Exhibit 23.3

           CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
           ---------------------------------------------------------

       We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration
  Statement on Form S-3 of our reports dated March 13, 1997, March 14, 1997, and
  April 8, 1997, that were utilized in aggregate as a basis for United Meridian
  Corporation's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996, and to all
  references to our Firm included in this Registration Statement.

                                 NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.



                                 By: /s/ DANNY D. SIMMONS
                                     --------------------------------
                                      Danny D. Simmons
                                      Senior Vice President

  Houston, Texas
  May 27, 1997