Exhibit 15.1

   July 20, 1999



   McMoRan Exploration Co.
   1615 Poydras St.
   New Orleans, LA 70112

   Gentlemen:

   We are aware that McMoRan Exploration Co. has incorporated  by
   reference  in  its  Registration Statements  (File  Nos.  333-
   61171,  333-67485, 333-67963 and 001-07791  and McMoRan Oil  &
   Gas  Co.'s Registration  Statements  File Nos.  33-82866,  33-
   80369,  33-80371, 333-44561 and 333-52469)  its Form 10-Q  for
   the  quarter ended June 30,  1999, which includes our  report
   dated July 20, 1999 covering the unaudited interim  financial
   information  contained therein.  Pursuant  to Regulation C  of
   the  Securities Act  of 1933  (the Act),  this report  is  not
   considered a  part of the registration statements prepared  or
   certified  by our firm  or a report  prepared or certified  by
   our firm within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act.

   Very truly yours,

   /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP