EXHIBIT 23.1

                    CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


     As independent public  accountants,  we hereby consent to the incorporation
of our report dated  November 23, 1998,  incorporated  by reference in this 
Form 10-K, into the Company's  previously filed Registration  Statement No. 
33-52065 on Form S-8.


                                            /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
                                                ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP


Houston, Texas
December 18, 1998