EXHIBIT 23.1




                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan of E. W. Blanch Holdings,  Inc.
of our report dated January 15, 1998 with respect to the consolidated  financial
statements  of E. W. Blanch  Holdings,  Inc.  incorporated  by  reference in its
Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended  December 31, 1997,  filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.



                                         /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP



Dallas, Texas
November 9, 1998