in 1998 helped drive the earnings increase.

Other Income and Interest Charges
Although variances in Other Income items and Interest Charges are discussed in the earnings discussion by segment above, following is a recap on a consolidated basis:

Other Income
Other income decreased $23.5 million in 1999 and increased $32.7 million in 1998. The 1999 decrease is primarily due to a decrease in interest income related to the settlement of IRS audits. In 1999 and 1998, $3.1 million and $18.5 million, respectively, of interest income was recognized related to these audits. Lower other income in 1999 also reflects two items recorded in 1998: a net gain of $5.1 million associated with U.S. dollar denominated debt carried on the balance sheet of PSZT and a buyout of a firm transportation agreement by a Pipeline and Storage segment customer in the amount of $2.5 million. Partly offsetting these items is a $2.4 million gain recorded in 1999 resulting from the demutualization of an insurance company. As a policyholder, the Company received stock of the insurance company as part of its initial public offering.

The 1998 increase in other income is primarily due to the above noted $18.5 million of interest income related to the settlement of IRS audits, the $5.1 million net gain associated with U.S. dollar denominated debt, the $2.5 million buyout of a firm transportation agreement by a Pipeline and Storage segment customer, as well as $1.3 million of interest income on temporary cash investments of SCT and PSZT.

Interest Charges
Interest on long-term debt increased $12.2 million in 1999 and $11.0 million in 1998. The increase in both years can be attributed mainly to a higher average amount of long-term debt outstanding. Long-term debt balances have grown significantly over the past several years primarily as a result of acquisition activity in the Exploration and Production and International segments.

Other interest charges decreased $9.8 million in 1999 and increased $17.5 million in 1998. The decrease in 1999 compared to 1998, as well as the increase in 1998 compared with 1997, resulted primarily from the $11.7 million of interest expense recorded in 1998 related to the settlement of IRS audits. In addition, in 1999 and 1998, interest on short-term debt increased mainly as a result of higher average amounts of debt outstanding.

Capital Resources and Liquidity

The primary sources and uses of cash during the last three years are summarized in the following condensed statement of cash flows:

Sources (Uses) of Cash
-------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Millions)                                           1999             1998              1997
-------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Provided by Operating Activities                                           $271.9           $253.0            $294.7
Capital Expenditures                                                       (260.5)          (393.2)           (214.0)
Investment in Subsidiaries,
  Net of Cash Acquired                                                       (5.8)          (112.0)            (21.1)
Investment in Partnerships                                                   (3.6)            (5.5)                -
Other Investing Activities                                                    6.7              7.6               1.4
Short-Term Debt, Net Change                                                  67.2            229.4            (107.3)
Long-Term Debt, Net Change                                                  (15.6)            94.9              98.2
Issuance of Common Stock                                                     10.7              7.9               7.1
Dividends Paid on Common Stock                                              (69.9)           (67.0)            (64.3)
Dividends Paid to Minority
  Interest                                                                   (0.2)            (0.3)                -
Effect of Exchange Rates on Cash                                             (2.1)             1.6                 -
-------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash
  and Temporary Cash Investments                                            $(1.2)           $16.4             $(5.3)
-------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Operating Cash Flow

Internally generated cash from operating activities consists of net income available for common stock, adjusted for noncash expenses, noncash income and changes in operating assets and liabilities. Noncash items include depreciation, depletion and amortization, deferred income taxes, minority interest in foreign subsidiaries, the cumulative effect of a change in accounting for depletion
(1998) and the impairment of oil and gas producing properties (1998).

Cash provided by operating activities in the Utility and Pipeline and Storage segments may vary substantially from year to year because of the impact of rate cases. In the Utility segment, supplier refunds, over- or under-recovered purchased gas costs and weather also significantly impact cash flow. The impact of weather on cash flow is tempered in the Utility segment's New York rate jurisdiction by its WNC and in the Pipeline and Storage segment by Supply Corporation's SFV rate design.

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $271.9 million in 1999, an increase of $18.9 million compared with the $253.0 million provided by operating activities in 1998. The increase is attributed primarily to the Utility segment's contribution offset partly by a decrease in cash provided by operations in the Exploration and Production segment. The increase in the Utility segment is mainly the result of lower O&M expenditures combined with lower cash disbursements for taxes and interest. While cash receipts from gas sales and transportation service were down, this decrease was substantially offset by lower gas purchase expenditures. The decrease to cash provided by operations in the Exploration and Production segment is primarily because of an increase in interest payments stemming from higher debt related to the acquisitions made in 1998.

Investing Cash Flow

Expenditures for Long-Lived Assets
Expenditures for long-lived assets include additions to property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures) and investments in corporations (stock acquisitions) or partnerships, net of any cash acquired.

The Company's expenditures for long-lived assets totaled $269.9 million in 1999. The table below presents these expenditures by business segment:

----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -----------------
                                                                                                              Total
                                                                                      Investments      Expenditures
                                                                      Capital     in Corporations         For Long-
Year Ended September 30, 1999 (Millions)                         Expenditures     or Partnerships      Lived Assets
----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -----------------
Utility                                                                $47.0                $  -             $47.0
Pipeline and Storage                                                    31.2                 3.6              34.8
Exploration and Production                                              97.6                   -              97.6
International                                                           27.6                 5.8              33.4
Energy Marketing                                                         0.3                   -               0.3
Timber                                                                  56.7                   -              56.7
All Other                                                                0.1                   -               0.1
----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -----------------
                                                                      $260.5                $9.4            $269.9
----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -----------------

Utility
The majority of the Utility capital expenditures were made for replacement of mains and main extensions, as well as for the replacement of service lines.

Pipeline and Storage
The majority of the Pipeline and Storage capital expenditures were made for additions, improvements and replacements to this segment's transmission and storage systems.

SIP made a $3.6 million investment in 1999 in Independence and had an aggregate investment balance of $10.4 million at September 30, 1999. Independence is a Delaware general partnership in which SIP owns a one-third general partnership interest. SIP's cash investments were financed with short-term borrowings. Independence intends to build a 370 mile natural gas pipeline (Independence Pipeline) from Defiance, Ohio to Leidy, Pennsylvania at an estimated cost of $680 million.* If the Independence Pipeline is not constructed, SIP's share of the development costs (including SIP's investment in Independence Pipeline Company) is estimated not to exceed $13.0 million.*

Exploration and Production
Exploration and Production segment capital expenditures included approximately $57.4 million on the offshore program in the Gulf of Mexico, including offshore drilling expenditures, offshore construction and lease acquisition costs. The remaining $40.2 million of capital expenditures included onshore drilling and construction costs for wells located in Louisiana, Texas and California as well as onshore geological and geophysical costs, including the purchase of certain 3-D seismic data. Of this amount, approximately $20.4 million was spent on development drilling, workover, recompletion and facility construction costs on the leases acquired last year in the Midway Sunset, Lost Hills area of California.

International
The majority of the International segment capital expenditures were made by PSZT for the construction of new fluidized-bed boilers at its district heating and power generation plant to comply with stricter clean air standards. Short-term borrowings and cash from operations were used to finance these capital expenditures.

In fiscal 1999, Horizon, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, increased its ownership interest in SCT to 82.87% for a minimal cost. SCT in turn increased its ownership interest in Jablonecka teplarenska a realitni, a.s. (JTR), a district heating plant in the northern Bohemia region of the Czech Republic, from 34% to 65.78%. The cost of acquiring these additional shares was approximately $5.8 million ($5.7 million, net of cash acquired) and was financed with short-term borrowings and cash from operations.

Energy Marketing
The capital expenditures consisted primarily of the purchase of furniture, equipment and computer hardware and software for NFR's gas marketing operations.

Timber
The majority of the Timber segment's capital expenditures consisted of the purchase of 36,300 acres of land and timber from PennzEnergy Company for approximately $47 million. The acquisition was financed with short-term borrowings. The remaining $9.7 million of capital expenditures in this segment were for other land, timber and equipment purchases.

Other Investing Activities
Other cash provided by or used in investing activities primarily reflects cash received on the sale of various subsidiaries investments in property, plant and equipment, and cash used for investments in a mutual fund.

Estimated Capital Expenditures
The Company's estimated capital expenditures for the next three years are:*

-------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Millions)                                          2000             2001              2002
-------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Utility                                                                   $ 50.5           $ 49.5            $ 48.5
Pipeline and Storage                                                        38.9             20.5              20.5
Exploration and Production                                                 112.2            139.7             139.9
International                                                                8.6              8.6               8.6
Timber                                                                       0.8              0.8               0.8
-------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                          $211.0           $219.1            $218.3
-------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Estimated capital expenditures for the Utility segment in 2000 will be concentrated in the areas of main and service line improvements and replacements and, to a minor extent, the installation of new services.*

Estimated capital expenditures for the Pipeline and Storage segment in 2000 will be concentrated in the reconditioning of storage wells and the replacement of storage and transmission lines. The estimated capital expenditures also include approximately $9.4 million for the purchase of an additional interest in both the Niagara Spur Loop Line (a 49.2 mile, 30-inch pipeline extending from Lewiston, New York to East Aurora, New York) and the Ellisburg Leidy Line (pipelines and facilities extending from Ellisburg, Pennsylvania to Leidy, Pennsylvania).*

Estimated capital expenditures in 2000 for the Exploration and Production segment includes approximately $78.3 million for the offshore program in the Gulf of Mexico. Of this amount, approximately $53.3 million is intended to be spent on exploratory and development drilling. The estimated expenditures also includes approximately $33.9 million for the onshore program. Of this amount, approximately $29.7 million is intended to be spent on exploratory and development drilling.*

Estimated capital expenditures for the International segment will be concentrated in the areas of improvements and replacements within the district heating and power generation plants in the Czech Republic.*

The Company continuously evaluates capital expenditures and investments in corporations and partnerships. The amounts are subject to modification for opportunities such as the acquisition of attractive oil and gas properties, timber or storage facilities and the expansion of transmission line capacities. While the majority of capital expenditures in the Utility segment are necessitated by the continued need for replacement and upgrading of mains and service lines, the magnitude of future capital expenditures or other investments in the Company's other business segments depends, to a large degree, upon market conditions.*

Financing Cash Flow

In order to meet the Company's capital requirements, cash from external sources must periodically be obtained through short-term bank loans and commercial paper, as well as through issuances of long-term debt and equity securities. The Company expects these traditional sources of cash to continue to supplement its internally generated cash during the next several years.*

In February 1999, the Company issued $100.0 million of 6.0% medium-term notes due in March 2009. After deducting underwriting discounts and commissions, the net proceeds to the Company amounted to $98.7 million. The proceeds of this debt issuance, together with other funds, were used to redeem $100.0 million of 5.58% medium-term notes which matured in March 1999.

In July 1999, the Company issued $100.0 million of 6.82% medium-term notes due to mature in August 2004. After deducting underwriting discounts and commissions, the net proceeds to the Company amounted to $99.5 million. The proceeds of this debt issuance, together with other funds, were used to redeem $50.0 million of 7.25% medium-term notes which matured in July 1999 and to complete the redemption of HarCor's 14.875% senior secured notes, discussed below.

In March and July of 1999, the Company redeemed HarCor's 14.875% senior secured notes. The Company redeemed the notes at a redemption price of 110% of face value, which amounted to $59.1 million. The senior secured notes were recorded at fair market value on the opening balance sheet in 1998 to reflect an effective interest rate of 5.875% and the projected redemption of this debt in 1999.

The Company's embedded cost of long-term debt was 7.0% and 6.9% at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

Consolidated short-term debt increased $67.2 million during 1999. The Company continues to consider short-term bank loans and commercial paper important sources of cash for temporarily financing capital expenditures and investments in corporations and/or partnerships, gas-in-storage inventory, unrecovered purchased gas costs, exploration and development expenditures and other working capital needs. Fluctuations in these items can have a significant impact on the amount and timing of short-term debt.

In March 1998, the Company obtained authorization from the SEC, under the Holding Company Act, to issue long-term debt securities and equity securities in amounts not exceeding $2.0 billion during the order's authorization period, which extends to December 31, 2002. In August 1999, the Company obtained authorization from the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933 to issue up to $625 million of debt and equity securities.

The Company's present liquidity position is believed to be adequate to satisfy known demands.* Under the Company's existing indenture covenants, at September 30, 1999, the Company would have been permitted to issue up to a maximum of $485.0 million in additional long-term unsecured indebtedness at projected market interest rates. In addition, at September 30, 1999, the Company had regulatory authorizations and unused short-term credit lines that would have permitted it to borrow an additional $356.5 million of short-term debt.

The amounts and timing of the issuance and sale of debt and/or equity securities will depend on market conditions, regulatory authorizations, and the requirements of the Company.

The Company is involved in litigation arising in the normal course of its business. In addition to the regulatory matters discussed in Note B - Regulatory Matters, in Item 8 of this report, the Company is involved in other regulatory matters arising in the normal course of business that involve rate base, cost of service and purchased gas cost issues. While the resolution of such litigation or other regulatory matters could have a material effect on earnings and cash flows in the year of resolution, neither such litigation nor these other regulatory matters are expected to materially change the Company's present liquidity position nor have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company at this time.*

Market Risk Sensitive Instruments

Energy Commodity Price Risk
Certain of the Company's subsidiaries (primarily Seneca and NFR) utilize various derivative financial instruments (derivatives), including price swap agreements, options, exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options, as part of the Company's overall energy commodity price risk management strategy. Under this strategy, the Company manages a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas and crude oil, thereby providing more stability to operating results. The derivatives entered into by these subsidiaries are not held for trading purposes. These subsidiaries have operating procedures in place that are administered by experienced management to monitor compliance with their risk management policies.

The following tables disclose natural gas and crude oil price swap information by expected maturity dates for agreements in which Seneca receives a fixed price in exchange for paying a variable price as quoted in "Inside FERC" or on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Notional amounts (quantities) are used to calculate the contractual payments to be exchanged under the contract. The tables do not reflect the earnings impact of the physical transactions that are expected to offset the financial gains and losses arising from the use of the price swap agreements. The weighted average variable prices represent the prices as of September 30, 1999. At September 30, 1999, Seneca had not entered into any natural gas or crude oil price swap agreements extending beyond 2002.

Natural Gas Price Swap Agreements
---------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Expected Maturity Dates
                                                       -------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                2000           2001           2002           Total
------------------------------------------------------ --------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Notional Quantities (Equivalent Bcf)                            28.0           11.1            1.1            40.2
Weighted Average Fixed Rate (per Mcf)                          $2.70          $2.66          $2.61           $2.69
Weighted Average Variable Rate (per Mcf)                       $3.01          $3.00          $2.35           $2.99
------------------------------------------------------ --------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Crude Oil Price Swap Agreements
-------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------ --------------- ---------------------------------------------
                                                                                  Expected Maturity Dates
                                                                       ---------------------------------------------
                                                                               2000           2001           Total
------------------------------------------------------ --------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Notional Quantities (Equivalent bbls)                                     2,112,000        184,000       2,296,000
Weighted Average Fixed Rate (per bbl)                                        $19.09         $18.00          $19.00
Weighted Average Variable Rate (per bbl)                                     $23.79         $23.79          $23.79
------------------------------------------------------ --------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

At September 30, 1999, Seneca would have had to pay the respective counterparties to its natural gas price swap agreements an aggregate of approximately $2.4 million to terminate the natural gas price swap agreements outstanding at that date. Seneca would have had to pay an aggregate of approximately $7.4 million to the counterparties to its crude oil price swap agreements to terminate the crude oil price swap agreements outstanding at September 30, 1999.

The following tables disclose the notional quantities and weighted average strike prices for options utilized by Seneca to manage natural gas and crude oil price risk. The tables do not reflect the earnings impact of the physical transactions that are expected to offset any financial gains or losses that might arise if an option were to be exercised.

Written Call Options
--------------------

------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
                                                                Expected Maturity Date - 2000
------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------
Crude Oil
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent bbls)                                    184,000
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per bbl)                                   $18.00
Natural Gas
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent Bcf)                                         2.6
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per Mcf)                                    $2.86
------------------------------------------------------------ --------- --------------

Written Call Options(1)
-----------------------

---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
                                                                                  Expected Maturity Dates
                                                                       ---------------------------------------------
                                                                               2000           2001           Total
---------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Crude Oil
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent bbls)                                    548,000        184,000         732,000
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per bbl)                                   $18.00         $18.00          $18.00
Natural Gas
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent Bcf)                                        10.4            3.5            13.9
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per Mcf)                                    $2.58          $2.74           $2.62
---------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

(1) The counterparty has a choice between a natural gas call option and a crude oil call option, depending on whichever option has greater value to the counterparty.

Written Put Options

---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
                                                                                  Expected Maturity Dates
                                                                       ---------------------------------------------
                                                                               2000           2001           Total
---------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Crude Oil
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent bbls)                                    732,000        184,000         916,000
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per bbl)                                   $12.50         $12.50          $12.50
---------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ---------------

Purchased Call Option
---------------------

---------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
                                                                     Expected Maturity Date - 2000
---------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
Crude Oil
   Notional Quantities (Equivalent bbls)                                                 1,464,000
   Weighted Average Strike Price (per bbl)                                                  $20.00
---------------------------------------------------------- -------------- --------------------------

At September 30, 1999, Seneca would have had to pay the counterparty to its call options $3.6 million on a net basis to terminate its call options. Seneca would have paid the counterparty $8.2 million related to the exercise of the written call and put options but would have received $4.6 million related to Seneca's exercise of its purchased call option.

The Company is exposed to credit risk on the price swap agreements that Seneca has entered into as well as on the call options that Seneca has purchased. Credit risk relates to the risk of loss that the Company would incur as a result of nonperformance by counterparties pursuant to the terms of their contractual obligations. To mitigate such credit risk, management performs a credit check and then on an ongoing basis monitors counterparty credit exposure. The Company does not anticipate any material impact to its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows as a result of nonperformance by counterparties.*

The following table discloses the net notional quantities, weighted average contract prices and weighted average settlement prices by expected maturity date for exchange-traded futures contracts utilized by NFR to manage natural gas price risk. The table does not reflect the earnings impact of the physical transactions that are expected to offset the financial gains and losses arising from the use of the futures contracts. At September 30, 1999, NFR held no futures contracts with maturity dates extending beyond 2001.

Exchange-Traded Futures Contracts
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------ -----------------

                                                                             Expected Maturity Dates
                                                                ------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          2000               2001            Total
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------ -----------------

Contract Volumes Purchased (Equivalent Bcf)                                2.0                0.1              2.1
Weighted Average Contract Price (per Mcf)                                $2.75              $2.82            $2.75
Weighted Average Settlement Price (per Mcf)                              $2.89              $2.98            $2.89
--------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------ -----------------

The following table discloses the notional quantities and weighted average strike prices by expected maturity dates for exchange-traded options utilized by NFR to manage natural gas price risk. The table does not reflect the earnings impact of the physical transactions that would offset any financial gains or losses that might arise if an option were to be exercised. At September 30, 1999, NFR held no options with maturity dates extending beyond 2000.

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased
---------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
                                                                    Expected Maturity Date - 2000
------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

Notional Quantities (Equivalent Bcf)                                                         9.0
Weighted Average Strike Price (per Mcf)                                                    $2.72
------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

Exchange-Traded Options Sold
----------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
                                                                    Expected Maturity Date - 2000
------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

Notional Quantities (Equivalent Bcf)                                                         17.1
Weighted Average Strike Price (per Mcf)                                                     $3.01
------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

At September 30, 1999, NFR would have received approximately $2.3 million to settle the exchange-traded futures outstanding at that date. NFR would have paid approximately $1.2 million to settle its exchange-traded options outstanding at September 30, 1999.

Exchange Rate Risk
Horizon's investment in the Czech Republic is valued in Czech korunas, and, as such, this investment is subject to currency exchange risk when the Czech korunas are translated into U.S. dollars. During 1999, the Czech koruna decreased in value in relation to the U.S. dollar resulting in a $11.7 million negative adjustment to the Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment (a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income). Further valuation changes to the Czech koruna would result in corresponding positive or negative adjustments to the Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment. Management cannot predict whether the Czech koruna will increase or decrease in value against the U.S. dollar.*

Interest Rate Risk
The Company's exposure to interest rate risk primarily consists of short-term debt instruments. At September 30, 1999, these instruments included short-term bank loans and commercial paper totaling $392.3 million (domestically). The interest rate on these short-term bank loans and commercial paper approximated 5.5%. These instruments also included $1.2 million of short-term bank loans held by SCT in the Czech Republic at September 30, 1999. The interest rate on the Czech Republic loans approximated 6.4%.

The following table presents the principal cash repayments and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity date for the Company's long-term fixed rate debt as well as the other debt of certain of the Company's subsidiaries. The interest rates for the variable rate debt are based on those in effect at September 30, 1999:

------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------
                                                     Principal Amounts by Expected Maturity Dates
                                     ------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Millions of Dollars)                      2000        2001        2002        2003        2004    Thereafter      Total
------------------------------------ ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------

National Fuel Gas Company
Long-Term Fixed Rate Debt                   $50          $-          $-          $-        $225        $549         $824
Weighted Average Interest
   Rate Paid                               6.6%          -%          -%          -%        7.3%        6.6%         6.8%
Fair Value =  $798.7 million
------------------------------------ ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------

PSZT
Long-Term Variable Rate
   Debt                                    $7.2        $9.5        $9.5        $9.5        $9.5        $2.5        $47.7
Weighted Average Interest
   Rate Paid                               7.5%        7.5%        7.5%        7.5%        7.5%        7.5%         7.5%
Fair Value = $47.7 million
------------------------------------ ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------

Other Notes

Long-Term Debt(1)                         $12.4        $3.1        $1.2        $0.9        $0.9        $2.2        $20.7
Weighted Average Interest
  Rate Paid                               11.3%        6.7%        6.7%        7.3%        7.3%        6.8%         9.5%
Fair Value = $20.7 million
------------------------------------ ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ----------

(1) $5.8 million is variable rate debt; $14.9 million is fixed rate debt.

PSZT utilizes an interest rate swap to eliminate interest rate fluctuations on its CZK 1,595,924,000 term loan ($47.7 million at September 30, 1999), which carries a variable interest rate of six month Prague Interbank Offered Rate (PRIBOR) plus 0.475%. Under the terms of the interest rate swap, which extends until 2001, PSZT pays a fixed rate of 8.31% and receives a floating rate of six month PRIBOR. PSZT would have paid approximately $1.0 million to settle the interest rate swap at September 30, 1999.

Rate Matters

Utility Operation

New York Jurisdiction

On October 21, 1998, the NYPSC approved a rate plan for Distribution Corporation for the period beginning October 1, 1998 and ending September 30, 2000. The plan was the result of a settlement agreement entered into by Distribution Corporation, Staff for the NYPSC (Staff), Multiple Intervenors (an advocate for large industrial customers) and the State Consumer Protection Board. Under the plan, Distribution Corporation's rates were reduced by $7.2 million, or 1.1%. In addition, customers are receiving up to $6.0 million in bill credits, disbursed volumetrically over the two year term, reflecting a predetermined share of excess earnings under a 1996 settlement. An allowed return on equity of 12%, above which additional earnings will be shared equally with the customers, was maintained from a 1996 settlement. Finally, as provided by the rate plan, $7.2 million of 1999 revenues were set aside in a special reserve to be applied against Distribution Corporation's incremental costs resulting from the NYPSC's gas restructuring effort further described below.

On November 3, 1998, the NYPSC issued its Policy Statement Concerning the Future of the Natural Gas Industry in New York State and Order Terminating
Capacity Assignment (Policy Statement). The Policy Statement sets forth the NYPSC's "vision" on "how best to ensure a competitive market for natural gas in New York." That vision includes the following goals:

(1) Effective competition in the gas supply market for retail customers;
(2) Downward pressure on customer gas prices;
(3) Increased customer choice of gas suppliers and service options;
(4) A provider of last resort (not necessarily the utility);
(5) Continuation of reliable service and maintenance of operations procedures that treat all participants fairly;
(6) Sufficient and accurate information for customers to use in making informed decisions;
(7) The availability of information that permits adequate oversight of the market to ensure fair competition; and
(8) Coordination of Federal and State policies affecting gas supply and distribution in New York State.

The Policy Statement provides that the most effective way to establish a competitive market in gas supply is "for local distribution companies to cease selling gas." The NYPSC hopes to accomplish that objective over a three-to-seven year transition period, taking into account "statutory requirements" and the individual needs of each local distribution company (LDC).* The Policy Statement directs Staff to schedule "discussions" with each LDC on an "individualized plan that would effectuate our vision." In preparation for negotiations, LDCs will be required to address issues such as a strategy to hold new capacity contracts to a minimum, a long-term rate plan with a goal of reducing or freezing rates, and a plan for further unbundling. In addition, Staff was instructed to hold collaborative sessions with multiple parties to discuss generic issues including reliability and market power regulation. Distribution Corporation has participated in the collaborative sessions. These collaborative sessions have not yet produced a consensus document on all issues before the NYPSC. Distribution Corporation will continue to participate in all future collaborative sessions.

Distribution Corporation was recently advised, on an informal basis, that its "individualized plan" for restructuring to "effectuate [the NYPSC's] vision" may be included in discussions anticipated in connection with the current rate settlement, which expires on its own terms on September 30, 2000.

On June 7, 1999, the NYPSC issued a notice requesting comments on Staff's proposal for a "single retailer" billing environment. The proposal recommends that electric and gas utilities exit the billing function at an undetermined future date. The retail billing function would then be performed solely by unregulated marketers. Included in the billing proposal is a recommendation that utilities design a "back-out" credit equal to the long run costs avoided by each utility when billing is provided by another party. Distribution Corporation filed comments opposing much of the proposal but supporting a suggested interim regime where multiple billing arrangements, including utility billing, would be permitted. This proceeding remains pending. In anticipation of a NYPSC order partially adopting Staff's recommendation, Distribution Corporation is exploring the development of a retail billing service for sale to marketers serving aggregated customers. There is a market for retail billing services in Distribution Corporation's service territory, and Distribution Corporation believes that a service can be designed that will meet the approval of the regulators.*

Pennsylvania Jurisdiction

Distribution Corporation currently does not have a rate case on file with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PaPUC). Management will continue to monitor its financial position in the Pennsylvania jurisdiction to determine the necessity of filing a rate case in the future.

Effective October 1, 1997, Distribution Corporation commenced a PaPUC approved customer choice pilot program called Energy Select. Energy Select, which lasted until April 1, 1999, allowed approximately 19,000 small commercial and residential customers of Distribution Corporation in the greater Sharon, Pennsylvania area to purchase gas supplies from qualified, participating non-utility suppliers (or marketers) of gas. Distribution Corporation was not a supplier of gas in this pilot. Under Energy Select, Distribution Corporation delivered the gas to the customer's home or business and remained responsible for reading customer meters, the safety and maintenance of its pipeline system and responding to gas emergencies. NFR was a participating supplier in Energy Select.

Effective February 11, 1999, Distribution Corporation's System Wide Energy Select tariff was approved by the PaPUC. This program is intended to expand the Energy Select pilot program described above to apply across Distribution Corporation's entire Pennsylvania service territory. The plan borrows many features of the Energy Select pilot, but several important changes were adopted. Most significantly, the new program includes Distribution Corporation as a choice for retail consumers, in furtherance of Distribution Corporation's objective to remain a merchant. Also departing from the pilot scheme, Distribution Corporation resumes its role as provider of last resort and maintains customer contact by providing a billing service on its own behalf and, as an option, for participating marketers.

A natural gas restructuring bill was signed into law on June 22, 1999. Entitled the Natural Gas Choice and Competition Act (Act), the new law requires all Pennsylvania LDCs to file tariffs designed to provide retail customers with direct access to competitive gas markets. Distribution Corporation submitted its compliance filing on October 1, 1999 for an effective date on or about July 1, 2000. The filing largely mirrors the Energy Select program currently in effect, which substantially complies with the Act's requirements. Currently the parties to the proceeding are engaged in routine discovery and settlement discussions have begun. Distribution Corporation is unable to predict the outcome of the proceeding at this time.

Base rate adjustments in both the New York and Pennsylvania jurisdictions do not reflect the recovery of purchased gas costs. Such costs are recovered through operation of the purchased gas adjustment clauses of the appropriate regulatory authorities.

Pipeline and Storage

Supply Corporation currently does not have a rate case on file with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Its last case was settled with the FERC in February 1996. As part of that settlement, Supply Corporation agreed not to seek recovery of revenues related to certain terminated service from storage customers until April 1, 2000, as long as the terminations were not greater than approximately 30% of the terminable service. Supply Corporation has been successful in marketing and obtaining executed contracts for such terminated storage service (at discounted rates) and expects to continue obtaining executed contracts for additional terminated storage service as it arises.*

Other Matters

Environmental Matters
It is the Company's policy to accrue estimated environmental clean-up costs (investigation and remediation) when such amounts can reasonably be estimated and it is probable that the Company will be required to incur such costs. Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation have estimated their clean-up costs related to former manufactured gas plant and former gasoline plant sites and third party waste disposal sites will be in the range of $9.4 million to $10.4 million.* The minimum liability of $9.4 million has been recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 1999. Other than discussed in Note H (referred to below), the Company is currently not aware of any material additional exposure to environmental liabilities. However, adverse changes in environmental regulations or other factors could impact the Company.*

The Company is subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment. The Company has established procedures for the ongoing evaluation of its operations to identify potential environmental exposures and comply with regulatory policies and procedures.

For further discussion refer to Note H - Commitments and Contingencies under the heading "Environmental Matters" in Item 8 of this report.

New Accounting Pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" (SFAS 133). In June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Deferral of the Effective Date of SFAS 133." For a discussion of SFAS 133 and SFAS 137 and their impact on the Company, see disclosure in Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8 of this report.

Year 2000
Numerous media reports have heightened concern that information technology computer systems, software programs and semiconductors may not be capable of recognizing dates after the Year 2000 because such systems use only two digits to refer to a particular year. Such systems may read dates in the Year 2000 and thereafter as if those dates represent the year 1900 or thereafter and, in certain instances, such systems may fail to function properly.

State of Readiness
The Company believes that all necessary work has been completed in order to make its internal computer system Year 2000 ready.* Following the completion of an early-impact analysis study, a formal project manager at the Company was designated to spearhead the Year 2000 remediation effort. The methodology adopted by the Company to address the Year 2000 issue is a combination of methods recommended by respected industry consultants and efforts tailored to meet the Company's specific needs. The Company's Year 2000 plan addresses five primary areas.

A. Mainframe Corporate Business Applications Developed and Maintained by the Company: A detailed plan and impact analysis was conducted in 1996-1997 to determine the extent of Year 2000 implications on the Company's mainframe-based computer systems. The remediation and testing in this area have been completed.*

B. Personal Computer Business Applications Software Developed and Supported by the Company: Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation have retained a consulting firm to perform a detailed impact analysis of the personal computer business application systems supported by the Company's Information Services Department. Seneca has similarly retained a consulting firm to review its Year 2000 issues. These firms have either corrected Year 2000 problems identified by their analysis or advised the respective subsidiaries of the potentially problematic computer applications. Certain applications identified by the consulting firms as potentially problematic have been retired and replaced with Year 2000 compliant applications. The required changes and testing for these applications are complete.*

C. Vendor-Supplied Software, Hardware, and Services for Corporate Business Applications Supported by the Company: This category includes all mainframe infrastructure products as well as all PC client/server software and hardware. The Company has sent letters to its vendors asking if their products and services will continue to perform as expected after January 1, 2000. These vendors are responsible for approximately 200 products and services associated with corporate computer applications. The Company has received responses from all vendors which the Company believes supply critical hardware, software, date-sensitive embedded chips and related computer services. The Company has completed testing and implementation of the vendor-supplied Year 2000 ready products and services.*

D. Vendor-Supplied Products and Services Used on a Corporate Wide Basis: This category includes the critical products and services that are used by multiple departments within the Company including all products containing embedded chips which might be date sensitive. The Company has sent letters to the primary vendors who provide these products and services to the Company, requesting Year 2000 compliance plans. The Company is monitoring their responses and has incorporated them into the Company's overall Year 2000 project and contingency plans. The Company has completed testing and implementation of the products and services of these vendors (reference is made to the "Risks" section below).*

E. User-Department Maintained Business Applications: The Company uses certain business software applications that were either built in-house or vendor-supplied and subsequently maintained by individual departments of the Company. The scope of such applications includes, but is not limited to, spreadsheets, databases, vendor provided products and services and embedded process controls. A corporate wide Year 2000 task force is in place and has established a process to identify and resolve Year 2000 problems in this area. This task force meets on a monthly basis to coordinate ongoing activities and report on the project status. Providers of critical products and services have been identified and the Company has sent letters requesting their Year 2000 compliance plans. Responses are being monitored and incorporated into the Year 2000 planning of the various departments. Based on responses received to date along with internal testing, the Company believes that all applications and services under this category are Year 2000 ready.*

Cost
The cost of upgrading both vendor supplied and internally developed systems and services is expensed as incurred and has amounted to approximately $2.3 million in total. Minimal additional expenses related to Year 2000 administration are expected to be incurred.*

Risks
The Company's main concern is to ensure the safe, reliable and uninterrupted production and delivery of natural gas and Company-provided services to its customers. Based on the efforts discussed above, the Company expects to be able to operate its own facilities without interruption and continue normal operation in Year 2000 and beyond.* However, the Company has no control over the systems and services used by third parties with whom it interfaces. While the Company has placed its major third parties on notice that the Company expects their products and services to perform as expected after January 1, 2000, the Company cannot predict with accuracy the actual adverse consequences to the Company that could result if such third parties are not Year 2000 compliant.* The widespread failure of electric, telecommunication, and upstream gas supply could potentially affect gas service to utility customers, and the Company is pursuing contingency plans to avoid such disruptions.*

The majority of the devices which control the Company's physical delivery system are not believed to be susceptible to Year 2000 problems because they do not contain micro-processors. The Company has conducted an extensive review of its existing micro-processors (embedded technology) and has replaced non-Year 2000 compliant hardware.

Distribution Corporation is subject to regulatory review by both the NYPSC and the PaPUC. Both of these regulatory bodies have issued orders concerning the Year 2000 issue, and both have established dates in 1999 by which jurisdictional utilities must have taken the necessary steps to ensure that its critical systems are Year 2000 ready. Distribution Corporation has, to date, met the requirements of those orders and will continue to comply with such orders for the pertinent time periods specified in such orders.*

Contingency Planning
The Company formed its Corporate Year 2000 task force in mid-1997. The primary function of this group was, and continues to be, to: (1) raise awareness of the Year 2000 issue within the Company, (2) facilitate identification and remediation of Year 2000 potential problems within the Company, and (3) facilitate and develop corporate contingency plans. The group is comprised of middle to senior level managers and Company executives. The Company has developed Year 2000 strategic contingency plans which have been prioritized in relation to the overall corporation in the order of human safety, reliability/delivery of Company services and administrative services. The Company has added the operational specifics to these plans and is continuing to hone them through operational drills. During September through November 1999, Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation conducted Year 2000 Readiness Drills at critical Company owned operating facilities (e.g. compressor stations, pipeline interconnect locations, and gas dispatching control centers) to simulate operation under the low probability occurrence of loss of local electricity or communications (primarily telephone). These drills tested backup generation equipment, alternative communication functionality (radios), and our employees' preparedness to manually operate the physical gas delivery system should these low probability events occur. These drills also tested and sharpened the Company's readiness to dispatch and make safe any customer emergencies, which might occur during a loss of electrical supply or communications functionality. The Company will have a very significant incremental workforce in the field during the critical Year 2000 rollover period New Year's Eve. The pertinent portions of these plans have been filed with the NYPSC whose review is ongoing. Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation are currently working with other utilities in their service areas and regional Emergency Management Services to establish communication channels and procedures in the low probability event of a serious Year 2000 disruption. The Company has always had disaster/contingency plans to deal with operational gas supply or delivery problems, loss of the corporate data center, and loss of the corporate customer telephone centers. These plans, in conjunction with the Year 2000 drills, enable the Company to verify its readiness and ability to operate in the event of failures resulting from Year 2000 problems arising outside of the Company (i.e., loss of electricity, telephone service, etc.). All critical Year 2000 contingency plans have been completed.*

All of the above Year 2000 information is a YEAR 2000 READINESS DISCLOSURE made pursuant to the Year 2000 Information and Readiness Disclosure Act of 1998.

Effects of Inflation
Although the rate of inflation has been relatively low over the past few years, and thus has benefited both the Company and its customers, the Company's operations remain sensitive to increases in the rate of inflation because of its capital spending and the regulated nature of a significant portion of its business.

Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements The Company is including the following cautionary statement in this combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K to make applicable and take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, the Company. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements which are other than statements of historical facts. From time to time, the Company may publish or otherwise make available forward-looking statements of this nature. All such subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral and whether made by or on behalf of the Company, are also expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Certain statements contained herein, including those which are designated with a "*", are forward-looking statements and accordingly involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained herein are based on various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. The Company's expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and are believed by the Company to have a reasonable basis, including without limitation, management's examination of historical operating trends, data contained in the Company's records and other data available from third parties, but there can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs or projections will result or be achieved or accomplished. In addition to other factors and matters discussed elsewhere herein, the following are important factors that, in the view of the Company, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statement:

1. Changes in economic conditions, demographic patterns and weather conditions;

2. Changes in the availability and/or price of natural gas and oil;

3. Inability to obtain new customers or retain existing ones;

4. Significant changes in competitive factors affecting the Company;

5. Governmental/regulatory actions and initiatives, including those affecting financings, allowed rates of return, industry and rate structure, franchise renewal, and environmental/safety requirements;

6. Unanticipated impacts of restructuring initiatives in the natural gas and electric industries;

7. Significant changes from expectations in actual capital expenditures and operating expenses and unanticipated project delays;

8. The nature and projected profitability of pending and potential projects and other investments;

9. Occurrences affecting the Company's ability to obtain funds from operations, debt or equity to finance needed capital expenditures and other investments;

10. Uncertainty of oil and gas reserve estimates;

11. Ability to successfully identify and finance oil and gas property acquisitions and ability to operate existing and any subsequently acquired properties;

12. Ability to successfully identify, drill for and produce economically viable natural gas and oil reserves;

13. Changes in the availability and/or price of derivative financial instruments;

14. Inability of the various counterparties to meet their obligations with respect to the Company's financial instruments;

15. Regarding foreign operations - changes in foreign trade and monetary policies, laws and regulations related to foreign operations, political and governmental changes, inflation and exchange rates, taxes and operating conditions;

16. Significant changes in tax rates or policies or in rates of inflation or interest;

17. Significant changes in the Company's relationship with its employees and the potential adverse effects if labor disputes or grievances were to occur;

18. Changes in accounting principles and/or the application of such principles to the Company; and/or

19. Unanticipated problems related to the Company's internal Year 2000 initiative as well as potential adverse consequences related to third party Year 2000 compliance.

The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

ITEM 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Refer to the "Market Risk Sensitive Instruments" section in Item 7, MD&A.

ITEM 8  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Index to Financial Statements
-----------------------------
                                                                    Page
                                                                    ----
Financial Statements:

  Report of Independent Accountants                                   58

  Consolidated Statements of Income and Earnings Reinvested
   in the Business, three years ended September 30, 1999              59

  Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 1999 and 1998          60

  Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, three years ended
   September 30, 1999                                                 62

  Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income,
   three years ended September 30, 1999                               63

  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                          64

  Financial Statement Schedules:
   For the three years ended September 30, 1999

  II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts                                88

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.

Supplementary Data

Supplementary data that is included in Note K - Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) and Note M - Supplementary Information for Oil and Gas Producing Activities, appears under this Item, and reference is made thereto.

Report of Management

Management is responsible for the preparation and integrity of the Company's financial statements. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and necessarily include some amounts that are based on management's best estimates and judgment.

The Company maintains a system of internal accounting and administrative controls and an ongoing program of internal audits that management believes provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and that transactions are properly recorded and executed in accordance with management's authorization. The Company's financial statements have been examined by our independent accountants, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, which also conducts a review of internal controls to the extent required by generally accepted auditing standards.

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, composed solely of outside directors, meets with management, internal auditors and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to review planned audit scope and results and to discuss other matters affecting internal accounting controls and financial reporting. The independent accountants have direct access to the Audit Committee and periodically meet with it without management representatives present.


Report of Independent Accountants

To the Board of Directors
and Shareholders of
National Fuel Gas Company

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of National Fuel Gas Company and its subsidiaries at September 30, 1999 and 1998, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 1999, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedules listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States, which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.

As discussed in Note A to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of depletion for oil and gas properties in 1998.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Buffalo, New York
October 25, 1999


                                                               National Fuel Gas Company
                                                               -------------------------
                                                     Consolidated Statements of Income and Earnings
                                                     ----------------------------------------------
                                                               Reinvested in the Business
                                                               --------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands of Dollars,
  Except Per Common Share Amounts)                                    1999              1998               1997
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Income
Operating Revenues                                                  $1,263,274        $1,248,000         $1,265,812
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Operating Expenses
   Purchased Gas                                                       405,925           441,746            528,610
   Fuel Used in Heat and Electric Generation                            55,788            37,837              1,489
   Operation                                                           300,007           293,976            260,839
   Maintenance                                                          23,881            25,793             25,698
   Property, Franchise and Other Taxes                                  91,146            92,817            100,549
   Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization                            129,690           118,880            111,650
   Impairment of Oil and Gas Producing
     Properties                                                              -           128,996                  -
   Income Taxes                                                         64,829            24,024             68,674
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
                                                                     1,071,266         1,164,069          1,097,509
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Operating Income                                                       192,008            83,931            168,303
Other Income                                                            12,343            35,870              3,196
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Income Before Interest Charges and
  Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries                            204,351           119,801            171,499
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Interest Charges
   Interest on Long-Term Debt                                           65,402            53,154             42,131
   Other Interest                                                       22,296            32,130             14,680
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
                                                                        87,698            85,284             56,811
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries                               (1,616)           (2,213)                 -
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Income Before Cumulative Effect                                        115,037            32,304            114,688
Cumulative Effect of Change in
     Accounting for Depletion                                                -            (9,116)                 -
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
 Net Income Available for Common Stock                                 115,037            23,188            114,688
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Earnings Reinvested in the Business
Balance at Beginning of Year                                           428,112           472,595            422,874
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
                                                                       543,149           495,783            537,562
Dividends on Common Stock                                               70,632            67,671             64,967
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Balance at End of Year                                                $472,517          $428,112           $472,595
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Basic Earnings Per Common Share:
  Income Before Cumulative Effect                                        $2.98             $0.85              $3.01
  Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting
    For Depletion                                                            -             (0.24)                 -
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
  Net Income Available for Common Stock                                  $2.98             $0.61              $3.01
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Diluted Earnings Per Common Share:
  Income Before Cumulative Effect                                        $2.95             $0.84              $2.98
  Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting
    For Depletion                                                            -             (0.24)                 -
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
  Net Income Available for Common Stock                                  $2.95             $0.60              $2.98
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
  Used in Basic Calculation                                         38,663,981        38,316,397         38,083,514
  Used in Diluted Calculation                                       39,041,728        38,703,526         38,440,018
-------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------------

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


                            National Fuel Gas Company
                            -------------------------
                           Consolidated Balance Sheets
                           ---------------------------



---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------

At September 30 (Thousands of Dollars)                                               1999                 1998
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------


Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment                                                       $3,383,537          $3,186,853
  Less - Accumulated Depreciation,
    Depletion and Amortization                                                       1,029,643             938,716
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                                                     2,353,894           2,248,137
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------

Current Assets
  Cash and Temporary Cash Investments                                                   29,222              30,437
  Receivables - Net                                                                    105,296              82,336
  Unbilled Utility Revenue                                                              18,674              15,403
  Gas Stored Underground                                                                41,099              31,661
  Materials and Supplies - at average cost                                              23,350              24,609
  Unrecovered Purchased Gas Costs                                                        4,576               6,316
  Prepayments                                                                           35,072              19,755
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                                                       257,289             210,517
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------

Other Assets
  Recoverable Future Taxes                                                              87,724              88,303
  Unamortized Debt Expense                                                              21,717              22,295
  Other Regulatory Assets                                                               25,214              41,735
  Deferred Charges                                                                      14,266               8,619
  Other                                                                                 82,482              64,853
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                                                       231,403             225,805
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                                                    $2,842,586          $2,684,459
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


                            National Fuel Gas Company
                            -------------------------
                           Consolidated Balance Sheets
                           ---------------------------


---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------

At September 30 (Thousands of Dollars)                                              1999               1998
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Capitalization and Liabilities
Capitalization:
Common Stock Equity
  Common Stock, $1 Par Value
    Authorized  - 200,000,000 Shares; Issued and
    Outstanding - 38,837,499 Shares and 38,468,795
    Shares, Respectively                                                           $  38,837        $  38,469
  Paid In Capital                                                                    431,952          416,239
  Earnings Reinvested in the Business                                                472,517          428,112
  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income                                              (4,013)           7,265
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Total Common Stock Equity                                                            939,293          890,085
Long-Term Debt, Net of Current Portion                                               822,743          693,021
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Total Capitalization                                                               1,762,036        1,583,106
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries                                             27,589           25,479
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Current and Accrued Liabilities
  Notes Payable to Banks and
    Commercial Paper                                                                 393,495          326,300
  Current Portion of Long-Term Debt                                                   69,608          216,929
  Accounts Payable                                                                    82,747           59,933
  Amounts Payable to Customers                                                         5,934            5,781
  Other Accruals and Current Liabilities                                              87,310           80,480
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
                                                                                     639,094          689,423
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Deferred Credits
  Accumulated Deferred Income Taxes                                                  275,008          258,222
  Taxes Refundable to Customers                                                       14,814           18,404
  Unamortized Investment Tax Credit                                                   11,007           11,372
  Other Deferred Credits                                                             113,038           98,453
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
                                                                                     413,867          386,451
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
Commitments and Contingencies                                                              -                -
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------
                                                                                  $2,842,586       $2,684,459
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


                            National Fuel Gas Company
                            -------------------------
                      Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
                      ------------------------------------


------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands of Dollars)                           1999              1998             1997
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Operating Activities
  Net Income Available for Common Stock                                  $115,037         $ 23,188          $114,688
  Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash
    Provided by Operating Activities
      Cumulative Effect of a Change in Accounting
        for Depletion                                                           -            9,116                 -
      Impairment of Oil and Gas Producing Properties                            -          128,996                 -
      Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization                            129,690          118,880           111,650
      Deferred Income Taxes                                                14,030          (26,237)            3,800
      Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries                             1,616            2,213                 -
      Other                                                                 7,018           (6,378)            8,030
      Change in:
        Receivables and Unbilled Utility Revenue                          (18,161)          45,200           (10,332)
        Gas Stored Underground and Materials and
            Supplies                                                       (7,806)          (1,271)            7,300
        Unrecovered Purchased Gas Costs                                     1,740           (6,316)                -
        Prepayments                                                       (15,322)             829            10,065
        Accounts Payable                                                   22,871          (24,975)            9,495
        Amounts Payable to Customers                                          153           (4,735)            5,898
        Other Accruals and Current Liabilities                             10,931          (15,481)            4,113
        Other Assets                                                         (906)              36            (2,856)
        Other Liabilities                                                  10,999            9,913            32,811
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities                                 271,890          252,978           294,662
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Investing Activities
  Capital Expenditures                                                   (260,506)        (393,233)         (214,001)
  Investment in Subsidiaries, Net of Cash Acquired                         (5,774)        (111,966)          (21,075)
  Investment in Partnerships                                               (3,633)          (5,453)                -
  Other                                                                     6,687            7,583             1,429
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities                                    (263,226)        (503,069)         (233,647)
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Financing Activities
  Change in Notes Payable to Banks and Commercial
    Paper                                                                  67,195          229,387          (107,300)
  Net Proceeds from Issuance of Long-Term Debt                            198,217          198,750            99,500
  Reduction of Long-Term Debt                                            (213,849)        (103,867)           (1,310)
  Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock                                   10,735            7,853             7,074
  Dividends Paid on Common Stock                                          (69,878)         (66,959)          (64,260)
  Dividends Paid to Minority Interest                                        (246)            (253)                -
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities                        (7,826)         264,911           (66,296)
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Effect of Exchange Rates on Cash                                           (2,053)           1,578                 -
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and
  Temporary Cash Investments                                               (1,215)          16,398            (5,281)
Cash and Temporary Cash Investments
  at Beginning of Year                                                     30,437           14,039            19,320
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Cash and Temporary Cash Investments
  at End of Year                                                         $ 29,222         $ 30,437          $ 14,039
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


                            National Fuel Gas Company
                            -------------------------
                 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
                 ----------------------------------------------



------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands of Dollars)                           1999              1998             1997
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Net Income Available for Common Stock                                    $115,037         $ 23,188          $114,688
                                                                   ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Tax:
  Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment                                 (11,737)           9,350            (2,085)
  Unrealized Gain on Securities Available for
    Sale                                                                      706                -                 -
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Tax                             (11,031)           9,350            (2,085)
Income Tax Expense Related to Unrealized Gain
  on Securities Available for Sale                                            247                -                 -
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax                             (11,278)           9,350            (2,085)
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Comprehensive Income                                                     $103,759          $32,538          $112,603
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


National Fuel Gas Company

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries. The equity method is used to account for the Company's investment in any minority owned entities. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated where appropriate.

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassification
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation.

Regulation
Two of the Company's principal subsidiaries, Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation, are subject to regulation by certain state and federal authorities. Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation have accounting policies which conform to generally accepted accounting principles, as applied to regulated enterprises, and are in accordance with the accounting requirements and ratemaking practices of the regulatory authorities. Reference is made to Note B
- Regulatory Matters for further discussion.

In the International segment, rates charged for the sale of thermal energy and electric energy at the retail level are subject to regulation and audit in the Czech Republic by the Czech Ministry of Finance. The regulation of electric energy rates at the retail level indirectly impacts the rates charged by the International segment for its electric energy sales at the wholesale level.

Revenues
Revenues are recorded as bills are rendered, except that service supplied but not billed is reported as "Unbilled Utility Revenue" and is included in operating revenues for the year in which service is furnished.

Unrecovered Purchased Gas Costs and Refunds Distribution Corporation's rate schedules contain clauses that permit adjustment of revenues to reflect price changes from the cost of purchased gas included in base rates. Differences between amounts currently recoverable and actual adjustment clause revenues, as well as other price changes and pipeline and storage company refunds not yet includable in adjustment clause rates, are deferred and accounted for as either unrecovered purchased gas costs or amounts payable to customers.

Distribution Corporation's rate settlements with the State of New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC) include provisions for a sharing of earnings over a specified rate of return on equity. Estimated refund liabilities are recorded over the term of the settlements which reflect management's current estimate of such refunds. Reference is made to Note B - Regulatory Matters for further discussion.

Property, Plant and Equipment
The principal assets, consisting primarily of gas plant in service, are recorded at the historical cost when originally devoted to service in the regulated businesses, as required by regulatory authorities.

Maintenance and repairs of property and replacements of minor items of property are charged directly to maintenance expense. The original cost of the regulated subsidiaries' property, plant and equipment retired, and the cost of removal less salvage, are charged to accumulated depreciation.

Oil and gas property acquisition, exploration and development costs are capitalized under the full-cost method of accounting. All costs directly associated with property acquisition, exploration and development activities are capitalized, up to certain specified limits. If capitalized costs exceed these limits at the end of any quarter, a permanent impairment is required to be charged to earnings in that quarter. Due to significant declines in oil prices in 1998, Seneca's capitalized costs under the full-cost method of accounting exceeded these limits at March 31, 1998. Seneca was required to recognize an impairment of its oil and gas producing properties in the quarter ended March 31, 1998. This charge amounted to $129.0 million (pretax) and reduced net income for 1998 by $79.1 million.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation, depletion and amortization are computed by application of either the straight-line method or the units of production method, in amounts sufficient to recover costs over the estimated service lives of property in service, and for oil and gas properties, based on quantities produced in relation to proved reserves (see discussion of change in method of depletion for oil and gas properties below). The costs of unevaluated oil and gas properties are excluded from this computation. For timber properties, depletion, determined on a property by property basis, is charged to operations based on the annual amount of timber cut in relation to the total amount of recoverable timber. The provisions for depreciation, depletion and amortization, as a percentage of average depreciable property, were 4.3% in 1999, 4.4% in 1998 and 4.6% in 1997.

Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Effective October 1, 1997, Seneca changed its method of depletion for oil and gas properties from the gross revenue method to the units of production method. The units of production method was applied retroactively to prior years to determine the cumulative effect through October 1, 1997. This cumulative effect reduced earnings for 1998 by $9.1 million, net of income tax. Depletion of oil and gas properties for 1999 and 1998 was computed under the units of production method.

Pro forma amounts for 1998 and 1997 shown below, assume the retroactive application of the new depletion method.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30                                                                      1998              1997
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Net Income (Thousands):
    As reported                                                                          $ 23,188          $114,688
    Pro forma                                                                            $ 32,304          $113,022
   Earnings Per Common Share:
     Basic - As reported                                                                    $0.61             $3.01
     Basic - Pro forma                                                                      $0.85             $2.97
     Diluted - As reported                                                                  $0.60             $2.98
     Diluted - Pro forma                                                                    $0.84             $2.94
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gas Stored Underground - Current
Gas stored underground - current is carried at lower of cost or market, on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. Based upon the average price of spot market gas purchased in September 1999, including transportation costs, the current cost of replacing the inventory of gas stored underground-current exceeded the amount stated on a LIFO basis by approximately $51.4 million at September 30, 1999.

Unamortized Debt Expense
Costs associated with the issuance of debt by the Company are deferred and amortized over the lives of the related issues. Costs associated with the reacquisition of debt related to rate-regulated subsidiaries are deferred and amortized over the remaining life of the issue or the life of the replacement debt in order to match regulatory treatment.

Foreign Currency Translation
The functional currency for the Company's foreign operations is the local currency. The translation from the local currency to U. S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts by using current exchange ratios in effect at the balance sheet date and, for revenue and expense accounts, by using an average exchange rate during the period. The resultant cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment is recorded as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in the Common Stock Equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Income Taxes
The Company and its domestic subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Investment Tax Credit, prior to its repeal in 1986, was deferred and is being amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related property, as required by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction. No provision has been made for domestic income taxes applicable to undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries as the amounts are considered to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S.

Financial Instruments
Unrealized gains or losses from "available-for-sale securities" (i.e., the Company's investments in marketable equity securities) are recorded as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in the Common Stock Equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Reference is made to Note F - Financial Instruments for further discussion.

Seneca utilizes price swap agreements and options (primarily written options) to manage a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas and crude oil. NFR utilizes exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options to manage a portion of the market risk that it faces due to fluctuations in the price of natural gas. Gains or losses from Seneca's price swap agreements are accrued in operating revenues on the Consolidated Statement of Income at the contract settlement dates. Seneca's options are marked-to-market on a quarterly basis with gains or losses recorded in Operating Revenues on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Gains or losses from NFR's exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options are recorded in Other Deferred Credits on the Consolidated Balance Sheet until the hedged commodity transaction occurs, at which point they are reflected in operating revenues on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Reference is made to Note F - Financial Instruments for further discussion.

In the International segment, PSZT utilizes an interest rate swap to eliminate interest rate fluctuations on its variable rate debt. Gains or losses are accrued in interest charges on the Consolidated Statement of Income at the contract settlement dates.

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For purposes of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, the Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of generally three months or less to be cash equivalents. Interest paid in 1999, 1998 and 1997 was $75.8 million, $46.2 million and $52.4 million, respectively. Income taxes paid in 1999, 1998 and 1997 were $35.0 million, $64.5 million and $69.2 million, respectively.

Details of the stock acquisitions made by the Company during 1999 and 1998 are as follows:

----------------------------------------- --------------- ------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Millions)
                                                   1999                              1998
----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
                                                 JTR(1)            SCT           PSZT       HarCor(2)          Total
----------------------------------------- --------------- |-------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
                                                          |
                                                          |                                                       
Assets acquired                                   $13.5   |       $66.1         $141.8          $105.6         $313.5
Liabilities assumed                                (7.3)  |       (22.3)         (77.3)          (73.0)        (172.6)
Existing investment at acquisition                 (0.4)  |       (18.9)             -               -          (18.9)
Cash acquired at acquisition                       (0.1)  |        (6.3)          (0.9)           (2.8)         (10.0)
----------------------------------------- --------------- |-------------- -------------- --------------- --------------
Cash paid, net of cash acquired                    $5.7   |       $18.6          $63.6           $29.8         $112.0
----------------------------------------- --------------- |-------------- -------------- --------------- --------------

(1) Jablonecka teplarenska a realitni, a.s. (JTR) is a majority owned subsidiary of SCT.
(2) HarCor Energy, Inc. (HarCor).

Further discussion of these acquisitions can be found at Note J - Stock Acquisitions.

Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing income available for common stock by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. The only potentially dilutive securities the Company has outstanding are stock options. The diluted weighted average shares outstanding shown on the Consolidated Statement of Income reflects the potential dilution as a result of these stock options as determined using the Treasury Stock Method.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" (SFAS 133). SFAS 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. This statement requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the statement of financial position and measure those instruments at fair value. The intended use of the derivatives and their designation as either a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge, or a foreign currency hedge will determine when the gains or losses on the derivatives are to be reported in earnings and when they are to be reported as a component of other comprehensive income.

Management has evaluated the derivatives used by Seneca, NFR and Horizon and believes that the adoption of SFAS 133 will not have a material impact on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company. Management is continuing to evaluate other financial instruments and contracts which may have embedded derivatives that could be impacted by the adoption of SFAS 133. SFAS 133 required the Company to adopt the standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2000. However, in June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Deferral of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 133." SFAS 137 delays, by one year, the effective date of SFAS 133. Accordingly, the Company will adopt SFAS 133 by the first quarter of fiscal 2001.

Note B - Regulatory Matters

Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation have recorded the following regulatory assets and liabilities:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
At September 30 (Thousands)                                                                     1999                1998
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Regulatory Assets:
Recoverable Future Taxes (Note C)                                                            $87,724            $ 88,303
Unamortized Debt Expense (Note A)                                                             15,223              16,886
Pension and Post-Retirement Benefit Costs (Note G)                                            21,217              22,483
Environmental Clean-up (Note H)                                                                    -              12,394
Other                                                                                          3,997               6,858
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
     Total Regulatory Assets                                                                 128,161             146,924
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Regulatory Liabilities:
Amounts Payable to Customers (Note A)                                                          5,934               5,781
New York Rate Settlements                                                                     18,913              19,341
Taxes Refundable to Customers (Note C)                                                        14,814              18,404
Pension and Post-Retirement Benefit Costs(1)  (Note G)                                        26,087              20,222
Other(1)                                                                                       3,226               1,741
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
     Total Regulatory Liabilities                                                             68,974              65,489
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Net Regulatory Position                                                                      $59,187            $ 81,435
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- -------------------

(1) Included in Other Deferred Credits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

If for any reason Distribution Corporation and/or Supply Corporation ceases to meet the criteria for application of regulatory accounting treatment for all or part of their operations, the regulatory assets and liabilities related to those portions ceasing to meet such criteria would be eliminated from the balance sheet and included in income of the period in which the discontinuance of regulatory accounting treatment occurs. Such amounts would be classified as an extraordinary item.

New York Rate Settlements
With respect to services provided in New York, Distribution Corporation has entered into rate settlements with the NYPSC. The rate settlements provide for a sharing mechanism, whereby earnings above a 12% return on equity are to be shared equally between shareholders and ratepayers. As a result of this sharing mechanism, Distribution Corporation had liabilities of $8.6 million and $10.7 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively. Of these amounts, $3.0 million was reclassified to Amounts Payable to Customers at September 30, 1999 and 1998 to reflect the amounts estimated to be passed back to customers in the following year. Other aspects of the settlements include a special reserve of $7.4 million (including interest of $0.2 million) recorded during 1999 to be applied against Distribution Corporation's incremental costs resulting from the NYPSC's gas restructuring effort and a "refund pool" of $3.5 million and $5.0 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The refund pool is an accumulation of certain refunds from upstream pipeline companies and certain credits which can be used to offset certain specific expense items. Various other regulatory liabilities have also been created through the New York rate settlements and amounted to $2.5 million and $6.6 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

Note C - Income Taxes

The components of federal, state and foreign income taxes included in the Consolidated Statement of Income are as follows:

---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                        1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Operating Expenses:
  Current Income Taxes -
    Federal                                                            $ 43,467         $ 40,740          $ 57,807
    State                                                                 6,215            6,635             7,067
  Deferred Income Taxes -
    Federal                                                              11,149          (21,687)            2,895
    State                                                                 1,244           (5,997)              905
  Foreign Income Taxes                                                    2,754            4,333                 -
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                         64,829           24,024            68,674
Other Income:
  Deferred Investment Tax Credit                                           (729)            (665)             (665)
Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries                                  (642)          (1,218)                -
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting
  for Depletion                                                               -           (5,737)                -
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Total Income Taxes                                                     $ 63,458         $ 16,404          $ 68,009
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

The U.S. and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes are as follows:

---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
U.S.                                                                    $169,037         $ 31,127          $184,257
Foreign                                                                    9,457            8,465            (1,560)
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                        $178,494         $ 39,592          $182,697
---------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Total income taxes as reported differ from the amounts that were computed by applying the federal income tax rate to income before income taxes. The following is a reconciliation of this difference:

--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999            1998             1997
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------

Net Income Available for Common Stock                                   $115,037        $ 23,188         $114,688
Income Tax Expense                                                        63,458          16,404           68,009
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------
Income Before Income Taxes                                               178,495          39,592          182,697
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------
Income Tax Expense, Computed at Federal
  Statutory Rate of 35%                                                   62,473          13,857           63,944
Increase (Reduction) in Taxes Resulting from:
  State Income Taxes                                                       4,848             986            5,182
  Depreciation                                                             1,872           2,186            2,560
  Property Retirements                                                      (833)         (1,609)          (1,320)
  Keyman Life Insurance                                                     (502)           (774)            (695)
  Prior Years Tax Adjustment                                              (1,362)          2,846                -
  Miscellaneous                                                           (3,038)         (1,088)          (1,662)
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------
Total Income Taxes                                                      $ 63,458        $ 16,404         $ 68,009
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- --------------- ----------------

Significant components of the Company's deferred tax liabilities and assets were as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
At September 30 (Thousands)                                                                  1999             1998
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
  Abandonments                                                                            $21,192          $15,545
  Accelerated Tax Depreciation                                                            132,732          132,138
  Exploration and Intangible Well
    Drilling Costs                                                                        165,798          147,795
  Other                                                                                    62,565           42,109
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities                                                            382,287          337,587
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
Deferred Tax Assets:
  Capitalized Overheads                                                                   (25,587)         (22,484)
  Other                                                                                   (81,692)         (56,881)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
Total Deferred Tax Assets                                                                (107,279)         (79,365)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------
Total Net Deferred Income Taxes                                                          $275,008         $258,222
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ----------------

Regulatory liabilities representing the reduction of previously recorded deferred income taxes associated with rate-regulated activities that are expected to be refundable to customers amounted to $14.8 million and $18.4 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively. Also, regulatory assets, representing future amounts collectible from customers, corresponding to additional deferred income taxes not previously recorded because of prior ratemaking practices amounted to $87.7 million and $88.3 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

The primary issues related to Internal Revenue Service audits of the Company for the years 1977-1994 were settled during March 1998 and the remaining issues were settled in December 1998. Net income for the years ended September 30, 1999 and 1998 was increased by approximately $3.9 million and $5.0 million, respectively, as a result of interest, net of tax and other adjustments, related to these settlements.

Note D - Capitalization

Summary of Changes in Common Stock Equity
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
                                                                                             Earnings          Accumulated
                                                                               Paid        Reinvested                Other
(Thousands, Except Per Share                  Common Stock                       In            in the        Comprehensive
Amounts)                                  Shares            Amount          Capital          Business               Income
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
Balance at
  September 30, 1996                      37,852           $37,852         $395,272          $422,874               $    -
Net Income Available
  for Common Stock                                                                            114,688
Dividends Declared
  on Common Stock
  ($1.71 Per Share)                                                                          (64,967)
Other Comprehensive
  Income, Net of Tax                                                                                               (2,085)
Common Stock Issued
  Under Stock and
  Benefit Plans                              314               314            9,756
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
Balance at
  September 30, 1997                      38,166            38,166          405,028           472,595              (2,085)
Net Income Available
  for Common Stock                                                                             23,188
Dividends Declared on
  Common Stock
  ($1.77 Per Share)                                                                           (67,671)
Other Comprehensive
  Income, Net of Tax                                                                                                 9,350
Common Stock Issued
  Under Stock and
  Benefit Plans                              303               303           11,211
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
Balance at
  September 30, 1998                      38,469            38,469          416,239           428,112                7,265
Net Income Available
  for Common Stock                                                                            115,037
Dividends Declared on
  Common Stock
  ($1.83 Per Share)                                                                           (70,632)
Other Comprehensive
  Income, Net of Tax                                                                                              (11,278)
Common Stock Issued
  Under Stock and
  Benefit Plans                              368               368           15,713
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
Balance at
  September 30, 1999                      38,837           $38,837         $431,952          $472,517(1)          $(4,013)
----------------------------------- -------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- --------------------

(1) The availability of consolidated earnings reinvested in the business for dividends payable in cash is limited under terms of the indentures covering long-term debt. At September 30, 1999, $398.1 million of accumulated earnings was free of such limitations.

Common Stock
The Company has various plans which allow shareholders, customers and employees to purchase shares of Company common stock. The Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan allows shareholders to reinvest cash dividends and/or make cash investments in the Company's common stock. The Customer Stock Purchase Plan provides residential customers the opportunity to acquire shares of Company common stock without the payment of any brokerage commissions or service charges in connection with such acquisitions. Effective November 1, 1999, these two plans were combined into a new plan, known as the National Fuel Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan. The 401(k) Plans allow employees the opportunity to invest in Company common stock, in addition to a variety of other investment alternatives. At the discretion of the Company, shares purchased under these plans are either original issue shares purchased directly from the Company or shares purchased on the open market by an agent.

The Company also has a Director Stock Program under which it issues shares of Company common stock to its non-employee directors as partial consideration for their services as directors.

Shareholder Rights Plan
In 1996, the Company's Board of Directors adopted a shareholder rights plan (Plan). Effective April 30, 1999, the Plan was amended and is now embodied in an Amended and Restated Rights Agreement.

The holders of the Company's common stock have one right (Right) for each of their shares. Each Right, which will initially be evidenced by the Company's common stock certificates representing the outstanding shares of common stock, entitles the holder to purchase one-half of one share of common stock at a purchase price of $130 per share, being $65 per half share, subject to adjustment (Purchase Price).

The Rights become exercisable upon the occurrence of a distribution date. At any time following a distribution date, each holder of a Right may exercise its right to receive common stock (or, under certain circumstances, other property of the Company) having a value equal to two times the Purchase Price of the Right then in effect. However, the Rights are subject to redemption or exchange by the Company prior to their exercise as described below.

A distribution date would occur upon the earlier of (i) ten days after the public announcement that a person or group has acquired, or obtained the right to acquire, beneficial ownership of the Company's common stock or other voting stock having 10% or more of the total voting power of the Company's common stock and other voting stock and (ii) ten days after the commencement or announcement by a person or group of an intention to make a tender or exchange offer that would result in that person acquiring, or obtaining the right to acquire, beneficial ownership of the Company's common stock or other voting stock having 10% or more of the total voting power of the Company's common stock and other voting stock.

In certain situations after a person or group has acquired beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the total voting power of the Company's stock as described above, each holder of a Right will have the right to exercise its Rights to receive common stock of the acquiring company having a value equal to two times the Purchase Price of the Right then in effect. These situations would arise if the Company is acquired in a merger or other business combination or if 50% or more of the Company's assets or earning power are sold or transferred.

At any time prior to the end of the business day on the tenth day following the announcement that a person or group has acquired, or obtained the right to acquire, beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the total voting power of the Company, the Company may redeem the Rights in whole, but not in part, at a price of $.01 per Right, payable in cash or stock. A decision to redeem the Rights requires the vote of 75% of the Company's full Board of Directors. Also, at any time following the announcement that a person or group has acquired, or obtained the right to acquire, beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the total voting power of the Company, 75% of the Company's full Board of Directors may vote to exchange the Rights, in whole or in part, at an exchange rate of one share of common stock, or other property deemed to have the same value, per Right, subject to certain adjustments.

After a distribution date, Rights that are owned by an acquiring person will be null and void. Upon exercise of the Rights, the Company may need additional regulatory approvals to satisfy the requirements of the Rights Agreement. The Rights will expire on July 31, 2008, unless they are exchanged or redeemed earlier than that date.

The Rights have anti-takeover effects because they will cause substantial dilution of the common stock if a person attempts to acquire the Company on terms not approved by the Board of Directors.

Stock Option and Stock Award Plans
The Company has various stock option and stock award plans which provide or provided for the issuance of one or more of the following to key employees:
incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance units or performance shares. Stock options under all plans have exercise prices equal to the average market price of Company common stock on the date of grant, and generally no option is exercisable less than one year or more than ten years after the date of each grant.

For the years ended September 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, no compensation expense was recognized for options granted under these plans. Compensation expense related to stock appreciation rights and restricted stock under these stock plans was $1.0 million, $4.1 million and $8.1 million for the years ended September 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Had compensation expense for stock options granted under the Company's stock option and stock award plans been determined based on fair value at the grant dates, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts below:

---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Year Ended September 30                                                 1999                1998                1997
---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Net Income (Thousands):
     As reported                                                    $115,037             $23,188            $114,688
     Pro forma                                                      $111,385             $18,859            $110,506
Earnings Per Common Share:
     Basic - As reported                                               $2.98               $0.61               $3.01
     Basic - Pro forma                                                 $2.88               $0.49               $2.90
     Diluted - As reported                                             $2.95               $0.60               $2.98
     Diluted - Pro forma                                               $2.85               $0.49               $2.87
---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------

Transactions involving option shares for all plans are summarized as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
                                                                              Number of
                                                                         Shares Subject            Weighted Average
                                                                              to Option              Exercise Price
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Outstanding at September 30, 1996                                             1,773,251                      $29.62
Granted in 1997                                                                 678,750                      $39.61
Exercised in 1997(1)                                                           (274,655)                     $25.80
Forfeited in 1997                                                                (3,000)                     $36.81
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Outstanding at September 30, 1997                                             2,174,346                      $33.21
Granted in 1998                                                                 770,000                      $44.44
Exercised in 1998(1)                                                           (205,200)                     $27.41
Forfeited in 1998                                                                (7,250)                     $41.68
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Outstanding at September 30, 1998                                             2,731,896                      $36.79
Granted in 1999                                                                 753,400                      $46.70
Exercised in 1999(1)                                                           (111,504)                     $28.41
Forfeited in 1999                                                                (9,700)                     $37.41
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Outstanding at September 30, 1999                                             3,364,092                      $39.29
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Option shares exercisable at September 30, 1999                               2,537,360                      $37.01
Option shares available for future
  grant at September 30, 1999(2)                                                 76,338
------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- ---------------------------

(1) In connection with exercising these options, 16,531, 44,580 and 117,326 shares were surrendered and canceled during 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
(2) Including shares available for restricted stock grants.

The weighted average fair value per share of options granted in 1999, 1998 and 1997 was $7.43, $7.91 and $7.66, respectively. These weighted average fair values were estimated on the date of grant using a binomial option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Year Ended September 30                                           1999                 1998                1997
---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------

Quarterly Dividend Yield                                            0.97%                 0.98%              1.06%
Annual Standard Deviation (Volatility)                             18.86%                16.48%             16.76%
Risk Free Rate                                                      4.74%                 5.77%              6.58%
Expected Term - in Years                                              5.0                   5.5                5.0
---------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------

The following table summarizes information about options outstanding at September 30, 1999:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
                              Options Outstanding                                         Options Exercisable
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------

                                   Number     Weighted Average          Weighted            Number            Weighted
                Range of      Outstanding            Remaining           Average       Exercisable             Average
          Exercise Price       at 9/30/99     Contractual Life    Exercise Price        at 9/30/99      Exercise Price
------------------------- ---------------- -------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -------------------


        $23.81 - $35.72          846,817            4.5 years            $28.77           846,817              $28.77

        $35.73 - $49.57        2,517,275            8.2 years            $42.83         1,690,543              $41.14
------------------------- ---------------- -------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -------------------

Restricted stock is subject to restrictions on vesting and transferability. Restricted stock awards entitle the participants to full dividend and voting rights. The market value of restricted stock on the date of the award is being recorded as compensation expense over the periods during which the vesting restrictions exist. Certificates for shares of restricted stock awarded under the Company's stock options and stock award plans are held by the Company during the periods in which the restrictions on vesting are effective.

The following table summarizes the awards of restricted stock over the past three years:

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30                                                       1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Shares of Restricted Stock Awarded                                           6,580            7,609             6,300
Weighted Average Market Price of
  Stock on Award Date                                                       $46.06           $44.88            $40.88
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

As of September 30, 1999, 96,319 shares of non-vested restricted stock were outstanding. Vesting restrictions will lapse as follows: 2000 - 28,216 shares; 2001 - 35,103 shares; 2002 - 8,000 shares; 2003 - 8,000 shares; 2004 - 7,000 shares; 2005 - 6,000 shares; and 2006 - 4,000 shares.

Redeemable Preferred Stock
As of September 30, 1999, there were 10,000,000 shares of $1 par value Preferred Stock authorized but unissued.

Long-Term Debt
The outstanding long-term debt is as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
At September 30 (Thousands)                                                                  1999              1998
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
National Fuel Gas Company:
  Debentures:
    7-3/4% due February 2004                                                             $125,000          $125,000
  Medium-Term Notes:
    5.58% to 8.48% due March 1999 to August 2027(1)                                       699,000           649,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                                          824,000           774,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
HarCor:
  14.875% Senior Secured Notes                                                                  -            62,571
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
PSZT:
  8.04% U.S. Dollar Denominated
    Debt due March 2000 - December 2004(2)                                                      -            50,596
  7.505% Term Loan due March 2000 - December 2004(2)                                       47,671                 -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                                           47,671            50,596
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Other Notes                                                                                20,680            22,783
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Total Long-Term Debt                                                                      892,351           909,950
Less Current Portion                                                                       69,608           216,929
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                                         $822,743          $693,021
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------

(1) Includes $50 million of 8.48% medium-term notes due July 2024 which are callable at a redemption price of 106.36% through July 2000. The redemption price will decline in subsequent years. It also includes $100 million of 6.214% medium-term notes due August 2027 which are putable by debt holders only on August 12, 2002, at par.
(2) In December 1998, PSZT converted its U.S. Dollar denominated debt to a Czech koruna denominated term loan. The interest rate on the new term loan is six month Prague Interbank Offered Rate (PRIBOR) plus 0.475%. Refer to Note F - Financial Instruments for discussion of PSZT's interest rate swap.

The aggregate principal amounts of long-term debt maturing for the next five years and thereafter are as follows: $69.6 million in 2000, $12.6 million in 2001, $10.7 million in 2002, $10.4 million in 2003, $235.4 million in 2004 and $553.7 million thereafter.

Note E - Short-Term Borrowings

The Company has SEC authorization under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended, to borrow and have outstanding as much as $750.0 million of short-term debt at any time through December 31, 2002.

The Company historically has borrowed short-term funds either through bank loans or the issuance of commercial paper. As for the former, the Company maintains uncommitted or discretionary lines of credit with certain financial institutions for general corporate purposes. Borrowings under these lines of credit are made at competitive market rates. These credit lines are revocable at the option of the financial institutions and are reviewed on an annual basis.

At September 30, 1999, the Company had outstanding short-term notes payable to banks and commercial paper of $246.0 million (domestic = $244.8 million; foreign = $1.2 million) and $147.5 million, respectively. At September 30, 1998, the Company had outstanding notes payable to banks and commercial paper of $196.3 million and $130.0 million, respectively.

The weighted average interest rate on domestic notes payable to banks was 5.55% and 5.67% at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The interest rate on the foreign notes payable to banks was 6.35% at September 30, 1999. There were not any foreign notes payable to banks at September 30, 1998. The weighted average interest rate on commercial paper was 5.49% and 5.60% at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

Note F - Financial Instruments

Fair Values
The fair market value of the Company's long-term debt is estimated based on quoted market prices of similar issues having the same remaining maturities, redemption terms and credit ratings. Based on these criteria, the fair market value of long-term debt, including current portion, was as follows:

------------------------------------------------ ---------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                            1999              1999             1998              1998
                                                        Carrying              Fair         Carrying              Fair
At September 30 (Thousands)                               Amount             Value           Amount             Value
------------------------------------------------ ---------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

Long-Term Debt                                          $892,351          $867,056         $909,950          $966,437
------------------------------------------------ ---------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

The fair value amounts are not intended to reflect principal amounts that the Company will ultimately be required to pay.

Temporary cash investments, notes payable to banks and commercial paper are stated at amounts which approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of those financial instruments. Investments in life insurance are stated at their cash surrender values as discussed below. Investments in a mutual fund and the stock of an insurance company, as discussed below, are stated at fair value based on quoted market prices.

Investments
Other assets includes cash surrender values of insurance contracts and a mutual fund (accounted for as an "available-for-sale security"). The insurance contracts and mutual fund were established as an informal funding mechanism for various benefit obligations the Company has to certain employees. The cash surrender values of the insurance contracts amounted to $44.2 million and $40.1 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The mutual fund amounted to $5.0 million and $2.2 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

Other assets also includes shares of stock in an insurance company which the Company received as part of the insurance company's initial public offering in 1999. This "demutualization" of the insurance company resulted in a gain to the Company of $2.4 million. At September 30, 1999, the value of the stock was $2.3 million. The stock is accounted for as an "available-for-sale security."

Derivative Financial Instruments
Seneca has entered into certain price swap agreements and options to manage a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas and crude oil in an effort to provide more stability to its operating results. These agreements and options are not held for trading purposes. The price swap agreements call for Seneca to receive monthly payments from (or make payment to) other parties based upon the difference between a fixed and a variable price as specified by the agreement. The variable price is either a crude oil price quoted on the New York Mercantile Exchange or a quoted natural gas price in "Inside FERC." These variable prices are highly correlated with the market prices received by Seneca for its natural gas and crude oil production. The fair value of outstanding natural gas and crude oil price swap agreements and options discussed below reflect the estimated amounts Seneca would pay or receive to terminate its derivative financial instruments at September 30, 1999.

At September 30, 1999, Seneca had natural gas price swap agreements covering a notional amount of 40.2 Bcf extending through 2002 at a weighted average fixed rate of $2.69 per Mcf. Seneca also had crude oil price swap agreements covering a notional amount of 2,296,000 bbls extending through 2001 at a weighted average fixed rate of $19.00 per bbl. The fair value of Seneca's outstanding natural gas and crude oil price swap agreements at September 30, 1999 was a net loss of approximately $9.8 million. This loss was offset by corresponding unrecognized gains from Seneca's anticipated natural gas and crude oil production over the terms of the price swap agreements.

Seneca recognized net gains (losses) of $2.6 million, $(4.1) million and $(21.5) million related to settlements of its price swap agreements during 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively. As the price swap agreements have been designated as hedges, these gains (losses) were offset by corresponding gains (losses) from Seneca's natural gas and crude oil production.

At September 30, 1999, Seneca had the following options outstanding:

Type of Option                      Notional Amount                           Weighted Average Strike Price
--------------                      ---------------                           -----------------------------

Written Call Option                 184,000 bbls                              $18.00/bbl
Written Call Option                 2.6Bcf                                    $2.86/Mcf
Written Call Options(1)             13.9 Bcf or 732,000 bbls                  $2.62/Mcf or $18.00/bbl
Written Put Option                  916,000 bbls                              $12.50/bbl
Purchased Call Option               1,464,000 bbls                            $20.00/bbl

(1)The counterparty has a choice between a natural gas call option and a crude oil call option, depending on whichever option has greater value to the counterparty.

As disclosed in Note A-Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Seneca's call and put options are being marked-to-market. The mark-to-market adjustment for 1999 was a loss of $1.3 million, the recording of which leaves the fair value of the call and put options at September 30, 1999 at a net loss of $3.6 million. During 1999, Seneca paid the counterparty $28,000 and $1.2 million related to the exercise of a portion of the written put options and the written call options, respectively. Seneca received $0.6 million from the counterparty related to Seneca's exercise of a portion of the $20.00 per bbl call options that it had purchased.

The Company is exposed to credit risk on the price swap agreements that Seneca has entered into as well as on the call options that Seneca has purchased. Credit risk relates to the risk of loss that the Company would incur as a result of nonperformance by counterparties pursuant to the terms of their contractual obligations. To mitigate such credit risk, management performs a credit check, and then on an ongoing basis monitors counterparty credit exposure.

NFR utilizes exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options to manage a portion of the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of natural gas. Such futures and options are not held for trading purposes. At September 30, 1999, NFR had natural gas futures contracts covering 2.1 Bcf of gas on a net basis extending through 2001 at a weighted average contract price of $2.75 per Mcf. NFR had sold natural gas options covering 17.1 Bcf of gas at a weighted average strike price of $3.01 per Mcf. NFR also had purchased natural gas options covering 9.0 Bcf of gas at a weighted average strike price of $2.72 per Mcf. The exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options are used to hedge NFR's purchase and sale commitments and storage gas inventory. The fair value of NFR's outstanding exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options at September 30, 1999 was a net gain of approximately $1.1 million. This fair value reflects the estimated net amount that NFR would receive to terminate its exchange-traded futures and exchange-traded options at September 30, 1999. Since these exchange-traded futures contracts and exchange-traded options qualify and have been designated as hedges, any gains or losses resulting from market price changes would be substantially offset by the related commodity transaction.

NFR recognized net gains (losses) of $(5.4) million, $1.3 million and $1.7 million related to futures contracts and options during 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Since these futures contracts and options qualify and have been designated as hedges, these net gains (losses) were substantially offset by the related commodity transactions.

PSZT utilizes an interest rate swap to eliminate interest rate fluctuations on its CZK 1,595,924,000 term loan ($47.7 million at September 30, 1999), which carries a variable interest rate of six month PRIBOR plus 0.475%. Under the terms of the interest rate swap, which extends until 2001, PSZT pays a fixed rate of 8.31% and receives a floating rate of six month PRIBOR. PSZT recognized a loss of $0.1 million related to this interest rate swap during 1999. The fair value of PSZT's interest rate swap at September 30, 1999 was a loss of approximately $1.0 million.

Note G - Retirement Plan and Other Post-Retirement Benefits

The Company has a tax-qualified, noncontributory, defined-benefit retirement plan (Retirement Plan) that covers substantially all domestic employees of the Company. The Company provides health care and life insurance benefits for substantially all domestic retired employees under a post-retirement benefit plan (Post-Retirement Plan).

The Company's policy is to fund the Retirement Plan with at least an amount necessary to satisfy the minimum funding requirements of applicable laws and regulations and not more than the maximum amount deductible for federal income tax purposes. The Company has established Voluntary Employees' Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trusts for its Post-Retirement Plan. Contributions to the VEBA trusts are tax deductible, subject to limitations contained in the Internal Revenue Code and regulations and are made to fund employees' post-retirement health care and life insurance benefits, as well as benefits as they are paid to current retirees. Retirement Plan and Post-Retirement Plan assets primarily consist of equity and fixed income investments and/or units in commingled funds or money market funds.

Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation are fully recovering their net periodic pension and post-retirement benefit costs in accordance with the applicable regulatory commission authorization. For financial reporting purposes, Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation record the difference between the amounts of pension cost and post-retirement benefit cost recoverable in rates and the amounts of such costs as determined by their actuary under applicable accounting principles as either a regulatory asset or liability, as appropriate. Pension and post-retirement benefit costs reflect the amount recovered from customers in rates during the year. Under the NYPSC's policies, Distribution Corporation segregates the amount of such costs collected in rates, but not yet contributed to the Retirement and Post-Retirement Plans, into a regulatory liability account. This liability accrues interest at the NYPSC mandated interest rate and this interest cost is included in pension and post-retirement benefit costs. For purposes of disclosure, the liability also remains in the disclosed pension and post-retirement benefit liability amount because it has not yet been contributed.

Retirement Plan
Reconciliations of the Benefit Obligation, Retirement Plan Assets and Funded Status, as well as the components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost and the Weighted Average Assumptions are as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Change in Benefit Obligation
Benefit Obligation at Beginning of Period                               $532,250         $462,377          $432,753
Service Cost                                                              12,676           10,655             9,988
Interest Cost                                                             36,299           35,485            33,532
Amendments                                                                 1,691                -             1,479
Actuarial (Gain) Loss                                                    (13,598)          52,446            10,336
Benefits Paid                                                            (30,522)         (28,713)          (25,711)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Benefit Obligation at End of Period                                     $538,796         $532,250          $462,377
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Change in Plan Assets
Fair Value of Assets at Beginning of Period                             $509,393         $473,205          $431,828
Actual Return on Plan Assets                                              47,888           59,415            65,790
Employer Contribution                                                     11,199            5,486             1,298
Benefits Paid                                                            (30,522)         (28,713)          (25,711)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Fair Value of Assets at End of Period                                   $537,958         $509,393          $473,205
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Reconciliation of Funded Status
Funded Status                                                              $(838)        $(22,857)          $10,828
Unrecognized Net Actuarial Gain                                          (45,853)         (12,659)          (38,687)
Unrecognized Transition Asset                                            (14,864)         (18,580)          (22,296)
Unrecognized Prior Service Cost                                           12,048           11,369            12,435
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Accrued Benefit Cost                                                    $(49,507)        $(42,727)         $(37,720)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                            1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Weighted Average Assumptions as of September 30
Discount Rate                                                              7.25%            7.00%             7.75%
Expected Return on Plan Assets                                             8.50%            8.50%             8.50%
Rate of Compensation Increase                                              5.00%            5.00%             5.00%
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Service Cost                                                            $ 12,676         $ 10,655            $9,988
Interest Cost                                                             36,299           35,485            33,532
Expected Return on Plan Assets                                           (38,158)         (35,724)          (34,011)
Amortization of Prior Service Cost                                         1,012            1,065               991
Amortization of Transition Asset                                          (3,716)          (3,716)           (3,754)
Recognition of Actuarial Loss                                              2,833              981                 -
Early Retirement Window                                                    7,032                -             1,904
Net Amortization and Deferral for
  Regulatory Purposes                                                      2,721            4,829              (374)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Net Periodic Benefit Cost                                               $ 20,699         $ 13,575            $8,276
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

The effect of the discount rate change in 1999 was to decrease the Benefit Obligation by $15.9 million as of the end of the period. The effect of the discount rate change in 1998 was to increase the Benefit Obligation as of the end of the period by $45.0 million.

Other Post-Retirement Benefits
Reconciliations of the Benefit Obligation, Post-Retirement Plan Assets and Funded Status, as well as the components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost and the Weighted Average Assumptions are as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Change in Benefit Obligation
Benefit Obligation at Beginning of Period                              $ 256,983         $218,370         $ 212,047
Service Cost                                                               4,493            4,022             4,056
Interest Cost                                                             17,635           17,122            16,594
Plan Participants' Contributions                                             673              867               417
Actuarial (Gain) Loss                                                    (13,542)          27,014            (6,653)
Benefits Paid                                                            (10,627)         (10,412)           (8,091)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Benefit Obligation at End of Period                                    $ 255,615         $256,983         $ 218,370
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Change in Plan Assets
Fair Value of Assets at Beginning of Period                            $ 122,870         $ 98,639           $73,059
Actual Return on Plan Assets                                              17,345           14,602            13,618
Employer Contribution                                                     19,623           19,174            19,636
Plan Participants' Contributions                                             673              867               417
Benefits Paid                                                            (10,627)         (10,412)           (8,091)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Fair Value of Assets at End of Period                                  $ 149,884         $122,870           $98,639
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Reconciliation of Funded Status
Funded Status                                                          $(105,731)       $(134,113)        $(119,731)
Unrecognized Net Actuarial Loss                                           (2,396)          19,660               505
Unrecognized Transition Obligation                                        99,780          106,907           114,034
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Accrued Benefit Cost                                                    $ (8,347)        $ (7,546)         $ (5,192)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
                                                                            1999              1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
Weighted Average Assumptions as of September 30
Discount Rate                                                              7.25%             7.00%             7.75%
Expected Return on Plan Assets                                             8.50%             8.50%             8.50%
Rate of Compensation Increase                                              5.00%             5.00%             5.00%
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Service Cost                                                              $4,493            $4,022            $4,056
Interest Cost                                                             17,635            17,122            16,594
Expected Return on Plan Assets                                           (10,134)           (8,099)           (6,014)
Amortization of Transition Obligation                                      7,127             7,127             7,768
Amortization of Loss                                                       1,304               683                 -
Net Amortization and Deferral for
  Regulatory Purposes                                                      1,774               915            (1,257)
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
Net Periodic Benefit Cost                                               $ 22,199          $ 21,770          $ 21,147
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

The effect of the discount rate change in 1999 was to decrease the Benefit Obligation by $9.1 million. The effect of the discount rate change in 1998 was to increase the Benefit Obligation by $25.3 million.

The annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered medical care benefits was assumed to be 10% for 1997, 9% for 1998 and 8% for 1999 and gradually decline to 5.5% by the year 2003 and remain level thereafter. The annual rate of increase for medical care benefits provided by healthcare maintenance organizations was assumed to be 7.5% in 1998, 7.0% in 1999 and gradually decline to 5.5% by the year 2002 and remain level thereafter. The annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered prescription drug benefits was assumed to be 8.5% for 1997, 9.0% for 1998 and 8.0% for 1999 and gradually decline to 5.5% by the year 2003 and remain level thereafter. The annual rate of increase in the per capita Medicare Part B Reimbursement was assumed to be 3.1% for 1997, 9.0% for 1998 and 8.0% for 1999 and gradually decline to 5.5% by the year 2003 and remain level thereafter.

The health care cost trend rate assumptions used to calculate the per capita cost of covered medical care benefits have a significant effect on the amounts reported. If the health care cost trend rates were increased by 1% in each year, the Benefit Obligation as of October 1, 1999 would be increased by $38.9 million. This 1% change would also have increased the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic post-retirement benefit cost for 1999 by $4.0 million. If the health care cost trend rates were decreased by 1% in each year, the Benefit Obligation as of October 1, 1999 would be decreased by $34.0 million. This 1% change would also have decreased the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic post-retirement benefit cost for 1999 by $3.4 million.

Note H - Commitments and Contingencies

Environmental Matters
It is the Company's policy to accrue estimated environmental clean-up costs (investigation and remediation) when such amounts can reasonably be estimated and it is probable that the Company will be required to incur such costs. Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation have estimated their clean-up costs related to the sites described below in (i) and (ii) will be in the range of $9.4 million to $10.4 million. The minimum liability of $9.4 million has been recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 1999. Other than discussed below, the Company is currently not aware of any material additional exposure to environmental liabilities. However, adverse changes in environmental regulations or other factors could impact the Company.

The Company has been recovering site investigation and remediation costs in rates. Accordingly, the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 1998 included related regulatory assets of $12.4 million. Over the past several years, the Company has been negotiating settlements with its insurance carriers related to environmental investigation and remediation costs. The Company received net proceeds of approximately $9.8 million in 1999 and approximately $3.5 million in 1998 related to these settlements. In addition, the Company reached a settlement with one of its insurance carriers for reimbursement of covered costs to remediate certain sites. A portion of the net proceeds received and future proceeds accrued have been applied to reduce the Company's environmental related regulatory assets to zero at September 30, 1999.

The Company is subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment. The Company has established procedures for the ongoing evaluation of its operations to identify potential environmental exposures and comply with regulatory policies and procedures.

(i) Former Manufactured Gas Plant and Former Gasoline Plant Sites

Distribution Corporation has incurred or is incurring clean-up costs at five former manufactured gas plant sites in New York and Pennsylvania. Remediation is complete at one site and substantially complete at a second site. With respect to the second site, Distribution Corporation has been designated by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as a potentially responsible party (PRP) and is also engaged in litigation with the DEC and the party who bought that site from Distribution Corporation's predecessor. At a third site, the remedial plan has been approved by the DEC and remediation is expected to begin in 2000. A fourth site is in an ongoing investigation stage with remediation being designed. The fifth is a site allegedly containing, among other things, manufactured gas plant waste and is in the investigation stage. Supply Corporation is in the final stages of remediation of a former gasoline plant site.

(ii) Third Party Waste Disposal Sites

Distribution Corporation and Supply Corporation are each currently identified by the DEC or the Federal Environmental Protection Agency as one of a number of companies considered to be PRPs with respect to certain waste disposal sites in New York which were operated by unrelated third parties. The PRPs are alleged to have contributed to the materials that may have been collected at such waste disposal sites by the site operators. The ultimate cost to Distribution Corporation or Supply Corporation with respect to the remediation of these sites will depend on such factors as the remediation plan selected, the extent of site contamination, the number of additional PRPs at each site and the portion of responsibility, if any, attributed to Distribution Corporation or Supply Corporation. Distribution Corporation is a PRP at two waste disposal sites. The remediation has been completed at one site and the remedial design selected at the second site. Supply Corporation is a PRP at one waste disposal site, which is at the investigation stage.

Without being named a PRP, Distribution Corporation has also signed a consent decree (court approval pending) by which it would share the costs of remediating another waste disposal site in New York. Also without being named a PRP, Supply Corporation expects that it will participate in the cost of a site that is currently being remediated by a third party.

(iii) Other Sites

Distribution Corporation received, in 1998 and again in October 1999, notice that the DEC believes Distribution Corporation is responsible for contamination discovered at an additional former manufactured gas plant site in New York (without naming Distribution Corporation as a PRP). Distribution Corporation responded that other companies operated that site before Distribution Corporation's predecessor did, that liability could be imposed upon Distribution Corporation only if hazardous substances were disposed of at the site during a period when the site was operated by Distribution Corporation's predecessor, and that Distribution Corporation was unaware of any such disposal. Distribution Corporation has not incurred any clean-up costs at this site nor has it been able to reasonably estimate the probability or extent of potential liability.

Distribution Corporation understands that PRPs at another third party waste disposal site have obtained records from the operator (a waste oil collector) indicating that the site received used oil from Distribution Corporation (among others). A contribution claim could, therefore, be asserted against Distribution Corporation, which has not incurred any clean-up costs at this site nor been able to reasonably estimate the probability or extent of potential liability.

Supply Corporation believes that there is the possibility that it may incur costs related to certain of its measuring and regulator stations in New York. No costs have been incurred or accrued to date. Supply Corporation has estimated its exposure at approximately $0.2 million.

(iv) Clean Air Standards

The Company, in its international operations in the Czech Republic has substantially completed the construction of new fluidized-bed boilers at the district heating and power generation plant of PSZT in order to comply with certain clean air standards mandated by the Czech Republic government. Capital expenditures related to this reconstruction incurred by PSZT in 1999 were approximately $23.0 million.

Other
The Company has entered into contractual commitments in the ordinary course of business including commitments by Distribution Corporation to purchase capacity on nonaffiliated pipelines to meet customer gas supply needs. The majority of these contracts (representing 88% of current contracted demand capacity) expire within the next five years. Costs incurred under these contracts are purchased gas costs, subject to state commission review, and are being recovered in customer rates through inclusion in Distribution Corporation's rate schedules. Management believes, to the extent any stranded pipeline costs are generated by the unbundling of services in Distribution Corporation's service territory, such costs will be recoverable from customers.

The Company is involved in litigation arising in the normal course of its business. In addition to the regulatory matters discussed in Note B - Regulatory Matters, the Company is involved in other regulatory matters arising in the normal course of business that involve rate base, cost of service and purchased gas cost issues. While the resolution of such litigation or other regulatory matters could have a material effect on earnings and cash flows in the year of resolution, none of this litigation, and none of these other regulatory matters, are expected to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company at this time.

Note I - Business Segment Information

The Company has adopted SFAS 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information" (SFAS 131), which changes the way the Company reports information about its business segments. SFAS 131 requires disclosure of certain financial information based upon how management evaluates the performance of its business segments. The information for 1998 and 1997 has been restated from the prior year's presentation to conform to the 1999 presentation.

The Company has six reportable segments: Utility, Pipeline and Storage, Exploration and Production, International, Energy Marketing and Timber. The breakdown of the Company's reportable segments is based upon a combination of factors including differences in products and services, regulatory environment and geographic factors.

The Utility segment operations are regulated by the NYPSC and the PaPUC and are carried out by Distribution Corporation. Distribution Corporation sells natural gas to retail customers and provides natural gas transportation services in western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania.

The Pipeline and Storage segment operations are regulated by the FERC and are carried out by Supply Corporation and SIP. Supply Corporation transports and stores natural gas for utilities (including Distribution Corporation), natural gas marketers (including NFR) and pipeline companies in the northeastern United States markets. SIP, although not regulated itself by the FERC, holds a one-third partnership interest in the Independence Pipeline Company, whose rates, services and other matters will be regulated by the FERC.

The Exploration and Production segment, through Seneca, is engaged in exploration for, and development and purchase of, natural gas and oil reserves in the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana, in California, in Wyoming and in the Appalachian region of the United States. Seneca's production is, for the most part, sold to purchasers located in the vicinity of its wells.

The International segment's operations are carried out by Horizon. Horizon engages in foreign energy projects through the investment of its indirect subsidiaries as the sole or partial owner of various business entities. Horizon's current emphasis is the Czech Republic where, through its subsidiaries, it owns majority interests in companies having district heating and power generation plants in the northern Bohemia region of the Czech Republic.

The Energy Marketing segment is comprised of NFR's operations. NFR is engaged in the retail marketing of natural gas, the marketing of electricity, and the performance of energy management services for industrial, commercial, public authority and residential end-users located in the northeastern United States.

The Timber segment's operations are carried out by the Northeast division of Seneca and by Highland. This segment has timber holdings in the northeastern United States and several sawmills and kilns in Pennsylvania.

The data presented in the tables below reflect the reportable segments and reconciliations to consolidated amounts. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Sales of products or services between segments are billed at regulated rates or at market rates, as applicable. Expenditures for long-lived assets include additions to property, plant and equipment and equity investments in corporations (stock acquisitions) and/or partnerships, net of any cash acquired. The Company evaluates segment performance based on income before discontinued operations, extraordinary items and cumulative effects of changes in accounting (when applicable). When these items are not applicable, the Company evaluates performance based on net income.


Year Ended September 30, 1999 (Thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Pipeline   Exploration                                    Total
                             and            and                   Energy               Reportable
                   Utility   Storage    Production  International Marketing   Timber   Segments   All Other
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue from
External
Customers           $801,053    $82,994    $140,212    $107,045      $99,088  $31,117  $1,261,509    $1,765

Intersegment
Revenues               6,302     85,789       6,782           -            -        -      98,873         -

Interest Expense      29,659     13,147      34,409      11,451          234    2,208      91,108       100

Depreciation,
Depletion and
Amortization          34,215     22,690      55,750      10,473          165    6,388     129,681         7

Income Tax
Expense               34,741     22,439       2,992          15        1,138    2,788      64,113        55

Segment Profit
(Loss): Net
Income                56,875     39,765       7,127       2,276        2,054    4,769     112,866     (162)

Expenditures for
Additions to
Long-Lived Assets     46,974     34,873      97,586      33,412          302   56,700     269,847        66

At September 30, 1999 (Thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Segment Assets    $1,178,185   $542,962    $727,557    $255,042      $18,676  $98,830  $2,821,252    $7,351
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Year Ended September 30, 1999 (Thousands)

Corporate and
Intersegment       Total
Eliminations    Consolidated
------------------------------


         $   -     $1,263,274

       (98,873)             -

        (3,510)        87,698


             2        129,690


           661         64,829


         2,333        115,037


             -        269,913


------------------------------

$13,983 $2,842,586

Year Ended September 30, 1998 (Thousands)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              Pipeline   Exploration                                    Total
                              and            and                    Energy              Reportable
                    Utility   Storage    Production  International Marketing   Timber   Segments  All Other
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue from
External
Customers           $ 867,802    $84,218     $113,194     $76,259      $87,187  $17,805 $1,246,465    $1,535

Intersegment
Revenues                3,378     86,765       11,078           -            -        -    101,221         -

Interest Expense       44,639     15,232       21,454       7,188           31    1,580     90,124        33

Depreciation,
Depletion and
Amortization           33,459     21,816       50,937       7,309           91    5,169    118,781        97

Income Tax
Expense (Benefit)      30,076     29,644      (39,478)      2,158          471    1,445     24,316       119

Significant
Noncash Item:
Impairment of Oil
and Gas Producing
Properties                  -          -      128,996           -            -        -    128,996         -

Segment Profit
(Loss): Income
Before Cumulative
Effect of Change
in Accounting          51,788     39,852      (64,110)      1,279          787    1,904     31,500       143

Expenditures for
Additions to
Long-Lived Assets      50,680     29,145      323,627      96,987          320    9,893    510,652         -

At September 30, 1998 (Thousands)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Segment Assets     $1,171,645   $526,738     $673,706    $242,339      $16,944  $45,507 $2,676,879    $5,216
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Year Ended September 30, 1998 (Thousands) Corporate and
Intersegment Total
Eliminations Consolidated

 $     -      $1,248,000


(101,221)              -

  (4,873)         85,284


       2         118,880

    (411)         24,024

- 128,996

          661          32,304


            -         510,652


------------------------------

$2,364 $2,684,459

Year Ended September 30, 1997 (Thousands)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Pipeline   Exploration                                      Total
                               and            and                    Energy                Reportable
                    Utility    Storage    Production  International  Marketing   Timber    Segments   All Other
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue from
External
Customers            $991,281    $82,883     $107,733      $1,910     $70,098   $11,536   $1,265,441      $ 371

Intersegment
Revenues                   85     89,811       11,527           -           -         -      101,423          -

Interest Expense       32,608     16,068       11,103       1,230          33     1,410       62,452         18

Depreciation,
Depletion and
Amortization           32,972     21,459       51,117         107          14     5,960      111,629         18

Income Tax
Expense (Benefit)      35,510     21,026       11,592        (954)        931      (193)      67,912         55

Segment Profit
(Loss): Net
Income                 57,220     36,760       20,359      (3,348)      1,567      (609)     111,949        171

Expenditures for
Additions to
Long-Lived Assets      66,908     22,562      120,282      22,293          96    16,151(1)   248,292         19

At September 30, 1997 (Thousands)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Segment Assets     $1,175,885   $522,191     $469,795     $24,031     $17,083   $42,260   $2,251,245     $5,207
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(1)Amount includes non-cash acquisition of $12.3 million in exchange for long-term debt obligations.

Year Ended September 30, 1997 (Thousands)

 Corporate and
 Intersegment       Total
 Eliminations    Consolidated
-------------------------------


         $    -     $1,265,812

       (101,423)             -
         (5,659)        56,811


              3        111,650

            707         68,674

          2,568        114,688

- 248,311


$10,879 $2,267,331

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geographic Information:                                  1999                  1998                   1997
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)
Revenues from External Customers:

United States                                          $1,156,229           $1,171,741             $1,263,902

Czech Republic                                            107,045               76,259                  1,910
                                                       ----------           ----------             ----------

                                                       $1,263,274           $1,248,000             $1,265,812
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At September 30 (Thousands)
Long-Lived Assets:

United States                                          $2,369,840           $2,258,817             $2,036,525

Czech Republic                                            215,457              215,125                 22,139
                                                       ----------           ----------             ----------

                                                       $2,585,297           $2,473,942             $2,058,664
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Note J - Stock Acquisitions

Exploration and Production
In May 1998, Seneca acquired the outstanding shares of HarCor for approximately $32.6 million. The acquisition of HarCor was accounted for in accordance with the purchase method. HarCor's results of operations were incorporated into the Company's consolidated financial statements for the period subsequent to the completion of the tender offer in May 1998. Effective August 31, 1999, HarCor was merged into Seneca.

International
During 1998, Horizon, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, increased its ownership interest in SCT from 36.8% at September 30, 1997 to 82.7% at September 30, 1998. The cost of acquiring these additional shares was approximately $24.9 million. Also in 1998, Horizon invested in PSZT, and owned an 86.2% interest at September 30, 1998. The cost of acquiring the shares of PSZT was approximately $64.5 million.

During 1999, Horizon, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, increased its ownership interest in SCT to 82.87% for a minimal cost. SCT in turn increased its ownership in JTR, a district heating plant in the northern Bohemia region of the Czech Republic, from 34% to 65.78%. The cost of acquiring these additional shares was approximately $5.8 million.

The acquisitions made in the International segment have been accounted for in accordance with the purchase method. The goodwill resulting from these acquisitions is being amortized over a twenty-year period. The goodwill is recorded in Other Assets in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet. This goodwill amounted to $9.5 million and $10.1 million at September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.

Note K - Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)

In the opinion of management, the following quarterly information includes all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the results of operations for such periods. Per common share amounts are calculated using the weighted average number of shares outstanding during each quarter. The total of all quarters may differ from the per common share amounts shown on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Those per common share amounts are based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the entire fiscal year. Because of the seasonal nature of the Company's heating business, there are substantial variations in operations reported on a quarterly basis.


----------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------
                                                                                           Net
                                                                                         Income
                                                    Income         Income (Loss)         (Loss)
                                                    (Loss)          Per Common          Available             Earnings
                                    Operating       Before         Share Before            for               (Loss) Per
    Quarter        Operating         Income       Cumulative     Cumulative Effect       Common             Common Share
                                                              -----------------------                 --------------------------
     Ended          Revenues         (Loss)         Effect       Basic      Diluted       Stock          Basic        Diluted
----------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------
           1999   (Thousands, except per common share amounts)
----------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------
       12/31/98       $340,422        $56,835      $ 37,619        $ 0.98       $0.97   $ 37,619(1)        $ 0.98        $0.97
        3/31/99       $483,404        $83,475      $ 61,145        $ 1.58       $1.57   $ 61,145           $ 1.58        $1.57
        6/30/99       $248,658        $31,319      $ 11,840        $ 0.31       $0.30   $ 11,840(2)        $ 0.31        $0.30
        9/30/99       $190,790        $20,379       $ 4,433        $ 0.11       $0.11    $ 4,433(3)        $ 0.11        $0.11
----------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------
           1998   (Thousands, except per common share amounts)
----------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------
       12/31/97       $371,021       $ 52,280      $ 37,534        $ 0.98       $0.97   $ 28,418(4)       $  0.74        $0.73
        3/31/98       $462,648       $(16,228)     $(21,262)       $(0.56)        N/A   $(21,262)(5)      $ (0.56)         N/A
        6/30/98       $242,447       $ 33,726      $ 19,107        $ 0.50       $0.49   $ 19,107          $  0.50        $0.49
        9/30/98       $171,884       $ 14,153      $ (3,075)       $(0.08)        N/A   $ (3,075)(6)      $ (0.08)         N/A
----------------- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------

N/A - Not applicable due to antidilution.

(1) Includes income of $3.9 million related to IRS audit settlement and expense of $3.5 million related to an early retirement offer.
(2) Includes expense of $3.8 million related to stock appreciation rights (SAR), expense of $1.1 million related to an early retirement offer and income of $1.0 million for lost and unaccounted for (LAUF) gas adjustment related to 1998.
(3) Includes income of $1.6 million for LAUF gas adjustment related to 1999 and income of $1.6 million related to a gain on stock received from the demutualization of an insurance company.
(4) Includes $9.1 million negative non-cash cumulative effect of a change in accounting for depletion.
(5) Includes expense of $79.1 million for impairment of oil and gas producing properties and income of $5.0 million related to IRS audit settlement.
(6) Includes expense of $1.8 million for Distribution Corporation refund provision and income of $1.0 million for a net gain associated with U.S. dollar denominated debt.

Note L - Market for Common Stock and Related Shareholder Matters (unaudited)

At September 30, 1999, there were 22,336 holders of National Fuel Gas Company common stock. The common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Information related to restrictions on the payment of dividends can be found in Note D Capitalization. The quarterly price ranges and quarterly dividends declared for the fiscal years ended September 30, 1999 and 1998, are shown below:

--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ -----------------
                                                                           Price Range                     Dividends
                                                                ------------------------------------
Quarter Ended                                                                High              Low          Declared
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
    1999
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
 12/31/98                                                                 $49-5/8          $44-7/8             $.450
  3/31/99                                                                 $46-1/2          $39-1/4             $.450
  6/30/99                                                                     $50          $37-1/2             $.465
  9/30/99                                                                 $49-3/4          $44-5/8             $.465
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
    1998
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- ---------------- -----------------
 12/31/97                                                               $48-15/16        $42-11/16             $.435
  3/31/98                                                               $48-13/16          $45-3/8             $.435
  6/30/98                                                                 $49-1/8          $39-5/8             $.450
  9/30/98                                                                     $47        $39-13/16             $.450
--------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ ---------------- -----------------

Note M - Supplementary Information for Oil and Gas Producing Activities

The following supplementary information is presented in accordance with SFAS 69, "Disclosures about Oil and Gas Producing Activities," and related SEC accounting rules.

Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
At September 30 (Thousands)
                                                                                              1999              1998
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
Proved Properties                                                                         $880,470          $739,684
Unproved Properties                                                                         92,097           141,873
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                                           972,567           881,557
Less - Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion
  and Amortization                                                                         315,675           261,236
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                                          $656,892          $620,321
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -----------------

Costs related to unproved properties are excluded from amortization as they represent unevaluated properties that require additional drilling to determine the existence of oil and gas reserves. Following is a summary of such costs excluded from amortization at September 30, 1999:

---------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Total as of                       Year Costs Incurred
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------------
(Thousands)                         September 30, 1999             1999            1998           1997          Prior
---------------------------- -------------------------- ---------------- --------------- -------------- --------------

Acquisition Costs                              $82,994          $12,077         $51,226         $8,525        $11,166
Exploration Costs                                9,103            9,103               -              -              -
---------------------------- -------------------------- ---------------- --------------- -------------- --------------
                                               $92,097          $21,180         $51,226         $8,525        $11,166
---------------------------- -------------------------- ---------------- --------------- -------------- --------------

Costs Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Property Acquisition Costs: (1)
  Proved                                                                 $ 2,798         $189,201           $ 4,154
  Unproved                                                                11,530           88,369            23,120
Exploration Costs                                                         52,141           74,421            76,703
Development Costs                                                         30,985           23,887            15,583
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
                                                                        $ 97,454         $375,878          $119,560
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

(1) Total proved and unproved property acquisition costs for 1998 of $277.6 million include amounts related to the HarCor, Bakersfield Energy and Whittier Trust properties acquired in 1998 of $87.0 million, $25.3 million and $141.1 million, respectively.

Results of Operations for Producing Activities

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Operating Revenues:
  Natural Gas (includes revenues from sales to affiliates
    of $6,365, $11,065 and $10,682, respectively)                       $ 81,734         $ 89,284          $100,411
  Oil, Condensate and Other Liquids                                       51,592           31,770            39,237
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Total Operating Revenues(1)                                              133,326          121,054           139,648
Production/Lifting Costs                                                  28,119           23,622            17,335
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
  ($0.89 and $0.96 per Mcfe of production, and $0.36 per
  dollar of operating revenues, respectively) (2)                         54,439           50,221            50,687
Impairment of Oil and Gas Producing Properties(3)                              -          128,996                 -
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)                                              16,255          (28,949)           24,699
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Results of Operations for Producing Activities
  (excluding corporate overheads and interest charges)                  $ 34,513         $(52,836)         $ 46,927
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

(1) Exclusive of hedging gains and losses. See further discussion in Note F - Financial Instruments.
(2) In 1998, Seneca changed its method of depletion for oil and gas producing properties from the gross revenue method to the units of production method. See further discussion in Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
(3) See discussion of impairment in Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

Reserve Quantity Information (unaudited) The Company's proved oil and gas reserves are located in the United States. The estimated quantities of proved reserves disclosed in the table below are based upon estimates by qualified Company geologists and engineers and are audited by independent petroleum engineers. Such estimates are inherently imprecise and may be subject to substantial revisions as a result of numerous factors including, but not limited to, additional development activity, evolving production history, and continual reassessment of the viability of production under varying economic conditions.

-------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
                                                      Gas MMcf                                  Oil Mbbl
                                       ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
Year Ended September 30                      1999          1998           1997          1999          1998          1997
-------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Proved Developed and
Undeveloped Reserves:
  Beginning of Year                       325,065       232,449        207,082        66,591        17,981        25,749
    Extensions and Discoveries             46,423        40,293         47,951         3,716           640           359
    Revisions of
      Previous Estimates                  (13,091)      (18,623)        20,820         9,808        (4,191)       (6,224)
    Production                            (37,166)      (36,474)       (38,586)       (4,016)       (2,614)       (1,902)
    Sales of Minerals in Place               (439)            -         (5,464)         (280)            -            (1)
    Purchases of Minerals
      in Place and Other                        -       107,420            646             -        54,775             -
-------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
  End of Year                             320,792       325,065        232,449        75,819        66,591        17,981
-------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Proved Developed Reserves:
  Beginning of Year                       230,508       194,454        163,537        48,081        11,354        14,043
-------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
  End of Year                             222,929       230,508        194,454        57,333        48,081        11,354
-------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- -------------- ------------- ------------- -------------

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves (unaudited)
The Company cautions that the following presentation of the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is intended to be neither a measure of the fair market value of the Company's oil and gas properties, nor an estimate of the present value of actual future cash flows to be obtained as a result of their development and production. It is based upon subjective estimates of proved reserves only and attributes no value to categories of reserves other than proved reserves, such as probable or possible reserves, or to unproved acreage. Furthermore, it is based on year-end prices and costs adjusted only for existing contractual changes, and it assumes an arbitrary discount rate of 10%. Thus, it gives no effect to future price and cost changes certain to occur under the widely fluctuating political and economic conditions of today's world.

The standardized measure is intended instead to provide a somewhat better means for comparing the value of the Company's proved reserves at a given time with those of other oil- and gas-producing companies than is provided by a simple comparison of raw proved reserve quantities.

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)
                                                                             1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Future Cash Inflows                                                    $2,402,308       $1,547,216        $1,072,375
Less:
  Future Production Costs                                                 560,459          413,753           166,989
  Future Development Costs                                                185,617          160,884            85,216
  Future Income Tax Expense at
    Applicable Statutory Rate                                             477,205          245,120           257,172
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Future Net Cash Flows                                                   1,179,027          727,459           562,998
Less:
  10% Annual Discount for Estimated
    Timing of Cash Flows                                                  471,768          260,688           179,798
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future
    Net Cash Flows                                                      $ 707,259        $ 466,771         $ 383,200
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------

The principal sources of change in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows were as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Year Ended September 30 (Thousands)                                         1999             1998              1997
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future
  Net Cash Flows at Beginning of Year                                   $466,771         $383,200          $329,244
    Sales, Net of Production Costs                                       (53,615)         (97,432)         (122,313)
    Net Changes in Prices, Net of Production Costs                       317,356         (180,853)           78,499
    Purchases of Minerals in Place                                             -          364,102             1,138
    Sales of Minerals in Place                                            (2,706)               -            (9,632)
    Extensions and Discoveries                                           122,894           36,844            88,228
    Changes in Estimated Future Development Costs                        (97,082)        (104,181)          (20,785)
    Previously Estimated Development Costs Incurred                       72,349           28,514            43,731
    Net Change in Income Taxes at
      Applicable Statutory Rate                                         (232,085)          57,190           (24,797)
    Revisions of Previous Quantity Estimates                              40,964          (75,136)          (27,317)
    Accretion of Discount and Other                                       72,413           54,523            47,204
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------
Standardized Measure of Discounted
  Future Net Cash Flows at End of Year                                  $707,259         $466,771          $383,200
----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- -----------------


                                            Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts






----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- ----------------- --------------
                                                             Additions      Additions
                                             Balance at     Charged to     Charged to                       Balance at
(Thousands)                                   Beginning      Costs and          Other                           End of
Description                                   of Period       Expenses    Accounts(1)     Deductions(2)         Period
----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- ----------------- --------------
Year Ended September 30, 1999
Reserve for Doubtful Accounts                    $6,232        $15,337           $  1           $13,728         $7,842
----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- ----------------- --------------
Year Ended September 30, 1998
Reserve for Doubtful Accounts                    $8,291        $15,861           $746           $18,666         $6,232
----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- ----------------- --------------
Year Ended September 30, 1997
Reserve for Doubtful Accounts                    $7,672        $16,586           $  -           $15,967         $8,291
----------------------------------------- --------------- -------------- -------------- ----------------- --------------

(1) Represents opening balance sheet reserve plus exchange rate impact of translating the Czech koruna to the U.S. dollar for Horizon.
(2) Amounts represent net accounts receivable written-off.

ITEM 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None


PART III

ITEM 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

The information required by this item concerning the directors of the Company is omitted pursuant to Instruction G of Form 10-K since the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its February 17, 2000 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after September 30, 1999. The information provided in such definitive Proxy Statement, excepting the "Report of the Compensation Committee," and the "Corporate Performance Graph," is incorporated herein by reference. Information concerning the Company's executive officers can be found in Part I, Item 1, of this report.

ITEM 11 Executive Compensation

The information required by this item is omitted pursuant to Instruction G of Form 10-K since the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its February 17, 2000 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after September 30, 1999. The information provided in such definitive Proxy Statement, excepting the "Report of the Compensation Committee," and the "Corporate Performance Graph," is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

The information required by this item is omitted pursuant to Instruction G of Form 10-K since the Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its February 17, 2000 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after September 30, 1999. The information provided in such definitive Proxy Statement, excepting the "Report of the Compensation Committee," and the "Corporate Performance Graph," is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

At September 30, 1999, the Company knows of no relationships or transactions required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404 of Regulation S-K.

PART IV

ITEM 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K

(a) Financial Statement Schedules All financial statement schedules filed as part of this report are included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K and reference is made thereto.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K None

(c) Exhibits

Exhibit
Number                    Description of Exhibits
------                    -----------------------

3(i)     Articles of Incorporation:

   o     Restated  Certificate of  Incorporation of National Fuel Gas
         Company dated September 21, 1998 (Exhibit 3.1, Form 10-K for
         fiscal year ended September 30, 1998 in File No. 1-3880)

3(ii)    By-Laws:

3.1      National  Fuel Gas Company  By-Laws as amended on  September
         16, 1999

(4)      Instruments   Defining  the  Rights  of  Security   Holders,
         Including Indentures:

   o     Indenture dated as of October 15, 1974,  between the Company
         and The Bank of New York  (formerly  Irving  Trust  Company)
         (Exhibit 2(b) in File No. 2-51796)

   o     Third  Supplemental  Indenture dated as of December 1, 1982,
         to  Indenture  dated as of October  15,  1974,  between  the
         Company  and The Bank of New  York  (formerly  Irving  Trust
         Company) (Exhibit 4(a)(4) in File No. 33-49401)

   o     Tenth  Supplemental  Indenture dated as of February 1, 1992,
         to  Indenture  dated as of October  15,  1974,  between  the
         Company  and The Bank of New  York  (formerly  Irving  Trust
         Company)  (Exhibit 4(a), Form 8-K dated February 14, 1992 in
         File No. 1-3880)

   o     Eleventh Supplemental  Indenture dated as of May 1, 1992, to
         Indenture dated as of October 15, 1974,  between the Company
         and The Bank of New York  (formerly  Irving  Trust  Company)
         (Exhibit 4(b),  Form 8-K dated February 14, 1992 in File No.
         1-3880)

   o     Twelfth Supplemental  Indenture dated as of June 1, 1992, to
         Indenture dated as of October 15, 1974,  between the Company
         and The Bank of New York  (formerly  Irving  Trust  Company)
         (Exhibit  4(c),  Form 8-K  dated  June 18,  1992 in File No.
         1-3880)

   o     Thirteenth Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 1, 1993,
         to  Indenture  dated as of October  15,  1974,  between  the
         Company  and The Bank of New  York  (formerly  Irving  Trust
         Company) (Exhibit 4(a)(14) in File No. 33-49401)

   o     Fourteenth  Supplemental Indenture dated as of July 1, 1993,
         to  Indenture  dated as of October  15,  1974,  between  the
         Company  and The Bank of New  York  (formerly  Irving  Trust
         Company)  (Exhibit  4.1,  Form 10-K for  fiscal  year  ended
         September 30, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

   o     Fifteenth  Supplemental  Indenture  dated as of September 1,
         1996 to Indenture dated as of October 15, 1974,  between the
         Company  and The Bank of New  York  (formerly  Irving  Trust
         Company)  (Exhibit  4.1,  Form 10-K for  fiscal  year  ended
         September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

4.1      Indenture  dated as of October 1, 1999,  between the Company
         and The Bank of New York

4.2      Officer's Certificate  Establishing  Medium-Term Notes dated
         October 14, 1999

   o     Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of April 30,
         1999,  between  National  Fuel Gas Company and HSBC Bank USA
         (Exhibit  10.2,  Form 10-Q for the  quarterly  period  ended
         March 31, 1999 in File No. 1-3880)

(10) Material Contracts:

(ii)(B) Contracts upon which Registrant's business is substantially dependent:

o Service Agreement No. 830016 with Texas Eastern Transmission Corporation, under Rate Schedule FT-1, dated November 2, 1995 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement No. 830017 with Texas Eastern Transmission Corporation, under Rate Schedule FT-1, dated November 2, 1995 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Texas Eastern Transmission Corporation, under Rate Schedule CDS, dated November 2, 1995 (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement between National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation and National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation, under Rate Schedule FSS, dated April 3, 1996 [Portions of this agreement are subject to confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2] (Exhibit 10.4, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Engage Energy US, L.P. (formerly St. Clair Pipelines Ltd.), dated January 29, 1996 [Portions of this agreement are subject to confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2] (Exhibit 10.5, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Empire State Pipeline under Rate Schedule FT, dated December 15, 1994 [Portions of this agreement are subject to confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2] (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement between National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation and National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation under Rate Schedule ESS dated August 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement between National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation and National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation under Rate Schedule ESS dated September 19, 1995 (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement between National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation and National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation under Rate Schedule EFT dated August 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.4, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment dated as of May 1, 1995 to Service Agreement between National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation and National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation under Rate Schedule EFT dated August 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.5, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation under Rate Schedule FT dated August 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.6, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation under Rate Schedule FT dated October 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.7, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation under Rate Schedule FTS, dated November 1, 1993 and executed February 13, 1994 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1994 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation under Rate Schedule FSS, dated November 1, 1993 and executed February 13, 1994 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1994 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation under Rate Schedule SST, dated November 1, 1993 and executed February 13, 1994 (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1994 in File No. 1-3880)

o Gas Transportation Agreement with Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company under Rate Schedule FT-A (Zone 4), dated September 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o Gas Transportation Agreement with Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company under Rate Schedule FT-A (Zone 5), dated September 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with CNG Transmission Corporation under Rate Schedule FT, dated October 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.5, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o Service Agreement with CNG Transmission Corporation under Rate Schedule GSS, dated October 1, 1993 (Exhibit 10.6, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

(iii) Compensatory plans for officers:

o Employment Agreement, dated September 17, 1981, with Bernard J. Kennedy (Exhibit 10.4, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1994 in File No. 1-3880)

10.1 Tenth Amendment to Employment Agreement with Bernard J. Kennedy, effective September 1, 1999

o Agreement, dated August 1, 1989, with Richard Hare (Exhibit 10-Q, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1989 in File No. 1-3880)

o Agreement dated August 1, 1986, with Joseph P. Pawlowski (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30,1997 in File No. 1-3880)

o Agreement dated August 1, 1986, with Gerald T. Wehrlin (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, in File No. 1-3880)

o Form of Employment Continuation and Noncompetition Agreements, dated as of December 11, 1998, with Philip C. Ackerman, Walter E. DeForest, Joseph P. Pawlowski, Dennis J. Seeley, David F. Smith and Gerald T. Wehrlin (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999 in File No. 1-3880)

o Form of Employment Continuation and Noncompetition Agreement, dated as of December 11, 1998, with Bruce H. Hale and Richard Hare (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999 in File No. 1-3880)

o Form of Employment Continuation and Noncompetition Agreement, dated as of December 11, 1998, with James A. Beck (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company 1983 Incentive Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated through February 18, 1993 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company 1984 Stock Plan, as amended and restated through February 18, 1993 (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to the National Fuel Gas Company 1984 Stock Plan, dated December 11, 1996 (Exhibit 10.7, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company 1993 Award and Option Plan, dated February 18, 1993 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1993 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to National Fuel Gas Company 1993 Award and Option Plan, dated October 27, 1995 (Exhibit 10.8, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to National Fuel Gas Company 1993 Award and Option Plan, dated December 11, 1996 (Exhibit 10.8, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to National Fuel Gas Company 1993 Award and Option Plan, dated December 18, 1996 (Exhibit 10, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company 1997 Award and Option Plan (Exhibit 10.9, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

10.2 Amended and Restated National Fuel Gas Company 1997 Award and Option Plan, dated December 9, 1999 (being submitted to Shareholder vote at the Annual Meeting in February 2000)

o National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated through May 1, 1994 (Exhibit 10.7, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1994 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, dated September 19, 1996 (Exhibit 10.10, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, dated September 27, 1995 (Exhibit 10.9, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated through March 20, 1997 (Exhibit 10.3, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan dated June 16, 1997 (Exhibit 10.4, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment No. 2 to the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, dated March 13, 1998 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1998 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan, dated February 18, 1999 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1999 in File No. 1-3880)

o National Fuel Gas Company Tophat Plan, effective March 20, 1997 (Exhibit 10, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment No. 1 to the National Fuel Gas Company Tophat Plan, dated April 6, 1998 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1998 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment No. 2 to the National Fuel Gas Company Tophat Plan, dated December 10, 1998 (Exhibit 10.1, Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 1998 in File No. 1-3880)

o Death Benefits Agreement, dated August 28, 1991, with Bernard J. Kennedy (Exhibit 10-TT, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1991 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amendment to Death Benefit Agreement of August 28, 1991, with Bernard J. Kennedy, dated March 15, 1994 (Exhibit 10.11, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1995 in File No. 1-3880)

o Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 1997 with Philip C. Ackerman (Exhibit 10.5, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

10.3 Amendment Number 1 to Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement by and Between National Fuel Gas Company and Philip C. Ackerman, dated March 23, 1999

10.4 Second Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance Agreement dated August 9, 1999 with Richard Hare

o Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 15, 1997 with Joseph P. Pawlowski (Exhibit 10.7, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

10.5 Amendment Number 1 to Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement by and Between National Fuel Gas Company and Joseph P. Pawlowski, dated March 23, 1999

10.6 Second Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance Agreement dated June 15, 1999 with Gerald T. Wehrlin

10.7 Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 15, 1997 with Walter E.

DeForest

10.8 Amendment Number 1 to Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement by and Between National Fuel Gas Company and Walter E. DeForest, dated March 29, 1999

10.9 Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 15, 1997 with Dennis J.

Seeley

10.10    Amendment  Number 1 to Amended  and  Restated  Split  Dollar
         Insurance  and  Death  Benefit   Agreement  by  and  Between
         National Fuel Gas Company and Dennis J. Seeley,  dated March
         29, 1999

10.11    Split Dollar  Insurance  and Death Benefit  Agreement  dated
         September 15, 1997 with Bruce H. Hale

10.12    Amendment  Number  1 to Split  Dollar  Insurance  and  Death
         Benefit  Agreement by and Between  National Fuel Gas Company
         and Bruce H. Hale, dated March 29, 1999

10.13    Split Dollar  Insurance  and Death Benefit  Agreement  dated
         September 15, 1997 with David F. Smith

10.14    Amendment  Number  1 to Split  Dollar  Insurance  and  Death
         Benefit  Agreement by and Between  National Fuel Gas Company
         and David F. Smith, dated March 29, 1999

   o     National  Fuel Gas  Company and  Participating  Subsidiaries
         Executive  Retirement  Plan as amended and restated  through
         November 1, 1995 (Exhibit  10.10,  Form 10-K for fiscal year
         ended September 30, 1995 in File No. 1-3880)

   o     National  Fuel Gas  Company and  Participating  Subsidiaries
         1996 Executive  Retirement  Plan Trust  Agreement (II) dated
         May 10, 1996 (Exhibit 10.13, Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
         September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

   o     Amendments  to National  Fuel Gas Company and  Participating
         Subsidiaries  Executive  Retirement Plan dated September 18,
         1997  (Exhibit  10.9,   Form  10-K  for  fiscal  year  ended
         September 30, 1997 in File No. 1-3880)

   o     Amendments   to  the   National   Fuel   Gas   Company   and
         Participating  Subsidiaries  Executive Retirement Plan dated
         December 10, 1998 (Exhibit 10.2, Form 10-Q for the quarterly
         period ended December 31, 1998 in File No. 1-3880)

10.15    Amendments  to National  Fuel Gas Company and  Participating
         Subsidiaries  Executive  Retirement Plan effective September
         16, 1999

   o     Administrative  Rules with  Respect to at Risk Awards  under
         the 1993 Award and Option Plan (Exhibit 10.14, Form 10-K for
         fiscal year ended September 30, 1996 in File No. 1-3880)

   o     Administrative  Rules of the  Compensation  Committee of the
         Board of Directors of National Fuel Gas Company,  as amended
         and restated,  effective  December 10, 1998  (Exhibit  10.3,
         Form 10-Q for the quarterly  period ended  December 31, 1998
         in File No. 1-3880)

   o     Excerpts of Minutes from the National Fuel Gas Company Board
         of  Directors  Meeting of February  20, 1997  regarding  the
         Retirement  Benefits for Bernard J. Kennedy  (Exhibit 10.10,
         Form 10-K for fiscal year ended  September  30, 1997 in File
         No. 1-3880)

   o     Excerpts of Minutes from the National Fuel Gas Company Board
         of  Directors  Meeting  of  March  20,  1997  regarding  the
         Retainer Policy for Non-Employee  Directors  (Exhibit 10.11,
         Form 10-K for fiscal year ended  September  30, 1997 in File
         No. 1-3880)

(12)     Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

(13)     Business segment  discussion as contained in the 1999 Annual
         Report and incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K

(21) Subsidiaries of the Registrant:


See Item 1 of Part I of this Annual Report on
Form 10-K

(23) Consents of Experts:

23.1 Consent of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc.

23.2 Consent of Independent Accountants

(27) Financial Data Schedules:

27.1 Financial Data Schedule for the Twelve Months Ended September 30, 1999

27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule for the Twelve Months Ended September 30, 1998

(99) Additional Exhibits:

99.1 Report of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc.

All other exhibits are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

o Incorporated herein by reference as indicated.


Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

National Fuel Gas Company
(Registrant)

 By /s/ B. J. Kennedy
    --------------------
        B. J. Kennedy
   Chairman of the Board
   and Chief Executive Officer

Date: December 9, 1999
     -------------------

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

      Signature                     Title
      ---------                     -----



/s/ B. J. Kennedy                 Chairman of the Board,
----------------------            Chief Executive Officer and Director
    B. J. Kennedy

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ P. C. Ackerman               President, Principal Financial
 ---------------------            Officer and Director
     P. C. Ackerman

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ R. T. Brady                  Director
 --------------------
     R. T. Brady

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ J. V. Glynn                  Director
 ---------------------
     J. V. Glynn

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ W. J. Hill                   Director
 ---------------------
     W. J. Hill

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ B. S. Lee                    Director
 ---------------------
     B. S. Lee

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ E. T. Mann                   Director
 ---------------------
     E. T. Mann

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ G. L. Mazanec                Director
 ---------------------
     G. L. Mazanec

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ G. H. Schofield              Director
 ---------------------
     G. H. Schofield

 Date:  December 9, 1999
        ----------------


 /s/ J. P. Pawlowski              Treasurer and Principal
 ---------------------            Accounting Officer
     J. P. Pawlowski

 Date:  December 9, 1999


APPENDIX TO ITEM 2 - PROPERTIES

Six maps outlining the Company's operating areas at September 30, 1999 are included on pages 2 and 3 of the paper format version of the Company's combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K. The first map identifies the Company's Exploration and Production operating area (i.e., Seneca's operating area). The second map identifies the Company's Pipeline and Storage operating area (i.e., Supply Corporation's storage areas and pipelines). The third map identifies the Company's Utility operating area (i.e., Distribution Corporation's service area). The fourth map identifies the Company's International operating area (i.e., Horizon's Czech Republic operations). The fifth map identifies the Company's Energy Marketing operating area (i.e., NFR's marketing service area). The sixth map identifies the Company's Timber Operating area (i.e., Seneca's and Highland's timber and sawmill operations).

APPENDIX TO ITEM 7 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION - GRAPHS

A. The Revenue Dollar - 1999

Two pie graphs detailing the revenue dollar in 1999: where it came from and where it went to, broken down as follows:

Where it came from:

$ .456 Residential Gas Sales
.115 Commercial, Industrial and Off-System Gas Sales .100 Oil and Gas Production Revenues .085 Gas Transportation Revenues .078 Energy Marketing Revenues .056 District Heating Revenues .028 Gas Storage Service Revenues .027 Electric Generation Revenues .024 Timber and Sawmill Revenues .031 Other Revenues
$1.000 Total

Where it went to:

$ .319 Gas Purchased
.151 Wages, Including Benefits
.122 Taxes
.103 Other Materials and Services .102 Depreciation
.068 Interest
.055 Dividends - Common Stock
.044 Fuel Used in Heat and Electric Generation .035 Reinvested in the Business
.001 Minority Interest in Foreign Subsidiaries $1.000 Total

Exhibit Index

 3.1             National Fuel Gas Company By-Laws as amended
                 on September 16, 1999

 4.1             Indenture  dated  as  of  October  1,  1999,
                 between the Company and The Bank of New York

 4.2             Officer's  Certificate  Establishing Medium-
                 Term Notes dated October 14, 1999

10.1             Tenth Amendment to Employment Agreement with
                 Bernard J. Kennedy,  effective  September 1,
                 1999

10.2             Amended  and  Restated   National  Fuel  Gas
                 Company  1997 Award and Option  Plan,  dated
                 December   9,  1999  (being   submitted   to
                 Shareholder  vote at the  Annual  Meeting in
                 February 2000)

10.3             Amendment  Number 1 to Amended and  Restated
                 Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement by and Between  National  Fuel Gas
                 Company and Philip C. Ackerman,  dated March
                 23, 1999

10.4             Second  Amended and  Restated  Split  Dollar
                 Insurance  Agreement  dated  August  9, 1999
                 with Richard Hare

10.5             Amendment  Number 1 to Amended and  Restated
                 Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement by and Between  National  Fuel Gas
                 Company and Joseph P. Pawlowski, dated March
                 23, 1999

10.6             Second  Amended and  Restated  Split  Dollar
                 Insurance Agreement dated June 15, 1999 with
                 Gerald T. Wehrlin

10.7             Amended and Restated Split Dollar  Insurance
                 and Death Benefit  Agreement dated September
                 15, 1997 with Walter E. DeForest

10.8             Amendment  Number 1 to Amended and  Restated
                 Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement by and Between  National  Fuel Gas
                 Company and Walter E. DeForest,  dated March
                 29, 1999

10.9             Amended and Restated Split Dollar  Insurance
                 and Death Benefit  Agreement dated September
                 15, 1997 with Dennis J. Seeley

10.10            Amendment  Number 1 to Amended and  Restated
                 Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement by and Between  National  Fuel Gas
                 Company  and Dennis J.  Seeley,  dated March
                 29, 1999

10.11            Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement  dated  September  15,  1997  with
                 Bruce H. Hale

10.12            Amendment Number 1 to Split Dollar Insurance
                 and Death  Benefit  Agreement by and Between
                 National Fuel Gas Company and Bruce H. Hale,
                 dated March 29, 1999

10.13            Split  Dollar  Insurance  and Death  Benefit
                 Agreement  dated  September  15,  1997  with
                 David F. Smith

10.14            Amendment Number 1 to Split Dollar Insurance
                 and Death  Benefit  Agreement by and Between
                 National  Fuel  Gas  Company  and  David  F.
                 Smith, dated March 29, 1999

10.15            Amendments  to National Fuel Gas Company and
                 Participating Subsidiaries Executive Retire-
                 ment Plan effective September 16, 1999


 (12)            Computation  of Ratio of  Earnings  to Fixed
                 Charges

 (13)            Business segment  discussion as contained in
                 the 1999 Annual Report and  incorporated  by
                 reference into this Form 10-K

 23.1            Consent of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc.

 23.2            Consent of Independent Accountants

 27.1            Financial   Data  Schedule  for  the  Twelve
                 Months Ended September 30, 1999

 27.2            Restated  Financial  Data  Schedule  for the
                 Twelve Months Ended September 30, 1998

 99.1            Report of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc.


Amended 2/21/85 6/19/86 7/07/88 6/14/90 6/18/92 12/8/93 6/09/94 9/19/96 1/01/97 3/20/97 6/19/97 9/18/97 9/17/98 6/17/99 9/16/99

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

BY-LAWS

ARTICLE I

Meeting of Stockholders

1. Meetings of stockholders may be held at such place, within or without the State of New Jersey, as may be fixed by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of the meeting.
2. In 1999 and thereafter, the annual meeting of stockholders shall be held on the third Thursday in February in each year beginning at ten o'clock in the forenoon, local time, unless such day shall be on a holiday, in which event such meeting shall be held at the same hour on the next succeeding business day. In 1998, the Annual Meeting of Stockholders shall be held on Thursday, February 26, 1998 at ten o'clock in the forenoon, local time.
3. Except as otherwise provided by New Jersey law, written notice of the time, place and purpose or purposes of every meeting of stockholders shall be given not less than 10 nor more than 60 days before the date of the meeting, either personally or by mail, to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting.
4. Unless otherwise provided by statute, all Special Meetings shall be called upon the written request of three or more directors or of stockholders owning one-fourth of the capital stock issued and outstanding.
5. Unless otherwise provided in the Company's Certificate of Incorporation or in New Jersey law, (i) the holders of shares entitled to cast a majority of the votes at any meeting of stockholders shall constitute a quorum at such meeting except that the votes that holders of any class or series of shares are entitled to cast shall not be counted in the determination of a quorum for action to be taken at a meeting with respect to which such class or series has no vote, and (ii) the holders of shares of any class or series entitled to cast a majority of the votes of such class or series entitled to vote separately on a specified item of business shall constitute a quorum of such class or series for the transaction of such specified item of business. If a quorum shall not be so represented, the stockholders present at any meeting of stockholders shall have power to adjourn the meeting to another time at the same or at another place. If the time and place to which the meeting is adjourned are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken and at the adjourned meeting only such business is transacted as might have been transacted at the original meeting, it shall not be necessary to give notice of the adjourned meeting unless after the adjournment the Board of Directors fixes a new record date for the adjourned meeting. In the event the Board of Directors fixes such a new record date, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record at the new record date entitled to notice under Article I paragraph 3 of these By-Laws.
6. At each election of Directors, the proxies and ballots shall be received and all questions respecting the qualification of voters shall be decided by two inspectors, who shall be appointed by the presiding officer of the meeting; provided however, that no candidate for election as Director shall act as inspector. Such inspectors shall be sworn faithfully to perform their duties and shall report in writing the results of the ballot.
7. A. Business transacted at an annual meeting of stockholders may include all such business as may properly come before the meeting. Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of business to be considered by the stockholders may be made at an annual meeting of stockholders:
(i) pursuant to the Corporation's notice of meeting;

(ii) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors; or

(iii) by any stockholder who was a stockholder of record at the time of giving of notice of the meeting, who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 7.

B. For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, the stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the Secretary of the Corporation and such other business must otherwise be a proper matter for stockholder action. Such stockholder's notice shall set forth:
(i) as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director:

(a) the name, age, business address of such person,

(b) the principal occupation of employment of such person,

(c) the class and number of shares of the Corporation which are owned beneficially by such person, and

(d) all other information relating to such person that is required to be disclosed in solicitations of proxies for election of directors in an election contest, or is otherwise required, in each case under applicable SEC regulations (as of February 1999, Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Rule 14a-11 thereunder), including such person's written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected;

(ii) as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting and any material interest in such business of such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made; and

(iii) as to the stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made:

(a) the name and address of such stockholder, as they appear on the Corporation's books, and of such beneficial owner, and

(b) the class and number of shares of the Corporation which are owned beneficially and of record by such stockholder and such beneficial owner.

C. To be timely, a stockholder's notice under this Section 7 must be delivered to the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not less than 110 days prior to the date corresponding to the date on which the Corporation first mailed its proxy materials for the prior year's annual meeting of stockholders; provided, however, that if both:
(i) the date of the annual meeting is changed more than 30 days from the date corresponding to the date of the prior year's annual meeting; and

(ii) notice (or, if earlier, public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting) is given or made to the stockholders of the Corporation less than 120 days before the date corresponding to the date on which the Corporation first mailed its proxy materials for the prior year's meeting of stockholders; then

(iii) a stockholder's notice to be timely must be so received not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the date on which such notice (or, if earlier, such public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting) was mailed or made by the Corporation.

In no event shall the public announcement of an adjournment of an annual meeting commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder's notice under this Section 7.

D. Only such business shall be conducted at a meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 7. Other than persons nominated by the full Board or any nominating committee thereof, only such persons who are nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 7 shall be eligible to serve as directors. The chairman of the meeting shall have the power and duty to determine whether a nomination or any business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made or proposed, as the case may be, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 7 and, if any proposed nomination or business is not in compliance with this Section 7, to declare that such defective proposal or nomination shall be disregarded, unless otherwise provided by any applicable law.
E. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 7, a stockholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 7. Nothing in this Section 7 shall be deemed to affect any rights of:
(i) the stockholders to request inclusion of proposals in the Corporation's proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act; or

(ii) the holders of any series of Preferred Stock to elect directors under specified circumstances.

F. Business transacted at a special meeting of the stockholders shall be limited to the purposes set forth in the notice of the special meeting.
G. For purposes of this Section 7, the term "public disclosure" shall mean disclosure in a news release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, the Associated Press or a comparable national news service, or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

8. At each meeting of stockholders, the chairman of the meeting shall fix and announce the date and time of the opening and the closing of the polls for each matter upon which the stockholders will vote at the meeting and shall determine the order of business and all other matters of procedure. The Board of Directors may adopt by resolution such rules and regulations for the conduct of meetings of stockholders as it shall deem appropriate. Except to the extent inconsistent with any such rules and regulations as adopted by the Board of Directors, the chairman of the meeting may establish rules, which need not be in writing, to maintain order and safety and for the conduct of the meeting. Without limiting the foregoing, the chairman of the meeting may:
A. Determine and declare to the meeting that any business is not properly before the meeting and therefore shall not be considered;
B. Restrict attendance at any time to bona fide shareholders of record and their proxies and other persons in attendance at the invitation of the chairman of the meeting;
C. Restrict dissemination of solicitation materials and use of audio or visual recording devices at the meeting; D. Adjourn the meeting without a vote of the stockholders, whether or not there is a quorum present; and E. Make rules governing speeches and debate, including time limits and access to microphones.

ARTICLE II
Board of Directors

1. The Board of Directors shall consist of (i) such number of directors, not less than seven nor more than eleven, as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the entire Board of Directors, and (ii) such directors as may be elected by vote of the holders of shares of preferred stock, when and as provided in the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. In order to qualify for election as a director, a nominee must be a shareholder of the Company.
2. Subject to the provisions of the Statutes of the State of New Jersey, the Certificate of Incorporation, and the By-Laws of the Corporation, the Board of Directors shall have full and complete management and control of the business and affairs of the Corporation.
3. The Board of Directors may hold its meetings or any adjournment thereof either in the State of New Jersey or elsewhere and keep the books of the Corporation at such places within or without the State of New Jersey as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine.
4. Meetings of the Board of Directors may be called at the direction of the Chairman of the Board, the President, or any three of the Directors for the time being in office.
5. Notice of any meetings of the Board of Directors shall be given to each Director by mailing the same to him at his last known address, as the same appears upon the records of the Corporation at least five days before the meeting or by telegraphing, telephoning or delivering the same to him personally at least one day before the meeting.
6. At any meeting of the Board of Directors, there may be transacted without special notice, any business within the powers of the Directors to transact, except that of which the Statutes of the State of New Jersey expressly require special notice shall be given.
7. A. A majority of the Directors in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business which may properly come before them. If a majority of said Directors shall not be present at any meeting, the Directors present shall have power to adjourn to a day certain, and notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given by mailing the same addressed to each Director at his address as the same appears upon the records of the Corporation, at least two days prior to the adjourned meeting, or by telegraphing, telephoning or delivering the same to him personally at least one day before said adjourned meeting. But, if a majority of the Board of Directors are present, the said meeting, or any adjourned meeting thereof, may be adjourned to a subsequent day; such adjournment may be without notice of such adjournment if such notice is not required by New Jersey Law (as of June 1997, N.J.S.A. 14A:6-10(2)). B. Unless a greater vote is required by applicable law or by the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company or these By-laws (including, but not limited to, subparagraph C of this paragraph 7), any action approved by a majority of the votes of directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors. C. Anything in these By-laws to the contrary notwithstanding, any action taken by the Board of Directors pursuant to the terms of any Rights Plan (as hereinafter defined) of the Company shall, unless otherwise provided by the terms of the Rights Plan, be approved by the affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4ths) of the entire Board of Directors. For purposes of these By-laws, the term "Rights Plan" shall mean any plan pursuant to which shareholders of the Company are, upon the occurrence of certain specified events (including, but not limited to, the acquisition by any person of a specified number of shares of capital stock of the corporation), entitled to purchase shares of capital stock or other securities of either the Company or the acquiring person at a discounted price.
8. A. The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any pending, threatened or completed civil, criminal, administrative or arbitrative action, suit or proceeding, and any appeal therein and any inquiry or investigation which could lead to such action, suit or proceeding ("Proceeding") by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Corporation, or, while a director or officer of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, trustee, employee or agent of another foreign or domestic corporation, or of any partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship, employee benefit plan, trust or other enterprise, whether or not for profit, to the fullest extent permitted and in the manner provided by the laws of the State of New Jersey.
B. Nothing in this paragraph 8 shall restrict or limit the power of the Corporation to indemnify its employees, agents and other persons, to advance expenses (including attorneys' fees) on their behalf and to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation in connection with any Proceeding. C. The indemnification provided by this paragraph 8 shall not exclude any other rights to which a person seeking indemnification may be entitled under the Certificate of Incorporation, By-Laws, agreement, vote of shareholders or otherwise. The indemnification provided by this paragraph 8 shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director or officer, and shall extend to the estate or personal representative of any deceased director or officer.
9. A. Except with respect to directors whose service as such ceases on or before February 20, 1997, who will continue to receive the previously-effective Director compensation until such time, each Director who is not a regular full-time employee of the Corporation or one or more of its subsidiaries, shall be paid an annual fee of $12,000 in cash and 400 shares of the common stock of the Corporation, payable in equal quarterly increments, in advance (i.e., as of the first business day of the quarter). There will be proration of payments during quarters in which such Director has only partial service. Each such share of stock of the Corporation will be nontransferable until the later of two years from its issuance or six months after such Director's cessation of service.
B. Each Director of the Corporation who is not a regular full-time employee of the Corporation or one or more of its subsidiaries shall also receive a fee of $1,000 for attendance at any meeting of the Board of Directors and a fee of $800 for attendance at any meeting of any committee of the Board of Directors, except that if a Director participates in a committee meeting by telephone, the fee shall be $500. Each Director shall be reimbursed for the travel expenses incurred by him or her in attending any meeting of the Board of Directors or any committee of the Board of Directors.

10. Any contract or other transaction between the Corporation or a subsidiary of the Corporation and any other entity shall not be void or voidable because a Director of the Corporation is interested therein if the Corporation has complied with the provisions of any then-applicable New Jersey statute(s) necessary or sufficient to make the transaction not void or voidable, including, as of June 1997, N.J.S.A. 14A:6-8(1).

ARTICLE III
Officers

1. At the first meeting after the annual election, the Board of Directors shall choose a Chairman of the Board and a President, both of whom shall be members of the Board of Directors, and one or more Vice Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer and a Controller, who need not be members of the Board of Directors, and who shall hold their respective offices until others are chosen and qualify in their stead. The offices of Secretary and Treasurer may be filled by the same person.
2. In its discretion, the Board of Directors may leave unfilled for such period as it may determine, any office except the offices of the President, Treasurer and Secretary.
3. The Chairman of the Board shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation. He shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and shall, during the recess of the Board of Directors, have general control and management of the affairs and business of the Corporation. In the absence of the President, he shall preside at stockholders' meetings.

4. In addition to the duties and responsibilities specified in the laws of the State of New Jersey and these By-Laws, the President shall preside at all stockholders' meetings and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Board of Directors. In the absence of the Chairman of the Board, or in the event that there is a vacancy in the office of the Chairman of the Board, the President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and shall perform all the duties of the Chairman of the Board as well as those of President.

5. Each Vice President shall perform such duties as shall from time to time be assigned to him by the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board, or the President.
6. The Secretary, in addition to his statutory duties, shall give proper notice of all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board of Directors. He shall act as Secretary of all meetings of the stockholders and shall perform such other duties as shall from time to time be assigned to him by the Board of Directors or President.
7. The Treasurer, in addition to his statutory duties, shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements of the funds belonging to the Corporation, and shall cause to be deposited all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in such depositories as may from time to time be designated by the Board of Directors. He shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the President and Directors whenever they may require it, account of all his transactions as Treasurer, and of the financial condition of the Corporation. He shall perform such other duties as shall be assigned to him by the Board or President, and shall give a bond for the faithful discharge of his duties in such sum and with such surety or sureties as the Board of Directors may from time to time require.
8. The Controller shall see that adequate records of all assets, liabilities and transactions of the Corporation are maintained; that adequate audits thereof, are currently and regularly made, and in conjunction with other officers, initiate and enforce measures and procedures whereby the business of the Corporation shall be conducted with maximum efficiency, safety and economy. He shall also perform all such other duties as usually pertain to the office of Controller. He shall be in all matters subject to the control of and responsible to the Board of Directors alone.
9. The Board of Directors may from time to time appoint such other officers and agents as they may deem necessary or advisable for the transaction of the business of the Corporation, who shall hold their offices during the pleasure of the Board of Directors and perform such duties as may from time to time be designated or assigned to them by said Board of Directors.
10. If the office of the Chairman of the Board, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, or Controller or one or more of them becomes vacant for any reason whatsoever, the Board of Directors at any duly convened meeting may, by a majority vote of those present, fill such vacancy and the person elected shall hold office for the unexpired term of such office and until his successor shall be chosen.
11. All officers and agents chosen or appointed by the Board of Directors shall be subject to removal by the Board of Directors at any time with or without cause, and in the case of the absence of any officer or agent of the Corporation, or for any other reason that may seem sufficient to the Board of Directors, the said Board of Directors subject to the limitations herein contained and the statutes in such case made and provided, may, without removal, delegate his powers and duties to any other officer or suitable person for such period as it shall deem proper.
12. All duly authorized bonds and debentures of the Corporation shall be signed on behalf of the Corporation by its Chairman of the Board or its President, or one of its Vice Presidents or, if so provided by resolution of the Board of Directors, by one or more of such officers and such other officer or officers designated by the Board of Directors; any or all such signatures may be manual or facsimile signatures, the signature on interest coupons attached to any said bonds or debentures shall be a facsimile signature; and the corporate seal or a facsimile of such seal may be impressed, affixed, imprinted or otherwise reproduced on said bonds and debentures and, if attested, shall be attested by the Corporation's Secretary or Assistant Secretary by manual or facsimile signature. In case any person whose signature (manual or facsimile) appears upon any said bond or debenture or coupons attached thereto shall cease to be an officer of the Corporation, or shall cease to be the officer specified thereon, before the bonds or debentures so signed shall have been authenticated by the trustee under the indenture or other instrument pursuant to which the bonds or debentures are delivered or sold, such bonds or debentures or coupons may nevertheless be adopted by the Corporation, without further action by the Board of Directors, and authenticated and delivered and sold as though the person or persons who so signed or attested such bonds or debentures or coupons had not ceased to be an officer of the Corporation or the officer specified thereof; and any bonds or debentures may be signed as aforesaid; and the seal of the Corporation impressed, affixed, imprinted or otherwise reproduced thereon may be attested on behalf of the Corporation as aforesaid, and coupons attached may be signed as aforesaid by such persons as at the actual date of the execution of the bonds or debentures or coupons shall be the proper officers of the Corporations, although at the time of the date of the bonds or debentures, such persons may not have been officers of the Corporation.

ARTICLE IV
Executive Committee

1. The Directors may appoint an executive committee and one or more other committees of not less than three members to be chosen from among the members of the Board of Directors. Such committees may meet at such times and places as the committee shall, by resolution, determine and it shall make its own rules of procedure. A majority of the members of any such committee shall constitute a quorum.
2. Except as otherwise provided by Board resolution or statute (as of June 1997, N.J.S.A. 14A:6-9(1)), each such committee shall have and may exercise the power of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation at any time when the Board of Directors are not in session. Each such committee shall, however, be subject to the specific directions of the Board of Directors.
3. Each such committee shall keep regular minutes of their transactions and shall cause them to be recorded in books to be kept for that purpose in the office of the Corporation, and shall report the same to the Board of Directors at their regular meetings.

ARTICLE V
Transfer of Shares

1. Except as otherwise provided by statute, shares evidenced by certificates shall be transferred on the books of the Corporation only by the holder thereof in person or by his attorney upon the surrender and cancellation of the certificate or certificates of a like number of shares, except in the case of lost or destroyed certificates, and in that case only after the receipt of a satisfactory bond.
2. The Board of Directors may appoint a transfer agent and a registrar of transfers, and may, in the case of shares represented by certificates, require all stock certificates to bear the signature of either or both.

ARTICLE VI
Fiscal Year

1. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall begin on the 1st day of October in each calendar year and end on the 30th day of September of the next succeeding year.

ARTICLE VII
Dividends and Working Capital

1. Before declaring any dividends or making any distribution of profits, the Directors may set apart out of the net profits or out of the surplus of the Corporation as a reserve fund to be used as working capital or for any other proper purpose, such sum or sums as the Directors shall in their discretion deem just and proper and most for the benefit of the Corporation.
2. Dividends upon the capital stock of the Corporation when declared shall be payable on dates to be determined by the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE VIII

Closing of Transfer Books and Fixing A Record Book
The Board of Directors may close the stock transfer books of the Corporation for a period not exceeding sixty days preceding the date of any meeting of stockholders or the date for payment of any dividend, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of capital stock shall go into effect.
In lieu of so closing the stock transfer books, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a date, not exceeding sixty days preceding the date of any meeting of stockholders, or the date for the payment of any dividend, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of capital stock shall go into effect, as a record date for the determination of the stockholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, any such meeting, or entitled to receive payment of any such dividend, or any such allotment of rights, or to exercise the rights in respect to any such change, conversion or exchange of capital stock, and in such case only stockholders of record on the date so fixed shall be entitled to such notice of, and to vote at, such meeting, or to receive payment of such dividend, or allotment of rights or exercise of such rights, as the case may be, and notwithstanding any transfer of any stock on the books of the Corporation after any such record date fixed as aforesaid.

ARTICLE IX
Waiver of Notice

1. Any notice required to be given by these By-Laws may be waived by the person entitled thereto.

ARTICLE X
Seal

1. The common corporate seal is and until otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors shall be an impression upon paper or wax bearing the words - "NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY, NEW JERSEY, INCORPORATED 1902".

ARTICLE XI
Amendment of By-Laws

1. Except as otherwise provided by statute, the Board of Directors shall have power to make, alter or repeal the By-Laws of the Corporation by a vote of a majority of all the Directors at any duly convened meeting of the Board, but any By-Laws so made or otherwise promulgated may be altered or repealed and new By-Laws made by the stockholders at any duly convened meeting thereof.


NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

TO

THE BANK OF NEW YORK

Trustee


Indenture
(For Unsecured Debt Securities)

Dated as of October 1, 1999



-i-

                                TABLE OF CONTENTS


   PARTIES................................................................1

   RECITAL OF THE COMPANY.................................................1

                                   ARTICLE ONE

             Definitions and Other Provisions of General Application

   SECTION 101.       Definitions.........................................1
                Act.......................................................2
                Affiliate.................................................2
                Authenticating Agent......................................2
                Authorized Officer........................................2
                Board of Directors........................................2
                Board Resolution..........................................2
                Business Day..............................................2
                Commission................................................3
                Company...................................................3
                Company Request or Company Order..........................3
                corporation...............................................3
                Defaulted Interest........................................3
                Discount Security.........................................3
                Dollar or $...............................................3
                Eligible Obligations......................................3
                Event of Default..........................................3
                Governmental Authority....................................3
                Government Obligations....................................4
                Holder....................................................4
                Indenture.................................................4
                Interest Payment Date.....................................4
                Maturity..................................................4
                1974 Indenture............................................4
                Officer's Certificate.....................................4
                Opinion of Counsel........................................4
                Outstanding...............................................5
                Paying Agent..............................................6
                Periodic Offering.........................................6
                Person....................................................6
                Placement of Payment......................................6

Note: This table of contents shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be part of
the Indenture.

                Predecessor Security......................................6
                Redemption Date...........................................6
                Redemption Price..........................................6
                Regular Record Date.......................................6
                Required Currency.........................................6
                Responsible Officer.......................................6
                Security and Securities...................................7
                Security Register and Security Registrar..................7
                Special Record Date.......................................7
                Stated Interest Rate......................................7
                Stated Maturity...........................................7
                Subsidiary................................................7
                Tranche...................................................7
                Trust Indenture Act.......................................7
                Trustee...................................................7
                United States.............................................8
   SECTION 102.   Compliance Certificates and Opinions....................8
   SECTION 103.   Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee..................8
   SECTION 104.   Acts of Holders.........................................9
   SECTION 105.   Notices, etc. to Trustee and Company...................11
   SECTION 106.   Notice to Holders of Securities; Waiver................12
   SECTION 107.   Conflict with Trust Indenture Act......................12
   SECTION 108.   Effect of Headings and Table of Contents...............12
   SECTION 109.   Successors and Assigns.................................13
   SECTION 110.   Separability Clause....................................13
   SECTION 111.   Benefits of Indenture..................................13
   SECTION 112.   Governing Law..........................................13
   SECTION 113.   Legal Holidays.........................................13

                               ARTICLE TWO

                             Security Forms

   SECTION 201.   Forms Generally........................................14
   SECTION 202.   Form of Trustee's Certificate of Authentication........14

                              ARTICLE THREE

                             The Securities

   SECTION 301.   Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series...................15
   SECTION 302.   Denominations..........................................18
   SECTION 303.   Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating.........19
   SECTION 304.   Temporary Securities...................................21
   SECTION 305.   Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange....22
   SECTION 306.   Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities.......23
   SECTION 307.   Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved.........24
   SECTION 308.   Persons Deemed Owners..................................25
   SECTION 309.   Cancellation by Security Registrar.....................25
   SECTION 310.   Computation of Interest................................26
   SECTION 311.   Payment to Be in Proper Currency.......................26
   SECTION 312.   Extension of Interest Payment..........................26

                              ARTICLE FOUR

                        Redemption of Securities

   SECTION 401.   Applicability of Article...............................27
   SECTION 402.   Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee..................27
   SECTION 403.   Selection of Securities to Be Redeemed.................27
   SECTION 404.   Notice of Redemption...................................28
   SECTION 405.   Securities Payable on Redemption Date..................29
   SECTION 406.   Securities Redeemed in Part............................30

                              ARTICLE FIVE

                              Sinking Funds

   SECTION 501.   Applicability of Article...............................30
   SECTION 502.   Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities..30
   SECTION 503.   Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund..............31

                               ARTICLE SIX

                                Covenants

   SECTION 601.   Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest.............31
   SECTION 602.   Maintenance of Office or Agency........................31
   SECTION 603.   Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust......32
   SECTION 604.   Corporate Existence....................................34
   SECTION 605.   Maintenance of Properties..............................34
   SECTION 606.   Annual Officer's Certificate as to Compliance..........34
   SECTION 607.   Waiver of Certain Covenants............................34
   SECTION 608.   Limitation on Liens....................................35

                              ARTICLE SEVEN

                       Satisfaction and Discharge

   SECTION 701.   Satisfaction and Discharge of Securities...............38
   SECTION 702.   Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture................40
   SECTION 703.   Application of Trust Money.............................41

                              ARTICLE EIGHT

                       Events of Default; Remedies

   SECTION 801.   Events of Default......................................42
   SECTION 802    Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment.....43
   SECTION 803.   Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for
                   Enforcement by Trustee................................44
   SECTION 804.   Trustee May File Proofs of Claim.......................45
   SECTION 805.   Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession
                   of Securities.........................................46
   SECTION 806.   Application of Money Collected.........................46
   SECTION 807.   Limitation on Suits....................................46
   SECTION 808.   Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal,
                  Premium and Interest...................................47
   SECTION 809.   Restoration of Rights and Remedies.....................47
   SECTION 810.   Rights and Remedies Cumulative.........................47
   SECTION 811.   Delay or Omission Not Waiver...........................48
   SECTION 812.   Control by Holders of Securities.......................48
   SECTION 813.   Waiver of Past Defaults................................48
   SECTION 814.   Undertaking for Costs..................................49
   SECTION 815.   Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws.......................49

                                  ARTICLE NINE

                                   The Trustee

   SECTION 901.   Certain Duties and Responsibilities....................49
   SECTION 902.   Notice of Defaults.....................................50
   SECTION 903.   Certain Rights of Trustee..............................50
   SECTION 904.   Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance
                   of Securities.........................................52
   SECTION 905.   May Hold Securities....................................52
   SECTION 906.   Money Held in Trust....................................52
   SECTION 907.   Compensation and Reimbursement.........................52
   SECTION 908.   Disqualification; Conflicting Interests................53
   SECTION 909.   Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility................53
   SECTION 910.   Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor......54
   SECTION 911.   Acceptance of Appointment by Successor.................56
   SECTION 912.   Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession
                   to Business...........................................57
   SECTION 913.   Preferential Collection of Claims Against Company......57
   SECTION 914.   Co-trustees and Separate Trustees......................58
   SECTION 915.   Appointment of Authenticating Agent....................59

                                   ARTICLE TEN

                Holders'Lists and Reports by Trustee and Company

   SECTION 1001.  Lists of Holders.......................................61
   SECTION 1002.  Reports by Trustee and Company.........................62

                                 ARTICLE ELEVEN

               Consolidation, Merger, Conveyance or Other Transfer

   SECTION 1101.  Company May Consolidate, etc., Only on
                   Certain Terms.........................................62
   SECTION 1102.  Successor Person Substituted...........................63

                                 ARTICLE TWELVE

                             Supplemental Indentures

   SECTION 1201.  Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders.....63
   SECTION 1202.  Supplemental Indentures With Consent of Holders........65
   SECTION 1203.  Execution of Supplemental Indentures...................66
   SECTION 1204.  Effect of Supplemental Indentures......................66
   SECTION 1205.  Conformity With Trust Indenture Act....................67
   SECTION 1206.  Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures.....67
   SECTION 1207.  Modification Without Supplemental Indenture............67

                                ARTICLE THIRTEEN

                   Meetings of Holders; Action Without Meeting

   SECTION 1301.  Purposes for Which Meetings May Be Called..............67
   SECTION 1302.  Call, Notice and Place of Meetings.....................68
   SECTION 1303.  Persons Entitled to Vote at Meetings...................68
   SECTION 1304.  Quorum; Action.........................................69
   SECTION 1305.  Attendance at Meetings; Determination of Voting Rights;
                  Conduct and Adjournment of Meetings....................70
   SECTION 1306.  Counting Votes and Recording Action of Meetings........71
   SECTION 1307.  Action Without Meeting.................................71

                          ARTICLE FOURTEEN

         Immunity of Incorporators, Shareholders, Officers and Directors

   SECTION 1401.  Liability Solely Corporate.............................71

   Testimonium...........................................................71
   Signatures............................................................72


NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

Reconciliation and tie between Trust Indenture Act of 1939 and Indenture, dated as of October 1, 1999

Trust Indenture Act Section                               Indenture Section

ss.310   (a)(1).........................................................909
         (a)(2).........................................................909
         (a)(3).........................................................914
         (a)(4)..............................................Not Applicable
         (b)............................................................908
                                                                        910
ss.311   (a)............................................................913
         (b)............................................................913
         (c)............................................................913
ss.312   (a)...........................................................1001
         (b)...........................................................1001
         (c)...........................................................1001
ss.313   (a)...........................................................1002
         (b)...........................................................1002
         (c)...........................................................1002
ss.314   (a)...........................................................1002
         (a)(4).........................................................606
         (b).................................................Not Applicable
         (c)(1).........................................................102
         (c)(2).........................................................102
         (c)(3)..............................................Not Applicable
         (d).................................................Not Applicable
         (e)............................................................102
ss.315   (a)............................................................901
                                                                        903
         (b)............................................................902
         (c)............................................................901
         (d)............................................................901
         (e)............................................................814
ss.316   (a)............................................................812
                                                                        813
         (a)(1)(A)......................................................802
                                                                        812
         (a)(1)(B)......................................................813
         (a)(2)..............................................Not Applicable
         (b)............................................................808
ss.317   (a)(1).........................................................803
         (a)(2).........................................................804
         (b)............................................................603
ss.318   (a)............................................................107


INDENTURE, dated as of October 1, 1999, between NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY, a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of New Jersey (herein called the "Company"), having its principal office at 10 Lafayette Square, Buffalo, New York 14203, and THE BANK OF NEW YORK, a banking corporation of the State of New York, having its principal corporate trust office at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286, as Trustee (herein called the "Trustee").

RECITAL OF THE COMPANY

The Company has duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for the issuance from time to time of its unsecured debentures, notes or other evidences of indebtedness (herein called the "Securities", each a "Security"), in an unlimited aggregate principal amount to be issued in one or more series as contemplated herein; and all acts necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Company have been performed.

For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the context otherwise requires, capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in Article One, Section 101, of this Indenture.

NOW, THEREFORE, THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH:

For and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Securities by the Holders thereof, it is mutually covenanted and agreed, for the equal and proportionate benefit of all Holders of the Securities or of any series thereof, as follows:

ARTICLE ONE

Definitions and Other Provisions of General Application

SECTION 101.......Definitions.

For all purposes of this Indenture, except as otherwise expressly provided or unless the context clearly requires otherwise:

(a) the terms defined in this Article have the meanings assigned to them in this Article and include the plural as well as the singular;

(b) all terms used herein without definition which are defined in the Trust Indenture Act, either directly or by reference therein, have the meanings assigned to them therein;

(c) all accounting terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, and, except as otherwise herein expressly provided, the term "generally accepted accounting principles" with respect to any computation required or permitted hereunder shall mean such accounting principles as are generally accepted in the United States at the date of such computation or, at the election of the Company from time to time, at the date of the execution and delivery of this Indenture; provided, however, that in determining generally accepted accounting principles applicable to the Company, the Company shall, to the extent required, conform to any order, rule or regulation of any administrative agency, regulatory authority or other governmental body having jurisdiction over the Company; and

(d) the words "herein", "hereof" and "hereunder" and other words of similar import refer to this Indenture as a whole and not to any particular Article, Section or other subdivision.

Certain terms, used principally in Article Six and Article Nine, are defined in those Articles.

"Act", when used with respect to any Holder of a Security, has the meaning specified in Section 104.

"Affiliate" of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For the purposes of this definition, "control" when used with respect to any specified Person means the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or through one or more intermediaries, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms "controlling" and "controlled" have meanings correlative to the foregoing.

"Authenticating Agent" means any Person (other than the Company or an Affiliate of the Company) authorized by the Trustee pursuant to
Section 915 to act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate one or more series of Securities or Tranche thereof.

"Authorized Officer" means the Chairman of the Board, the President, any Vice President, the Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary or any other officer or agent of the Company duly authorized by the Board of Directors to act in respect of matters relating to this Indenture.

"Board of Directors" means either the board of directors of the Company or any committee thereof duly authorized to act in respect of matters relating to this Indenture.

"Board Resolution" means a copy of a resolution certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Company to have been duly adopted by the Board of Directors and to be in full force and effect on the date of such certification, and delivered to the Trustee.

"Business Day", when used with respect to a Place of Payment or any other particular location specified in the Securities or this Indenture, means any day, other than a Saturday or Sunday, which is not a day on which banking institutions or trust companies in such Place of Payment or other location are generally authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to remain closed, except as may be otherwise specified as contemplated by
Section 301.

"Commission" means the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time constituted, created under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or, if at any time after the date of execution and delivery of this Indenture such Commission is not existing and performing the duties now assigned to it under the Trust Indenture Act, then the body, if any, performing such duties at such time.

"Company" means the Person named as the "Company" in the first paragraph of this Indenture until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter "Company" shall mean such successor Person.

"Company Request" or "Company Order" means a written request or order signed in the name of the Company by an Authorized Officer and delivered to the Trustee.

"Corporate Trust Office" means the office of the Trustee at which at any particular time its corporate trust business shall be principally administered, which office at the date of execution and delivery of this Indenture is located on the Floor 21W at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286.

"corporation" means a corporation, association, company, limited liability company, joint stock company or business trust.

"Defaulted Interest" has the meaning specified in Section 307.

"Discount Security" means any Security which provides for an amount less than the principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 802. "Interest" with respect to a Discount Security means interest, if any, borne by such Security at a Stated Interest Rate.

"Dollar" or "$" means a dollar or other equivalent unit in such coin or currency of the United States as at the time shall be legal tender for the payment of public and private debts.

"Eligible Obligations" means:

(a) with respect to Securities denominated in Dollars, Government Obligations; or

(b) with respect to Securities denominated in a currency other than Dollars or in a composite currency, such other obligations or instruments as shall be specified with respect to such Securities, as contemplated by Section 301.

"Event of Default" has the meaning specified in Section 801.

"Governmental Authority" means the government of the United States or of any State or Territory thereof or of the District of Columbia or of any county, municipality or other political subdivision of any of the foregoing, or any department, agency, authority or other instrumentality of any of the foregoing.

"Government Obligations" means:

(a) direct obligations of, or obligations the principal of and interest on which are unconditionally guaranteed by, the United States and entitled to the benefit of the full faith and credit thereof; and

(b) certificates, depositary receipts or other instruments which evidence a direct ownership interest in obligations described in clause (a) above or in any specific interest or principal payments due in respect thereof; provided, however, that the custodian of such obligations or specific interest or principal payments shall be a bank or trust company (which may include the Trustee or any Paying Agent) subject to Federal or state supervision or examination with a combined capital and surplus of at least $50,000,000; and provided, further, that except as may be otherwise required by law, such custodian shall be obligated to pay to the holders of such certificates, depositary receipts or other instruments the full amount received by such custodian in respect of such obligations or specific payments and shall not be permitted to make any deduction therefrom.

"Holder" means a Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Security Register.

"Indenture" means this instrument as originally executed and delivered and as it may from time to time be supplemented or amended by one or more indentures supplemental hereto entered into pursuant to the applicable provisions hereof and shall include the terms of a particular series of Securities established as contemplated by Section 301.

"Interest Payment Date", when used with respect to any Security, means the Stated Maturity of an installment of interest on such Security.

"Maturity", when used with respect to any Security, means the date on which the principal of such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as provided in such Security or in this Indenture, whether at the Stated Maturity, by declaration of acceleration, upon call for redemption or otherwise.

"1974 Indenture" has the meaning specified in Section 608.

"Officer's Certificate" means a certificate signed by an Authorized Officer and delivered to the Trustee.

"Opinion of Counsel" means a written opinion of counsel, who may be counsel for the Company, or other counsel acceptable to the Trustee and who may be an employee of the Company or of an Affiliate of the Company.

"Outstanding", when used with respect to Securities, means, as of the date of determination, all Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered under this Indenture, except:

(a) Securities theretofore canceled or delivered to the Security Registrar for cancellation;

(b) Securities deemed to have been paid for all purposes of this Indenture in accordance with Section 701 (whether or not the Company's indebtedness in respect thereof shall be satisfied and discharged for any other purpose); and

(c) Securities which have been paid pursuant to Section 306 or in exchange for or in lieu of which other Securities have been authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture, other than any such Securities in respect of which there shall have been presented to the Trustee proof satisfactory to it and the Company that such Securities are held by a bona fide purchaser or purchasers in whose hands such Securities are valid obligations of the Company;

provided, however, that in determining whether or not the Holders of the requisite principal amount of the Securities Outstanding under this Indenture, or the Outstanding Securities of any series or Tranche, have given any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver hereunder or whether or not a quorum is present at a meeting of Holders of Securities,

(x) Securities owned by the Company or any other obligor upon the Securities or any Affiliate of the Company or of such other obligor (unless the Company, such Affiliate or such obligor owns all Securities Outstanding under this Indenture, or (except for the purposes of actions to be taken by Holders of (i) more than one series voting as a class under Section 812 or (ii) more than one series or more than one Tranche, as the case may be, voting as a class under Section 1202) all Outstanding Securities of each such series and each such Tranche, as the case may be, determined without regard to this clause (x)) shall be disregarded and deemed not to be Outstanding, except that, in determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent or waiver or upon any such determination as to the presence of a quorum, only Securities which the Trustee knows to be so owned shall be so disregarded; provided, however, that Securities so owned which have been pledged in good faith may be regarded as Outstanding if the pledgee establishes to the satisfaction of the Trustee the pledgee's right so to act with respect to such Securities and that the pledgee is not the Company or any other obligor upon the Securities or any Affiliate of the Company or of such other obligor; and

(y) the principal amount of a Discount Security that shall be deemed to be Outstanding for such purposes shall be the amount of the principal thereof that would be due and payable as of the date of such determination upon a declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 802;

provided, further, that, in the case of any Security the principal of which is payable from time to time without presentment or surrender, the principal amount of such Security that shall be deemed to be Outstanding at any time for all purposes of this Indenture shall be the original principal amount thereof less the aggregate amount of principal thereof theretofore paid.

"Paying Agent" means any Person, including the Company, authorized by the Company to pay the principal of and premium, if any, or interest, if any, on any Securities on behalf of the Company.

"Periodic Offering" means an offering of Securities of a series from time to time any or all of the specific terms of which Securities, including without limitation the rate or rates of interest, if any, thereon, the Stated Maturity or Maturities thereof and the redemption provisions, if any, with respect thereto, are to be determined by the Company or its agents from time to time subsequent to the initial request for the authentication and delivery of such Securities by the Trustee, all as contemplated in Section 301 and clause (b) of Section 303.

"Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability partnership, joint venture, trust or unincorporated organization or any Governmental Authority.

"Place of Payment", when used with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, means the place or places, specified as contemplated by Section 301, at which, subject to Section 602, principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the Securities of such series or Tranche are payable.

"Predecessor Security" of any particular Security means every previous Security evidencing all or a portion of the same debt as that evidenced by such particular Security; and, for the purposes of this definition, any Security authenticated and delivered under Section 306 in exchange for or in lieu of a mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be deemed (to the extent lawful) to evidence the same debt as the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security.

"Redemption Date", when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the date fixed for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.

"Redemption Price", when used with respect to any Security to be redeemed, means the price at which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture, exclusive of accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

"Regular Record Date" for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date on the Securities of any series means the date specified for that purpose as contemplated by Section 301.

"Required Currency" has the meaning specified in Section 311.

"Responsible Officer", when used with respect to the Trustee, means any Vice President, Assistant Vice President, Trust Officer or other officer of the Trustee assigned by the Trustee to the Corporate Trust Administration Division of the Trustee (or any successor division or department of the Trustee).

"Security" and "Securities" each has the meaning stated in the recital of this Indenture and more particularly means any securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.

"Security Register" and "Security Registrar" have the respective meanings specified in Section 305.

"Special Record Date" for the payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series means a date fixed by the Trustee pursuant to Section 307.

"Stated Interest Rate" means a rate (whether fixed or variable) at which an obligation by its terms is stated to bear simple interest. Any calculation or other determination to be made under this Indenture by reference to the Stated Interest Rate on a Security shall be made without regard to the effective interest cost to the Company of such Security and without regard to the Stated Interest Rate on, or the effective cost to the Company of, any other indebtedness in respect of which the Company's obligations are evidenced or secured in whole or in part by such Security.

"Stated Maturity", when used with respect to any obligation or any installment of principal thereof or interest thereon, means the date on which the principal of such obligation or such installment of principal or interest is stated to be due and payable (without regard to any provisions for redemption, prepayment, acceleration, purchase or extension).

"Subsidiary" means a corporation of which more than 50% of the outstanding voting stock is owned, directly or indirectly, by the Company or by one or more other Subsidiaries, or by the Company and one or more other Subsidiaries. For the purposes of this definition, "voting stock" means stock or membership interests or other equivalents of stock that ordinarily have voting power for the election of directors (or persons fulfilling similar responsibilities), whether at all times or only so long as no senior class of stock has such voting power by reason of any contingency.

"Tranche" means a group of Securities which (a) are of the same series and (b) have identical terms except as to principal amount and/or date of issuance.

"Trust Indenture Act" means, as of any time, the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, or any successor statute, as in effect at such time.

"Trustee" means the Person named as the "Trustee" in the first paragraph of this Indenture until a successor Trustee shall have become such with respect to one or more series of Securities pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter "Trustee" shall mean or include each Person who is then a Trustee hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person, "Trustee" as used with respect to the Securities of any series shall mean the Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.

"United States" means the United States of America, its Territories, its possessions and other areas subject to its political jurisdiction.

SECTION 102. Compliance Certificates and Opinions.

Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Indenture, upon any application or request by the Company to the Trustee to take any action under any provision of this Indenture, the Company shall furnish to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate stating that all conditions precedent, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action (including any covenants compliance with which constitutes a condition precedent) have been complied with and an Opinion of Counsel stating that in the opinion of such counsel all such conditions precedent, if any, have been complied with, except that in the case of any such application or request as to which the furnishing of such documents is specifically required by any provision of this Indenture relating to such particular application or request, no additional certificate or opinion need be furnished.

Every certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a condition or covenant provided for in this Indenture shall include:

(a) a statement that each Person signing such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition and the definitions herein relating thereto;

(b) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

(c) a statement that, in the opinion of each such Person, such Person has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable such Person to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been complied with; and

(d) a statement as to whether, in the opinion of each such Person, such condition or covenant has been complied with.

SECTION 103. Form of Documents Delivered to Trustee.

In any case where several matters are required to be certified by, or covered by an opinion of, any specified Person, it is not necessary that all such matters be certified by, or covered by the opinion of, only one such Person, or that they be so certified or covered by only one document, but one such Person may certify or give an opinion with respect to some matters and one or more other such Persons as to other matters, and any such Person may certify or give an opinion as to such matters in one or several documents.

Any certificate or opinion of an officer of the Company may be based, insofar as it relates to legal matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, counsel, unless such officer knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion or representations with respect to the matters upon which such officer's certificate or opinion are based are erroneous. Any such certificate or Opinion of Counsel may be based, insofar as it relates to factual matters, upon a certificate or opinion of, or representations by, an officer or officers of the Company stating that the information with respect to such factual matters is in the possession of the Company, unless such counsel knows, or in the exercise of reasonable care should know, that the certificate or opinion or representations with respect to such matters are erroneous. Any Opinion of Counsel may be based upon an opinion of other counsel, in which case it shall be accompanied by a copy of such other opinion.

Where any Person is required to make, give or execute two or more applications, requests, consents, certificates, statements, opinions or other instruments under this Indenture, they may, but need not, be consolidated and form one instrument.

Whenever, subsequent to the receipt by the Trustee of any Board Resolution, Officer's Certificate, Opinion of Counsel or other document or instrument, a clerical, typographical or other inadvertent or unintentional error or omission shall be discovered therein, a new document or instrument may be substituted therefor in corrected form with the same force and effect as if originally filed in the corrected form and, irrespective of the date or dates of the actual execution and/or delivery thereof, such substitute document or instrument shall be deemed to have been executed and/or delivered as of the date or dates required with respect to the document or instrument for which it is substituted. Anything in this Indenture to the contrary notwithstanding, if any such corrective document or instrument indicates that action has been taken by or at the request of the Company which could not have been taken had the original document or instrument not contained such error or omission, then, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the action so taken shall not be invalidated or otherwise rendered ineffective but shall be and remain in full force and effect, except to the extent that such action was a result of willful misconduct or bad faith. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, any Securities issued under the authority of such defective document or instrument shall nevertheless be the valid obligations of the Company entitled to the benefits of this Indenture equally and ratably with all other Outstanding Securities, except as aforesaid.

SECTION 104. Acts of Holders.

(a) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, election, waiver or other action provided by this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed by such Holders in person or by an agent duly appointed in writing or, alternatively, may be embodied in and evidenced by the record of Holders voting in favor thereof, either in person or by proxies duly appointed in writing, at any meeting of Holders duly called and held in accordance with the provisions of Article Thirteen, or a combination of such instruments and any such record. Except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become effective when such instrument or instruments or record or both are delivered to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly required, to the Company. Such instrument or instruments and any such record (and the action embodied therein and evidenced thereby) are herein sometimes referred to as the "Act" of the Holders signing such instrument or instruments and so voting at any such meeting. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent, or of the holding by any Person of a Security, shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 901) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Company, if made in the manner provided in this Section. The record of any meeting of Holders shall be proved in the manner provided in Section 1306.

(b) The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by a certificate of a notary public or other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof or may be proved in any other manner which the Trustee and the Company deem sufficient. Where such execution is by a signer acting in a capacity other than his or her individual capacity, such certificate or affidavit shall also constitute sufficient proof of his or her authority.

(c) The principal amount (except as otherwise contemplated in clause (y) of the first proviso to the definition of Outstanding) and serial numbers of Securities held by any Person, and the date of holding the same, shall be proved by the Security Register.

(d) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, election, waiver or other Act of a Holder shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu thereof in respect of anything done, omitted or suffered to be done by the Trustee or the Company in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.

(e) Until such time as written instruments shall have been delivered to the Trustee with respect to the requisite percentage of principal amount of Securities for the action contemplated by such instruments, any such instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of a Holder may be revoked with respect to any or all of such Securities by written notice by such Holder or any subsequent Holder delivered to the Trustee, proven in the manner in which such instrument was proven.

(f) Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, authenticated and delivered after any Act of Holders may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in form approved by the Trustee as to any action taken by such Act of Holders. If the Company shall so determine, new Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, so modified as to conform, in the opinion of the Trustee and the Company, to such action may be prepared and executed by the Company and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranche.

(g) If the Company shall solicit from Holders any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other Act, the Company may, at its option, fix in advance a record date for the determination of Holders entitled to give such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other Act, but the Company shall have no obligation to do so. If such a record date is fixed, such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other Act may be given before or after such record date, but only the Holders of record at the close of business on the record date shall be deemed to be Holders for the purposes of determining whether Holders of the requisite proportion of the Outstanding Securities have authorized or agreed or consented to such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other Act, and for that purpose the Outstanding Securities shall be computed as of the record date.

SECTION 105. Notices, etc. to Trustee and Company.

Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, election, waiver or Act of Holders or other document provided or permitted by this Indenture to be made upon, given or furnished to, or filed with, the Trustee by any Holder or by the Company, or the Company by the Trustee or by any Holder, shall be sufficient for every purpose hereunder (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and delivered personally to an officer or other responsible employee of the addressee at the applicable location set forth below or at such other location as such party may from time to time designate by written notice, or transmitted by facsimile transmission or other direct written electronic means to such telephone number or other electronic communications address as the parties hereto shall from time to time designate by written notice, or transmitted by certified or registered mail, charges prepaid, to the applicable address set below such party's name below or to such other address as either party hereto may from time to time designate by written notice:

If to the Trustee, to:

The Bank of New York

Corporate Trust Administration, Floor 21W 101 Barclay Street
New York, New York 10286

Attention: Assistant Treasurer, Corporate Trust Administration; Re: National Fuel Gas Company Telephone: (212) 815-2588 Facsimile: (212) 815-5915

If to the Company, to:

National Fuel Gas Company
10 Lafayette Square
Buffalo, New York 14203

Attention:        Controller
Telephone:        (716) 857-6981
Facsimile:        (716) 857-7206

Any communication contemplated herein shall be deemed to have been made, given, furnished and filed if personally delivered, on the date of delivery, if transmitted by facsimile transmission or other direct written electronic means, on the date of transmission, and if transmitted by certified or registered mail, on the date of receipt.

SECTION 106. Notice to Holders of Securities; Waiver.

Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, where this Indenture provides for notice to Holders of any event, such notice shall be sufficiently given, and shall be deemed given, to Holders if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder affected by such event, at the address of such Holder as it appears in the Security Register, not later than the latest date, if any, and not earlier than the earliest date, if any, prescribed for the giving of such notice.

In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service or by reason of any other cause it shall be impracticable to give such notice to Holders by mail, then such notification as shall be made with the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient notification for every purpose hereunder. In any case where notice to Holders is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice, nor any defect in any notice so mailed, to any particular Holder shall affect the sufficiency of such notice with respect to other Holders.

Any notice required by this Indenture may be waived in writing by the Person entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event otherwise to be specified therein, and such waiver shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Holders shall be filed with the Trustee, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in reliance upon such waiver.

SECTION 107. Conflict with Trust Indenture Act.

If any provision of this Indenture limits, qualifies or conflicts with another provision hereof which is required or deemed to be included in this Indenture by, or is otherwise governed by, any of the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act, such other provision shall control; and if any provision hereof otherwise conflicts with the Trust Indenture Act, the Trust Indenture Act shall control.

SECTION 108. Effect of Headings and Table of Contents.

The Article and Section headings in this Indenture and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction hereof.

SECTION 109. Successors and Assigns.

All covenants and agreements in this Indenture by the Company and Trustee shall bind their respective successors and assigns, whether so expressed or not.

SECTION 110. Separability Clause.

In case any provision in this Indenture or the Securities shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

SECTION 111. Benefits of Indenture.

Nothing in this Indenture or the Securities, express or implied, shall give to any Person, other than the parties hereto, their successors hereunder and the Holders, any benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under this Indenture.

SECTION 112. Governing Law.

This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, except to the extent that the law of any other jurisdiction shall be mandatorily applicable.

SECTION 113. Legal Holidays.

In any case where any Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity of any Security shall not be a Business Day at any Place of Payment, then (notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture or of the Securities other than a provision in Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, or in the indenture supplemental hereto, the Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate which establishes the terms of the Securities of such series or Tranche, which specifically states that such provision shall apply in lieu of this Section) payment of interest, if any, or principal and premium, if any, need not be made at such Place of Payment on such date, but may be made on the next succeeding Business Day at such Place of Payment, with the same force and effect, and in the same amount, as if made on the Interest Payment Date or Redemption Date, or at the Stated Maturity, as the case may be, and, if such payment is made or duly provided for on such Business Day, no interest shall accrue on the amount so payable for the period from and after such Interest Payment Date, Redemption Date or Stated Maturity, as the case may be, to such Business Day.

ARTICLE TWO

Security Forms

SECTION 201. Forms Generally.

The definitive Securities of each series shall be in substantially the form or forms thereof established in the indenture supplemental hereto establishing such series or in a Board Resolution establishing such series, or in an Officer's Certificate pursuant to such supplemental indenture or Board Resolution, in each case with such appropriate insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as are required or permitted by this Indenture, and may have such letters, numbers or other marks of identification and such legends or endorsements placed thereon as may be required to comply with the rules of any securities exchange or as may, consistently herewith, be determined by the officers executing such Securities, as evidenced by their execution of the Securities. If the form or forms of Securities of any series are established in a Board Resolution or in an Officer's Certificate pursuant to a Board Resolution, such Board Resolution and Officer's Certificate, if any, shall be delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Company Order contemplated by Section 303 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Sections 301 or 1201(g), the Securities of each series shall be issuable in registered form without coupons. The definitive Securities shall be produced in such manner as shall be determined by the officers executing such Securities, as evidenced by their execution thereof.

SECTION 202. Form of Trustee's Certificate of Authentication.

The Trustee's certificate of authentication shall be in substantially the form set forth below:

This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.

Dated:

THE BANK OF NEW YORK,
as Trustee

By:_______________________________________
Authorized Signatory

ARTICLE THREE

The Securities

SECTION 301. Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series.

The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture is unlimited.

The Securities may be issued in one or more series. Subject to the last paragraph of this Section, prior to the authentication and delivery of Securities of any series there shall be established by specification in a supplemental indenture or in a Board Resolution, or in an Officer's Certificate pursuant to a supplemental indenture or a Board Resolution:

(a) the title of the Securities of such series (which shall distinguish the Securities of such series from Securities of all other series);

(b) any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of such series which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of such series pursuant to Section 304, 305, 306, 406 or 1206 and except for any Securities which, pursuant to Section 303, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder);

(c) the Person or Persons (without specific identification) to whom interest on Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be payable on any Interest Payment Date, if other than the Persons in whose names such Securities (or one or more Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest;

(d) the date or dates on which the principal of the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, is payable or any formulary or other method or other means by which such date or dates shall be determined, by reference to an index or other fact or event ascertainable outside of this Indenture or otherwise (without regard to any provisions for redemption, prepayment, acceleration, purchase or extension);

(e) the rate or rates at which the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall bear interest, if any (including the rate or rates at which overdue principal shall bear interest, if different from the rate or rates at which such Securities shall bear interest prior to Maturity, and, if applicable, the rate or rates at which overdue premium or interest shall bear interest, if any), or any formulary or other method or other means by which such rate or rates shall be determined, by reference to an index or other fact or event ascertainable outside of this Indenture or otherwise; the date or dates from which such interest shall accrue; the Interest Payment Dates on which such interest shall be payable and the Regular Record Date, if any, for the interest payable on such Securities on any Interest Payment Date; the right of the Company, if any, to extend the interest payment periods and the duration of any such extension as contemplated by Section 312; and the basis of computation of interest, if other than as provided in Section 310;

(f) the place or places at which or methods by which (1) the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be payable, (2) registration of transfer of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, may be effected, (3) exchanges of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, may be effected and (4) notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, and this Indenture may be served; the Security Registrar and any Paying Agent or Agents for such series or Tranche; and if such is the case, that the principal of such Securities shall be payable without presentment or surrender thereof;

(g) the period or periods within which, or the date or dates on which, the price or prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company and any restrictions on such redemptions, including but not limited to a restriction on a partial redemption by the Company of the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, resulting in delisting of such Securities from any national exchange;

(h) the obligation or obligations, if any, of the Company to redeem or purchase the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, pursuant to any sinking fund or other mandatory redemption provisions or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which or the date or dates on which, the price or prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which such Securities shall be redeemed or purchased, in whole or in part, pursuant to such obligation, and applicable exceptions to the requirements of Section 404 in the case of mandatory redemption or redemption at the option of the Holder;

(i) the denominations in which Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be issuable if other than denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof;

(j) the currency or currencies, including composite currencies, in which payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be payable (if other than in Dollars) and the formulary or other method or other means by which the equivalent of any such amount in Dollars is to be determined for any purpose, including for the purpose of determining the principal amount of such Securities deemed to be Outstanding at any time;

(k) if the principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, are to be payable, at the election of the Company or a Holder thereof, in a coin or currency other than that in which the Securities are stated to be payable, the period or periods within which and the terms and conditions upon which, such election may be made;

(l) if the principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, are to be payable, or are to be payable at the election of the Company or a Holder thereof, in securities or other property, the type and amount of such securities or other property, or the formulary or other method or other means by which such amount shall be determined, and the period or periods within which, and the terms and conditions upon which, any such election may be made;

(m) if the amount payable in respect of principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, may be determined with reference to an index or other fact or event ascertainable outside of this Indenture, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined to the extent not established pursuant to clause (e) of this paragraph;

(n) if other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, which shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 802;

(o) any Events of Default, in addition to those specified in
Section 801, with respect to the Securities of such series, and any covenants of the Company for the benefit of the Holders of the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, in addition to those set forth in Article Six;

(p) the terms, if any, pursuant to which the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, may be converted into or exchanged for shares of capital stock or other securities of the Company or any other Person;

(q) the obligations or instruments, if any, which shall be considered to be Eligible Obligations in respect of the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, denominated in a currency other than Dollars or in a composite currency, and any additional or alternative provisions for the reinstatement of the Company's indebtedness in respect of such Securities after the satisfaction and discharge thereof as provided in Section 701;

(r) if the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, are to be issued in global form, (i) any limitations on the rights of the Holder or Holders of such Securities to transfer or exchange the same or to obtain the registration of transfer thereof, (ii) any limitations on the rights of the Holder or Holders thereof to obtain certificates therefor in definitive form in lieu of temporary form and (iii) any and all other matters incidental to such Securities;

(s) if the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, are to be issuable as bearer securities, any and all matters incidental thereto which are not specifically addressed in a supplemental indenture as contemplated by clause (g) of Section 1201;

(t) to the extent not established pursuant to clause (r) of this paragraph, any limitations on the rights of the Holders of the Securities of such Series, or any Tranche thereof, to transfer or exchange such Securities or to obtain the registration of transfer thereof; and if a service charge will be made for the registration of transfer or exchange of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, the amount or terms thereof;

(u) any exceptions to Section 113, or variation in the definition of Business Day, with respect to the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof;

(v) any collateral security, assurance or guarantee for the Securities of such series;

(w) the non-applicability of Section 608 to the Securities of such Series or any exceptions or modifications of Section 608 with respect to the Securities of such Series;

(x) any rights or duties of another Person to assume the obligations of the Company with respect to the Securities of such series (whether as joint obligor, primary obligor, secondary obligor or substitute obligor) and any rights or duties to discharge and release any obligor with respect to the Securities of such series or this Indenture to the extent related to such series; and

(y) any other terms of the Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, not inconsistent with the provisions of this Indenture.

With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, the indenture supplemental hereto or the Board Resolution which establishes such series, or the Officer's Certificate pursuant to such supplemental indenture or Board Resolution, as the case may be, may provide general terms or parameters for Securities of such series and provide either that the specific terms of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be specified in a Company Order or that such terms shall be determined by the Company or its agents in accordance with procedures specified in a Company Order as contemplated by clause (b) of Section 303.

Unless otherwise specified with respect to a series of Securities pursuant to Section 301(b), any limit upon the aggregate principal amount of a series of Securities may be increased without the consent of any Holders and additional Securities of such series may be authenticated and delivered up to the limit upon the aggregate principal amount authorized with respect to such series as so increased.

SECTION 302. Denominations.

Unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, the Securities of each series shall be issuable in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.

SECTION 303. Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating.

Unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, the Securities shall be executed on behalf of the Company by an Authorized Officer and may have the corporate seal of the Company affixed thereto or reproduced thereon and attested by any other Authorized Officer. The signature of any or all of these officers on the Securities may be manual or facsimile.

Securities bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of individuals who were at the time of execution Authorized Officers of the Company shall bind the Company, notwithstanding that such individuals or any of them have ceased to hold such offices prior to the authentication and delivery of such Securities or did not hold such offices at the date of such Securities.

The Trustee shall authenticate and deliver Securities of a series, for original issue, at one time or from time to time in accordance with the Company Order referred to below, upon receipt by the Trustee of:

(a) the instrument or instruments establishing the form or forms and terms of such series, as provided in Sections 201 and 301;

(b) a Company Order requesting the authentication and delivery of such Securities and, to the extent that the terms of such Securities shall not have been established in an indenture supplemental hereto or in a Board Resolution, or in an Officer's Certificate pursuant to a supplemental indenture or Board Resolution, all as contemplated by Sections 201 and 301, either
(i) establishing such terms or (ii) in the case of Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, specifying procedures, acceptable to the Trustee, by which such terms are to be established (which procedures may provide, to the extent acceptable to the Trustee, for authentication and delivery pursuant to oral or electronic instructions from the Company or any agent or agents thereof, which oral instructions are to be promptly confirmed electronically or in writing), in either case in accordance with the instrument or instruments delivered pursuant to clause (a) above;

(c) the Securities of such series, executed on behalf of the Company by an Authorized Officer;

(d) an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that:

(i) the form or forms of such Securities have been duly authorized by the Company and have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;

(ii) the terms of such Securities have been duly authorized by the Company and have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture; and

(iii) such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued and delivered by the Company in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, will have been duly issued under this Indenture and will constitute valid and legally binding obligations of the Company, entitled to the benefits provided by this Indenture, and enforceable in accordance with their terms, except as the same may be limited by laws relating to or affecting generally the enforcement of creditors' rights, including, without limitation, bankruptcy and insolvency laws and to general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law);

provided, however, that, with respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive such Opinion of Counsel only once at or prior to the time of the first authentication and delivery of such Securities (provided that such Opinion of Counsel addresses the authentication and delivery of all Securities of such series) and that, in lieu of the opinions described in clauses (ii) and (iii) above, Counsel may opine that:

(x) when the terms of such Securities shall have been established pursuant to a Company Order or Orders or pursuant to such procedures acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified from time to time by a Company Order or Orders, all as contemplated by and in accordance with the instrument or instruments delivered pursuant to clause (a) above, such terms will have been duly authorized by the Company and will have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture; and

(y) such Securities, when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in accordance with this Indenture and the Company Order or Orders or specified procedures referred to in paragraph (x) above and issued and delivered by the Company in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, will have been duly issued under this Indenture and will constitute valid and legally binding obligations of the Company, entitled to the benefits provided by the Indenture, and enforceable in accordance with their terms, except as the same may be limited by laws relating to or affecting generally the enforcement of creditors' rights, including, without limitation, bankruptcy and insolvency laws, and to general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

With respect to Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the authorization by the Company of any of such Securities, the form and terms thereof and the legality, validity, binding effect and enforceability thereof, and compliance of the authentication and delivery thereof with the terms and conditions of this Indenture, upon the Opinion of Counsel and other documents delivered pursuant to Sections 201 and 301 and this Section, as applicable, at or prior to the time of the first authentication of Securities of such series unless and until such opinion or other documents have been superseded or revoked or expire by their terms. In connection with the authentication and delivery of Securities of a series subject to a Periodic Offering, the Trustee shall be entitled to assume that the Company's instructions to authenticate and deliver such Securities do not violate any applicable law or any applicable rule, regulation or order of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Company.

If the form or terms of the Securities of any series have been established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or an Officer's Certificate as permitted by Sections 201 or 301, the Trustee shall not be required to authenticate such Securities if the issuance of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture will materially or adversely affect the Trustee's own rights, duties or immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise in a manner which is not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, no Security shall be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose unless there appears on such Security a certificate of authentication substantially in the form provided for herein executed by the Trustee or an Authenticating Agent by manual signature of an authorized signatory thereof, and such certificate upon any Security shall be conclusive evidence, and the only evidence, that such Security has been duly authenticated and delivered hereunder and is entitled to the benefits of this Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security shall have been authenticated and delivered hereunder to the Company, or any Person acting on its behalf, but shall never have been issued and sold by the Company, and the Company shall deliver such Security to the Security Registrar for cancellation as provided in
Section 309 together with a written statement (which need not comply with
Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Officer's Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel) stating that such Security has never been issued and sold by the Company, then for all purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits hereof.

SECTION 304. Temporary Securities.

Pending the preparation of definitive Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, the Company may execute, and upon Company Order the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, temporary Securities which are printed, lithographed, typewritten, mimeographed, photocopied or otherwise produced, in any authorized denomination, substantially of the tenor of the definitive Securities in lieu of which they are issued, with such appropriate insertions, omissions, substitutions and other variations as the officers executing such Securities may determine, as evidenced by their execution of such Securities; provided, however, that temporary Securities need not recite specific redemption, sinking fund, conversion or exchange provisions.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, after the preparation of definitive Securities of such series or Tranche, the temporary Securities of such series or Tranche shall be exchangeable, without charge to the Holder thereof, for definitive Securities of such series or Tranche upon surrender of such temporary Securities at the office or agency of the Company maintained pursuant to Section 602 in a Place of Payment for such Securities. Upon such surrender of temporary Securities for such exchange, the Company shall, except as aforesaid, execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor definitive Securities of the same series and Tranche of authorized denominations and of like tenor and aggregate principal amount.

Until exchanged in full as hereinabove provided, temporary Securities shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as definitive Securities of the same series and Tranche and of like tenor authenticated and delivered hereunder.

SECTION 305. Registration, Registration of Transfer and Exchange.

The Company shall cause to be kept in one of the offices designated pursuant to Section 602, with respect to the Securities of each series, or any Tranche thereof, a register (the "Security Register") in which, subject to such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, the Company shall provide for the registration of Securities of such series, or any Tranche thereof, and the registration of transfer thereof. The Company shall designate one Person to maintain the Security Register for the Securities of each series on a consolidated basis, and such Person is referred to herein, with respect to such series, as the "Security Registrar." Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, the Company may designate one or more of its offices as an office in which a register with respect to the Securities of one or more series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, shall be maintained, and the Company may designate itself the Security Registrar with respect to one or more of such series. The Security Register shall be open for inspection by the Trustee and the Company at all reasonable times.

Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, upon surrender for registration of transfer of any Security of such series or Tranche at the office or agency of the Company maintained pursuant to Section 602 in a Place of Payment for such series or Tranche, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in the name of the designated transferee or transferees, one or more new Securities of the same series and Tranche, of authorized denominations and of like tenor and aggregate principal amount.

Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, any Security of such series or Tranche may be exchanged at the option of the Holder, for one or more new Securities of the same series and Tranche, of authorized denominations and of like tenor and aggregate principal amount, upon surrender of the Securities to be exchanged at any such office or agency. Whenever any Securities are so surrendered for exchange, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, the Securities which the Holder making the exchange is entitled to receive.

All Securities delivered upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities shall be valid obligations of the Company, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture, as the Securities surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.

Every Security presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange shall be duly endorsed or shall be accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company, the Trustee or the Security Registrar, as the case may be, duly executed by the Holder thereof or his or her attorney duly authorized in writing.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, no service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of Securities, other than exchanges pursuant to Section 304, 406 or 1206 not involving any transfer.

The Company shall not be required to execute or to provide for the registration of transfer of or the exchange of (a) Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, during a period of 15 days immediately preceding the date notice is to be given identifying the serial numbers of the Securities of such series or Tranche called for redemption or (b) any Security so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any Security being redeemed in part.

SECTION 306. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost and Stolen Securities.

If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, the Company shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver in exchange therefor a new Security of the same series and Tranche, and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding.

If there shall be delivered to the Company and the Trustee (a) evidence to their satisfaction of the ownership of and the destruction, loss or theft of any Security and (b) such security or indemnity as may be reasonably required by them to save each of them and any agent of either of them harmless, then, in the absence of notice to the Company or the Trustee that such Security is held by a Person purporting to be the owner of such Security, the Company shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in lieu of any such destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of the same series and Tranche, and of like tenor and principal amount and bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to become due and payable, the Company in its discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay such Security.

Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Company may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation thereto and any other reasonable expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) connected therewith.

Every new Security of any series issued pursuant to this
Section in lieu of any destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an original additional contractual obligation of the Company, whether or not the destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone other than the Holder of such new Security, and any such new Security shall be entitled to all the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities of such series duly issued hereunder.

The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Securities.

SECTION 307. Payment of Interest; Interest Rights Preserved.

Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Person in whose name that Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest.

Subject to Section 312, any interest on any Security of any series which is payable, but is not punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date (herein called "Defaulted Interest") shall forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the related Regular Record Date by virtue of having been such Holder, and such Defaulted Interest may be paid by the Company, at its election in each case, as provided in clause (a) or (b) below:

(a) The Company may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on a date (herein called a "Special Record Date") for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which shall be fixed in the following manner. The Company shall notify the Trustee in writing of the amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security of such series and the date of the proposed payment, and at the same time the Company shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit on or prior to the date of the proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days and not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed payment and not less than 10 days after the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly notify the Company of such Special Record Date and, in the name and at the expense of the Company, shall promptly cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date therefor to be mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Holder of Securities of such series at the address of such Holder as it appears in the Security Register, not less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date therefor having been so mailed, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid to the Persons in whose names the Securities of such series (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on such Special Record Date.

(b) The Company may make payment of any Defaulted Interest on the Securities of any series in any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on which such Securities may be listed, and upon such notice as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Company to the Trustee of the proposed payment pursuant to this clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the Trustee.

Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section and
Section 305, each Security delivered under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other Security shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to interest which may accrue, which were carried by such other Security.

SECTION 308. Persons Deemed Owners.

Prior to due presentment of a Security for registration of transfer, the Company, the Trustee and any agent of the Company or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name such Security is registered as the absolute owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and premium, if any, and (subject to Sections 305 and 307) interest, if any, on such Security and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security be overdue, and neither the Company, the Trustee nor any agent of the Company or the Trustee shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

SECTION 309. Cancellation by Security Registrar.

All Securities surrendered for payment, redemption, registration of transfer or exchange shall, if surrendered to any Person other than the Security Registrar, be delivered to the Security Registrar and, if not theretofore canceled, shall be promptly canceled by the Security Registrar. The Company may at any time deliver to the Security Registrar for cancellation any Securities previously authenticated and delivered hereunder which the Company may have acquired in any manner whatsoever or which the Company shall not have issued and sold, and all Securities so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Security Registrar. No Securities shall be authenticated in lieu of or in exchange for any Securities canceled as provided in this Section, except as expressly permitted by this Indenture. All canceled Securities held by the Security Registrar shall be disposed of in accordance with the Security Registrar's customary procedures as at the time of disposition shall be in effect, and the Security Registrar shall promptly deliver a certificate of disposition to the Trustee and the Company unless, by a Company Order, delivered to the Security Registrar and the Trustee, the Company shall direct that canceled Securities be returned to it. The Security Registrar shall promptly deliver evidence of any cancellation of a Security in accordance with this
Section 309 to the Trustee and the Company.

SECTION 310. Computation of Interest.

Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months and for any period shorter than a full calendar month, on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in such period.

SECTION 311. Payment to Be in Proper Currency.

In the case of the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, denominated in any currency other than Dollars or in a composite currency (the "Required Currency"), except as otherwise specified with respect to such Securities as contemplated by Section 301, the obligation of the Company to make any payment of the principal thereof, or the premium, if any, or interest, if any, thereon, shall not be discharged or satisfied by any tender by the Company, or recovery by the Trustee, in any currency other than the Required Currency, except to the extent that such tender or recovery shall result in the Trustee timely holding the full amount of the Required Currency then due and payable. If any such tender or recovery is in a currency other than the Required Currency, the Trustee may take such actions as it considers appropriate to exchange such currency for the Required Currency. The costs and risks of any such exchange, including without limitation the risks of delay and exchange rate fluctuation, shall be borne by the Company, the Company shall remain fully liable for any shortfall or delinquency in the full amount of Required Currency then due and payable, and in no circumstances shall the Trustee be liable therefor except in the case of its negligence or willful misconduct.

SECTION 312. Extension of Interest Payment.

The Company shall have the right at any time, so long as the Company is not in default in the payment of interest on the Securities of any series hereunder, to extend interest payment periods on all Securities of one or more series, if so specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to such Securities and upon such terms as may be specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to such Securities. Should the Company ever so extend any such interest payment period, the Company shall promptly notify the Trustee.

ARTICLE FOUR

Redemption of Securities

SECTION 401. Applicability of Article.

Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, which are redeemable before their Stated Maturity (or, if the principal of the Securities of any series is payable in installments, the Stated Maturity of the final installment of the principal thereof) shall be redeemable in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series or Tranche) in accordance with this Article.

SECTION 402. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee.

The election of the Company to redeem any Securities shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution or an Officer's Certificate. The Company shall, at least 45 days prior to the Redemption Date fixed by the Company (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the Trustee in writing of such Redemption Date and of the principal amount of such Securities to be redeemed. In the case of any redemption of Securities (a) prior to the expiration of any restriction on such redemption provided in the terms of such Securities or elsewhere in this Indenture or (b) pursuant to an election of the Company which is subject to a condition specified in the terms of such Securities, the Company shall furnish the Trustee with an Officer's Certificate evidencing compliance with such restriction or condition.

SECTION 403. Selection of Securities to Be Redeemed.

If less than all the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, are to be redeemed, the particular Securities to be redeemed shall be selected by the Trustee from the Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranche not previously called for redemption, by such method as shall be provided for any particular series, or, in the absence of any such provision, by such method as the Trustee shall deem fair and appropriate and which may provide for the selection for redemption of portions (equal to the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of such series or Tranche or any integral multiple thereof) of the principal amount of Securities of such series or Tranche of a denomination larger than the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of such series or Tranche; provided, however, that if, as indicated in an Officer's Certificate, the Company shall have offered to purchase all or any principal amount of the Securities then Outstanding of any series, or any Tranche thereof, and less than all of such Securities as to which such offer was made shall have been tendered to the Company for such purchase, the Trustee, if so directed by Company Order, shall select for redemption all or any principal amount of such Securities which have not been so tendered.

The Trustee shall promptly notify the Company and the Security Registrar in writing of the Securities selected for redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected to be redeemed in part, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.

For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions relating to the redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Securities redeemed or to be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Securities which has been or is to be redeemed.

SECTION 404. Notice of Redemption.

Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series, notice of redemption shall be given in the manner provided in Section 106 to the Holders of the Securities to be redeemed not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date.

All notices of redemption shall state:

(a) the Redemption Date,

(b) the Redemption Price, or the formula pursuant to which the Redemption Price is to be determined if the Redemption Price cannot be determined at the time the notice is given,

(c) if less than all the Securities of any series or Tranche are to be redeemed, the identification of the particular Securities to be redeemed and the portion of the principal amount of any Security to be redeemed in part and, in the case of any such Security of such series to be redeemed in part, that, on and after the Redemption Date, upon surrender of such Security, a new Security or Securities of such series in principal amount equal to the remaining unpaid principal amount thereof will be issued as provided in Section 406,

(d) that on the Redemption Date the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date, will become due and payable upon each such Security to be redeemed and, if applicable, that interest thereon will cease to accrue on and after said date,

(e) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest, if any, unless it shall have been specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to such Securities that such surrender shall not be required,

(f) that the redemption is for a sinking or other fund, if such is the case,

(g) the CUSIP numbers, if any, assigned to such Securities; provided however, that such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of CUSIP numbers, and the redemption of such Securities shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such number, and

(h) such other matters as the Company shall deem desirable or appropriate.

Unless otherwise specified with respect to any Securities in accordance with Section 301, with respect to any notice of redemption of Securities at the election of the Company, unless, upon the giving of such notice, such Securities shall be deemed to have been paid in accordance with
Section 701, such notice may state that such redemption shall be conditional upon the receipt by the Paying Agent or Agents for such Securities, on or prior to the date fixed for such redemption, of money sufficient to pay the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on such Securities and that if such money shall not have been so received such notice shall be of no force or effect and the Company shall not be required to redeem such Securities. In the event that such notice of redemption contains such a condition and such money is not so received, the redemption shall not be made and within a reasonable time thereafter notice shall be given, in the manner in which the notice of redemption was given, that such money was not so received and such redemption was not required to be made, and the Paying Agent or Agents for the Securities otherwise to have been redeemed shall promptly return to the Holders thereof any of such Securities which had been surrendered for payment upon such redemption.

Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed at the election of the Company, and any notice of non-satisfaction of a condition for redemption as aforesaid, shall be given by the Company or, at the Company's request, by the Security Registrar in the name and at the expense of the Company. Notice of mandatory redemption of Securities shall be given by the Security Registrar in the name and at the expense of the Company.

SECTION 405. Securities Payable on Redemption Date.

Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, and the conditions, if any, set forth in such notice having been satisfied, the Securities or portions thereof so to be redeemed shall, on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the Redemption Price therein specified, and from and after such date (unless, in the case of an unconditional notice of redemption, the Company shall default in the payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest, if any) such Securities or portions thereof, if interest-bearing, shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such Security for redemption in accordance with such notice, such Security or portion thereof shall be paid by the Company at the Redemption Price, together with accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date; provided, however, that no such surrender shall be a condition to such payment if so specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to such Security; and provided, further, that except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to such Security, any installment of interest on any Security the Stated Maturity of which installment is on or prior to the Redemption Date shall be payable to the Holder of such Security, or one or more Predecessor Securities, registered as such at the close of business on the related Regular Record Date according to the terms of such Security and subject to the provisions of Section 307.

SECTION 406. Securities Redeemed in Part.

Upon the surrender of any Security which is to be redeemed only in part at a Place of Payment therefor (with due endorsement by, or a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company and the Trustee duly executed by, the Holder thereof or his or her attorney duly authorized in writing), the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security, without service charge, a new Security or Securities of the same series and Tranche, of any authorized denomination requested by such Holder and of like tenor and in aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered.

ARTICLE FIVE

Sinking Funds

SECTION 501. Applicability of Article.

The provisions of this Article shall be applicable to any sinking fund for the retirement of the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of such series or Tranche.

The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, is herein referred to as a "mandatory sinking fund payment", and any payment in excess of such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, is herein referred to as an "optional sinking fund payment". If provided for by the terms of Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, the cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to reduction as provided in Section 502. Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of the series or Tranche in respect of which it was made as provided for by the terms of such Securities.

SECTION 502. Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities.

The Company (a) may deliver to the Trustee Outstanding Securities (other than any previously called for redemption) of a series or Tranche in respect of which a mandatory sinking fund payment is to be made and
(b) may apply as a credit Securities of such series or Tranche which have been redeemed either at the election of the Company pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of such mandatory sinking fund payment with respect to the Securities of such series; provided, however, that no Securities shall be applied in satisfaction of a mandatory sinking fund payment if such Securities shall have been previously so applied. Securities so applied shall be received and credited for such purpose by the Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of the sinking fund and the amount of such mandatory sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.

SECTION 503. Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund.

Not less than 45 days prior to each sinking fund payment date for the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, the Company shall deliver to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate specifying:

(a) the amount of the next succeeding mandatory sinking fund payment for such series or Tranche;

(b) the amount, if any, of the optional sinking fund payment to be made together with such mandatory sinking fund payment;

(c) the aggregate sinking fund payment;

(d) the portion, if any, of such aggregate sinking fund payment which is to be satisfied by the payment of cash; and

(e) the portion, if any, of such aggregate sinking fund payment which is to be satisfied by delivering and crediting Securities of such series or Tranche pursuant to Section 502 and stating the basis for such credit and that such Securities have not previously been so credited, and the Company shall also deliver to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered.

If the Company shall have not delivered such Officer's Certificate and, to the extent applicable, all such Securities, the next succeeding sinking fund payment for such series or Tranche shall be made entirely in cash in the amount of the mandatory sinking fund payment. Not less than 30 days before each such sinking fund payment date the Trustee shall select the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking fund payment date in the manner specified in Section 403 and cause notice of the redemption thereof to be given in the name of and at the expense of the Company in the manner provided in
Section 404. Such notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made upon the terms and in the manner stated in Sections 405 and 406.

ARTICLE SIX

Covenants

SECTION 601. Payment of Principal, Premium and Interest.

The Company shall pay the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the Securities of each series in accordance with the terms of such Securities and this Indenture.

SECTION 602. Maintenance of Office or Agency.

The Company shall maintain in each Place of Payment for the Securities of each series, or any Tranche thereof, an office or agency where payment of such Securities shall be made, where the registration of transfer or exchange of such Securities may be effected and where notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of such Securities and this Indenture may be served. The Company shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the location, and any change in the location, of each such office or agency and prompt notice to the Holders of any such change in the manner specified in Section 106. If at any time the Company shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency in respect of Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, payment of such Securities shall be made, registration of transfer or exchange thereof may be effected and notices and demands in respect thereof may be served at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Company hereby appoints the Trustee as its agent for all such purposes in any such event.

The Company may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies with respect to the Securities of one or more series, or any Tranche thereof, for any or all of the foregoing purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; provided, however, that, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 with respect to the Securities of such series or Tranche, no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve the Company of its obligation to maintain an office or agency for such purposes in each Place of Payment for such Securities in accordance with the requirements set forth above. The Company shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee, and prompt notice to the Holders in the manner specified in Section 106, of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, any office or agency required by this Section may be maintained at an office of the Company, in which event the Company shall perform all functions to be performed at such office or agency.

SECTION 603. Money for Securities Payments to Be Held in Trust.

If the Company shall at any time act as its own Paying Agent with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, it shall, on or before each due date of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on any of such Securities, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal and premium or interest so becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided. The Company shall promptly notify the Trustee of any failure by the Company (or any other obligor on such Securities) to make any payment of principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on such Securities.

Whenever the Company shall have one or more Paying Agents for the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, it shall, on or before each due date of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on such Securities, deposit with such Paying Agents sums sufficient (without duplication) to pay the principal and premium or interest so becoming due, such sums to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such principal, premium or interest, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the Company shall promptly notify the Trustee of any failure by it so to act.

The Company shall cause each Paying Agent for the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, other than the Company or the Trustee, to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent shall:

(a) hold all sums held by it for the payment of the principal of and premium, if any, or interest, if any, on such Securities in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided;

(b) give the Trustee notice of any failure by the Company (or any other obligor upon such Securities) to make any payment of principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on such Securities; and

(c) at any time during the continuance of any such failure, upon the written request of the Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums so held in trust by such Paying Agent and furnish to the Trustee such information as it possesses regarding the names and addresses of the Persons entitled to such sums.

The Company may at any time pay, or by Company Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Company or such Paying Agent, such sums to be held by the Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Company or such Paying Agent and, if so stated in a Company Order delivered to the Trustee, in accordance with the provisions of Article Seven; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be released from all further liability with respect to such money.

Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Company, in trust for the payment of the principal of and premium, if any, or interest, if any, on any Security and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal and premium, if any, or interest, if any, has become due and payable shall be paid to the Company on Company Request, or, if then held by the Company, shall be discharged from such trust; and, upon such payment or discharge, the Holder of such Security shall, as an unsecured general creditor and not as a Holder of an Outstanding Security, look only to the Company for payment of the amount so due and payable and remaining unpaid, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Company as trustee thereof, shall thereupon cease; provided, however, that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any such payment to the Company, may at the expense of the Company cause to be mailed, on one occasion only, notice to such Holder that such money remains unclaimed and that, after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such mailing, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be paid to the Company.

SECTION 604. Corporate Existence.

Subject to the rights of the Company under Article Eleven, the Company shall do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and effect its corporate or legal existence.

SECTION 605. Maintenance of Properties.

The Company shall cause (or, with respect to property owned in common with others, make reasonable effort to cause) all its properties used or useful in the conduct of its business to be maintained and kept in good condition, repair and working order and shall cause (or, with respect to property owned in common with others, make reasonable effort to cause) to be made all necessary repairs, renewals, replacements, betterments and improvements thereof, all as, in the judgment of the Company, may be necessary so that the business carried on in connection therewith may be properly conducted; provided, however, that nothing in this Section shall prevent the Company from discontinuing, or causing the discontinuance of, the operation and maintenance of any of its properties if such discontinuance is, in the judgment of the Company, desirable in the conduct of its business.

SECTION 606. Annual Officer's Certificate as to Compliance.

Not later than July 1 in each year, commencing with the year 2000, the Company shall deliver to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate which need not comply with Section 102, executed by the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer or the principal accounting officer of the Company, as to (i) such officer's knowledge of the Company's compliance with all conditions and covenants under this Indenture, such compliance to be determined without regard to any period of grace or requirement of notice under this Indenture and (ii) any other statements as may be required by the provisions of
Section 314(a) of the Trust Indenture Act.

SECTION 607. Waiver of Certain Covenants.

The Company may omit in any particular instance to comply with any term, provision or condition set forth in: (a) Section 602 or any additional covenant or restriction specified with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, as contemplated by Section 301, if before the time for such compliance the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series and Tranches with respect to which compliance with Section 602 or such additional covenant or restriction is to be omitted, considered as one class, shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or condition; and (b) Section 604, 605 or Article Eleven if before the time for such compliance the Holders of a majority in principal amount of Securities Outstanding under this Indenture shall, by Act of such Holders, either waive such compliance in such instance or generally waive compliance with such term, provision or condition; but, in the case of (a) or (b), no such waiver shall extend to or affect such term, provision or condition except to the extent so expressly waived, and, until such waiver shall become effective, the obligations of the Company and the duties of the Trustee in respect of any such term, provision or condition shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 608. Limitation on Liens.

(a) Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series, so long as any Securities of any series are Outstanding, the Company will not pledge, mortgage, hypothecate or grant a security interest in, or permit any pledge, mortgage, security interest or other lien upon, any capital stock of any Subsidiary which capital stock is now or hereafter directly owned by the Company, to secure any Indebtedness (hereinafter defined) without concurrently making effective provision whereby the Outstanding Securities shall (so long as such other Indebtedness shall be so secured) be equally and ratably secured with (or at the Company's option, prior to) any and all such other Indebtedness and any other Indebtedness similarly entitled to be so secured; provided, however, that this restriction shall not apply to nor prevent the creation or existence of:

(1) any pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance upon any such capital stock created at the time of the acquisition of such capital stock by the Company, or within 270 days after such time, to secure all or a portion of the purchase price for such capital stock;

(2) any pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance upon any such capital stock existing thereon at the time of the acquisition thereof by the Company (whether or not the obligations secured thereby are assumed by the Company and whether or not such pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance was created in contemplation of such acquisition);

(3) any extension, renewal, replacement or refunding of any pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance permitted by Subsection (1) or (2) above or of any Indebtedness secured thereby; provided that the principal amount of Indebtedness so secured immediately following the time of such extension, renewal, replacement or refunding shall not exceed the principal amount of Indebtedness so secured immediately preceding the time of such extension, renewal or replacement, and that such extension, renewal, replacement or refunding of pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance shall be limited to no more than the same proportion of all shares of capital stock as were covered by the pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance that was extended, renewed, replaced or refunded; or

(4) any judgment, levy, execution, attachment or other similar lien arising in connection with court proceedings, provided that either

(i) the execution or enforcement of each such lien is effectively stayed within 30 days after entry of the corresponding judgment (or the corresponding judgment has been discharged within such 30 day period) and the claims secured thereby are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings timely commenced and diligently prosecuted;

(ii) the payment of each such lien is covered in full by insurance and the insurance company has not denied or contested coverage thereof; or

(iii) so long as each such lien is adequately bonded, any appropriate legal proceedings that may have been duly initiated for the review of the corresponding judgment, decree or order shall not have been fully terminated or the period within which such proceedings may be initiated shall not have expired.

For purposes of this Section 608, "Indebtedness" means all indebtedness, whether or not represented by bonds, debentures, notes or other securities, created or assumed by the Company for the repayment of money borrowed. All indebtedness for money borrowed secured by a lien upon capital stock owned by the Company and upon which indebtedness for money borrowed the Company customarily pays interest, although the Company has not assumed or become liable for the payment of such indebtedness for money borrowed, shall for purposes of this Section 608 be deemed to be Indebtedness of the Company. All indebtedness of others for money borrowed which is guaranteed as to payment of principal by the Company or in effect guaranteed by the Company through a contingent agreement to purchase such indebtedness for money borrowed shall for purposes of this Section 608 be deemed to be Indebtedness of the Company, but no other contingent obligation of the Company in respect of indebtedness for money borrowed or other obligations incurred by others shall for purposes of this
Section 608 be deemed to be Indebtedness of the Company.

In case the Company shall propose to pledge, mortgage, hypothecate or grant a security interest in any capital stock of any Subsidiary owned by the Company to secure any Indebtedness, other than as permitted by Subsections (a)(1) to (a)(4), inclusive, of this Section, the Company will prior thereto give written notice thereof to the Trustee, and the Company will prior to or simultaneously with such pledge, mortgage, hypothecation or grant of security interest, by supplemental indenture executed to the Trustee (or to the extent legally necessary to another trustee or an additional or separate trustee), in form satisfactory to the Trustee, effectively secure (for so long as such other Indebtedness shall be so secured) all the Securities equally and ratably with such Indebtedness and with (or at the Company's option, prior to) any other Indebtedness for money borrowed similarly entitled to be so secured.

(b) Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 301 for Securities of any series, the provisions of Subsection (a) of this
Section 608 shall not apply to the extent that the Company creates any Restricted Liens to secure Indebtedness that, together with all other Indebtedness secured by Restricted Liens, does not at the time of such creation exceed 5% of Consolidated Capitalization.

(c) In addition to the provisions contained in Subsections (a) and (b) above, if debentures issued by the Company under the 1974 Indenture in an aggregate principal amount in excess of 5% of the Consolidated Capitalization of the Company become secured pursuant to the provisions of the 1974 Indenture, the Company will secure the Outstanding Securities equally and ratably with those debentures; provided however, that if (and for so long as) the aggregate principal amount of the debentures secured pursuant to the 1974 Indenture at any time decreases and constitutes 5% or less of the Consolidated Capitalization of the Company, the Outstanding Securities will cease to be so secured. The Trustee shall execute and deliver such instruments as the Company may reasonably request to effectuate the provisions of this Subsection (c).

For purposes of this Section 608:

(1) The term "Consolidated Capitalization" means the sum obtained by adding (i) Consolidated Common Shareholders' Equity, (ii) Consolidated Indebtedness (exclusive of any thereof which is due and payable within one year of the date such sum is determined) and, without duplication, (iii) any preference or preferred stock of the Company or any Consolidated Subsidiary which is subject to mandatory redemption or sinking fund provisions.

(2) The term "Consolidated Common Shareholders' Equity" means the total Assets of the Company and its Consolidated Subsidiaries less (a) all liabilities of the Company and its Consolidated Subsidiaries, (b) minority interests owned by third parties in Consolidated Subsidiaries of the Company, and
(c) preference or preferred stock of the Company and its Consolidated Subsidiaries only to the extent any such preference or preferred stock is subject to mandatory redemption or sinking fund provisions. As used in this definition, "liabilities" means all obligations which would, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, be classified on a balance sheet as liabilities, including without limitation, (i) Consolidated Indebtedness, (ii) indebtedness secured by property of the Company or any of its Consolidated Subsidiaries whether or not the Company or such Consolidated Subsidiary is liable for the payment thereof unless, if the Company or such Consolidated Subsidiary is not so liable, such property has not been included among the Assets of the Company or such Consolidated Subsidiary on such balance sheet, (iii) deferred liabilities, and (iv) indebtedness of the Company or any of its Consolidated Subsidiaries that is expressly subordinated in right and priority of payment to other liabilities of the Company or such Consolidated Subsidiary.

(3) The term "Consolidated Subsidiary" means at any date any Subsidiary the financial statements of which under generally accepted accounting principles would be consolidated with those of the Company in its consolidated financial statements as of such date.

(4) The "Assets" of any Person means the whole or any part of its business, property, assets, cash and receivables, which would, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, be classified on a balance sheet as assets.

(5) The term "Consolidated Indebtedness" means total indebtedness as shown on the consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its Consolidated Subsidiaries.

(6) The term "1974 Indenture" means the indenture dated as of October 15, 1974, from the Company to The Bank of New York (formerly Irving Trust Company), as trustee, as supplemented and amended.

(7) The term "Restricted Liens" means any pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance upon any capital stock of any Subsidiary, which capital stock is now or hereafter directly owned by the Company, to secure any Indebtedness, other than any pledge, mortgage, security interest, lien or encumbrance described in (a)(1) through
(a)(4) above.

ARTICLE SEVEN

Satisfaction and Discharge

SECTION 701. Satisfaction and Discharge of Securities.

Any Security or Securities, or any portion of the principal amount thereof, shall be deemed to have been paid for all purposes of this Indenture, and the entire indebtedness of the Company in respect thereof shall be deemed to have been satisfied and discharged, if there shall have been irrevocably deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent (other than the Company), in trust:

(a) money in an amount which shall be sufficient, or

(b) in the case of a deposit made prior to the Maturity of such Securities or portions thereof, Eligible Obligations, which shall not contain provisions permitting the redemption or other prepayment thereof at the option of the issuer thereof, the principal of and the interest on which when due, without any regard to reinvestment thereof, will provide moneys which, together with the money, if any, deposited with or held by the Trustee or such Paying Agent, shall be sufficient, or

(c) a combination of (a) or (b) which shall be sufficient,

to pay when due the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, due and to become due on such Securities or portions thereof on or prior to Maturity; provided, however, that in the case of the provision for payment or redemption of less than all the Securities of any series or Tranche, such Securities or portions thereof shall have been selected by the Trustee as provided herein and, in the case of a redemption, the notice requisite to the validity of such redemption shall have been given or irrevocable authority shall have been given by the Company to the Trustee to give such notice, under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee; and provided, further, that the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee and such Paying Agent:

(x) if such deposit shall have been made prior to the Maturity of such Securities, a Company Order stating that the money and Eligible Obligations deposited in accordance with this Section shall be held in trust, as provided in Section 703; and

(y) if Eligible Obligations shall have been deposited, an Opinion of Counsel that the obligations so deposited constitute Eligible Obligations and do not contain provisions permitting the redemption or other prepayment at the option of the issuer thereof, and an opinion of an independent public accountant of nationally recognized standing, selected by the Company, to the effect that the other requirements set forth in clause (b) and, if applicable,
(c) above have been satisfied; and

(z) if such deposit shall have been made prior to the Maturity of such Securities, an Officer's Certificate stating the Company's intention that, upon delivery of such Officer's Certificate, its indebtedness in respect of such Securities or portions thereof will have been satisfied and discharged as contemplated in this Section.

Upon the deposit of money or Eligible Obligations, or both, in accordance with this Section, together with the documents required by clauses
(x), (y) and (z) above, the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Company Request, acknowledge in writing that the Security or Securities or portions thereof with respect to which such deposit was made are deemed to have been paid for all purposes of this Indenture and that the entire indebtedness of the Company in respect thereof has been satisfied and discharged as contemplated in this Section. In the event that all of the conditions set forth in the preceding paragraph shall have been satisfied in respect of any Securities or portions thereof except that, for any reason, the Officer's Certificate specified in clause (z) shall not have been delivered, such Securities or portions thereof shall nevertheless be deemed to have been paid for all purposes of this Indenture, and the Holders of such Securities or portions thereof shall nevertheless be no longer entitled to the benefits of this Indenture or of any of the covenants of the Company under Article Six (except the covenants contained in Sections 602 and 603) or any other covenants made in respect of such Securities or portions thereof as contemplated by Section 301 and Section 1201(b), but the indebtedness of the Company in respect of such Securities or portions thereof shall not be deemed to have been satisfied and discharged prior to Maturity for any other purpose, and the Holders of such Securities or portions thereof shall continue to be entitled to look to the Company for payment of the indebtedness represented thereby; and, upon Company Request, the Trustee shall acknowledge in writing that such Securities or portions thereof are deemed to have been paid for all purposes of this Indenture.

If payment at Stated Maturity of less than all of the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, is to be provided for in the manner and with the effect provided in this Section, the Trustee shall select such Securities, or portions of principal amount thereof, in the manner specified by Section 403 for selection for redemption of less than all the Securities of a series or Tranche.

In the event that Securities which shall be deemed to have been paid for purposes of this Indenture, and, if such is the case, in respect of which the Company's indebtedness shall have been satisfied and discharged, all as provided in this Section, do not mature and are not to be redeemed within the 60 day period commencing with the date of the deposit of moneys or Eligible Obligations, as aforesaid, the Company shall, as promptly as practicable, give a notice, in the same manner as a notice of redemption with respect to such Securities, to the Holders of such Securities to the effect that such deposit has been made and the effect thereof.

Notwithstanding that any Securities shall be deemed to have been paid for purposes of this Indenture, as aforesaid, the obligations of the Company and the Trustee in respect of such Securities under Sections 304, 305, 306, 404, 503 (as to notice of redemption), 602, 603, 907 and 915 and this Article Seven shall survive.

The Company shall pay, and shall indemnify the Trustee or any Paying Agent with which Eligible Obligations shall have been deposited as provided in this Section against, any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against such Eligible Obligations or the principal or interest received in respect of such Eligible Obligations, including, but not limited to, any such tax payable by any entity deemed, for tax purposes, to have been created as a result of such deposit.

Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, (a) if, at any time after a Security would be deemed to have been paid for purposes of this Indenture, and, if such is the case, the Company's indebtedness in respect thereof would be deemed to have been satisfied or discharged, pursuant to this
Section (without regard to the provisions of this paragraph), the Trustee or any Paying Agent, as the case may be, shall be required to return the money or Eligible Obligations, or combination thereof, deposited with it as aforesaid to the Company or its representative under any applicable Federal or State bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law, such Security shall thereupon be deemed retroactively not to have been paid and any satisfaction and discharge of the Company's indebtedness in respect thereof shall retroactively be deemed not to have been effected, and such Security shall be deemed to remain Outstanding, and (b) any satisfaction and discharge of the Company's indebtedness in respect of any Security shall be subject to the provisions of the last paragraph of
Section 603.

SECTION 702. Satisfaction and Discharge of Indenture.

This Indenture shall upon Company Request cease to be of further effect (except as hereinafter expressly provided), and the Trustee, at the expense of the Company, shall execute proper instruments acknowledging satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture, when

(a) no Securities remain Outstanding hereunder; and

(b) the Company has paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable hereunder by the Company;

provided, however, that if, in accordance with the last paragraph of Section 701, any Security, previously deemed to have been paid for purposes of this Indenture, shall be deemed retroactively not to have been so paid, this Indenture shall thereupon be deemed retroactively not to have been satisfied and discharged, as aforesaid, and to remain in full force and effect, and the Company shall execute and deliver such instruments as the Trustee shall reasonably request to evidence and acknowledge the same.

Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture as aforesaid, the obligations of the Company and the Trustee under Sections 304, 305, 306, 404, 503 (as to notice of redemption), 602, 603, 907 and 915 and this Article Seven shall survive.

Upon satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture as provided in this Section, the Trustee shall assign, transfer and turn over to the Company, subject to the lien provided by Section 907, any and all money, securities and other property then held by the Trustee for the benefit of the Holders of the Securities other than money and Eligible Obligations held by the Trustee pursuant to Section 703 and shall execute and deliver to the Company such instruments as, in the judgment of the Company, shall be necessary, desirable or appropriate to effect or evidence the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture.

SECTION 703. Application of Trust Money.

The Eligible Obligations and the money deposited pursuant to
Section 701, and the principal and interest payments on any such Eligible Obligations, shall not be withdrawn or used for any purpose other than, and shall be held in trust for, the payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on the Securities or portions of principal amount thereof in respect of which such deposit was made, all subject, however, to the provisions of Section 603; provided, however, that, so long as there shall not have occurred and be continuing an Event of Default, any cash received from such principal or interest payments on such Eligible Obligations, if not then needed for such purpose, shall, to the extent practicable and upon Company Request, be invested in Eligible Obligations of the type described in clause (b) in the first paragraph of Section 701 maturing at such times and in such amounts as shall be sufficient, together with any other moneys and the principal of and interest on any other Eligible Obligations then held by the Trustee, to pay when due the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, due and to become due on such Securities or portions thereof on or prior to the Maturity thereof, and interest earned from such reinvestment shall be paid over to the Company as received, free and clear of any trust, lien or pledge under this Indenture except the lien provided by Section 907; and provided, further, that, so long as there shall not have occurred and be continuing an Event of Default, any moneys held in accordance with this Section on the Maturity of all such Securities in excess of the amount required to pay the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, then due on such Securities shall be paid over to the Company free and clear of any trust, lien or pledge under this Indenture except the lien provided by Section 907; and provided, further, that if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, moneys to be paid over to the Company pursuant to this Section shall be held in trust until such Event of Default shall have been waived or cured.

ARTICLE EIGHT

Events of Default; Remedies

SECTION 801. Events of Default.

"Event of Default", wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, means any one of the following events:

(a) failure to pay interest, if any, on any Security of such series within 30 days after the same becomes due and payable; provided, however, that a valid extension of the interest payment period by the Company as contemplated in Section 312 of this Indenture shall not constitute a failure to pay interest for this purpose; or

(b) failure to pay the principal of or premium, if any, on any Security of such series at its Maturity; or

(c) failure to perform or breach of any covenant or warranty of the Company in this Indenture (other than a covenant or warranty a default in the performance of which or breach of which is elsewhere in this Section specifically dealt with or which has expressly been included in this Indenture solely for the benefit of one or more series of Securities other than such series) for a period of 90 days after there has been given, by registered or certified mail, to the Company by the Trustee, or to the Company and the Trustee by the Holders of at least 33% in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series, a written notice specifying such default or breach and requiring it to be remedied and stating that such notice is a "Notice of Default" hereunder, unless the Trustee, or the Trustee and the Holders of a principal amount of Securities of such series not less than the principal amount of Securities the Holders of which gave such notice, as the case may be, shall agree in writing to an extension of such period prior to its expiration; provided, however, that the Trustee, or the Trustee and the Holders of such principal amount of Securities of such series, as the case may be, shall be deemed to have agreed to an extension of such period if corrective action is initiated by the Company within such period and is being diligently pursued; or

(d) the entry by a court having jurisdiction in the premises of (1) a decree or order for relief in respect of the Company in an involuntary case or proceeding under any applicable Federal or State bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or (2) a decree or order adjudging the Company bankrupt or insolvent, or approving as properly filed a petition by one or more Persons other than the Company seeking reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition of or in respect of the Company under any applicable Federal or State law, or appointing a custodian, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or other similar official for the Company or for any substantial part of its property, or ordering the winding up or liquidation of its affairs, and any such decree or order for relief or any such other decree or order shall have remained unstayed and in effect for a period of 90 consecutive days; or

(e) the commencement by the Company of a voluntary case or proceeding under any applicable Federal or State bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or of any other case or proceeding to be adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, or the consent by it to the entry of a decree or order for relief in respect of the Company in a case or proceeding under any applicable Federal or State bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other similar law or to the commencement of any bankruptcy or insolvency case or proceeding against it, or the filing by it of a petition or answer or consent seeking reorganization or relief under any applicable Federal or State law, or the consent by it to the filing of such petition or to the appointment of or taking possession by a custodian, receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator or similar official of the Company or of any substantial part of its property, or the making by it of an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or the admission by it in writing of its inability to pay its debts generally as they become due, or the authorization of such action by the Board of Directors; or

(f) any other Event of Default specified with respect to Securities of such series as contemplated by Section 301 and
Section 1201(c).

SECTION 802. Acceleration of Maturity; Rescission and Annulment.

If an Event of Default due to the default in payment of principal of, or interest on, any series of Securities or due to the default in the performance or breach of any other covenant or warranty of the Company applicable to the Securities of such series but not applicable to all Outstanding Securities shall have occurred and be continuing, either the Trustee or the Holders of not less than 33% in principal amount of the Securities of such series may then declare the principal amount (or, if any of the Securities of such series are Discount Securities, such portion of the principal amount as may be specified in the terms thereof as contemplated by Section 301) of all Securities of such series and interest accrued thereon to be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default due to default in the performance of any other of the covenants or agreements herein applicable to all Outstanding Securities or an Event of Default specified in Section 801(d) or (e) shall have occurred and be continuing, either the Trustee or the Holders of not less than 33% in principal amount of all Securities then Outstanding (considered as one class), and not the Holders of the Securities of any one of such series, may declare the principal amount (or, if any of the Securities are Discount Securities, such portion of the principal amount as may be specified in the terms thereof as contemplated by Section 301) of all Outstanding Securities and interest accrued thereon to be due and payable immediately. As a consequence of each such declaration (herein referred to as a declaration of acceleration) with respect to Securities of any series, the principal amount (or specified portion thereof in the case of Discount Securities) of such Securities and interest accrued thereon shall become due and payable immediately.

At any time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to Securities of any series shall have been made and before a judgment or decree for payment of the money due shall have been obtained by the Trustee as hereinafter in this Article provided, the Event or Events of Default giving rise to such declaration of acceleration shall, without further act, be deemed to have been waived, and such declaration and its consequences shall, without further act, be deemed to have been rescinded and annulled, if

(a) the Company shall have paid or deposited with the Trustee a sum sufficient to pay

(1) all overdue interest, if any, on all Securities of such series;

(2) the principal of and premium, if any, on any Securities of such series which have become due otherwise than by such declaration of acceleration and interest, if any, thereon at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities;

(3) to the extent that payment of such interest is lawful, interest upon overdue interest, if any, at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities; and

(4) all amounts due to the Trustee under Section 907; and

(b) any other Event or Events of Default with respect to Securities of such series, other than the nonpayment of the principal of Securities of such series which shall have become due solely by such declaration of acceleration, shall have been cured or waived as provided in Section 813.

No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Event of Default or impair any right consequent thereon.

SECTION 803. Collection of Indebtedness and Suits for Enforcement by Trustee.

If an Event of Default described in clause (a) or (b) of
Section 801 shall have occurred and be continuing, the Company shall, upon demand of the Trustee, pay to it, for the benefit of the Holders of the Securities of the series with respect to which such Event of Default shall have occurred, the whole amount then due and payable on such Securities for principal and premium, if any, and interest, if any, and, to the extent permitted by law, interest on any overdue principal, premium and interest, at the rate or rates prescribed therefor in such Securities, and, in addition thereto, such further amount as shall be sufficient to cover any amounts due to the Trustee under
Section 907. Unless otherwise specified pursuant to Section 301 with respect to any series of Securities, the rate or rates at which Securities shall bear interest on overdue principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, shall be, to the extent permitted by law, the same rate or rates at which such Securities shall bear interest prior to Maturity.

If the Company shall fail to pay such amounts forthwith upon such demand, the Trustee, in its own name and as trustee of an express trust, may institute a judicial proceeding for the collection of the sums so due and unpaid, may prosecute such proceeding to judgment or final decree and may enforce the same against the Company or any other obligor upon such Securities and collect the moneys adjudged or decreed to be payable in the manner provided by law out of the property of the Company or any other obligor upon such Securities, wherever situated.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of any series shall have occurred and be continuing, the Trustee may in its discretion proceed to protect and enforce its rights and the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series by such appropriate judicial proceedings as the Trustee shall deem most effectual to protect and enforce any such rights, whether for the specific enforcement of any covenant or agreement in this Indenture or in aid of the exercise of any power granted herein, or to enforce any other proper remedy.

SECTION 804. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim.

In case of the pendency of any receivership, insolvency, liquidation, bankruptcy, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, composition or other judicial proceeding relative to the Company or any other obligor upon the Securities or the property of the Company or of such other obligor or their creditors, the Trustee (irrespective of whether the principal of the Securities shall then be due and payable as therein expressed or by declaration or otherwise and irrespective of whether the Trustee shall have made any demand on the Company for the payment of overdue principal or interest) shall be entitled and empowered, by intervention in such proceeding or otherwise,

(a) to file and prove a claim for the whole amount of principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, owing and unpaid in respect of the Securities and to file such other papers or documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Trustee (including any claim for amounts due to the Trustee under Section 907) and of the Holders allowed in such judicial proceeding, and

(b) to collect and receive any moneys or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same;

and any custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amounts due it under Section 907.

Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof or to authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.

SECTION 805. Trustee May Enforce Claims Without Possession of Securities.

All rights of action and claims under this Indenture or the Securities may be prosecuted and enforced by the Trustee without the possession of any of the Securities or the production thereof in any proceeding relating thereto, and any such proceeding instituted by the Trustee shall be brought in its own name as trustee of an express trust, and any recovery of judgment shall, after provision for the payment of the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, be for the ratable benefit of the Holders in respect of which such judgment has been recovered.

SECTION 806. Application of Money Collected.

Any money collected by the Trustee pursuant to this Article shall be applied in the following order, at the date or dates fixed by the Trustee and, in case of the distribution of such money on account of principal or premium, if any, or interest, if any, upon presentation of the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money shall have been collected and the notation thereon of the payment if only partially paid and upon surrender thereof if fully paid:

first: to the payment of all amounts due the Trustee under
Section 907;

second: to the payment of the amounts then due and unpaid upon the Securities for principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money has been collected, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on such Securities for principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, respectively; and

third: to the payment of the remainder, if any, to the Company or to whomsoever may be lawfully entitled to receive the same or as a court of competent jurisdiction may direct.

SECTION 807. Limitation on Suits.

No Holder shall have any right to institute any proceeding, judicial or otherwise, with respect to this Indenture, or for the appointment of a receiver or trustee, or for any other remedy hereunder, unless:

(a) such Holder shall have previously given written notice to the Trustee of a continuing Event of Default with respect to the Securities of such series;

(b) the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series in respect of which an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, considered as one class, shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default in its own name as Trustee hereunder;

(c) such Holder or Holders shall have offered to the Trustee reasonable indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred in compliance with such request;

(d) the Trustee for 60 days after its receipt of such notice, request and offer of indemnity shall have failed to institute any such proceeding; and

(e) no direction inconsistent with such written request shall have been given to the Trustee during such 60-day period by the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series in respect of which an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, considered as one class;

it being understood and intended that no one or more of such Holders shall have any right in any manner whatever by virtue of, or by availing of, any provision of this Indenture to affect, disturb or prejudice the rights of any other of such Holders or to obtain or to seek to obtain priority or preference over any other of such Holders or to enforce any right under this Indenture, except in the manner herein provided and for the equal and ratable benefit of all of such Holders.

SECTION 808. Unconditional Right of Holders to Receive Principal, Premium and Interest.

Notwithstanding any other provision in this Indenture, the Holder of any Security shall have the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and (subject to Sections 307 and 312) interest, if any, on such Security on the Stated Maturity or Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on the Redemption Date) and to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment, and such rights shall not be impaired without the consent of such Holder.

SECTION 809. Restoration of Rights and Remedies.

If the Trustee or any Holder has instituted any proceeding to enforce any right or remedy under this Indenture and such proceeding shall have been discontinued or abandoned for any reason, or shall have been determined adversely to the Trustee or to such Holder, then and in every such case, subject to any determination in such proceeding, the Company, and the Trustee and such Holder shall be restored severally and respectively to their former positions hereunder and thereafter all rights and remedies of the Trustee and such Holder shall continue as though no such proceeding had been instituted.

SECTION 810. Rights and Remedies Cumulative.

Except as otherwise provided in the last paragraph of Section 306, no right or remedy herein conferred upon or reserved to the Trustee or to the Holders is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every right and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other appropriate right or remedy.

SECTION 811. Delay or Omission Not Waiver.

No delay or omission of the Trustee or of any Holder to exercise any right or remedy accruing upon any Event of Default shall impair any such right or remedy or constitute a waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein. Every right and remedy given by this Article or by law to the Trustee or to the Holders may be exercised from time to time, and as often as may be deemed expedient, by the Trustee or by the Holders, as the case may be.

SECTION 812. Control by Holders of Securities.

If an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing in respect of a series of Securities, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series shall have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee, or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee, with respect to the Securities of such series; provided, however, that if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing with respect to more than one series of Securities, the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all such series, considered as one class, shall have the right to make such direction, and not the Holders of the Securities of any one of such series; and provided, further, that such direction shall not be in conflict with any rule of law or with this Indenture. The Trustee may take any other action, deemed proper by the Trustee, which is not inconsistent with any such direction. Before proceeding to exercise any right or power hereunder at the direction of such Holders, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive from such Holders reasonable security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with any such direction.

SECTION 813. Waiver of Past Defaults.

The Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series may on behalf of the Holders of all the Securities of such series waive any past default hereunder with respect to such series and its consequences, except a default

(a) in the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on any Security of such series, or

(b) in respect of a covenant or provision hereof which under
Section 1202 cannot be modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security of such series affected.

Upon any such waiver, such default shall cease to exist, and any and all Events of Default arising therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured, for every purpose of this Indenture; but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other default or impair any right consequent thereon.

SECTION 814. Undertaking for Costs.

The Company and the Trustee agree, and each Holder by his or her acceptance of a Security shall be deemed to have agreed, that any court may in its discretion require, in any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture, or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken, suffered or omitted by it as Trustee, the filing by any party litigant in such suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of such suit, and that such court may in its discretion assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys' fees, against any party litigant in such suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by such party litigant, all in the manner, to the extent and except as otherwise provided in the Trust Indenture Act; but the provisions of this Section shall not apply to any suit instituted by the Company, to any suit instituted by the Trustee, to any suit instituted by any Holder, or group of Holders, holding in the aggregate more than 10% in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series in respect of which such suit may be brought, considered as one class, or to any suit instituted by any Holder for the enforcement of the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on any Security on or after the Stated Maturity or Maturities expressed in such Security (or, in the case of redemption, on or after the Redemption Date).

SECTION 815. Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws.

The Company covenants (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) that it will not at any time insist upon, or plead, or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any stay or extension law wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, which may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and the Company (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) hereby expressly waives all benefit or advantage of any such law and covenants that it will not hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but will suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law had been enacted.

ARTICLE NINE

The Trustee

SECTION 901. Certain Duties and Responsibilities.

(a) The Trustee shall have and be subject to all the duties and responsibilities specified with respect to an indenture trustee in the Trust Indenture Act and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee. For purposes of Sections 315(a) and 315(c) of the Trust Indenture Act, the term "default" is hereby defined as an Event of Default which has occurred and is continuing.

(b) No provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability is not reasonably assured to it.

(c) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Indenture to the contrary, the duties and responsibilities of the Trustee under this Indenture shall be subject to the protections, exculpations and limitations on liability afforded to an indenture trustee under the provisions of the Trust Indenture Act. For the purposes of Sections 315(b)(2) and 315(d)(2) of the Trust Indenture Act, the term "responsible officer" is hereby defined as a Responsible Officer and the chairman or vice chairman of the board of directors, the chairman or vice chairman of the executive committee of the board of directors, the president, any vice president, any assistant vice president, the secretary, any assistant secretary, the treasurer any assistant treasurer, the cashier, any assistant cashier, any trust officer or assistant trust officer, the controller and any assistant controller of the Trustee, or any other officer of the Trustee customarily performing functions similar to those performed by a Responsible Officer or any of the above designated officers and also means, with respect to a particular corporate trust matter, any other officer to whom such matter is referred because of his or her knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject.

(d) Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section.

SECTION 902. Notice of Defaults.

The Trustee shall give notice of any default hereunder known to the Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series to the Holders of Securities of such series in the manner and to the extent required to do so by the Trust Indenture Act, unless such default shall have been cured or waived; provided, however, that in the case of any default of the character specified in
Section 801(c), no such notice to Holders shall be given until at least 45 days after the occurrence thereof. For the purpose of this Section and clause (h) of
Section 903, the term "default" means any event which is, or after notice or lapse of time, or both, would become, an Event of Default.

SECTION 903. Certain Rights of Trustee.

Subject to the provisions of Section 901 and to the applicable provisions of the Trust Indenture Act:

(a) the Trustee may rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting in good faith upon any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document reasonably believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties;

(b) any request or direction of the Company mentioned herein shall be sufficiently evidenced by a Company Request or Company Order, or as otherwise expressly provided herein, and any resolution of the Board of Directors may be sufficiently evidenced by a Board Resolution;

(c) whenever in the administration of this Indenture the Trustee shall deem it desirable that a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder, the Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the absence of bad faith on its part, rely upon an Officer's Certificate;

(d) the Trustee may consult with counsel and the advice of such counsel or any Opinion of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon;

(e) the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any Holder pursuant to this Indenture, unless such Holder shall have offered to the Trustee reasonable security or indemnity against the costs, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction;

(f) the Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document, but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit, and, if the Trustee shall determine to make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall (subject to applicable legal requirements) be entitled to examine, during normal business hours, the books, records and premises of the Company, personally or by agent or attorney;

(g) the Trustee may execute any of the trusts or powers hereunder or perform any duties hereunder either directly or by or through agents or attorneys, and the Trustee shall not be responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any agent or attorney appointed with due care by it hereunder;

(h) the Trustee shall not be charged with knowledge of any default or Event of Default, as the case may be, with respect to the Securities of any series for which it is acting as Trustee unless either (1) a Responsible Officer of the Trustee shall have actual knowledge that such default or Event of Default, as the case may be, exists and constitutes a default or Event of Default, as the case may be, under this Indenture or (2) written notice of such default or Event of Default, as the case may be, shall have been given in the manner provided in Section 105 hereof to the Trustee by the Company, any other obligor on such Securities or by any Holder of such Securities; and

(i) the rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee, including, without limitation, its right to be indemnified, are extended to, and shall be enforceable by, the Trustee in each of its capacities hereunder.

SECTION 904. Not Responsible for Recitals or Issuance of Securities.

The recitals contained herein and in the Securities (except the Trustee's certificates of authentication) shall be taken as the statements of the Company, and neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent assumes responsibility for their correctness. The Trustee makes no representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this Indenture or of the Securities. Neither the Trustee nor any Authenticating Agent shall be accountable for the use or application by the Company of Securities or the proceeds thereof.

SECTION 905. May Hold Securities.

Each of the Trustee, any Authenticating Agent, any Paying Agent, any Security Registrar or any other agent of the Company, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and, subject to Sections 908 and 913, may otherwise deal with the Company with the same rights it would have if it were not the Trustee, Authenticating Agent, Paying Agent, Security Registrar or such other agent.

SECTION 906. Money Held in Trust.

Money held by the Trustee in trust hereunder need not be segregated from other funds, except to the extent required by law. The Trustee shall be under no liability for interest on any money received by it hereunder except as expressly provided herein or otherwise agreed with, and for the sole benefit of, the Company.

SECTION 907. Compensation and Reimbursement.

The Company shall

(a) pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for all services rendered by it hereunder (which compensation shall not be limited by any provision of law in regard to the compensation of a trustee of an express trust);

(b) except as otherwise expressly provided herein, reimburse the Trustee upon its request for all reasonable expenses, disbursements and advances incurred or made by the Trustee in accordance with any provision of this Indenture (including the reasonable compensation and the expenses and disbursements of its agents and counsel), except to the extent that any such expense, disbursement or advance may be attributable to the Trustee's negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith; and

(c) indemnify the Trustee for, and hold it harmless from and against, any loss, liability or expense incurred by it arising out of or in connection with the acceptance or administration of the trust or trusts hereunder or the performance of its duties hereunder, including the costs and expenses of defending itself against any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties hereunder, except to the extent any such loss, liability or expense may be attributable to its negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith.

As security for the performance of the obligations of the Company under this Section, the Trustee shall have a lien prior to the Securities upon all property and funds held or collected by the Trustee as such other than property and funds held in trust under Section 703 (except as otherwise provided in Section 703). "Trustee" for purposes of this Section shall include any predecessor Trustee; provided, however, that the negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of any Trustee hereunder shall not affect the rights of any other Trustee hereunder.

When the Trustee incurs expenses or renders services in connection with an Event of Default specified in Section 801(d) or Section
801(e), the expenses (including the reasonable charges and expenses of its counsel) and the compensation for the services are intended to constitute expenses of administration under any applicable Federal or State bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law.

The provisions of this Section 907 shall survive the termination of this Indenture.

SECTION 908. Disqualification; Conflicting Interests.

If the Trustee shall have or acquire any conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act, it shall either eliminate such conflicting interest or resign to the extent, in the manner and with the effect, and subject to the conditions, provided in the Trust Indenture Act and this Indenture. For purposes of Section 310(b)(1) of the Trust Indenture Act and to the extent permitted thereby, the Trustee, in its capacity as trustee in respect of the Securities of any series, shall not be deemed to have a conflicting interest arising from its capacity as trustee in respect of the Securities of any other series or any securities of any series issued under the 1974 Indenture.

SECTION 909. Corporate Trustee Required; Eligibility.

There shall at all times be a Trustee hereunder which shall be

(a) a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the United States, any State or Territory thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust powers, having a combined capital and surplus of at least $50,000,000 and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority, or

(b) if and to the extent permitted by the Commission by rule, regulation or order upon application, a corporation or other Person organized and doing business under the laws of a foreign government, authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust powers, having a combined capital and surplus of at least $50,000,000 or the Dollar equivalent of the applicable foreign currency and subject to supervision or examination by authority of such foreign government or a political subdivision thereof substantially equivalent to supervision or examination applicable to United States institutional trustees,

and, in either case, qualified and eligible under this Article and the Trust Indenture Act. If such corporation publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of such supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined capital and surplus of such corporation shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time the Trustee shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, it shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect hereinafter specified in this Article.

SECTION 910. Resignation and Removal; Appointment of Successor.

(a) No resignation or removal of the Trustee and no appointment of a successor Trustee pursuant to this Article shall become effective until the acceptance of appointment by the successor Trustee in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 911.

(b) The Trustee may resign at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by giving written notice thereof to the Company. If the instrument of acceptance by a successor Trustee required by Section 911 shall not have been delivered to the Trustee within 30 days after the giving of such notice of resignation, the resigning Trustee may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.

(c) The Trustee may be removed at any time with respect to the Securities of any series by Act of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the Trustee and to the Company.

(d) If at any time:

(1) the Trustee shall fail to comply with Section 908 after written request therefor by the Company or by any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder for at least six months, or

(2) the Trustee shall cease to be eligible under Section 909 and shall fail to resign after written request therefor by the Company or by any such Holder, or

(3) the Trustee shall become incapable of acting or shall be adjudged a bankrupt or insolvent or a receiver of the Trustee or of its property shall be appointed or any public officer shall take charge or control of the Trustee or of its property or affairs for the purpose of rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation,

then, in any such case, (x) the Company by a Board Resolution may remove the Trustee with respect to all Securities or (y) subject to Section 814, any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder for at least six months may, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee with respect to all Securities and the appointment of a successor Trustee or Trustees.

(e) If the Trustee shall resign, be removed or become incapable of acting, or if a vacancy shall occur in the office of Trustee for any cause (other than as contemplated in clause (y) in Subsection (d) of this Section), with respect to the Securities of one or more series, the Company, by a Board Resolution, shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and that (subject to Section 914) at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any particular series) and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 911. If, within one year after such resignation, removal or incapability, or the occurrence of such vacancy, a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall be appointed by Act of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series delivered to the Company and the retiring Trustee, the successor Trustee so appointed shall, forthwith upon its acceptance of such appointment in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 911, become the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and to that extent supersede the successor Trustee appointed by the Company. If no successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series shall have been so appointed by the Company or the Holders and accepted appointment in the manner required by Section 911, any Holder who has been a bona fide Holder of a Security of such series for at least six months may, on behalf of itself and all others similarly situated, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.

(f) So long as no event which is, or after notice or lapse of time, or both, would become, an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, and except with respect to a Trustee appointed by Act of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities pursuant to Subsection (e) of this Section, if the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee (i) a Board Resolution appointing a successor Trustee, effective as of a date specified therein, and (ii) an instrument of acceptance of such appointment, effective as of such date, by such successor Trustee in accordance with Section 911, the Trustee shall be deemed to have resigned as contemplated in Subsection (b) of this Section, the successor Trustee shall be deemed to have been appointed by the Company pursuant to Subsection (e) of this
Section and such appointment shall be deemed to have been accepted as contemplated in Section 911, all as of such date, and all other provisions of this Section and Section 911 shall be applicable to such resignation, appointment and acceptance except to the extent inconsistent with this Subsection (f).

(g) The Company (or, should the Company fail so to act promptly, the successor trustee at the expense of the Company) shall give notice of each resignation and each removal of the Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series and each appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series by mailing written notice of such event by first-class mail, postage prepaid, to all Holders of Securities of such series as their names and addresses appear in the Security Register. Each notice shall include the name of the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series and the address of its corporate trust office.

SECTION 911. Acceptance of Appointment by Successor.

(a) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of all series, every such successor Trustee so appointed shall execute, acknowledge and deliver to the Company and to the retiring Trustee an instrument accepting such appointment, and thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective and such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee; but, on the request of the Company or the successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall, upon payment of all sums owed to it, execute and deliver an instrument transferring to such successor Trustee all the rights, powers and trusts of the retiring Trustee and shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder.

(b) In case of the appointment hereunder of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more (but not all) series, the Company, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series shall execute and deliver an indenture supplemental hereto wherein each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and which (1) shall contain such provisions as shall be necessary or desirable to transfer and confirm to, and to vest in, each successor Trustee all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates, (2) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all Securities, shall contain such provisions as shall be deemed necessary or desirable to confirm that all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested in the retiring Trustee and
(3) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one Trustee, it being understood that nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall constitute such Trustees co-trustees of the same trust and that each such Trustee shall be trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder administered by any other such Trustee; and upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent provided therein and each such successor Trustee, without any further act, deed and conveyance, shall become vested with all the rights, powers, trusts and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates; but, on request of the Company or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee, upon payment of all sums owed to it, shall duly assign, transfer and deliver to such successor Trustee all property and money held by such retiring Trustee hereunder with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.

(c) Upon request of any such successor Trustee, the Company shall execute any instruments which fully vest in and confirm to such successor Trustee all such rights, powers and trusts referred to in Subsection (a) or (b) of this Section, as the case may be.

(d) No successor Trustee shall accept its appointment unless at the time of such acceptance such successor Trustee shall be qualified and eligible under this Article.

SECTION 912. Merger, Conversion, Consolidation or Succession to Business.

Any Person into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the Trustee shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder, provided such Person shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Article, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto. In case any Securities shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication and deliver the Securities so authenticated with the same effect as if such successor Trustee had itself authenticated such Securities.

SECTION 913. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Company.

If the Trustee shall be or become a creditor of the Company or any other obligor upon the Securities (other than by reason of a relationship described in Section 311(b) of the Trust Indenture Act), the Trustee shall be subject to any and all applicable provisions of the Trust Indenture Act regarding the collection of claims against the Company or such other obligor. For purposes of Section 311(b) of the Trust Indenture Act:

(a) the term "cash transaction" means any transaction in which full payment for goods or securities sold is made within seven days after delivery of the goods or securities in currency or in checks or other orders drawn upon banks or bankers and payable upon demand;

(b) the term "self-liquidating paper" means any draft, bill of exchange, acceptance or obligation which is made, drawn, negotiated or incurred by the Company for the purpose of financing the purchase, processing, manufacturing, shipment, storage or sale of goods, wares or merchandise and which is secured by documents evidencing title to, possession of, or a lien upon, the goods, wares or merchandise or the receivables or proceeds arising from the sale of the goods, wares or merchandise previously constituting the security, provided the security is received by the Trustee simultaneously with the creation of the creditor relationship with the Company arising from the making, drawing, negotiating or incurring of the draft, bill of exchange, acceptance or obligation.

SECTION 914. Co-trustees and Separate Trustees.

At any time or times, for the purpose of meeting the legal requirements of any applicable jurisdiction, the Company and the Trustee shall have power to appoint, and, upon the written request of the Trustee or of the Holders of at least 33% in principal amount of the Securities then Outstanding, the Company shall for such purpose join with the Trustee in the execution and delivery of all instruments and agreements necessary or proper to appoint, one or more Persons approved by the Trustee either to act as co-trustee, jointly with the Trustee, or to act as separate trustee, in either case with such powers as may be provided in the instrument of appointment, and to vest in such Person or Persons, in the capacity aforesaid, any property, title, right or power deemed necessary or desirable, subject to the other provisions of this Section. If the Company does not join in such appointment within 15 days after the receipt by it of a request so to do, or if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Trustee alone shall have power to make such appointment.

Should any written instrument or instruments from the Company be required by any co-trustee or separate trustee so appointed to more fully confirm to such co-trustee or separate trustee such property, title, right or power, any and all such instruments shall, on request, be executed, acknowledged and delivered by the Company.

Every co-trustee or separate trustee shall, to the extent permitted by law, but to such extent only, be appointed subject to the following conditions:

(a) the Securities shall be authenticated and delivered, and all rights, powers, duties and obligations hereunder in respect of the custody of securities, cash and other personal property held by, or required to be deposited or pledged with, the Trustee hereunder, shall be exercised solely, by the Trustee;

(b) the rights, powers, duties and obligations hereby conferred or imposed upon the Trustee in respect of any property covered by such appointment shall be conferred or imposed upon and exercised or performed either by the Trustee or by the Trustee and such co-trustee or separate trustee jointly, as shall be provided in the instrument appointing such co-trustee or separate trustee, except to the extent that under any law of any jurisdiction in which any particular act is to be performed, the Trustee shall be incompetent or unqualified to perform such act, in which event such rights, powers, duties and obligations shall be exercised and performed by such co-trustee or separate trustee;

(c) the Trustee at any time, by an instrument in writing executed by it, with the concurrence of the Company, may accept the resignation of or remove any co-trustee or separate trustee appointed under this Section, and, if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Trustee shall have power to accept the resignation of, or remove, any such co-trustee or separate trustee without the concurrence of the Company. Upon the written request of the Trustee, the Company shall join with the Trustee in the execution and delivery of all instruments and agreements necessary or proper to effectuate such resignation or removal. A successor to any co-trustee or separate trustee so resigned or removed may be appointed in the manner provided in this Section;

(d) no co-trustee or separate trustee hereunder shall be personally liable by reason of any act or omission of the Trustee, or any other such trustee hereunder; and

(e) any Act of Holders delivered to the Trustee shall be deemed to have been delivered to each such co-trustee and separate trustee.

SECTION 915. Appointment of Authenticating Agent.

The Trustee may appoint an Authenticating Agent or Agents with respect to the Securities of one or more series, or Tranche thereof, which shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Trustee to authenticate Securities of such series or Tranche issued upon original issuance and upon exchange, registration of transfer or partial redemption thereof or pursuant to Section 306, and Securities so authenticated shall be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture and shall be valid and obligatory for all purposes as if authenticated by the Trustee hereunder. Wherever reference is made in this Indenture to the authentication and delivery of Securities by the Trustee or the Trustee's certificate of authentication, such reference shall be deemed to include authentication and delivery on behalf of the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent and a certificate of authentication executed on behalf of the Trustee by an Authenticating Agent. Each Authenticating Agent shall be acceptable to the Company and shall at all times be a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the United States, any State or territory thereof or the District of Columbia, authorized under such laws to act as Authenticating Agent, having a combined capital and surplus of not less than $50,000,000 and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. If such Authenticating Agent publishes reports of condition at least annually, pursuant to law or to the requirements of said supervising or examining authority, then for the purposes of this Section, the combined capital and surplus of such Authenticating Agent shall be deemed to be its combined capital and surplus as set forth in its most recent report of condition so published. If at any time an Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, such Authenticating Agent shall resign immediately in the manner and with the effect specified in this Section.

Any corporation into which an Authenticating Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which such Authenticating Agent shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to all or substantially all of the corporate agency or corporate trust business of an Authenticating Agent, shall continue to be an Authenticating Agent, provided such corporation shall be otherwise eligible under this Section, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of the Trustee or the Authenticating Agent.

An Authenticating Agent may resign at any time by giving written notice thereof to the Trustee and to the Company. The Trustee may at any time terminate the agency of an Authenticating Agent by giving written notice thereof to such Authenticating Agent and to the Company. Upon receiving such a notice of resignation or upon such a termination, or in case at any time such Authenticating Agent shall cease to be eligible in accordance with the provisions of this Section, the Trustee may appoint a successor Authenticating Agent which shall be acceptable to the Company. Any successor Authenticating Agent upon acceptance of its appointment hereunder shall become vested with all the rights, powers and duties of its predecessor hereunder, with like effect as if originally named as an Authenticating Agent. No successor Authenticating Agent shall be appointed unless eligible under the provisions of this Section.

The Company agrees to pay to each Authenticating Agent from time to time reasonable compensation for its services under this Section.

The provisions of Sections 308, 904 and 905 shall be applicable to each Authenticating Agent.

If an appointment with respect to the Securities of one or more series, or any Tranche thereof, shall be made pursuant to this Section, the Securities of such series or Tranche may have endorsed thereon, in addition to the Trustee's certificate of authentication, an alternate certificate of authentication substantially in the following form:


This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.

Dated:

As Trustee

By______________________
As Authenticating
Agent

By______________________
Authorized Signatory

If all of the Securities of a series may not be originally issued at one time, and if the Trustee does not have an office capable of authenticating Securities upon original issuance located in a Place of Payment where the Company wishes to have Securities of such series authenticated upon original issuance, the Trustee, if so requested by the Company in writing (which writing need not comply with Section 102 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel), shall appoint, in accordance with this Section and in accordance with such procedures as shall be acceptable to the Trustee, an Authenticating Agent having an office in a Place of Payment designated by the Company with respect to such series of Securities.

ARTICLE TEN

Holders' Lists and Reports by Trustee and Company

SECTION 1001. Lists of Holders.

Semiannually, not later than July 1 and January 1 in each year, commencing January 1, 2000, and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, the Company shall furnish or cause to be furnished to the Trustee information as to the names and addresses of the Holders, and the Trustee shall preserve such information and similar information received by it in any other capacity and afford to the Holders access to information so preserved by it, all to such extent, if any, and in such manner as shall be required by the Trust Indenture Act; provided, however, that no such list need be furnished so long as the Trustee shall be the Security Registrar.

SECTION 1002. Reports by Trustee and Company.

Not later than July 15 in each year, commencing July 15, 2000, the Trustee shall transmit to the Holders, the Commission and each securities exchange upon which any Securities are listed, a report, dated as of the next preceding May 15, with respect to any events and other matters described in
Section 313(a) of the Trust Indenture Act, in such manner and to the extent required by the Trust Indenture Act. The Trustee shall transmit to the Holders, the Commission and each securities exchange upon which any Securities are listed, and the Company shall file with the Trustee (within 30 days after filing with the Commission in the case of reports which pursuant to the Trust Indenture Act must be filed with the Commission and furnished to the Trustee) and transmit to the Holders, such other information, reports and other documents, if any, at such times and in such manner, as shall be required by the Trust Indenture Act. The Company shall notify the Trustee of the listing of any Securities on any securities exchange or of the delisting thereof.

ARTICLE ELEVEN

Consolidation, Merger, Conveyance or Other Transfer

SECTION 1101. Company May Consolidate, etc., Only on Certain Terms.

The Company shall not consolidate with or merge into any other Person, or convey or otherwise transfer or lease its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any Person, unless

(a) the Person formed by such consolidation or into which the Company is merged or the Person which acquires by conveyance or transfer, or which leases, the properties and assets of the Company substantially as an entirety shall be a Person organized and validly existing under the laws of the United States, any State thereof or the District of Columbia, and shall expressly assume, by an indenture supplemental hereto, executed and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, the due and punctual payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on all Outstanding Securities and the performance of every covenant of this Indenture on the part of the Company to be performed or observed;

(b) immediately after giving effect to such transaction no Event of Default, and no event which, after notice or lapse of time or both, would become an Event of Default, shall have occurred and be continuing; and

(c) the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officer's Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger, conveyance, or other transfer or lease and such supplemental indenture comply with this Article and that all conditions precedent herein provided for relating to such transactions have been complied with.

SECTION 1102. Successor Person Substituted.

Upon any consolidation by the Company with or merger by the Company into any other Person or any conveyance, or other transfer or lease of the properties and assets of the Company substantially as an entirety in accordance with Section 1101, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or into which the Company is merged or the Person to which such conveyance, transfer or lease is made shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Company under this Indenture with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named as the Company herein, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of all obligations and covenants under this Indenture and the Securities Outstanding hereunder.

ARTICLE TWELVE

Supplemental Indentures

SECTION 1201. Supplemental Indentures Without Consent of Holders.

Without the consent of any Holders, the Company and the Trustee, at any time and from time to time, may enter into one or more indentures supplemental hereto, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, for any of the following purposes:

(a) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Company and the assumption by any such successor of the covenants of the Company herein and in the Securities, all as provided in Article Eleven; or

(b) to add one or more covenants of the Company or other provisions for the benefit of all Holders or for the benefit of the Holders of, or to remain in effect only so long as there shall be Outstanding, Securities of one or more specified series, or one or more specified Tranches thereof, or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Company; or

(c) to add any additional Events of Default with respect to all or any series of Securities Outstanding hereunder; or

(d) to change or eliminate any provision of this Indenture or to add any new provision to this Indenture; provided, however, that if such change, elimination or addition shall adversely affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of any series or Tranche Outstanding on the date of such indenture supplemental hereto in any material respect, such change, elimination or addition shall become effective with respect to such series or Tranche only pursuant to the provisions of Section 1202 hereof or when no Security of such series or Tranche remains Outstanding; or

(e) to provide collateral security for all but not part of the Securities; or

(f) to establish the form or terms of Securities of any series or Tranche as contemplated by Sections 201 and 301; or

(g) to provide for the authentication and delivery of bearer securities and coupons appertaining thereto representing interest, if any, thereon and for the procedures for the registration, exchange and replacement thereof and for the giving of notice to, and the solicitation of the vote or consent of, the holders thereof, and for any and all other matters incidental thereto; or

(h) to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment hereunder by a separate or successor Trustee or co-trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more series and to add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one Trustee, pursuant to the requirements of Section 911(b); or

(i) to provide for the procedures required to permit the Company to utilize, at its option, a noncertificated system of registration for all, or any series or Tranche of, the Securities; or

(j) to change any place or places where (1) the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, on all or any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, shall be payable, (2) all or any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, may be surrendered for registration of transfer, (3) all or any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, may be surrendered for exchange and (4) notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of all or any series of Securities, or any Tranche thereof, and this Indenture may be served; or

(k) to cure any ambiguity, to correct or supplement any provision herein which may be defective or inconsistent with any other provision herein, or to make any other changes to the provisions hereof or to add other provisions with respect to matters or questions arising under this Indenture, provided that such other changes or additions shall not adversely affect the interests of the Holders of Securities of any series or Tranche in any material respect.

Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, if the Trust Indenture Act as in effect at the date of the execution and delivery of this Indenture or at any time thereafter shall be amended and

(x) if any such amendment shall require one or more changes to any provisions hereof or the inclusion herein of any additional provisions, or shall by operation of law be deemed to effect such changes or incorporate such provisions by reference or otherwise, this Indenture shall be deemed to have been amended so as to conform to such amendment to the Trust Indenture Act, and the Company and the Trustee may, without the consent of any Holders, enter into an indenture supplemental hereto to effect or evidence such changes or additional provisions; or

(y) if any such amendment shall permit one or more changes to, or the elimination of, any provisions hereof which, at the date of the execution and delivery hereof or at any time thereafter, are required by the Trust Indenture Act to be contained herein, this Indenture shall be deemed to have been amended to effect such changes or elimination, and the Company and the Trustee may, without the consent of any Holders, enter into an indenture supplemental hereto to evidence such amendment hereof.

SECTION 1202. Supplemental Indentures With Consent of Holders.

With the consent of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Securities of all series then Outstanding under this Indenture, considered as one class, by Act of said Holders delivered to the Company and the Trustee, the Company, when authorized by a Board Resolution, and the Trustee may enter into an indenture or indentures supplemental hereto for the purpose of adding any provisions to, or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions of, this Indenture or modifying in any manner the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series under the Indenture; provided, however, that if there shall be Securities of more than one series Outstanding hereunder and if a proposed supplemental indenture shall directly affect the rights of the Holders of Securities of one or more, but less than all, of such series, then the consent only of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series so directly affected, considered as one class, shall be required; and provided, further, that if the Securities of any series shall have been issued in more than one Tranche and if the proposed supplemental indenture shall directly affect the rights of the Holders of Securities of one or more, but less than all, of such Tranches, then the consent only of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all Tranches so directly affected, considered as one class, shall be required; and provided, further, that no such supplemental indenture shall:

(a) change the Stated Maturity of the principal of, or any installment of principal of or interest on, any Security, or reduce the principal amount thereof or the rate of interest thereon (or the amount of any installment of interest thereon) or change the method of calculating such rate or reduce any premium payable upon the redemption thereof, or reduce the amount of the principal of a Discount Security that would be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 802, or change the coin or currency (or other property) in which any Security or any premium or the interest thereon is payable, or impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after the Stated Maturity of any Security (or, in the case of redemption, on or after the Redemption Date), without, in any such case, the consent of the Holder of such Security, or

(b) reduce the percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, the consent of the Holders of which is required for any such supplemental indenture, or the consent of the Holders of which is required for any waiver of compliance with any provision of this Indenture or of any default hereunder and its consequences, or reduce the requirements of Section 1304 for quorum or voting, without, in any such case, the consent of the Holders of each Outstanding Security of such series or Tranche, or

(c) modify any of the provisions of this Section, Section 607 or Section 813 with respect to the Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, except to increase the percentages in principal amount referred to in this Section or such other Sections or to provide that other provisions of this Indenture cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each Outstanding Security affected thereby; provided, however, that this clause shall not be deemed to require the consent of any Holder with respect to changes in the references to "the Trustee" and concomitant changes in this Section, or the deletion of this proviso, in accordance with the requirements of Sections 911(b), 914 and 1201(h).

A supplemental indenture which changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities, or one or more Tranches thereof, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series or Tranche.

It shall not be necessary for any Act of Holders under this
Section to approve the particular form of any proposed supplemental indenture, but it shall be sufficient if such Act shall approve the substance thereof. A waiver by a Holder of such Holder's right to consent under this Section shall be deemed to be a consent of such Holder.

SECTION 1203. Execution of Supplemental Indentures.

In executing, or accepting the additional trusts created by, any supplemental indenture permitted by this Article or the modifications thereby of the trusts created by this Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive, and (subject to Section 901) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of such supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture. The Trustee may, but shall not be obligated to, enter into any such supplemental indenture which affects the Trustee's own rights, duties, immunities or liabilities under this Indenture or otherwise.

SECTION 1204. Effect of Supplemental Indentures.

Upon the execution of any supplemental indenture under this Article, this Indenture shall be modified in accordance therewith, and such supplemental indenture shall form a part of this Indenture for all purposes; and every Holder of Securities theretofore or thereafter authenticated and delivered hereunder shall be bound thereby. Any supplemental indenture permitted by this Article may restate this Indenture in its entirety, and, upon the execution and delivery thereof, any such restatement shall supersede this Indenture as theretofore in effect for all purposes.

SECTION 1205. Conformity With Trust Indenture Act.

Every supplemental indenture executed pursuant to this Article shall conform to the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act as then in effect.

SECTION 1206. Reference in Securities to Supplemental Indentures.

Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, authenticated and delivered after the execution of any supplemental indenture pursuant to this Article may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such supplemental indenture. If the Company shall so determine, new Securities of any series, or any Tranche thereof, so modified as to conform, in the opinion of the Trustee and the Company, to any such supplemental indenture may be prepared and executed by the Company and authenticated and delivered by the Trustee in exchange for Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranche.

SECTION 1207. Modification Without Supplemental Indenture.

If the terms of any particular series of Securities shall have been established in a Board Resolution or an Officer's Certificate as contemplated by Section 301, and not in an indenture supplemental hereto, additions to, changes in or the elimination of any of such terms may be effected by means of a supplemental Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate, as the case may be, delivered to, and accepted by, the Trustee; provided, however, that such supplemental Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate shall not be accepted by the Trustee or otherwise be effective unless all conditions set forth in this Indenture which would be required to be satisfied if such additions, changes or elimination were contained in a supplemental indenture shall have been appropriately satisfied. Upon the acceptance thereof by the Trustee, any such supplemental Board Resolution or Officer's Certificate shall be deemed to be a "supplemental indenture" for purposes of Section 1204 and 1206.

ARTICLE THIRTEEN

Meetings of Holders; Action Without Meeting

SECTION 1301. Purposes for Which Meetings May Be Called.

A meeting of Holders of Securities of one or more, or all, series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, may be called at any time and from time to time pursuant to this Article to make, give or take any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided by this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders of Securities of such series or Tranches.

SECTION 1302. Call, Notice and Place of Meetings.

(a) The Trustee may at any time call a meeting of Holders of Securities of one or more, or all, series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, for any purpose specified in Section 1301, to be held at such time and (except as provided in subsection (b) of this Section) at such place in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, as the Trustee shall determine, or, with the approval of the Company, at any other place. Notice of every such meeting, setting forth the time and the place of such meeting and in general terms the action proposed to be taken at such meeting, shall be given, in the manner provided in Section 106, not less than 21 nor more than 180 days prior to the date fixed for the meeting.

(b) The Trustee may be asked to call a meeting of the Holders of Securities of one or more, or all, series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, by the Company or by the Holders of 33% in aggregate principal amount of all of such series and Tranches, considered as one class, for any purpose specified in Section 1301, by written request setting forth in reasonable detail the action proposed to be taken at the meeting. If the Trustee shall have been asked by the Company to call such a meeting, the Company shall determine the time and place for such meeting and may call such meeting by giving notice thereof in the manner provided in Subsection (a) of this Section, or shall direct the Trustee, in the name and at the expense of the Company, to give such notice. If the Trustee shall have been asked by Holders to call such a meeting in accordance with this Subsection (b), and the Trustee shall not have given the notice of such meeting within 21 days after receipt of such request or shall not thereafter proceed to cause the meeting to be held as provided herein, then the Holders of Securities of such series and Tranches, in the principal amount above specified, may determine the time and the place in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, or in such other place as shall be determined or approved by the Company, for such meeting and may call such meeting for such purposes by giving notice thereof as provided in Subsection (a) of this Section.

(c) Any meeting of Holders of Securities of one or more, or all, series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, shall be valid without notice if the Holders of all Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranches are present in person or by proxy and if representatives of the Company and the Trustee are present, or if notice is waived in writing before or after the meeting by the Holders of all Outstanding Securities of such series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, or by such of them as are not present at the meeting in person or by proxy, and by the Company and the Trustee.

SECTION 1303. Persons Entitled to Vote at Meetings.

To be entitled to vote at any meeting of Holders of Securities of one or more, or all, series, or any Tranche or Tranches thereof, a Person shall be (a) a Holder of one or more Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranches, or (b) a Person appointed by an instrument in writing as proxy for a Holder or Holders of one or more Outstanding Securities of such series or Tranches by such Holder or Holders. The only Persons who shall be entitled to attend any meeting of Holders of Securities of any series or Tranche shall be the Persons entitled to vote at such meeting and their counsel, any representatives of the Trustee and its counsel and any representatives of the Company and its counsel.

SECTION 1304. Quorum; Action.

The Persons entitled to vote a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of the series and Tranches with respect to which a meeting shall have been called as hereinbefore provided, considered as one class, shall constitute a quorum for a meeting of Holders of Securities of such series and Tranches; provided, however, that if any action is to be taken at such meeting which this Indenture expressly provides may be taken by the Holders of a specified percentage, which is less than a majority, in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series and Tranches, considered as one class, the Persons entitled to vote such specified percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series and Tranches, considered as one class, shall constitute a quorum. In the absence of a quorum within one hour of the time appointed for any such meeting, the meeting shall, if convened at the request of Holders of Securities of such series and Tranches, be dissolved. In any other case the meeting may be adjourned for such period as may be determined by the chairman of the meeting prior to the adjournment of such meeting. In the absence of a quorum at any such adjourned meeting, such adjourned meeting may be further adjourned for such period as may be determined by the chairman of the meeting prior to the adjournment of such adjourned meeting. Except as provided by Section 1305(e), notice of the reconvening of any meeting adjourned for more than 30 days shall be given as provided in Section 1302(a) not less than 10 days prior to the date on which the meeting is scheduled to be reconvened. Notice of the reconvening of an adjourned meeting shall state expressly the percentage, as provided above, of the principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series and Tranches which shall constitute a quorum.

Except as limited by Section 1202, any resolution presented to a meeting or adjourned meeting duly reconvened at which a quorum is present as aforesaid may be adopted only by the affirmative vote of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of the series and Tranches with respect to which such meeting shall have been called, considered as one class; provided, however, that, except as so limited, any resolution with respect to any action which this Indenture expressly provides may be taken by the Holders of a specified percentage, which is less than a majority, in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series and Tranches, considered as one class, may be adopted at a meeting or an adjourned meeting duly reconvened and at which a quorum is present as aforesaid by the affirmative vote of the Holders of such specified percentage in principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of such series and Tranches, considered as one class.

Any resolution passed or decision taken at any meeting of Holders of Securities duly held in accordance with this Section shall be binding on all the Holders of Securities of the series and Tranches with respect to which such meeting shall have been held, whether or not present or represented at the meeting.

SECTION 1305. Attendance at Meetings; Determination of Voting Rights; Conduct and Adjournment of Meetings.

(a) Attendance at meetings of Holders of Securities may be in person or by proxy; and, to the extent permitted by law, any such proxy shall remain in effect and be binding upon any future Holder of the Securities with respect to which it was given unless and until specifically revoked by the Holder or future Holder of such Securities before being voted.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Indenture, the Trustee may make such reasonable regulations as it may deem advisable for any meeting of Holders of Securities in regard to proof of the holding of such Securities and of the appointment of proxies and in regard to the appointment and duties of inspectors of votes, the submission and examination of proxies, certificates and other evidence of the right to vote, and such other matters concerning the conduct of the meeting as it shall deem appropriate. Except as otherwise permitted or required by any such regulations, the holding of Securities shall be proved in the manner specified in Section 104 and the appointment of any proxy shall be proved in the manner specified in Section 104. Such regulations may provide that written instruments appointing proxies, regular on their face, may be presumed valid and genuine without the proof specified in Section 104 or other proof.

(c) The Trustee shall, by an instrument in writing, appoint a temporary chairman of the meeting, unless the meeting shall have been called by the Company or by Holders as provided in Section 1302(b), in which case the Company or the Holders of Securities of the series and Tranches calling the meeting, as the case may be, shall in like manner appoint a temporary chairman. A permanent chairman and a permanent secretary of the meeting shall be elected by vote of the Persons entitled to vote a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series and Tranches represented at the meeting, considered as one class.

(d) At any meeting each Holder or proxy shall be entitled to one vote for each $1 principal amount of Outstanding Securities held or represented by such Holder; provided, however, that no vote shall be cast or counted at any meeting in respect of any Security challenged as not Outstanding and ruled by the chairman of the meeting to be not Outstanding. The chairman of the meeting shall have no right to vote, except as a Holder of a Security or proxy.

(e) Any meeting duly called pursuant to Section 1302 at which a quorum is present may be adjourned from time to time by Persons entitled to vote a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Outstanding Securities of all series and Tranches represented at the meeting, considered as one class; and the meeting may be held as so adjourned without further notice.

SECTION 1306. Counting Votes and Recording Action of Meetings.

The vote upon any resolution submitted to any meeting of Holders shall be by written ballots on which shall be subscribed the signatures of the Holders or of their representatives by proxy and the principal amounts and serial numbers of the Outstanding Securities, of the series and Tranches with respect to which the meeting shall have been called, held or represented by them. The permanent chairman of the meeting shall appoint two inspectors of votes who shall count all votes cast at the meeting for or against any resolution and who shall make and file with the secretary of the meeting their verified written reports of all votes cast at the meeting. A record of the proceedings of each meeting of Holders shall be prepared by the secretary of the meeting and there shall be attached to said record the original reports of the inspectors of votes on any vote by ballot taken thereat and affidavits by one or more persons having knowledge of the facts setting forth a copy of the notice of the meeting and showing that said notice was given as provided in Section 1302 and, if applicable, Section 1304. Each copy shall be signed and verified by the affidavits of the permanent chairman and secretary of the meeting and one such copy shall be delivered to the Company, and another to the Trustee to be preserved by the Trustee, the latter to have attached thereto the ballots voted at the meeting. Any record so signed and verified shall be conclusive evidence of the matters therein stated.

SECTION 1307. Action Without Meeting.

In lieu of a vote of Holders at a meeting as hereinbefore contemplated in this Article, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action may be made, given or taken by Holders by written instruments as provided in Section 104.

ARTICLE FOURTEEN

Immunity of Incorporators, Shareholders, Officers and Directors

SECTION 1401. Liability Solely Corporate.

No recourse shall be had for the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, or interest, if any, on any Securities, or any part thereof, or for any claim based thereon or otherwise in respect thereof, or of the indebtedness represented thereby, or upon any obligation, covenant or agreement under this Indenture, against any incorporator, shareholder, officer or director, as such, past, present or future of the Company or of any predecessor or successor corporation (either directly or through the Company or a predecessor or successor corporation), whether by virtue of any constitutional provision, statute or rule of law, or by the enforcement of any assessment or penalty or otherwise; it being expressly agreed and understood that this Indenture and all the Securities are solely corporate obligations, and that no personal liability whatsoever shall attach to, or be incurred by, any incorporator, shareholder, officer or director, past, present or future, of the Company or of any predecessor or successor corporation, either directly or indirectly through the Company or any predecessor or successor corporation, because of the indebtedness hereby authorized or under or by reason of any of the obligations, covenants or agreements contained in this Indenture or in any of the Securities or to be implied herefrom or therefrom, and that any such personal liability is hereby expressly waived and released as a condition of, and as part of the consideration for, the execution of this Indenture and the issuance of the Securities.


This instrument may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same instrument.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed, all as of the day and year first above written.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

By: /s/P.C. Ackerman
    ---------------------------
      P.C. Ackerman
      President

THE BANK OF NEW YORK, Trustee

By: /s/Van K. Brown
    ---------------------------
      Van K. Brown
      Assistant Vice President


National Fuel Gas Company

OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE

Establishing Medium-Term Notes

Joseph P. Pawlowski, the Treasurer of National Fuel Gas Company, a New Jersey corporation (the "Company"), pursuant to the authority granted in the Board Resolutions of the Company dated October 14, 1999, and Sections 102, 201 and 301 of the Indenture defined herein, does hereby certify to The Bank of New York (the "Trustee"), as Trustee under the Indenture of the Company (For Unsecured Debt Securities) dated as of October 1, 1999 (the "Indenture"), that:

1. The Securities of the first series to be issued under the Indenture shall be designated "Medium-Term Notes, Series E" (the "Medium-Term Notes of the First Series"). The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series are subject to a Periodic Offering. All capitalized terms used in this certificate which are not defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Indenture;

2. The aggregate principal amount of Medium-Term Notes of the First Series which may be authenticated and delivered under the Indenture is limited to $500,000,000, except as otherwise contemplated in Section 301(b) of the Indenture;

3. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall mature, and the principal thereof shall be due and payable together with all accrued and unpaid interest, on such date not less than nine months nor more than forty years from the date of issuance, as shall be specified in the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, a form of which is hereto attached as Exhibit A in the case of Medium-Term Notes of the First Series with a fixed interest rate ("Fixed Rate Notes"), and communicated by the Company to the Trustee by a written instruction pursuant to, and in substantially the form attached to, Company Order No. 1 of even date herewith (each, an "Instruction");

4. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall be issued in the denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof unless otherwise provided in an Instruction;

5. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall bear interest as shall be specified in the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, a form of which is hereto attached as Exhibit A in the case of Fixed Rate Notes, and as shall be communicated by the Company to the Trustee by an Instruction;

6. The principal of, premium, if any, and each installment of interest on the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall be payable at, and registration and registration of transfers and exchanges in respect of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series may be effected at, the office or agency of the Company in The City of New York; provided that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Company by check mailed to the address of the persons entitled thereto or, in certain circumstances described in the form of Medium-Term Notes of the First Series hereto attached as Exhibit A, by wire transfer to an account designated by the person entitled thereto. Notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series may be served at the office or agency of the Company in The City of New York. The Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee will initially be the agency of the Company for such payment, registration and registration of transfers and exchanges and service of notices and demands and the Company hereby appoints the Trustee as its agent for all such purposes; provided, however, that the Company reserves the right to change, by one or more Officer's Certificates, any such office or agency and such agent. The Trustee will initially be the Security Registrar and the Paying Agent for the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series;

7. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall be redeemable as shall be specified in the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, a form of which is hereto attached as Exhibit A in the case of Fixed-Rate Notes, and as shall be communicated by the Company to the Trustee by an Instruction;

8. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series shall be initially issued in global form registered in the name of Cede & Co. (as nominee for The Depository Trust Company, New York, New York). The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series in global form shall bear the depository legend in substantially the form set forth in Exhibit A hereto, containing certain restrictions on transfer;

9. No service charge will be made for the registration of transfer or exchange of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series; provided, however, that the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with the exchange or transfer;

10. If the Company shall make any deposit of money and/or Eligible Obligations with respect to any Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, or any portion of the principal amount thereof, as contemplated by
Section 701 of the Indenture, the Company shall not deliver an Officer's Certificate described in clause (z) in the first paragraph of said Section 701 unless the Company shall also deliver to the Trustee, together with such Officer's Certificate, either:

(A) an instrument wherein the Company, notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of its indebtedness in respect of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, shall assume the obligation (which shall be absolute and unconditional) to irrevocably deposit with the Trustee or Paying Agent such additional sums of money, if any, or additional Eligible Obligations (meeting the requirements of Section 701), if any, or any combination thereof, at such time or times, as shall be necessary, together with the money and/or Eligible Obligations theretofore so deposited, to pay when due the principal of and premium, if any, and interest, if any, due and to become due on such Medium-Term Notes of the First Series or portions thereof, all in accordance with and subject to the provisions of said Section 701; provided, however, that such instrument may state that the obligation of the Company to make additional deposits as aforesaid shall be subject to the delivery to the Company by the Trustee of a notice asserting the deficiency accompanied by an opinion of an independent public accountant of nationally recognized standing, selected by the Trustee, showing the calculation thereof; or

(B) an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that, as a result of (i)
the receipt by the Company from, or the publication by, the Internal Revenue Service of a ruling or (ii) a change in law occurring after the date of this certificate, the Holders of such Medium-Term Notes of the First Series, or portions of the principal amount thereof, will not recognize income, gain or loss for United States federal income tax purposes as a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the Company's indebtedness in respect thereof and will be subject to United States federal income tax on the same amounts, at the same times and in the same manner as if such satisfaction and discharge had not been effected;

11. The Medium-Term Notes of the First Series that are Fixed Rate Notes shall have such other terms and provisions as are provided in the form thereof set forth in Exhibit A hereto and as are specified, or incorporated by reference, in, and communicated by the Company to the Trustee by, an Instruction, and, in the case of Fixed Rate Notes, shall be issued in substantially such form;

12. The undersigned has read all of the covenants and conditions contained in the Indenture, and the definitions in the Indenture relating thereto, relating to the Company's issuance of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series and in respect of compliance with which this certificate is made;

13. The statements contained in this certificate are based upon the familiarity of the undersigned with the Indenture, the documents accompanying this certificate, and upon discussions by the undersigned with officers, employees and counsel of the Company familiar with the matters set forth herein;

14. In the opinion of the undersigned, he has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenants and conditions have been complied with; and

15. In the opinion of the undersigned, such conditions and covenants and conditions precedent, if any, provided for in the Indenture (including any covenants compliance with which constitutes a condition precedent), relating to the authentication and delivery of the Medium-Term Notes of the First Series requested in the accompanying Company Order No. 1 have been complied with.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Officer's Certificate this 14th day of October, 1999.

/s/ J. P. Pawlowski
-------------------
Treasurer


EXHIBIT A

FORM OF FIXED-RATE NOTE

[depository legend]

[Unless this Certificate is presented by an authorized representative of The Depository Trust Company, a New York corporation ("DTC"), to the Company or its agent for registration of transfer, exchange, or payment, and any certificate issued is registered in the name of Cede & Co. or in such other name as is requested by an authorized representative of DTC (and any payment is made to Cede & Co. or to such other entity as is requested by an authorized representative of DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE, OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL inasmuch as the registered owner hereof, Cede & Co., has an interest herein.]

[FORM OF FACE OF MEDIUM-TERM NOTE]

                            NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

                           MEDIUM-TERM NOTE, SERIES E

NO.

ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE:               PRINCIPAL AMOUNT:                    CUSIP:

ORIGINAL INTEREST                   INTEREST RATE:              MATURITY DATE:
   ACCRUAL DATE:

INTEREST PAYMENT DATES:

REDEEMABLE AT OPTION OF THE COMPANY: YES ___ NO ___

[Redemption provisions will be inserted here].

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY, a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of New Jersey (herein referred to as the "Company", which term includes any successor Person under the Indenture referred to on the reverse hereof), for value received, hereby promises to pay to

or registered assigns, the principal sum of ____________________ Dollars on the Maturity Date specified above, and to pay interest thereon at the Interest Rate specified above, semi-annually on the Interest Payment Dates specified above of each year and on the Maturity Date specified above, from the Original Interest Accrual Date specified above or from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid, unless the Company shall default in the payment of interest due on such Interest Payment Date, in which case interest shall be payable from the next preceding Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid, or, if no interest has been paid on this Security, from the Original Interest Accrual Date. In the event that any Interest Payment Date is not a Business Day, then payment of interest payable on such date will be made on the next succeeding day which is a Business Day (and without any interest or other payment in respect of such delay) with the same force and effect as if made on such Interest Payment Date. The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date will, as provided in the Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest, which shall be the 15th day of the calendar month (whether or not a Business Day) next preceding such Interest Payment Date; provided, that if the Original Issue Date of this Security is after a Regular Record Date and before the corresponding Interest Payment Date, interest so payable for the period from and including the Original Issue Date to but excluding such Interest Payment Date shall be paid on the next succeeding Interest Payment Date to the Holder hereof on the related Regular Record Date; and provided, further, that interest payable at Maturity shall be paid to the Person to whom principal shall be paid. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for will forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and may either be paid to the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on a Special Record Date for the payment of such Defaulted Interest to be fixed by the Trustee, notice of which shall be given to Holders of Securities of this series not less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date, or be paid at any time in any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on which the Securities of this series may be listed, and upon such notice as may be required by such exchange, all as more fully provided in the Indenture.

Payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on this Security will be made at the office or agency of the Company maintained for that purpose in The City of New York, the State of New York in such coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts; provided, however, that (a) at the option of the Company, interest on this Security may be paid by check mailed to the address of the person entitled thereto, as such address shall appear on the Security Register or by wire transfer to an account designated by the person entitled thereto, and (b) upon the written request of a Holder of not less than $10 million in aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series delivered to the Company and the Paying Agent at least ten days prior to any Interest Payment Date, payment of interest on such Securities to such Holder on such Interest Payment Date shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account maintained within the continental United States specified by such Holder or, if such Holder maintains an account with the entity acting as Paying Agent, by deposit into such account.

Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at this place.

Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to on the reverse hereof by manual signature, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this instrument to be duly executed.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

By:_______________________________________

[FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION]

CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.

Dated:

THE BANK OF NEW YORK, as Trustee

By:_______________________________________
Authorized Signatory


[FORM OF REVERSE OF MEDIUM-TERM NOTE]

This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Company (herein called the "Securities"), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture (For Unsecured Debt Securities), dated as of October 1, 1999 (herein, together with any amendments or supplements thereto, called the "Indenture", which term shall have the meaning assigned to it in such instrument), between the Company and The Bank of New York, as Trustee (herein called the "Trustee", which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), and reference is hereby made to the Indenture, including the Board Resolutions and Officer's Certificate filed with the Trustee on October 14, 1999 creating the series designated on the face hereof, for a statement of the respective rights, limitations of rights, duties and immunities thereunder of the Company, the Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are to be, authenticated and delivered. This Security is one of the series designated on the face hereof. The acceptance of this Security shall be deemed to constitute the consent and agreement by the Holder hereof to all terms and provisions of the Indenture.

The Indenture contains provisions for defeasance at any time of the entire indebtedness of the Company in respect of this Security, or any portion of the principal amount thereof, upon compliance with certain conditions set forth in the Indenture, including the Officer's Certificate described above.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect provided in the Indenture.

The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and the modification of the rights and obligations of the Company and the rights of the Holders of the Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Company and the Trustee with the consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities at the time Outstanding of all series to be affected. The Indenture also contains provisions permitting the Holders of specified percentages in principal amount of the Securities of each series at the time Outstanding, on behalf of the Holders of all Securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Company with certain provisions of the Indenture and certain past defaults under the Indenture and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon this Security.

As provided in and subject to the provisions of the Indenture, the Holder of this Security shall not have the right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for the appointment of a receiver or trustee or for any other remedy thereunder, unless (a) such Holder shall have previously given the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to the Securities of this series, (b) the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Securities of all series at the time Outstanding in respect of which an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing shall have made written request to the Trustee to institute proceedings in respect of such Event of Default in its own name as Trustee, (c) such Holder shall have offered the Trustee reasonable indemnity, (d) the Trustee shall have failed to institute any such proceeding for 60 days after receipt of such notice, request and offer of indemnity, and (e) the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of Securities of all series at the time Outstanding in respect of which an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing a direction inconsistent with such request. The foregoing shall not apply to any suit instituted by the Holder of this Security for the enforcement of any payment of principal hereof or any premium or interest hereon on or after the respective due dates expressed herein.

No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture shall alter or impair the obligation of the Company, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and any premium and interest on this Security at the times, place and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed.

The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without coupons in denominations of $____. As provided in the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, Securities of this series are transferable to a transferee or transferees, as designated by the Holder surrendering the same for such registration of transfer, and exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series and of like tenor and of authorized denominations, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.

No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge payable in connection therewith.

The Company, the Trustee and any agent of the Company or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this Security is registered as the absolute owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security be overdue, and neither the Company, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.


TENTH AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Agreement, entered into and made effective as of September 1, 1999, by and between NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY, a New Jersey corporation ("Employer") having its headquarters at 10 Lafayette Square, Buffalo, New York, 14203, and BERNARD J. KENNEDY ("Employee"), an individual residing at 33 Ruskin Road, Amherst, New York, 14226, is an amendment to that certain Employment Agreement between Employer and Employee entered into the 17th day of September 1981 (the "Employment Agreement"), as extended by amendment on September 20, 1984, September 18, 1985, September 16, 1986, September 11, 1987, September 12, 1988, September 19, 1989, September 20, 1990, September 20, 1991 and September 19, 1996. The last amendment extended the term of Employment Agreement to September 1, 1999.

WHEREAS, the parties desire to amend the Employment Agreement to further extend its term and to update certain other provisions as provided herein;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration thereof and of the mutual covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

1. The Employment Agreement is extended from September 1, 1999 to September 1, 2002.

2. The duties of Employee are those of the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Employee shall also serve in such directorships and other capacities of affiliated corporations of the Employer to which he may be duly elected.

3. Employee's monthly salary shall be $70,679.16 payable by Employer and it affiliates corporations in accordance with their regular payroll procedures. This amount may be increased and/or reallocated among the Employer and it affiliates from time to time in the discretion of Employer's Board of Directors, but in no event shall the total amount be reduced from its then current level.

4. While employed by Employer (both during the term of this agreement and thereafter), Employee shall be allowed to participate, on the same basis generally as other executive officers of Employer, in all general employee benefit plans and programs and in all benefit plans available to executive officers, including improvements or modifications of the same, which on the effective date or thereafter are made available by Employer to all or substantially all of Employer's executive officers. Such benefits, plans, and programs may include, without limitation, medical, health, and dental care, life insurance, disability protection, and pension plans.

5. Without limiting the foregoing paragraph, Employee shall participate in the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program ("AARCIP"). Any incentive paid shall be in accordance with the terms and provisions of the AARCIP, as amended from time to time. Employer and Employee agree to negotiate Employee's incentive opportunity for fiscal years 2000, 2001 and 2002, no later than December 30 of such fiscal year.

6. Employer consents to Employee's service on the Boards of Directors set out in Exhibit A, and such service shall not be deemed a violation of this Employment Agreement

The parties agree that all other terms, conditions and stipulations contained in the Employment Agreement, and any amendments thereto, shall remain in full force and effect and without any change or modification, except as provided herein.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

By:  /s/ George L. Mazanec
--------------------------
George L. Mazanec
Chairman
Compensation Committee


/s/ Bernard J. Kennedy
----------------------
Bernard J. Kennedy
Employee


EXHIBIT A

Name of Entity                                    Position Held
--------------                                    -------------

National Petroleum Council                        Member

Associated Electric & Gas                         Officer, Director and Chairman
 Insurance Services Limited

Interstate Natural Gas                            Director
 Association of America

American Precision Industries, Inc.               Director

Institute of Gas Technology                       Trustee

HSBC Bank USA                                     Director

HSBC Bank USA - Western Region Board              Director

Merchants Mutual Insurance                        Director
 Company

The Business Council of New York                  Director
 State, Inc.

Buffalo Niagara Partnership                       Director

Niagara University                                Trustee


National Fuel Gas Company 1997 Award and Option Plan

1. Purpose

The purpose of the Plan is to advance the interests of the Company and its stockholders, by providing a long-term incentive compensation program that will be an incentive to the Core Employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries whose contributions are important to the continued success of the Company and its Subsidiaries, and by enhancing their ability to attract and retain in their employ highly qualified persons for the successful conduct of their businesses.

2. Definitions

2.1 "Acceleration Date" means (i) in the event of a Change in Ownership, the date on which such change occurs, or (ii) with respect to a Participant who is eligible for treatment under paragraph 25 hereof on account of the termination of his employment following a Change in Control, the date on which such termination occurs.

2.2 "Award" means any form of stock option, stock appreciation right, Restricted Stock, performance unit, performance share or other incentive award granted by the Committee to a Participant under the Plan pursuant to such terms and conditions as the Committee may establish. An Award may be granted singly, in combination or in the alternative.

2.3 "Award Notice" means a written notice from the Company to a Participant that sets forth the terms and conditions of an Award in addition to those established by this Plan and by the Committee's exercise of its administrative powers.

2.4 "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.

2.5 "Cause" means (i) the willful and continued failure by a Core Employee to substantially perform his duties with his employer after written warnings specifically identifying the lack of substantial performance are delivered to him by his employer, or (ii) the willful engaging by a Core Employee in illegal conduct which is materially and demonstrably injurious to the Company or a Subsidiary.

2.6 "Change in Control" shall be deemed to have occurred at such time as (i) any "person" within the meaning of Section 14(d) of the Exchange Act, other than the Company, a Subsidiary, or any employee benefit plan or plans sponsored by the Company or any Subsidiary, is or has become the "beneficial owner," as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, directly or indirectly, of twenty percent (20%) or more of the combined voting power of the outstanding securities of the Company ordinarily having the right to vote at the election of directors, or (ii) approval by the stockholders of the Company of (a) any consolidation or merger of the Company in which the Company is not the continuing or surviving corporation or pursuant to which shares of stock of the Company would be converted into cash, securities or other property, other than a consolidation or merger of the Company in which the common stockholders of the Company immediately prior to the consolidation or merger have substantially the same proportionate ownership of common stock of the surviving corporation immediately after the consolidation or merger as immediately before, or (b) any consolidation or merger in which the Company is the continuing or surviving corporation but in which the common stockholders of the Company immediately prior to the consolidation or merger do not hold at least a majority of the outstanding common stock of the continuing or surviving corporation (except where such holders of Common Stock hold at least a majority of the common stock of the corporation which owns all of the Common Stock of the Company), or (c) any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all the assets of the Company, or
(iii) individuals who constitute the Board on January 1, 1997 (the "Incumbent Board") have ceased for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof, provided that any person becoming a director subsequent to January 1, 1997 whose election, or nomination for election by the Company's stockholders, was approved by a vote of at least three-quarters (3/4) of the directors comprising the Incumbent Board (either by specific vote or by approval of the proxy statement of the Company in which such person is named as nominee for director without objection to such nomination) shall be, for purposes of this Plan, considered as though such person were a member of the Incumbent Board.

2.7 "Change in Control Price" means, in respect of a Change in Control, the highest closing price per share paid for the purchase of Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange, another national stock exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System during the ninety (90) day period ending on the date the Change in Control occurs, and in respect of a Change in Ownership, the highest closing price per share paid for the purchase of Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange, another national stock exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System during the ninety (90) day period ending on the date the Change in Ownership occurs.

2.8 "Change in Ownership" means a change which results directly or indirectly in the Company's Common Stock ceasing to be actively traded on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System.

2.9 "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time.

2.10 "Committee" means the Compensation Committee of the Board, or such other committee designated by the Board, authorized to administer the Plan. The Committee shall consist of not less than two (2) members of the Board, each of whom shall be a Disinterested Board Member. A "Disinterested Board Member" means a member who (a) is not a current employee of the Company or a Subsidiary, (b) is not a former employee of the Company or a Subsidiary who receives compensation for prior services (other than benefits under a tax-qualified retirement plan) during the taxable year, (c) has not been an officer of the Company (d) does not receive remuneration from the Company or a Subsidiary, either directly or indirectly, in any capacity other than as a director and (e) does not possess an interest in any other transaction, and is not engaged in a business relationship, for which disclosure would be required pursuant to Item 404(a) or (b) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The term Disinterested Board Member shall be interpreted in such manner as shall be necessary to conform to the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code and Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act.

2.11 "Common Stock" means the common stock of the Company.

2.12 "Company" means National Fuel Gas Company.

2.13 "Core Employee" means an officer or other core management employee of the company or a Subsidiary as determined by the Committee. Every Key Management Employee is also a Core Employee.

2.14 "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time.

2.15 "Fair Market Value" of a share of Common Stock on any date means the average of the high and low sales prices of a share of Common Stock as reflected in the report of consolidated trading of New York Stock Exchange-listed securities for that date (or, if no such shares were publicly traded on that date, the next preceding date that such shares were so traded) published in The Wall Street Journal or in any other publication selected by the Committee; provided, however, that if shares of Common Stock shall not have been publicly traded for more than ten (10) days immediately preceding such date, then the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock shall be determined by the Committee in such manner as it may deem appropriate.

2.16 "Good Reason" means a good faith determination made by a Participant that there has been any (i) material change by the Company of the Participant's functions, duties or responsibilities which change could cause the Participant's position with the Company to become of less dignity, responsibility, importance, prestige or scope, including, without limitation, the assignment to the Participant of duties and responsibilities inconsistent with his positions, (ii) assignment or reassignment by the Company of the Participant without the Participant's consent, to another place of employment more than 30 miles from the Participant's current place of employment, or (iii) reduction in the Participant's total compensation or benefits or any component thereof, provided in each case that the Participant shall specify the event relied upon for such determination by written notice to the Board at any time within six months after the occurrence of such event.

2.17 "Key Management Employee" means a management employee of the Company or a Subsidiary (i) who has significant policymaking responsibilities, and (ii) whose current base salary at the time an Award is issued is among the highest two percent (2%) of the current base salaries of all the employees of the Company or any Subsidiary, all as determined by the Committee.

2.18 "Participant" means any individual to whom an Award has been granted by the Committee under this Plan.

2.19 "Plan" means the National Fuel Gas Company 1997 Award and Option Plan.

2.20 "Restricted Stock" means an Award granted pursuant to paragraph 10 hereof.

2.21 "Subsidiary" means a corporation or other business entity in which the Company directly or indirectly has an ownership interest of eighty percent (80%) or more.

2.22 "Unit" means a bookkeeping entry used by the Company to record and account for the grant of the following Awards until such time as the Award is paid, cancelled, forfeited or terminated, as the case may be: Units of Common Stock, performance units, and performance shares which are expressed in terms of Units of Common Stock.

3. Administration

The Plan shall be administered by the Committee. The Committee shall have the authority to: (a) interpret the Plan; (b) establish such rules and regulations as it deems necessary for the proper administration of the Plan; (c) select Key Management Employees and Core Employees to receive Awards under the Plan; (d) determine the form of an Award, whether a stock option, stock appreciation right, Restricted Stock, performance unit, performance share, or other incentive award established by the Committee in accordance with (h) below, the number of shares or Units subject to the Award, all the terms and conditions of an Award, including the time and conditions of exercise or vesting; (e) determine whether Awards would be granted singly, in combination or in the alternative; (f) grant waivers of Plan terms and conditions, provided that any such waiver granted to an executive officer of the Company shall not be inconsistent with Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules promulgated thereunder; (g) accelerate the vesting, exercise or payment of any Award or the performance period of an Award when any such action would be in the best interest of the Company; (h) establish such other types of Awards, besides those specifically enumerated in paragraph 2.2 hereof, which the Committee determines are consistent with the Plan's purposes; and (i) take any and all other action it deems advisable for the proper administration of the Plan. The Committee shall also have the authority to grant Awards in replacement of Awards previously granted under this Plan or any other executive compensation or stock option plan of the Company or a Subsidiary. All determinations of the Committee shall be made by a majority of its members, and its determinations shall be final, binding and conclusive. The Committee, in its discretion, may delegate its authority and duties under the Plan to the Chief Executive Officer or to other senior officers of the Company to the extent permitted by Section 16 of the Exchange Act and notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan or an Award Notice, under such conditions as the Committee may establish; provided, however, that only the Committee may select and grant Awards and render other decisions as to the timing, pricing and amount of Awards to Participants who are subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

4. Eligibility

Any Core Employee is eligible to become a Participant of the Plan who receives Stock Options only. A Key Management Employee is also eligible to become a Participant of the Plan who receives other awards under the Plan.

5. Shares Available

(a) The maximum number of shares of Common Stock, $1.00 par value, of the Company which shall be available for grant of Awards under the Plan (including incentive stock options) during its term shall not exceed 3,800,000; subject to adjustment as provided in paragraph 18. Awards covering no more than 300,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company may be granted to any Participant in any fiscal year subject to adjustment as provided in paragraph 18.

(b) Any shares of Common Stock related to Awards which terminate by expiration, forfeiture, cancellation or otherwise without the issuance of such shares, are settled in cash in lieu of Common Stock, or are exchanged with the Committee's permission for Awards not involving Common Stock, shall be available again for grant under the Plan, provided, however, that if dividends or dividend equivalents pursuant to paragraph 14, or other benefits of share ownership (not including the right to vote the shares) have been received by the Participant in respect of an Award prior to such termination, settlement or exchange, the shares which were the subject of the Award shall not again be available for grant under the Plan. Further, any shares of Common Stock which are used by a Participant for the full or partial payment to the Company of the purchase price of shares of Common Stock upon exercise of a stock option, or for any withholding taxes due as a result of such exercise, shall again be available for Awards under the Plan. Similarly, shares of Common Stock with respect to which an Alternative SAR has been exercised and paid in cash shall again be available for grant under the Plan. Shares to which independent or combination SARs relate shall not count against the 3,800,000 share limit set forth in this paragraph 5.

(c) The shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan may be authorized and unissued shares or treasury shares.

6. Term

The Plan shall become effective as of December 13, 1996 subject to its approval by the Company's stockholders at the 1997 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and subject to the approval of the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended. No Awards shall be exercisable or payable before these approvals of the Plan have been obtained and all Awards made prior to approval of the Plan by the Company's stockholders and approval of the Plan by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended, are contingent upon such approval. Awards shall not be granted pursuant to the Plan after December 12, 2006.

7. Participation

The Committee shall select Participants, determine the type of Awards to be made, and establish in the related Award Notices the applicable terms and conditions of the Awards in addition to those set forth in this Plan and the administrative rules issued by the Committee.

8. Stock Options

(a) Grants. Awards may be granted in the form of stock options. These stock options may be incentive stock options within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code or non-qualified stock options (i.e., stock options which are not incentive stock options), or a combination of both.

(b) Terms and Conditions of Options. Unless the Award Notice provides otherwise, an option shall be exercisable in whole or in part. The price at which Common Stock may be purchased upon exercise of a stock option shall be established by the Committee, but such price shall not be less than the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date of the stock option's grant. The Committee shall not have the authority to decrease such price after the date of the stock option's grant, except for adjustments appropriate to reflect a Common Stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock-split or other combination pursuant to Section 18(a). An Award Notice evidencing a stock option may, in the discretion of the Committee, provide that a Participant who pays the option price of a stock option by an exchange of shares of Common Stock previously owned by the Participant shall automatically be issued a new stock option to purchase additional shares of Common Stock equal to the number of shares of Common Stock so exchanged. Such new stock option shall have an option price equal to the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date such new stock option is issued and shall be subject to such other terms and conditions as the Committee deems appropriate. Unless the Award Notice provides otherwise, each incentive stock option shall first become exercisable on the first anniversary of its date of grant, and each non-qualified stock option shall first become exercisable on the first anniversary of its date of grant, or, if earlier (i) on the date of the Participant's death occurring after the date of grant, (ii) six months after the date of grant, if the Participant has voluntarily resigned on or after his 60th birthday, after the date of grant, and before such six months, or (iii) on the date of the Participant's voluntary resignation on or after his 60th birthday and at least six months after the date of grant. Unless the Award Notice provides otherwise, each non-qualified stock option shall expire on the day after the tenth anniversary of its date of grant, and incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options granted in combination may be exercised separately.

(c) Restrictions Relating to Incentive Stock Options. Stock options issued in the form of incentive stock options shall, in addition to being subject to all applicable terms and conditions established by the Committee, comply with
Section 422 of the Code. Accordingly, the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time the option was granted) of the Common Stock with respect to which incentive stock options are exercisable for the first time by a Participant during any calendar year (under this Plan or any other plan of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries) shall not exceed $100,000 (or such other limit as may be required by the Code). Unless the Award Notice provides a shorter period, each incentive stock option shall expire on the tenth anniversary of its date of grant. The number of shares of Common Stock that shall be available for incentive stock options granted under the Plan is 3,800,000.

(d) Exercise of Option. Upon exercise, the option price of a stock option may be paid in cash, shares of Common Stock, shares of Restricted Stock, a combination of the foregoing, or such other consideration as the Committee may deem appropriate. The Committee shall establish appropriate methods for accepting Common Stock, whether restricted or unrestricted, and may impose such conditions as it deems appropriate on the use of such Common Stock to exercise a stock option. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may establish procedures whereby a Participant to the extent permitted by and subject to the requirements of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, Regulation T issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System pursuant to the Exchange Act, federal income tax laws, and other federal, state and local tax and securities laws, can exercise an option or a portion thereof without making a direct payment of the option price to the Company. If the Committee so elects to establish a cashless exercise program, the Committee shall determine, in its sole discretion and from time to time, such administrative procedures and policies as it deems appropriate. Such procedures and policies shall be binding on any Participant wishing to utilize the cashless exercise program.

9. Stock Appreciation Rights

(a) Grants and Valuation. Awards may be granted in the form of stock appreciation rights ("SARs"). SARs may be granted singly ("Independent SARs"), in combination with all or a portion of a related stock option under the Plan ("Combination SARs"), or in the alternative ("Alternative SARs"). Combination or Alternative SARs may be granted either at the time of the grant of related stock options or at any time thereafter during the term of the stock options. Combination SARs shall be subject to paragraph 9(b) hereof. Alternative SARs shall be subject to paragraph 9(c) hereof. Independent SARs shall be subject to paragraph 9(d) hereof. Unless this Plan or the Award Notice provides otherwise, SARs shall entitle the recipient to receive a payment equal to the appreciation in the Fair Market Value of a stated number of shares of Common Stock from the award date to the date of exercise. Once a SAR has been issued, the Committee shall not reprice the SAR by changing the initial Fair Market Value from which the payment is calculated except for adjustments appropriate to reflect a Common Stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock-split or other combination pursuant to Section 18(a). In the case of SARs granted in combination with, or in the alternative to, stock options, the appreciation in value is from the option price of such related stock option to the Fair Market Value on the date of exercise of such SARs. Unless this Plan or the Award Notice provides otherwise, SARs granted in conjunction with stock options shall be Combination SARs, and all SARs shall be exercisable between one year and ten years and one day after the date of their award.

(b) Terms and Conditions of Combination SARs. Both the stock options granted in conjunction with Combination SARs and the Combination SARs may be exercised. Combination SARs shall be exercisable only to the extent the related stock option is exercisable, and the base from which the value of the Combination SARs is measured at its exercise shall be the option price of the related stock option. Combination SARs may be exercised either together with the related stock option or separately. If a Participant exercises a Combination SAR or related stock option, but not both, the other shall remain outstanding and shall remain exercisable during the entire exercise period.

(c) Terms and Conditions of Alternative SARs. Either the stock options granted in the alternative to Alternative SARs or the Alternative SARs may be exercised, but not both. Alternative SARs shall be exercisable only to the extent that the related stock option is exercisable, and the base from which the value of the Alternative SARs is measured at its exercise shall be the option price of the related stock option. If related stock options are exercised as to some or all of the shares covered by the Award, the related Alternative SARs shall be cancelled automatically to the extent of the number of shares covered by the stock option exercise. Upon exercise of Alternative SARs as to some or all of the shares covered by the Award, the related stock option shall be cancelled automatically to the extent of the number of shares covered by such exercise, and such shares shall again be eligible for grant in accordance with paragraph 5 hereof.

(d) Terms and Conditions of Independent SARs. Independent SARs shall be exercisable in whole or in such installments and at such time as may be determined by the Committee. The base price from which the value of an Independent SAR is measured shall also be determined by the Committee; provided, however, that such price shall not be less than the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the date of the grant of the Independent SAR.

(e) Deemed Exercise. The Committee may provide that a SAR shall be deemed to be exercised at the close of business on the scheduled expiration date of such SAR, if at such time the SAR by its terms remains exercisable and, if so exercised, would result in a payment to the holder of such SAR.

10. Restricted Stock

(a) Grants. Awards may be granted in the form of Restricted Stock. Shares of Restricted Stock shall be awarded in such amounts and at such times during the term of the Plan as the Committee shall determine.

(b) Award Restrictions. Restricted Stock shall be subject to such terms and conditions as the Committee deems appropriate, including restrictions on transferability and continued employment. No more than 50,000 restricted shares may be issued in a single fiscal year. The Committee may modify or accelerate the delivery of shares of Restricted Stock under such circumstances as it deems appropriate.

(c) Rights as Stockholders. During the period in which any shares of Restricted Stock are subject to the restrictions imposed under paragraph 10(b), the Committee may, in its discretion, grant to the Participant to whom shares of Restricted Stock have been awarded all or any of the rights of a stockholder with respect to such shares, including, but not by way of limitation, the right to vote such shares and to receive dividends.

(d) Evidence of Award. Any shares of Restricted Stock granted under the Plan may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee deems appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of a stock certificate or certificates.

11. Performance Units

(a) Grants. Awards may be granted in the form of performance units. Performance units shall refer to the Units valued by reference to designated criteria established by the Committee, other than Units which are expressed in terms of Common Stock.

(b) Performance or Service Criteria. Performance units shall be contingent on the attainment during a performance period of certain performance and/or service objectives. The length of the performance period, the performance or service objectives to be achieved, and the extent to which such objectives have been attained shall be conclusively determined by the Committee in the exercise of its absolute discretion. Performance and service objectives may be revised by the Committee during the performance period, in order to take into consideration any unforeseen events or changes in circumstances.

12. Performance Shares

(a) Grants. Awards may be granted in the form of performance shares. Performance shares shall refer to shares of Common Stock or Units which are expressed in terms of Common Stock, including shares of phantom stock.

(b) Performance or Service Criteria. Performance shares shall be contingent upon the attainment during a performance period of certain performance or service objectives. The length of the performance period, the performance or service objectives to be achieved, and the extent to which such objectives have been attained shall be conclusively determined by the Committee in the exercise of its absolute discretion. Performance and service objectives may be revised by the Committee during the performance period, in order to take into consideration any unforeseen events or changes in circumstances.

13. Payment of Awards

At the discretion of the Committee, payment of Awards may be made in cash, Common Stock, a combination of cash and Common Stock, or any other form of property as the Committee shall determine.

14. Dividends and Dividend Equivalents

If an Award is granted in the form of Restricted Stock, stock options, or performance shares, or in the form of any other stock-based grant, the Committee may, at any time up to the time of payment, include as part of an Award an entitlement to receive dividends or dividend equivalents, subject to such terms and conditions as the Committee may establish. Dividends and dividend equivalents shall be paid in such form and manner (i.e., lump sum or installments), and at such time as the Committee shall determine. All dividends or dividend equivalents which are not paid currently may, at the Committee's discretion, accrue interest, be reinvested into additional shares of Common Stock or, in the case of dividends or dividend equivalents credited in connection with performance shares, be credited as additional performance shares and paid to the Participant if and when, and to the extent that, payment is made pursuant to such Award.

15. Deferral of Awards

At the discretion of the Committee, the receipt of the payment of shares of Restricted Stock, performance shares, performance units, dividends, dividend equivalents, or any portion thereof, may be deferred by a Participant until such time as the Committee may establish. All such deferrals shall be accomplished by the delivery of a written, irrevocable election by the Participant prior to such time payment would otherwise be made, on a form provided by the Company. Further, all deferrals shall be made in accordance with administrative guidelines established by the Committee to ensure that such deferrals comply with all applicable requirements of the Code and its regulations. Deferred payments shall be paid in a lump sum or installments, as determined by the Committee. The Committee may also credit interest, at such rates to be determined by the Committee, on cash payments that are deferred and credit dividends or dividend equivalents on deferred payments denominated in the form of Common Stock.

16. Termination of Employment

(a) General Rule. Subject to paragraph 20, if a Participant's employment with the Company or a Subsidiary terminates for a reason other than death, disability, retirement, or any approved reason, all unexercised, unearned or unpaid Awards shall be cancelled or forfeited as the case may be, unless otherwise provided in this paragraph or in the Participant's Award Notice. The Committee shall have the authority to promulgate rules and regulations to (i) determine what events constitute disability, retirement, or termination for an approved reason for purposes of the Plan, and (ii) determine the treatment of a Participant under the Plan in the event of his death, disability, retirement, or termination for an approved reason.

(b) Incentive Stock Options. Unless the Award Notice provides otherwise, any incentive stock option which has not theretofore expired, shall terminate upon termination of the Participant's employment with the Company whether by death or otherwise, and no shares of Common Stock may thereafter be purchased pursuant to such incentive stock option, except that:

(i) Upon termination of employment (other than by death), a Participant may, within three months after the date of termination of employment, purchase all or part of any shares of Common Stock which the Participant was entitled to purchase under such incentive stock option on the date of termination of employment.

(ii) Upon the death of any Participant while employed with the Company or within the three-month period referred to in paragraph 16(b)(i) above, the Participant's estate or the person to whom the Participant's rights under the incentive stock option are transferred by will or the laws of descent and distribution may, within one year after the date of the Participant's death, purchase all or part of any shares of Common Stock which the Participant was entitled to purchase under such incentive stock option on the date of death.

Notwithstanding anything in this paragraph 16(b) to the contrary, the Committee may at any time within the three-month period after the date of termination of a Participant's employment, with the consent of the Participant, the Participant's estate or the person to whom the Participant's rights under the incentive stock options are transferred by will or the laws of descent and distribution, extend the period for exercise of the Participant's incentive stock options to any date not later than the date on which such incentive stock options would have otherwise expired absent such termination of employment. Nothing in this paragraph 16(b) shall authorize the exercise of an incentive stock option after the expiration of the exercise period therein provided, nor later than ten years after the date of grant.

(c) Non-Qualified Stock Options. Unless the Award Notice provides otherwise, any nonqualified stock option which has not theretofore expired shall terminate upon termination of the Participant's employment with the Company, and no shares of Common Stock may thereafter be purchased pursuant to such non-qualified stock option, except that:

(i) Upon termination of employment for any reason other than death, discharge by the Company for cause, or voluntary resignation of the Participant prior to age 60, a Participant may, within five years after the date of termination of employment, or any such greater period of time as the Committee, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate, exercise all or part of the non-qualified stock option which the Participant was entitled to exercise on the date of termination of employment or subsequently becomes eligible to exercise pursuant to paragraph 8(b) above.

(ii) Upon the death of a Participant while employed with the Company or within the period referred to in paragraph 16(c)(i) above, the Participant's estate or the person to whom the Participant's rights under the non-qualified stock option are transferred by will or the laws of descent and distribution may, within five years after the date of the Participant's death while employed, or within the period referred to in paragraph 16(c)(i) above, exercise all or part of the non-qualified stock option which the Participant was entitled to exercise on the date of death.

Nothing in this paragraph 16(c) shall authorize the exercise of a non-qualified stock option later than the exercise period set forth in the Award Notice.

17. Nonassignability

No Award under the Plan shall be subject in any manner to alienation, anticipation, sale, transfer (except by will or the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to a qualified domestic relations order), assignment, pledge, or encumbrance, except that, unless the Committee specifies otherwise, all awards of non-qualified stock options or SARs shall be transferable without consideration, subject to all the terms and conditions to which such non-qualified stock options or SARs are otherwise subject, to (i) members of a Participant's immediate family as defined in Rule 16a-1 promulgated under the Exchange Act, or any successor rule or regulation, (ii) trusts for the exclusive benefit of the Participant or such immediate family members or (iii) entities which are wholly-owned by the Participant or such immediate family members, provided that (x) there may be no consideration for any such transfer, and (y) subsequent transfers of transferred options shall be prohibited except those by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Following transfer, any such options shall continue to be subject to the same terms and conditions as were applicable immediately prior to transfer, and except as provided in the next sentence, the term "Participant" shall be deemed to refer to the transferee. The events of termination of employment of Section 16(c) hereof shall continue to be applied with reference to the original Participant and following the termination of employment of the original Participant, the options shall be exercisable by the transferee only to the extent, and for the periods specified in Section
16(c), that the original Participant could have exercised such option. Except as expressly permitted by this paragraph, an Award shall be exercisable during the Participant's lifetime only by him.

18. Adjustment of Shares Available

(a) Changes in Stock. In the event of changes in the Common Stock by reason of a Common Stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock-split or other combination, appropriate adjustment shall be made by the Committee in the aggregate number of shares available under the Plan, the number of shares with respect to which Awards may be granted to any Participant in any fiscal year, and the number of shares, SARs, performance shares, Common Stock units and other stock-based interests subject to outstanding Awards, without, in the case of stock options, causing a change in the aggregate purchase price to be paid therefor. Such proper adjustment as may be deemed equitable may be made by the Committee in its discretion to give effect to any other change affecting the Common Stock.

(b) Changes in Capitalization. In case of a merger or consolidation of the Company with another corporation, a reorganization of the Company, a reclassification of the Common Stock of the Company, a spinoff of a significant asset, or other changes in the capitalization of the Company, appropriate provision shall be made for the protection and continuation of any outstanding Awards by either (i) the substitution, on an equitable basis, of appropriate stock or other securities or other consideration to which holders of Common Stock of the Company will be entitled pursuant to such transaction or succession of transactions, or (ii) by appropriate adjustment in the number of shares issuable pursuant to the Plan, the number of shares covered by outstanding Awards, the option price of outstanding stock options, the exercise price of outstanding SARs, the performance or service criteria or performance period of outstanding performance units, and the performance or service criteria or performance period of outstanding performance shares, as deemed appropriate by the Committee.

19. Withholding Taxes

The Company shall be entitled to deduct from any payment under the Plan, regardless of the form of such payment, the amount of all applicable income and employment taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to such payment or may require the participant to pay to it such tax prior to and as a condition of the making of such payment. Subject to the administrative guidelines established by the Committee, a Participant may pay the amount of taxes required by law to be withheld from an Award, in whole or in part, by requesting that the Company withhold from any payment of Common Stock due as a result of such Award, or by delivering to the Company, shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value less than or equal to the amount of such required withholding taxes.

20. Noncompetition Provision

Notwithstanding anything contained in this Plan to the contrary, unless the Award Notice specifies otherwise, a Participant shall forfeit all unexercised, unearned, and/or unpaid Awards, including Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents, and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing if, (i) in the opinion of the Committee, the Participant, without the written consent of the Company, engages directly or indirectly in any manner or capacity as principal, agent, partner, officer, director, employee, or otherwise, in any business or activity competitive with the business conducted by the Company or any Subsidiary; or (ii) the Participant performs any act or engages in any activity which in the opinion of the Committee is inimical to the best interests of the Company. In addition, the Committee may, in its discretion, condition the deferral of any Award, dividend, or dividend equivalent under paragraph 15 hereof on a Participant's compliance with the terms of this paragraph 20, and cause such a Participant to forfeit any payment which is so deferred if the Participant fails to comply with the terms hereof.

21. Amendments to Awards

The Committee may at any time unilaterally amend any unexercised, unearned, or unpaid Award, including Awards earned but not yet paid, to the extent it deems appropriate; provided, however, that any such amendment which is adverse to the Participant shall require the Participant's consent.

22. Regulatory Approvals and Listings

Notwithstanding anything contained in this Plan to the contrary, the Company shall have no obligation to issue or deliver certificates of Common Stock evidencing Awards resulting in the payment of Common Stock prior to (a) the obtaining of any approval from any governmental agency which the Company shall, in its sole discretion, determine to be necessary or advisable, (b) the admission of such shares to listing on the stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed, and (c) the completion of any registration or other qualification of said shares under any state or federal law or ruling of any governmental body which the Company shall, in its sole discretion, determine to be necessary or advisable.

23. No Right to Continued Employment or Grants

Participation in the Plan shall not give any Participant any right to remain in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary. The Company or, in the case of employment with a Subsidiary, the Subsidiary, reserves the right to terminate any Participant at any time. Further, the adoption of this Plan shall not be deemed to give any person any right to be selected as a Participant or to be granted an Award.

24. Amendment

The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. In addition, the Board may, from time to time, amend the Plan in any manner, provided however, that any such amendment may be subject to stockholder approval (i) at the discretion of the Board and (ii) to the extent that shareholder approval may be required by law, including, but not limited to, the requirements of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor rule or regulation.

25. Change in Control and Change in Ownership

(a) Background. All Participants shall be eligible for the treatment afforded by this paragraph 25 if there is a Change in Ownership or if their employment terminates within two years following a Change in Control, unless the termination is due to (i) death; (ii) disability entitling the Participant to benefits under his employer's long-term disability plan; (iii) Cause; (iv) resignation by the Participant other than for Good Reason; or (v) retirement entitling the Participant to benefits under his employer's retirement plan.

(b) Vesting and Lapse of Restrictions. If a Participant is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, (i) all of the terms and conditions in effect on any unexercised, unearned, unpaid or deferred Awards shall immediately lapse as of the Acceleration Date; (ii) no other terms or conditions shall be imposed upon any Awards on or after such date, and in no event shall any Award be forfeited on or after such date; and (iii) all of his unexercised, unvested, unearned and/or unpaid Awards or any other outstanding Awards shall automatically become one hundred percent (100%) vested immediately upon such date.

(c) Dividends and Dividend Equivalents. If a Participant is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest accrued thereon, if any, shall be treated and paid under this paragraph 25 in the identical manner and time as the Award under which such dividends or dividend equivalents have been credited. For example, if upon a Change in Ownership, an Award under this paragraph 25 is to be paid in a prorated fashion, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents with respect to such Award shall be paid according to the same formula used to determine the amount of such prorated Award.

(d) Treatment of Performance Units and Performance Shares. If a Participant holding either performance units or performance shares is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, the provisions of this paragraph (d) shall determine the manner in which such performance units and/or performance shares shall be paid to him. For purposes of making such payment, each "current performance period" (defined to mean a performance period or term of a performance unit or performance share which period or term has commenced but not yet ended), shall be treated as terminating upon the Acceleration Date, and for each such "current performance period" and each "completed performance period" (defined to mean a performance period or term of a performance unit or performance share which has ended but for which the Committee has not, on the Acceleration Date, made a determination as to whether and to what degree the performance or service objectives for such period have been attained), it shall be assumed that the performance or service objectives have been attained at a level of one hundred percent (100%) or the equivalent thereof. If the Participant is participating in one or more "current performance periods," he shall be considered to have earned and, therefore, to be entitled to receive, a prorated portion of the Awards previously granted to him for each such performance period. Such prorated portion shall be determined by multiplying the number of performance shares or performance units, as the case may be, granted to the Participant by a fraction, the numerator of which is the total number of whole and partial years (with each partial year being treated as a whole year) that have elapsed since the beginning of the performance period, and the denominator of which is the total number of years in such performance period. A Participant in one or more "completed performance periods" shall be considered to have earned and, therefore, be entitled to receive all the performance shares and performance units previously granted to him during each performance period.

(e) Valuation of Awards. If a Participant is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, his Awards (including those earned as a result of the application of paragraph 25(d) above) shall be valued and cashed out on the basis of the Change in Control Price.

(f) Payment of Awards. If a Participant is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, whether or not he is still employed by the Company or a Subsidiary, he shall be paid, in a single lump sum cash payment, as soon as practicable but in no event later than 90 days after the Acceleration Date, for all outstanding Units of Common Stock, Independent and Combination SARs, stock options (including incentive stock options), performance units (including those earned as a result of the application of paragraph 25(d) above), and performance shares (including those earned as a result of paragraph 25(d) above), and all other outstanding Awards, including those granted by the Committee pursuant to its authority under paragraph 3(h) hereof.

(g) Deferred Awards. If a Participant is eligible for treatment under this paragraph 25, all deferred Awards for which payment has not been received as of the Acceleration Date shall be paid in a single lump sum cash payment as soon as practicable, but in no event later than 90 days after such date. For purposes of making such payment, the value of all Awards which are stock-based shall be determined by the Change in Control Price.

(h) Miscellaneous. Upon a Change in Control or a Change in Ownership, (i) the provisions of paragraphs 16, 20 and 21 hereof shall become null and void and of no force and effect insofar as they apply to a Participant who has been terminated under the conditions described in (a) above; and (ii) no action shall be taken which would affect the rights of any Participant or the operation of the Plan with respect to any Award to which the Participant may have become entitled hereunder on or prior to the date of the Change in Control or Change in Ownership or to which he may become entitled as a result of such Change in Control or Change in Ownership.

(i) Legal Fees. The Company shall pay all legal fees and related expenses incurred by a Participant in seeking to obtain or enforce any payment, benefit or right he may be entitled to under the Plan after a Change in Control or Change in Ownership; provided, however, the Participant shall be required to repay any such amounts to the Company to the extent a court of competent jurisdiction issues a final and non-appealable order setting forth the determination that the position taken by the Participant was frivolous or advanced in bad faith.

26. No Right, Title or Interest in Company Assets

No Participant shall have any rights as a stockholder as a result of participation in the Plan until the date of issuance of a stock certificate in his name, and, in the case of Restricted Stock, stock options, performance shares or any other stock-based grant, such rights are granted to the Participant under paragraph 10(c) hereof. To the extent any person acquires a right to receive payments from the Company under this Plan, such rights shall be no greater than the rights of an unsecured creditor of the Company.


AMENDMENT NUMBER 1

TO

AMENDED AND RESTATED SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND
DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

Philip C. Ackerman

This Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this 23rd day of March, 1999, by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and Philip C. Ackerman (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 17, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this further amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE. in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof-

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein. will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number 1 and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number 1 shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number 1 is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                      EXECUTIVE


By:  /s/ Bernard J. Kennedy                    /s/  Philip C. Ackerman
---------------------------                    -----------------------
Name: Bernard J. Kennedy                       Name: Philip C. Ackerman
Title:  Chairman of the Board, President
and Chief Executive Officer                    Date: 3/8/99
Date:  3/23/99

Witnessed:                                     Witnessed:

/s/ Bonnie J. Nation                           /s/ Janet M. Conrad
--------------------                           -------------------

3/23/99                                        3/8/99
-------                                        ------
Date                                           Date


SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED

SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of Richard Hare (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company desire to amend in certain respects and to restate in its entirety the terms of the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement between them dated September 15, 1997, as amended by an agreement dated March 29, 1999; which Amended and Restated Agreement amended in certain respects and restated in its entirety the agreement between them dated April 1, 1991; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has assigned all of his interest in a certain life insurance policy to his Trustees, as hereinafter more fully described, and the Company has consented to such assignment;

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the parties each acknowledge, the Company, the Executive and the Trustees agree as follows:


I. LIFE INSURANCE By a Trust Agreement dated June 7, 1999, the Executive has established a trust to which the Executive has assigned all of his interest in a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3484315 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $1,297,401, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Company has or will consent to such assignment. The Trustee or Trustees acting from time to time under such Trust Agreement (the "Trustees") shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the Policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Trustees have executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section 11.

III. BENEFICIARY The Trustees may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.


IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT
A. This Agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) August 24, 2008 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement, and, notwithstanding anything in this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to any and all interests in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.


VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). The value of restricted stock awarded to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year shall be deemed to be part of the Executive's AARCIP award for purposes of determining the Death Benefit. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date. If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Trustees or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and the Beneficiary, the Trustees and the Executive's estate shall have no further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.


VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Trustees nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT
A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's or the Trustees' interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction.

B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and the Trustees and may not be assigned; however, one or more successor Trustees may be appointed.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the right to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the consent of the Executive and the Trustees, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.


XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company, the Executive and the Trustees (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company, the Executive and the Trustees and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive and the Trustees covenant that the Executive, the Trustees, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fail or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, the Trustees, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts


to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him, and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive, the Trustees, or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.


a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 9th day of August, 1999.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

August 9, 1999
--------------
Date

/s/ Janet M. Conrad                           By:  /s/ Phillip C. Ackerman
-------------------                           ----------------------------
Witness                                       Philip C. Ackerman
                                              President


                                              EXECUTIVE:
August 9, 1999
--------------

/s/ Janet M. Conrad                           /s/ Richard Hare
-------------------                           ----------------
Witness                                       Richard Hare

TRUSTEES:

July 20, 1999
-------------
Date

/s/ Mary Penny Hamilton                       /s/ Deborah Lynn Lenahan
-----------------------                       ------------------------
Witness                                       Deborah Lynn Lenahan


July 28, 1999
-------------
Date

/s/ Mary Penny Hamilton                       /s/ Diana Fields
-----------------------                       ----------------
Witness                                       Diana Fields


July 20, 1999
-------------
Date

/s/ Mary Penny Hamilton                       /s/ Nancy Ann Hartung
-----------------------                       ---------------------

Witness                                       Nancy Ann Hartung


AMENDMENT NUMBER 1
TO
AMENDED AND RESTATED SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND
DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

Joseph P. Pawlowski

This Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this 29th day of March 1999 by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and Joseph P. Pawlowski (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 15, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this further amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the par-ties hereto agree as follows:

1. Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof.

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein. will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number 1 and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number 1 shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number 1 is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                          EXECUTIVE

By: /s/ Philip C. Ackerman                         /s/ Joseph P. Pawlowski
--------------------------                         -----------------------
Name: Philip. Ackerman                             Name Joseph P. Pawlowski
Title:  Senior Vice President                      Date:    3/19/99
-----------------------------                      ----------------
Date:  3/29/99
--------------


Witnessed:                                         Witnessed:

/s/ Janet M. Conrad                                /s/ Robert J. Dauer
-------------------                                -------------------

3/29/99                                            3/19/99
-------                                            -------
Date                                               Date


SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED
SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AGREEMENT

WHEREAS. National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of Gerald T. Wehrlin (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company desire to amend in certain respects and to restate in its entirety the terms of the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement between them dated September 15, 1997, as amended by an agreement dated March 29, 1999; which Amended and Restated Agreement amended in certain respects and restated in its entirety the agreement between them dated April 1, 199 1; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has assigned all of his interest in a certain life insurance policy to his Trustees, as hereinafter more fully described.

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the Company and Executive each acknowledge, the Company, the Executive and the Trustees agree as follows:


I. LIFE INSURANCE By an Irrevocable Trust Agreement dated January 26, 1999, the Executive has established a trust to which the Executive has assigned all of his interest in a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3485474 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $711,529, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Trustee or Trustees acting from time to time under such Trust Agreement (the "Trustees") shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the Policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Trustees have executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section II.

III. BENEFICIARY

The Trustees may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.


IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT

A. This Agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) January 1, 2008 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement, and, notwithstanding anything in this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to any and all interests in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof. Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.


VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date. If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Trustees or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and the Beneficiary, the Trustees and the Executive's estate shall have no further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.


VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Trustees nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT
A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction.

B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and the Trustees and may not be assigned; however, one or more successor Trustees may be appointed.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the night to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the consent of the Executive and the Trustees, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.


XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company, the Executive and the Trustees (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company, the Executive and the Trustees and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company, as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive and the Trustees covenant that the Executive, the Trustees, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fall or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, the Trustees, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts


to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive, the Trustees, or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.


a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 15th day of June 1999.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

June 15, 1999
-------------
Date

/s/ Janet M. Conrad                                By: /s/ Philip C. Ackerman
-------------------                                --------------------------
Witness                                            Philip C. Ackerman
                                                   Senior Vice President


                                                   EXECUTIVE:

June 2, 1999
------------
Date

/s/ Jan M.Wojcik                                   /s/ Gerald T. Wehrlin
----------------                                   ---------------------
Witness                                            Gerald T. Wehrlin



June 9, 1999
------------
Date

/s/ (illegible signature)                          /s/ Russell L. Wehrlin
-------------------------                          ----------------------
Witness                                            Russell L. Wehrlin



June 3, 1999
------------
Date

/s/ Jan M. Wojcik                                  /s/ Kathleen M. Mann
-----------------                                  --------------------
Witness                                            Kathleen M. Mann


AMENDED AND RESTATED

SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of Walter E. DeForest (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance and death benefit agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company desire to amend in certain respects and to restate in its entirety the terms of the Split Dollar Death Benefits Agreement between them dated October 1, 1991; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the Company and Executive each acknowledge, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

I. LIFE INSURANCE The Executive is the owner of a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3492786 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $575,057, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee pursuant to Article IX) shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the Policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Executive has executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section II.

III. BENEFICIARY The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee) may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.

IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT

A. This agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) May 29, 2011 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement and in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof. Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.

VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Executive, the Executive's Assignee or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and neither the Beneficiary nor the Executive's estate shall have any further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.

VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Executive nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT
A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction. B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and may not be assigned.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the right to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the Executive's consent, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.

XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company and the Executive (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company and the Executive and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company, as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive covenants that the Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fail or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him, and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.

a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 15th day of September, 1997.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

9/15/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                         By: /s/ Phillip C. Ackerman
-------------------                         ---------------------------
Witness                                     Philip C. Ackerman
                                            Senior Vice President


                                            EXECUTIVE:

8/28/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                        /s/ Walter E. DeForest
-------------------                        ----------------------
Witness                                    Walter E. DeForest


AMENDMENT NUMBER I

TO

AMENDED AND RESTATED SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND
DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

Walter E. DeForest

This Amendment Number I to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this 29th day of March,1999 by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and Walter E. DeForest (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 15, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this further amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the par-ties hereto agree as follows:

1. Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof:

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein, will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number I and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number I shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number 1 is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment Number I to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                       EXECUTIVE

By:  /s/ Philip C. Ackerman                     /s/ Walter E. DeForest
---------------------------                     ----------------------
Name: Philip C. Ackerman                        Name:  Walter E. DeForest
Title:  Senior Vice President                   Date: 3-8-99
Date: 3/29/99

Witnessed:                                      Witnessed:
/s/ Janet M. Conrad                             /s/ Robert J. Dauer
-------------------                             -------------------

3/29/99                                         3/8/99
-------                                         ------
Date                                            Date


AMENDED AND RESTATED

SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of Dennis J. Seeley (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance and death benefit agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company desire to amend in certain respects and to restate in its entirety the terms of the Split Dollar Death Benefits Agreement between them dated October 1, 1993; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the Company and Executive each acknowledge, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

I. LIFE INSURANCE The Executive is the owner of a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3548226 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $1,081,310, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee pursuant to Article IX) shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the Policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Executive has executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section II.

III. BENEFICIARY The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee) may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.

IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT

A. This agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) February 4, 2013 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement and in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof. Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.

VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Executive, the Executive's Assignee or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and neither the Beneficiary nor the Executive's estate shall have any further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.

VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Executive nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT
A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction. B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and may not be assigned.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the right to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the Executive's consent, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.

XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company and the Executive (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company and the Executive and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company, as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive covenants that the Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fail or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him, and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.

a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 15th day of September, 1997.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

9/15/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                By:   /s/ Philip C. Ackerman
-------------------                                ----------------------------
Witness                                                Philip C. Ackerman
                                                       Senior Vice President


                                                       EXECUTIVE:

8/28/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                /s/ Dennis J. Seeley
-------------------                                --------------------
Witness                                                Dennis J. Seeley


AMENDMENT NUMBER I

TO

AMENDED AND RESTATED SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND
DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

Dennis J. Seeley

This Amendment Number I to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this, 29th day of March, 1999 by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and Dennis J. Seeley (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 15, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this further amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof:

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein, will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number I and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number I shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number I is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the par-ties hereto have caused this Amendment Number I to the Amended and Restated Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                      EXECUTIVE


By: /s/ Philip C. Ackerman                     /s/ Dennis J. Seeley
--------------------------                     --------------------
Name: Philip C. Ackerman                       Name: Dennis J. Seeley
Title:  Senior Vice President                  Date:  3/8/99
Date: 3/29/99


Witnessed:                                     Witnessed:
/s/ Janet M. Conrad                            /s/ Robert J. Dauer
-------------------                            -------------------

3/29/99                                        3/8/99
-------                                        ------
Date                                           Date


SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of Bruce H. Hale (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance and death benefit agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the Company and Executive each acknowledge, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

I. LIFE INSURANCE The Executive is the owner of a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3637398 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $2,000,000, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee pursuant to Article IX) shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the Policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Executive has executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section II.

III. BENEFICIARY The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee) may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.

IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT

A. This agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) August 30, 2019 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement and in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof. Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.

VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Executive, the Executive's Assignee or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and neither the Beneficiary nor the Executive's estate shall have any further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.

VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Executive nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT

A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction.
B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and may not be assigned.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the right to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the Executive's consent, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.

XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company and the Executive (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company and the Executive and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company, as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive covenants that the Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fail or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him, and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.

a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 15th day of September, 1997.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

9/15/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                By:   /s/ Philip C. Ackerman
-------------------                                ----------------------------
Witness                                                  Philip C. Ackerman
                                                         Senior Vice President


                                                         EXECUTIVE:

8/28/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                      /s/ Bruce H. Hale
-------------------                                      -----------------
Witness                                                  Bruce H. Hale


AMENDMENT NUMBER I

TO

SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

Bruce H. Hale

This Amendment Number I to the Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this 29th day of March, 1999 , by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and Bruce H. Hale (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 15, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1 . Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof:

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCIP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein, will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number I and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number I shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number I is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment Number I to the Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                              EXECUTIVE

By: /s/ Philip C. Ackerman                             /s/ Bruce H. Hale
--------------------------                             -----------------
Name:   Philip C. Ackerman                             Name: Bruce H. Hale
Title:  Senior Vice President                          Date: Mar 9, 1999
Date:  3/29/99

Witnessed:                                             Witnessed:
/s/ Janet M. Conrad                                    /s/ Robert J. Dauer
-------------------                                    -------------------

3/29/99                                                3/9/99
-------                                                ------
Date                                                   Date


SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, National Fuel Gas Company (hereinafter, with any of its subsidiaries, collectively called the "Company"), in recognition of the highly valued services of David F. Smith (hereinafter called the "Executive"), the Executive's importance to the success of the Company, and the need of Executive's family for financial security in the event of Executive's death, has authorized the adoption of a split dollar insurance and death benefit agreement benefiting the Executive; and

WHEREAS, the Executive has agreed not to participate in any noncontributory group term life insurance program while employed by the Company; and

WHEREAS, the Company desires to recover the premiums it pays for the purchase of a life insurance policy or policies for these purposes upon termination of this Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, for mutual consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which the Company and Executive each acknowledge, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

I. LIFE INSURANCE The Executive is the owner of a life insurance policy, Policy Number 3637396 (hereinafter, together with any additional or replacement policy and any supplementary contracts issued in connection therewith, called the "Policy") in the face amount of $2,000,000, issued by the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, of New York, New York (hereafter called the "Insurer"). The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee pursuant to Article IX) shall be the sole owner of the Policy and may exercise all rights and incidents of ownership with respect to the policy, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. To secure the Company's interest under this Agreement, the Executive has executed a collateral assignment of the Policy to the Company (the "Collateral Assignment").

II. PREMIUMS The Company shall pay the total premiums due on the Policy during the term of this Agreement. Premiums shall be paid directly to the Insurer on or before the due date, extended by any grace period. At the Company's election, Policy dividends may be applied to reduce premiums. Notwithstanding the above, after the Executive reaches age 65 or if the Executive's employment with the Company terminates prior to such age, the Company shall have no further obligation to make premium payments pursuant to this Section II.

III. BENEFICIARY The Executive (or the Executive's Assignee) may from time to time while this Agreement is in force, by such written notice to the Insurer as the Insurer may require, designate the beneficiary or beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary") to receive the Death Benefit as provided in this Agreement.

IV. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT

A. This agreement shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following:

a) August 18, 2023 (the Executive's 70th birthday), unless the Company and the Executive agree in writing to a later date;

b) mutual agreement of the Company and the Executive prior to such date;

c) the Executive's death.

B. If the Executive's employment with the Company is terminated for Cause, as hereinafter defined, or if the Executive engages in Competition, as hereinafter defined, with the Company, whether or not the Executive's employment with the Company has been terminated, the Company may terminate this Agreement by written notice to the Executive. In the event of termination under this Subsection B, the Executive shall forfeit all rights under this Agreement and in the Policy.

V. REPAYMENT OF PREMIUMS TO THE COMPANY Upon termination of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to repayment of the amount of the total premiums paid by the Company to maintain the Policy, less the amount of any distributions therefrom to the Company (including the outstanding balance of any Policy loans to the Company) (the "Net Premiums"). Such repayment may be made in cash or, if this Agreement terminates during the Executive's lifetime, in the form of a paid-up policy having equivalent value, as the Company may elect. If full repayment is not made within 60 days of termination of this Agreement, the Company may enforce its rights under the Collateral Assignment, including (without limitation) recovery from the Insurer out of the proceeds of the Policy or by surrender thereof. Upon receipt of the Net Premiums, the Company shall promptly release the Collateral Assignment.

VI. DEATH BENEFIT WHILE AGREEMENT IS IN FORCE
A. If this Agreement terminates by reason of the Executive's death, the Beneficiary shall be entitled to receive from the proceeds of the Policy, after repayment of the Net Premiums, an amount (the "Death Benefit") equal to the sum of 24 times the base monthly salary payable by the Company to the Executive in the month preceding the Executive's death (or, if the Executive is retired, in the month prior to the commencement of such retirement) and two times the most recent award, if any, paid to the Executive under any of the Company's lump sum payment programs including the Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (AARCIP). If the Executive has retired (on disability or otherwise) and becomes reemployed by the Company, the latest date of commencement of retirement shall be used for purposes of computing the Death Benefit. If the proceeds of the Policy after repayment of the Net Premiums are inadequate to pay the Death Benefit in full, the Company shall have no obligation for the shortfall.

B. The Company shall notify the Insurer of the amount of the Death Benefit within 30 days of the death of the Executive while this Agreement is in force, and the Death Benefit shall be paid to the Beneficiary under the settlement option elected by the Executive, the Executive's Assignee or the Beneficiary.

C. After payment of the Death Benefit, the Company shall be entitled to any remaining balance of the proceeds of the Policy, and neither the Beneficiary nor the Executive's estate shall have any further rights in or under this Agreement or the Policy.

VII. OTHER COMPANY BENEFITS The Executive shall have no right to participate in any non-contributory group-term life insurance plan maintained by the Company. In other respects, the benefits provided to the Executive under this Agreement and the Policy shall be separate from and in addition to other benefits that may be offered by the Company to the Executive, including any non-contributory accidental death and dismemberment coverage that the Company maintains.

VIII. POLICY LOANS While this Agreement is in force, neither the Executive nor any Assignee shall borrow against or pledge the Policy as security for any debt.

IX. ASSIGNMENT OF THE POLICY AND THIS AGREEMENT
A. The Policy may not be assigned, transferred, pledged, surrendered or otherwise encumbered or alienated without the written consent of the Company. Any assignee pursuant to this Section and any other successor to the Executive's interest in the Policy (both referred to herein as the "Assignee") shall be bound by this restriction. B. The rights and obligations of this Agreement are personal to the Executive and may not be assigned.

X. REPLACEMENT OF THE POLICY The Company shall have the right to replace the Policy with a new policy or policies, with the Executive's consent, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld. In the event of such replacement, the Company shall have the right to receive the cash surrender value of any policy being canceled or surrendered.

XI. AMENDMENT This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by a written Agreement signed by the Company and the Executive (or, if the Policy has been assigned, the Assignee). This Agreement and any amendments hereto shall be binding upon the Company and the Executive and their legal representatives, successors, beneficiaries and assigns. In the event that the Company becomes a party to any merger, consolidation or reorganization, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect as an obligation of the Company or its successors in interest.

XII. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. "Cause" means serious, willful misconduct in respect of the Executive's obligations to the Company that has damaged or is likely to damage the Company, including (without limitation) any endeavor by the Executive, directly or indirectly, to interfere in the business relations of or otherwise harm the Company, as the Company shall reasonably determine.

B. "Competition" means any employment, consulting contract or other arrangement, before or after the termination of the Executive's employment with the Company, with any person or entity that is then or becomes engaged in a business enterprise of any sort that is, in any material respect, competitive with the Company, or any assistance by the Executive to any such enterprise in engaging in such competition.

XIII. NONINTERFERENCE The Executive covenants that the Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary shall not interfere with the Company's rights under this Agreement or take any voluntary action that causes the Policy to fail or lapse, in whole or in part. The Executive, any Assignee and the Beneficiary will cooperate with Company and the Insurer in all respects in obtaining and maintaining the Policy and shall, if necessary, use their best efforts to provide, from time to time, such evidence of insurability as the Insurer may require.

XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
A. If any part of this Agreement or the application of any part to certain persons or circumstances shall be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the Agreement shall continue to be effective.

B. This Agreement shall be construed and regulated under the laws of the State of New York.

C. The Executive understands that the benefits provided under this Agreement will or may result in taxable income to him, and the Company reserves the right to implement tax withholding respecting such amounts as and when it may deem such withholding appropriate.

XV. ERISA PROVISIONS This Agreement constitutes part of a welfare benefit plan ("Welfare Plan") and, as such, the following provisions are part of this Agreement and are intended to meet the requirements of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"):

1. The named fiduciary of the Welfare Plan is the Company.

2. The funding policies under the Welfare Plan are that all premiums on the Policy be remitted to the Insurer by the Company when due, less any amount paid by the Executive or the Assignee, in their sole discretion.

3. Direct payment by the Insurer is the basis of payment of benefits under this Agreement.

4. For claims procedure purposes with respect to claims asserted under the Welfare Plan, the "Claims Manager" shall be Robert J. Dauer, or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the Company.

a. If for any reason a claim for benefits is made by a participant under the Welfare Plan ("Claimant") and is denied by the Company, the Claims Manager shall deliver to the Claimant a written explanation specifying the reasons for the denial, the provisions on which such denial is based, such other data as may be pertinent, and the procedures available to the Claimant to obtain review of the claim, all written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant. For this purpose,

(i) the claim shall be deemed filed when presented in writing to the Claims Manager; and

(ii) the Claims Manager's explanation shall be in writing delivered to the Claimant within 90 days of the date the claim is filed.

(b) The Claimant shall have 60 days following receipt of the denial of the claim to file with the Claims Manager a written request for review of the denial. For such review, the Claimant or his or her representative may submit pertinent documents and written issues and comments.

(c) The Claims Manager shall have discretion to decide the issue on review and shall furnish the Claimant with a copy of the decision within 60 days of receiving the Claimant's request for review of the claim. The decision on review shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant and shall specify the reasons for the decision, as well as the provisions on which the decision is based. If a copy of the decision is not so furnished to the Claimant within such 60 days, the claim shall be deemed denied on review.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the dates set opposite their respective signatures, to be effective on the 15th day of September, 1997.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

9/15/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                By:   /s/ Philip C. Ackerman
-------------------                                ----------------------------
Witness                                                 Philip C. Ackerman
                                                        Senior Vice President


                                                        EXECUTIVE:

8/28/97
-------
Date

/s/ Robert J. Dauer                                /s/ David F. Smith
-------------------                                ------------------
Witness                                                 David F. Smith


AMENDMENT NUMBER I

TO

SPLIT DOLLAR INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT AGREEMENT

BY AND BETWEEN

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY
AND

David F. Smith

This Amendment Number I to the Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement is made and entered into this 29th day of March, 1999 , by and between National Fuel Gas Company (the "Company") and David F. Smith (the "Executive").

WHEREAS, Company and Executive are parties to a certain Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement made as of September 15, 1997 (the "Agreement"); and

WHEREAS, Company and Executive agree to this amendment of the Agreement, as permitted in Article XI, to revise the calculation of the Death Benefit therein to include restricted stock awarded in lieu of a cash award under the Company's Annual At Risk Compensation Incentive Program (the "AARCIP").

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Article VI, Paragraph A shall be amended to insert the following sentence after the first complete sentence thereof:

"Awards of restricted stock made to the Executive for service in the Company's fiscal year 1996 or later to supplement an AARCIP award for that fiscal year, which was approximately equal to the maximum AARCIP award then permissible consistent with the shareholder approval applicable to that AARCTP award, shall also be included in the calculation of the Executive's Death Benefit at the rate of two times the most recent such award of restricted stock, if any. The restricted stock shall be valued at the average of the high and low market value on the grant date."

2. The amendments to the Agreement, contained herein, will be effective as of the date of this Amendment Number I and shall remain in effect for the entire term of the Agreement.

3. All other terms and provisions of the Agreement that are not inconsistent with the terms and conditions of this Amendment Number I shall remain in effect and are incorporated herein by reference.

4. This Amendment Number 1 is binding upon the parties hereto and their assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment Number I to the Split Dollar Insurance and Death Benefit Agreement to be executed, with full knowledge of its contents and with the intent to be legally bound, on the date first written above.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY                   EXECUTIVE

By:/s/ Philip C. Ackerman                   /s/ David F. Smith
-------------------------                   ------------------
Name: Philip C. Ackerman                    Name:  David F. Smith
Title: Senior Vice President                Date: 3/11/99
Date: 3/29/99


Witnessed:                                  WITNESSED:
/s/ Janet M. Conrad                         /s/ Robert J. Dauer
-------------------                         -------------------

3/29/99                                     3/11/99
-------                                     -------
Date                                        Date


AMENDMENTS TO
NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY AND PARTICIPATING SUBSIDIARIES
EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PLAN

I, the undersigned, being duly authorized and empowered by resolutions adopted by the National Fuel Gas Company Board of Directors on September 16, 1999, do hereby amend the National Fuel Gas Company and Participating Subsidiaries Executive Retirement Plan ("Plan"), effective September 16, 1999, as follows:

1. Section 2.9 shall be amended and restated to read as follows:
"Company means National Fuel Gas Company and each of the following subsidiaries, which participate in the Plan:
National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation, Seneca Resources Corporation, National Fuel Resources, Inc., Penn-York Energy Corporation and Empire Exploration, Inc., each of which has adopted or has indicated that it will adopt the Plan."

2. Section 2.18 shall be amended and restated to read as follows:
"Vesting (a) With respect to a Member's benefit which compensates for any reduction in Basic Pension Plan benefits resulting from Internal Revenue Code limitations and/or participation in the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan (frequently called a "tophat"), vesting occurs in the same manner as vesting occurs under the Basic Pension Plan.

(b) With respect to a Member's supplemental benefit portion of the Plan, vesting occurs on the latter of (i) the first of the month coinciding with or immediately following his 55th birthday or (ii) the date on which the Member has completed five Years of Service with a Company. A "Vested" Member is a Member with respect to whom "Vesting" has occurred."

3. Article 3 shall be revised by adding a new Section 3.0 as follows:

"3.0 Introduction. The Plan provides a Member with a two-part benefit. The first part will make a Member whole for any reduction in the regular pension he receives under the Basic Pension Plan resulting from Internal Revenue Code limitations and/or his participation in the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan. This is frequently called a "tophat." The second part is a supplemental benefit which provides an additional retirement benefit to the Basic Pension Plan."


4. Section 3.4(a) shall be amended and restated to read as follows:

"(a) Adjusted Basic Pension Plan Benefit Base equals the Benefit Base as determined under the Basic Pension Plan without reduction on account of Benefit Limitations and adjusted as if deferrals under the National Fuel Gas Company Deferred Compensation Plan were not excluded from the definition of Final Average Pay under the Basic Pension Plan, and multiplied by the appropriate Early Retirement Percentage, if applicable, as provided for in
Section 3.5 of the Basic Pension Plan. (The Adjusted Basic Pension Plan Benefit minus the Basic Pension Plan benefit equals the "tophat" portion of the Plan's two-part benefit.)"

5. Section 3.4(c) shall be amended by deleting the first three sentences in their entirety and restating the fourth sentence to read as follows:

"At early retirement, the supplemental benefit is equal to a percentage of the plan benefit normally paid at age 65."

The remainder of Section 3.4(c) shall remain unchanged.
6. In all other respects, the Plan shall remain unchanged.

NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY

Dated:  October 1, 1999                              /s/ P.C. Ackerman
                                                    ------------------------
                                                    P.C. Ackerman
                                                    President


                                                                  COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF                        EXHIBIT 12
                                                                  EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
                                                                          UNAUDITED

                                                                  Fiscal Year Ended September 30
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                            1999               1998          1997          1996        1995
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

EARNINGS:

Income Before Interest Charges and Minority Interest
   in Foreign Subsidiaries (2)                           $202,512           $118,085      $169,783      $159,599    $128,061
Allowance for Borrowed Funds Used in Construction             303                110           346           205         195
Federal Income Tax                                         44,583             43,626        57,807        55,148      30,522
State Income Tax                                            6,215              6,635         7,067         7,266       4,905
Deferred Inc. Taxes - Net (3)                              14,030            (26,237)        3,800         3,907       8,452
Investment Tax Credit - Net                                  (729)              (663)         (665)         (665)       (672)
Rentals (1)                                                 4,281              4,672         5,328         5,640       5,422
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                         $271,195           $146,228      $243,466      $231,100    $176,885
                                                =============================================================================

FIXED CHARGES:

Interest & Amortization of Premium and
   Discount of Funded Debt                                $65,402            $53,154       $42,131       $40,872     $40,896
Interest on Commercial Paper and
   Short-Term Notes Payable                                17,319             13,605         8,808         7,872       6,745
Other Interest (2)                                          2,835             16,919         4,502         6,389       4,721
Rentals (1)                                                 4,281              4,672         5,328         5,640       5,422
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                          $89,837            $88,350       $60,769       $60,773     $57,784
                                                =============================================================================

RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES                           3.02               1.66          4.01          3.80        3.06

Notes:

(1) Rentals shown above represent the portion of all rentals (other than delay rentals) deemed representative of the interest factor.

(2) The twelve months ended September 30, 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996 and 1995 reflect the reclassification of $1,839, $1,716, $1,716, $1,716 and $1,716 representing the loss on reacquired debt amortized during each period, from Other Interest Charges to Operation Expense.

(3) Deferred Income Taxes - Net for fiscal 1998 excludes the cumulative effect of change in accounting.


Exploration and Production
If this discussion had taken place in March, six months into 1999, the tone and message would have been considerably different. Oil prices were excessively low at $9.03 per bbl and natural gas prices of $1.92 per Mcf were dropping significantly because of record storage volumes resulting mostly from a warmer than normal winter. This segment had only contributed about $.01 per share to the Company's earnings.
What a difference six months makes! By the end of 1999 oil prices were moving toward $25.00 per bbl and natural gas prices increased to approximately $2.80 per Mcf . This segment's earnings for 1999 of $7.1 million, or $.18 per share, contributed 6% of Company earnings, and we also finished the year with a stellar production record. Total revenue this year was $147.0 million which was 18% higher than 1998. Production increased 17% from 1998 levels to 61.3 Bcf equivalent. A total of 118 wells were drilled this year, and our team, aided by 3-D seismic technology achieved a 91% success rate. We replaced 187% of 1999 production with new reserves from our exploration program, and total reserves increased 7% in 1999 to 776 Bcf equivalent.
Performance improvements in our California operations were truly impressive in 1999. After completing our three acquisitions in 1998, initial operating costs were nearly $6.00 per bbl of oil. At the end of 1999, those costs were reduced to $4.07 per bbl . Production had also significantly improved, primarily due to a 95-well drilling program completed this year. At the end of 1999, daily oil production had increased 17% from initial production to 7,333 barrels per day.
In the Gulf Coast, our successful offshore exploration program continued. New discoveries at Vermilion 309, Vermilion 253, West Delta 78, High Island 365, and Galveston 225 contributed to the reserve replacement discussed above. The most significant of these was the announced discovery at Vermilion 253 where the first well had over 900 feet of oil and gas pay sands. Production platforms and facilities are being installed, and we anticipate production to begin in late Spring 2000.* Drilling will continue on both Vermilion 253 and 309 in 2000 with more production expected to be placed on line from these blocks.* Cost controls and an extremely efficient operation helped make us one of the lowest cost operators in the Appalachian region. The nearly 450,000 acres controlled by Seneca Resources Corporation (Seneca) in Pennsylvania and New York are a potential untapped opportunity.* However, the relatively low reserves per well and the long lives of the wells mean that we have to be convinced that gas prices would reach a sustainable $3.00 per Mcf before we will commence large scale development.*
Total production for Seneca for 2000 is expected to increase over 20% to 74.4 Bcf equivalent in a ratio of approximately 64% gas and 36% oil, and nearly 60% of this production is locked in through financial hedges.* Capital spending, exclusive of acquisitions, is anticipated to be $112.2 million with approximately 84% targeted for the Gulf Coast Region and the remainder for an additional 40 development well program which has begun in our West Coast operations.*
Although 2000 could be as volatile as 1999, we expect it to present many opportunities as consolidation, strategic selling and asset monetization continue in the exploration and production sector.* The management and employees of Seneca will concentrate on continuing our success in reducing production costs, enhancing reserve replacement and growing your Company through the drill bit and through acquisitions.* Seneca is prepared to take advantage of these opportunities.*

Timber
The Timber segment is an increasingly important source of earnings.* This year's earnings of $4.8 million, or $.12 per share, increased nearly 151% from 1998.
This past July we acquired approximately 36,300 acres of land, timber and minerals from PennzEnergy Company for approximately $47.0 million. This property is largely quality timber acreage located within the "cherry corridor" of Pennsylvania.
Presently, we are conducting a timber inventory, or "cruise," of all our holdings in order to better optimize the value of our timber assets. Many of our trees are nearing their economic maturity and detailed information is required to plan the most efficient realization of this value. We presently estimate that we own over 400 million board feet of hardwood timber, consisting mostly of cherry, maple and oak. Even after the cruise is completed and our plans are developed, it is likely that the maximum level of production will not be achieved for many years because of the sheer physical magnitude of carefully dealing with over 140,000 acres.* However, in the interim, we expect to sell certain noncore portions of our holdings in order to reduce debt.*

Pipeline and Storage
Currently the third largest segment in terms of net plant, this segment continued to be a strong contributor to Company earnings, second only to the Utility. Net income of $39.8 million, or $1.03 per share, provided nearly 35% of 1999 Company earnings.
In anticipation of the growing demand for natural gas in the East Coast markets, a portion of this year's capital budget was spent expanding the throughput capacity of our Ellisburg, Pennsylvania compressor station from 369 MMcf per day to over 431 MMcf per day. This additional capacity is designed to increase both pipeline throughput and storage customer access to Leidy Hub, a key link to the East Coast. We also anticipate expanding capacity incrementally in the Niagara Spur as demand increases.* Discussion at this Fall's annual meeting of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America centered on the increasing use of gas-powered combined-cycle electric generation plants and gas peaking units and the anticipated construction of new power plants, the vast majority of which will be gas-fired.* Some of the reasons for gas-fired electric generation include reduced environmental air quality issues from coal-fired generation and efficiencies from technological advances in combined-cycle turbines and other types of gas-fired units.* This anticipated movement towards gas-fired generation presents tremendous growth opportunities for gas pipeline companies.* Much of this new power plant construction is expected to be directed to, and constructed near, the East Coast markets.* The question then becomes, where will these power generators get the gas for these new plants? We expect that some of it will come from the Gulf Coast, but that supply is likely to mainly feed the West Coast, lower Rockies, and the Southeast.* Much of the gas is therefore expected to come from the hubs near Chicago which are fed by Canadian producers via the Northern Border Pipeline Expansion, completed in 1998, and the Alliance Pipeline, which is currently under construction.* With this influx of Canadian gas, Chicago should have pent up capacity, while markets on the East Coast are expected to have pent up demand.* Consequently, capacity needs to be made available to move gas from Chicago eastward.* Another pipeline project, Vector, has received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to build a pipeline from Chicago to Dawn, Ontario. Designed to transport 1 Bcf per day of gas, we understand the Vector Pipeline has approximately half of its capacity subscribed to Eastern Canadian markets.* We expect the remaining capacity from Vector should most logically come across the Niagara River and through our system.*
Of course, we are convinced that the best route for the Canadian gas is still through the Independence Pipeline. We are pursuing this $680 million project with our partners, affiliates of Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation (one of the Williams Companies) and ANR Pipeline Company (a subsidiary of The Coastal Corporation).* This pipeline, when constructed, should be the key link in a chain of pipelines from the Canadian Rockies to the East Coast.* In November 1999 the project received the FERC final Environmental Impact Statement which is a very positive step toward project certification. We are awaiting final certification of the project. We believe that by supplying over 900,000 Dth per day of gas to the East Coast markets, this pipeline will be instrumental in capitalizing on the anticipated movement by the power generation industry toward gas-fired generation.*
Your Company is, indeed, the "Gateway to the East" more so than it has ever been. We stand directly between the gas supplies heading from Western Canada to the East Coast markets, and we believe our pipeline and storage facilities are strategically located to take advantage of this growth opportunity.*

Utility
This segment's earnings of $56.9 million, or $1.47 per share, contributed the largest portion, approximately 49%, of the Company's net income in 1999. This is a remarkable achievement since our two year rate settlement in New York required an annual rate reduction of $7.2 million, and required us to set aside $7.2 million of 1999 revenues to fund future restructuring expenses incurred as New York State separates the sale of gas from transportation.
Our continuing emphasis on cost containment has been instrumental in helping us to achieve better than expected results thanks to the efforts of our employees. By embracing the message of change, they helped us to further reduce total operating and maintenance expenses below last year's figures. This accomplishment is all the more noteworthy in light of the increased expense caused by our early retirement initiatives.
During 1999, the local and national media made much of customer choice for utility customers. Electric choice initiatives in New York and Pennsylvania jumped into the spotlight as regulatory agencies launched public education programs and electric marketers began advertising campaigns for retail customers. The publicity suggests that there is a great deal of customer choice activity going on in the business, with customers switching suppliers and telemarketers pitching utility service and nontraditional products to an ever-growing pool of eligible utility customers. In fact, however, the reality is somewhat less exciting. While we have seen an increase in customer choice activity - currently over 70,000 of our more than 733,000 customers have switched to transportation service - we continue to manage the transition to competition as an evolutionary, considered process. Choice as an end unto itself is a dubious proposition, and we remain focused on building restructured services that preserve reliability and provide a framework for fair competition. These efforts have yielded a successful choice program that we expect will continue to produce benefits for the Utility, the Company and our customers as the industry's restructuring proceeds.*
In an environment of rapid change, we have maintained the Utility's steadfast dedication to superior customer service. For instance, new programs were established in New York and Pennsylvania to provide gas appliance repairs or replacement for some of our neediest customers. We continued to work with local social service agencies to bring the benefits of competition to thousands of public assistance customers who might otherwise be overlooked as a potential market. We organized a Transportation Services Department in order to better and more efficiently serve the needs of our transportation customers. We continued to enhance our field procedures to allow more customers to initiate or transfer service without having to provide access to Company personnel. Finally, our traditional service performance measures continued to improve or remain at historically high levels.
We have also scrutinized the Utility's practices and procedures in order to identify opportunities for technology improvement and efficiency gains. Currently, we are installing a new PeopleSoft(R) system that will greatly enhance our ability to retrieve and efficiently process financial and accounting information. Additionally, we are modifying our Customer Information System to allow for more flexibility in customer and marketer billing functions. In the field, technological advances have allowed our personnel to respond more effectively and efficiently to many situations, from environmental site monitoring to pipeline system repairs and maintenance. For example, by using a "vacuum" truck for line repairs, we significantly reduced the cost of gas line maintenance and site restoration costs. We are also using a "gas cam" which allows our crews to "see" through a tiny camera inserted into a pipe, thereby making corrosion and other line problems easier and less costly to isolate and repair.
Finally, we are exploring a number of value added services and products designed to increase revenues from our existing customer base. In the Utility's service territories, National Fuel is a name that customers have long trusted for reliable gas service and expert energy advice. Particularly during these times of rapid change, opportunities for the Utility to offer non-traditional products and services are at their greatest. As a result, we are looking at energy end-use technologies, including microturbines and distributed generation projects, retail billing services, pipeline insurance and appliance leasing, among other things. Indications are promising that customers would be strongly interested in these and other products and services offered by the Utility.*
In these changing times, we believe it is particularly important that we remain focused on the fundamentals. Thus, we will continue to emphasize our strengths: cost containment, superior customer service, and a managed transition to competition. At the same time, however, change presents new opportunities. We look forward to exploring those opportunities during the next year and as the business environment continues to evolve.

Energy Marketing
In what may be a unique record among gas company marketing affiliates, each year since its inception in 1991 National Fuel Resources, Inc. (NFR) has contributed positively to Company earnings. In 1999, net income of $2.1 million, or $.05 per share, provided a return on its equity of 16.8%. As you can see from the charts provided, over 75% of our customer growth is attributed to residential gas customers, but the dramatic increase in volumes was accomplished across-the-board with growth in all customer segments. NFR has a multi-state presence and continues to expand its markets in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. However, regulatory changes in New York have been most favorable, and, as a result, our most dynamic growth has taken place there.
NFR has strategically acquired upstream pipeline capacity and storage to assure reliable service to our customers at competitive prices.* Providing energy solutions for customers cannot be limited to natural gas and related value added services. We are also pursuing opportunities related to gas-fired generation which could position us for future retail electric opportunities.* While retail electric prospects are modest at the moment, we are confident that a fully competitive market will unfold over time and we will be well positioned for this opportunity.*

International
Net income of $2.3 million, or $.06 per share, is a gratifying result from this relatively new segment. These earnings were $1.0 million or 78% higher than 1998's earnings of $1.3 million. This year also marked the first full 12 months of sales and revenues from our investment in Prvni severozapadni teplarenska, a.s. (PSZT).
Capital expenditures of $27.6 million were used primarily for the construction of new boilers at our PSZT heating plant to comply with certain clean air standards mandated by the Czech Republic. Our net plant in the Czech Republic now stands at $203.5 million with total assets of $255.0 million.
The merger of Severoceske teplarny, a.s. (SCT) and PSZT is expected to occur in 2000, and should provide efficiency improvements and cost reductions.* Future growth could come from a joint venture or similar alliance, preferably with a U.S.-based electric company.* We believe their knowledge of electricity and our natural gas expertise will provide enhanced development opportunities.* We are comfortable with our base in Prague which allows us to look at numerous prospects within Eastern Europe. As you may know, projects here happen later rather than sooner; thus, patience and a long-term view are key considerations as we continue to evaluate potential energy projects.*

* This document contains "forward-looking statements" as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements, including those designated by a "*", should be read with the cautionary statements and important factors included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K at Item 7, under the heading "Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements."

APPENDIX TO EXHIBIT 13 - This appendix contains a narrative description of image and graphic information as contained in the business segment discussion included in the paper copy of the Company's combined Annual Report to Shareholders/Form 10-K.

Images 1 - 6 are contained in a section devoted to the Exploration & Production segment as follows:

1.) Image - Picture of James A. Beck, President, Seneca Resources Corporation. The following quote appears under the picture: "In the Gulf Coast, our successful offshore exploration program continued. The most significant of these was . . . Vermilion 253 where the first well had over 900 feet of oil and gas pay sands."

2.) Image - Picture of Seneca employees analyzing data, with the following caption: Geologists and geophysicists use computer technology to interpret three dimensional (3-D) seismic data in order to recommend prospective oil and gas drilling sites. Pictured here: Scott Gorham and Gerald Langille of Seneca's Houston office.

3.) Image - Picture of heavy oil pumping units with the following caption:
These pumping units are part of the heavy oil operation on Seneca's Cherokee property at the Midway-Sunset Field. In 1999, Seneca drilled 51 wells at this site, which is located in California's San Joaquin Basin.

4.) Image - Picture of Seneca employees reviewing 3-D seismic data with the following caption: Recommendations from analysis of 3-D seismic data are carefully reviewed and evaluated. Pictured here: Seneca Houston personnel Linda Holmberg and John McKnight.

5.) Graph - Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves

Bar graph showing oil and gas proved developed and undeveloped reserves (in billion cubic feet (Bcf) equivalent), at September 30, 1995 through 1999, as follows:

        1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
        ----      ----      ----      ----      ----

Oil    137.2     154.5     107.9     399.5     454.9

Gas    221.5     207.1     232.4     325.1     320.8
       -----     -----     -----     -----     -----

       358.7     361.6     340.3     724.6     775.7

6.) Graph - Oil and Gas Production

Bar graph showing oil and gas production (in billion cubic feet (Bcf) equivalent), for the years 1995 through 1999, as follows:

       1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
       ----      ----      ----      ----      ----

Oil     4.5      10.4      11.4      15.7      24.1

Gas    20.9      38.8      38.6      36.5      37.2
       ----      ----      ----      ----      ----

       25.4      49.2      50.0      52.2      61.3

Images 7 - 9 are contained in a section devoted to the Timber segment as follows:

7.) Image - Picture of Highland employee operating machinery in sawmill with the following caption: Gregory Ochs operates the edger at the Marienville, Pennsylvania sawmill. The four sawmills owned by the Timber segment sold approximately 21.1 million board feet of logs and lumber this year.

8.)     Image - Picture of timber harvesting with the following  caption:  Much
        of the  timber  harvested  is taken  from the  140,000  acres  owned by
        Seneca Resources.

9.)     Graph - Timber Production

Bar graph showing timber production in millions of board feet for the years 1995 through 1999, as follows:

1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
----      ----      ----      ----      ----

 6.6       6.4       9.8      14.6      21.1

Images 10 - 14 are contained in a section devoted to the Pipeline and Storage segment as follows:

10.) Image - Picture of Richard Hare, President, National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation. The following quote appears under the picture: "Your Company is, indeed, the "Gateway to the East" . . . We stand directly between the gas supplies heading from Western Canada to the East Coast markets . . ."

11.) Image - Picture of welding crew with the following caption: This year National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation replaced 14,000 feet of Line K, a major supply line which runs from Clarion, Pennsylvania to Buffalo, New York. Here, a welding crew works on a section of the new 20-inch steel pipe.

12.) Image - Map of northeast United States showing the proposed Independence Pipeline Project, with the following caption: Plans are in place to construct and operate the Independence Pipeline, a 370-mile interstate pipeline, of which we are 1/3 owner. This pipeline would transport about 900,000 Dth per day of natural gas from Defiance, Ohio to Leidy, Pennsylvania.

13.) Image - Picture of gas flare-ups with the following caption: Dramatic gas flare-ups at Summit Storage Field near Erie, Pennsylvania could be seen from quite a distance. This operation removes deposits that have accumulated in the wells and improves deliverability of natural gas out of the storage field.

14.) Image - Picture of Compressor at Ellisburg, Pennsylvania with the following caption: A $5.7 million investment was made in this 3,200 horsepower compressor at the Ellisburg, Pennsylvania Station, near the Leidy Hub. Put into service in March 1999, this new equipment increased capacity for both pipeline throughput and customer access to storage.

Images 15 - 23 are contained in a section devoted to the Utility segment as follows:

15.) Image - Picture of David F. Smith, President, National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation. The following quote appears under the picture: "While we have seen an increase in customer choice activity .
. . we remain focused on building restructured services that preserve reliability and provide a framework for fair competition."

16.) Image - Picture of plastic pipe with the following caption: Plastic pipe is now used more frequently by the Utility for mainline replacement projects. In addition to being lighter and more flexible than steel pipe, it is resistant to corrosion and lessens the time and costs associated with pipe fitting and welding.

17.) Image -Picture of Utility employees working on a construction site with the following caption: A new vacuum truck is now used throughout the Utility service territory. This equipment, often used in place of a backhoe, minimizes the size of construction sites thus reducing both restoration costs and related customer complaints. Pictured here: Jurel Hunt and Michael Siler of the Construction Department.

18.) Image - Picture of Utility employees working on gas service lines with the following caption: The Utility works with local businesses to support economic development. Over the summer, gas service lines were relocated to facilitate expansion of the Buffalo Bills' Ralph Wilson Fieldhouse in Orchard Park, New York. Pictured here: Orchard Park Service Center personnel Kevin McCarthy and Patrick McNerney.

19.) Graph - Utility Operation and Maintenance Expense

Bar graph showing the Utility segment's operation and maintenance expense (in millions of dollars) for 1995 through 1999, as follows:

1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
----      ----      ----      ----      ----

$194      $201      $187      $184      $182

20.) Image - Picture of Utility employees with the following caption:
Training and preliminary implementation has begun for the PeopleSoft(R) Financials system. This new accounting and financial system is intended to improve timeliness of reporting as well as to simplify access to information. Pictured here: Marjorie Minotti instructs employee implementation team members, from left, Mark Kraemer, Robert Schneggenburger, Susan Bender, Joseph Short and Brian Hirsch.

21.) Image: Picture of Utility employees monitoring ground water with the following caption: Utility employees closely monitor ground water levels following a two year long environmental clean-up recently completed at the Erie, Pennsylvania Service Center. Pictured here:
Tanya Alexander and Joseph Hartleb.


22.) Graph - New Service Commitments

Bar graph showing the Utility's percent of orders completed within 10 days, as follows:

1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
----      ----      ----      ----      ----

97.9%     99.1%     99.1%     99.8%     99.8%

23.) Graph - Non-Emergency Appointments

Bar graph showing the Utility's percent of appointments kept, as follows:

1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
----      ----      ----      ----      ----

96.8%     97.0%     97.8%     98.5%     98.8%

Images 24 - 27 are contained in a section devoted to the Energy Marketing segment as follows:

24.) Image - Picture of Robert J. Kreppel, President, National Fuel Resources, Inc. The following quote appears under the picture:
"Regulatory changes in New York have been most favorable, and, as a result, our most dynamic growth has taken place there."

25.) Image - Picture of homeowner with the following caption: Through deregulation, gas marketers such as National Fuel Resources can offer homeowners the opportunity to receive savings on their natural gas bills.

26.) Graph - NFR Number of Customers

Bar graph showing number of customers of National Fuel Resources for the years 1995 to 1999, as follows:

                 1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
                 ----      ----      ----      ----      ----

Electric            -         -         -       105       430

Residential Gas     -         -       370     3,872    13,300

Commercial/
Industrial Gas    246       672       937     1,499     3,750
                 ----       ---     -----     -----    ------

Total             246       672     1,307     5,476    17,480

27.) Graph - Natural Gas Marketing Volumes

Bar graph showing NFR's natural gas marketing volumes in Bcf for the years 1995 to 1999, as follows:

1995      1996      1997      1998      1999
----      ----      ----      ----      ----

18.8      20.2      21.0      26.5      34.5

Images 28 - 30 are contained in a section devoted to the International segment as follows:

28.) Image - Picture of Bruce H. Hale, Vice President, Horizon Energy Development, Inc. The following quote appears under the picture:
"Future growth could come from a joint venture or similar alliance, preferably with a U.S.-based electric company."*

29.) Image - Picture of turbine generators with the following caption: At our electric generation and district heating plant in Komorany, Czech Republic, steam produced in nine high pressure boilers is used to fuel these eight turbine generators before being delivered to the primary pipeline as an energy source for industrial and municipal heating customers.

30.) Image - Picture of PSZT employees with the following caption: PSZT employees dispatch electricity to the local distribution grid from this control center 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.


RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

Consultants-Petroleum and Natural Gas
3555 Timmons Lane - Suite 1105
Houston, Texas 77027
(713) 622-8955

CONSENT OF ENGINEER

We hereby consent to the reproduction of our audit report dated October 19, 1999, and to the reference to our estimate dated October 1, 1999, appearing in this National Fuel Gas Company Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We also consent to the incorporation by reference in (i) the Registration Statement (Form S-8, No. 2-94539), as amended, relating to the National Fuel Gas Company 1983 Incentive Stock Option Plan and the National Fuel Gas Company 1984 Stock Plan, and in the related Prospectuses, (ii) the Registration Statements (Form S-8, No. 333-03055 and No. 333-03057), as amended, relating to the National Fuel Gas Company Tax-Deferred Savings Plan and the National Fuel Gas Company Tax-Deferred Savings Plan for Non-Union Employees, respectively, and in the related Prospectuses, (iii) the Registration Statement (Form S-3, No. 333-03803), as amended, relating to $500,000,000 of National Fuel Gas Company debentures and/or medium term notes and, in the related Prospectus,
(iv) the Registration Statements (Form S-3, No. 33-51881 and Form S-3D, No. 333-51769), as amended, relating to the National Fuel Gas Company Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, and in the related Prospectuses, (v) the Registration Statement (Form S-3, No. 33-36868), as amended, relating to the National Fuel Gas Company Customer Stock Purchase Plan, and in the related Prospectus, (vi) the Registration Statement (Form S-8, No. 33-49693), as amended, relating to the National Fuel Gas Company 1993 Award and Option Plan, and in the related Prospectus, and (vii) the Registration Statement (Form S-8, No. 333-51595) relating to the National Fuel Gas Company 1997 Award and Option Plan, and in the related Prospectus, (viii) the Registration Statement (Form S-4, No. 333-74887), as amended, relating to the acquisition of the assets of Cunningham Natural Gas, and in the related Prospectus, (ix) the Registration Statement (Form S-3, No. 333-83497), as amended, relating to $625,000,000 of National Fuel Gas Company debentures and/or common stock, and in the related Prospectus, (x) the Registration Statement (Form S-3, No. 333-85711) relating to National Fuel Gas Company Direct Stock Purchase and Dividend Reinvestment Plan, and in the related Prospectus, of the reproduction of our report dated October 19, 1999, appearing in this National Fuel Gas Company Annual Report on Form 10-K.

RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

                           /s/ Allen C. Barron, P. E.

                           Allen C. Barron, P.E.
                           Vice President

Houston, Texas
October 28, 1999


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-85711), Form S-3 (No. 333-83497), Form S-3 (No. 33-51881), Form S-3 (No. 33-36868), Form S-3 (No. 333-03803), Form S-3 (No. 333-51769), Form S-8 (No. 2-94539), Form S-8 (No. 33-49693), Form S-8 (No. 333-03057), Form S-8 (No. 333-03055), Form S-8 (No. 333-51595), and Form S-4 (No. 333-74887) of National Fuel Gas Company of our report dated October 25, 1999, relating to the financial statements and financial statement schedules, which appears in this Form 10-K.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Buffalo, New York
December 21, 1999


ARTICLE UT
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY'S CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
MULTIPLIER: 1,000


PERIOD TYPE 12 MOS
FISCAL YEAR END SEP 30 1999
PERIOD START OCT 01 1998
PERIOD END SEP 30 1999
BOOK VALUE PER BOOK
TOTAL NET UTILITY PLANT 2,353,894
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVEST 0
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 257,289
TOTAL DEFERRED CHARGES 14,266
OTHER ASSETS 217,137
TOTAL ASSETS 2,842,586
COMMON 38,837
CAPITAL SURPLUS PAID IN 431,952
RETAINED EARNINGS 472,517
TOTAL COMMON STOCKHOLDERS EQ 939,293
PREFERRED MANDATORY 0
PREFERRED 0
LONG TERM DEBT NET 822,743
SHORT TERM NOTES 245,995
LONG TERM NOTES PAYABLE 0
COMMERCIAL PAPER OBLIGATIONS 147,500
LONG TERM DEBT CURRENT PORT 0
PREFERRED STOCK CURRENT 0
CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS 0
LEASES CURRENT 0
OTHER ITEMS CAPITAL AND LIAB 687,055
TOT CAPITALIZATION AND LIAB 2,842,586
GROSS OPERATING REVENUE 1,263,274
INCOME TAX EXPENSE 64,829
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES 1,006,437
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 1,071,266
OPERATING INCOME LOSS 192,008
OTHER INCOME NET 12,343
INCOME BEFORE INTEREST EXPEN 204,351
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE 87,698
NET INCOME 115,037
PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS 0
EARNINGS AVAILABLE FOR COMM 115,037
COMMON STOCK DIVIDENDS 70,632
TOTAL INTEREST ON BONDS 54,501
CASH FLOW OPERATIONS 271,890
EPS BASIC 2.98
EPS DILUTED 2.95

ARTICLE UT
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM NATIONAL FUEL GAS COMPANY'S CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
RESTATED:
MULTIPLIER: 1,000


PERIOD TYPE 12 MOS
FISCAL YEAR END SEP 30 1998
PERIOD START OCT 01 1997
PERIOD END SEP 30 1998
BOOK VALUE PER BOOK
TOTAL NET UTILITY PLANT 2,248,137
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVEST 0
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 210,517
TOTAL DEFERRED CHARGES 8,619
OTHER ASSETS 217,186
TOTAL ASSETS 2,684,459
COMMON 38,469
CAPITAL SURPLUS PAID IN 416,239
RETAINED EARNINGS 428,112
TOTAL COMMON STOCKHOLDERS EQ 890,085
PREFERRED MANDATORY 0
PREFERRED 0
LONG TERM DEBT NET 693,021
SHORT TERM NOTES 196,300
LONG TERM NOTES PAYABLE 0
COMMERCIAL PAPER OBLIGATIONS 130,000
LONG TERM DEBT CURRENT PORT 0
PREFERRED STOCK CURRENT 0
CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS 0
LEASES CURRENT 0
OTHER ITEMS CAPITAL AND LIAB 775,053
TOT CAPITALIZATION AND LIAB 2,684,459
GROSS OPERATING REVENUE 1,248,000
INCOME TAX EXPENSE 24,024
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES 1,140,045
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 1,164,069
OPERATING INCOME LOSS 83,931
OTHER INCOME NET 35,870
INCOME BEFORE INTEREST EXPEN 119,801
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE 85,284
NET INCOME 23,188
PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS 0
EARNINGS AVAILABLE FOR COMM 23,188
COMMON STOCK DIVIDENDS 67,671
TOTAL INTEREST ON BONDS 47,767
CASH FLOW OPERATIONS 252,978
EPS BASIC 0.61
EPS DILUTED 0.60

RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

CONSULTANTS-PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS
3555 TIMMONS LANE-SUITE 1105
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77027
(713) 622-8955

October 19, 1999

Seneca Resources Corporation
1201 Louisiana, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77002

Attention: Mr. Don A. Brown
Vice President

Re: Oil, Condensate and Natural Gas Reserves, Seneca Resources Corporation As of October 1, 1999

Gentlemen:

At your request, the firm of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. has audited an evaluation of the proved oil, condensate and natural gas reserves on leaseholds in which Seneca Resources Corporation has certain interests. This report presents a summary of the Proved Developed (producing and non-producing) and Proved Undeveloped reserves anticipated to be produced from Seneca Resources' interest.

Liquid volumes are expressed in thousands of barrels (MBbls) of stock tank oil. Gas volumes are expressed in millions of standard cubic feet (MMSCF) at the official temperature and pressure bases of the areas wherein the gas reserves are located.

The summarized results of the reserve audit are as follows:


RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

Seneca Resources Corp.
Mr. Don A. Brown
October 19, 1999

Page 2
                            Estimated Proved Reserves
                       Net to Seneca Resources Corporation
                              As of October 1, 1999


                                      Proved Reserves
                        --------------------------------------------

                              Developed
                         -----------------------
Remaining Reserves       Producing  Non-Producing  Undeveloped  Total


East Coast Division:
Oil/Condensate, MBbls                                     77                   0                    0                  77
Gas, MMSCF                                            78,910                 178                    0              79,088


Gulf Coast Division:
Oil/Condensate, MBbls                                  2,527               1,805                2,903               7,235
Gas, MMSCF                                            40,388              61,890               19,294             121,572


West Coast Division:
Oil/Condensate, MBbls                                 50,046               2,879               15,583              68,508
Gas, MMSCF                                            35,397               6,166               78,568             120,131


TOTAL:
Oil/Condensate, MBbls                                 52,650               4,684               18,486              75,820
Gas, MMSCF                                           154,695              68,234               97,862             320,791

DISCUSSION:

The scope of this study was to audit the proved reserves attributable to the interests of Seneca Resources Corporation. Reserve estimates were prepared by Seneca using acceptable evaluation principals for each source. The quantities presented herein are estimated reserves of oil, condensate and natural gas that geologic and engineering data demonstrate can be recovered from known reservoirs under existing economic conditions with reasonable certainty.

Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. has audited the reserve estimates, the data incorporated into preparing the estimates and the methodology used to evaluate the reserves. In each of Seneca's producing divisions all 1999 additions and those properties of significant value were reviewed by Ralph E. Davis. Reserve estimates of current producing zones, productive zones behind pipe and undrilled well locations were reviewed in detail. Certain changes to either


RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

Seneca Resources Corp.
Mr. Don A. Brown
October 19, 1999

Page 3

individual reserve estimates or the categorization of reserves were suggested by Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. and accepted by Seneca Resources. It is our opinion that the reserves presented herein meet all the criteria of Proved Reserves.

Neither Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. nor any of its employees have any interest in Seneca Resources Corporation or the properties reported herein. The employment and compensation to make this study are not contingent on our estimate of reserves.

We appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you in this matter, and will be glad to address any questions or inquiries you may have.

Very truly yours,

RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

/s/ Allen C. Barron

Allen C. Barron, P. E.
Vice President


RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.

CLASSIFICATION OF RESERVES

Proved Oil and Gas Reserves
Proved oil and gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.

1. Reservoirs are considered proved if economic producibility is supported by either actual production or conclusive formation test. The area of a reservoir considered proved includes (A) that portion delineated by drilling and defined by gas-oil and/or oil-water contacts, if any; and (B) the immediately adjoining portions not yet drilled, but which can be reasonably judged as economically productive on the basis of available geological and engineering data. In the absence of information on fluid contacts, the lowest known structural occurrence of hydrocarbons controls the lower proved limit of the reservoir.

2. Reserves which can be produced economically through application of improved recovery techniques (such as fluid injection) are included in the "proved" classification when successful testing by a pilot project, or the operation of an installed program in the reservoir, provides support for the engineering analysis on which the project or program was based.

3. Estimates of proved reserves do not include the following: (A) oil that may become available from known reservoirs but is classified separately as "indicated additional reserves"; (B) crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, the recovery of which is subject to reasonable doubt because of uncertainty as to geology, reservoir characteristics, or economic factors; (C) crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, that may occur in undrilled prospects; and (D) crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, that may be recovered from oil shales, coal, gilsonite and other such sources.

Proved Developed Reserves
Proved developed oil and gas reserves are reserves that can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods. Additional oil and gas expected to be obtained through the application of fluid injection or other improved recovery techniques for supplementing the natural forces and mechanisms of primary recovery should be included as "proved developed reserves" only after testing by a pilot project or after the operation of an installed program has confirmed through production response that increased recovery will be achieved.

Proved Undeveloped Reserves
Proved undeveloped oil and gas reserves are reserves that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion. Reserves on undrilled acreage shall be limited to those drilling units offsetting productive units that are reasonably certain of production when drilled. Proved reserves for other undrilled units can be claimed only where it can be demonstrated with certainty that there is continuity of production from the existing productive formation.