EXHIBIT 24 (i)


               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the
use of our report dated January 26, 1996, with respect to the consolidated
financial statements of Hampshire Funding, Inc and Subsidiary for the year ended
December 31, 1995, included in the Registration Statement (Form S-1/A) and
related Prospectus of Hampshire Funding, Inc. and Subsidiary.


                                              ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Boston, Massachusetts
May 9, 1996