1


                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.51


                               SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

This agreement is made between TransTexas Gas Corporation and Simon Ward.

1.   The employment agreement between Simon Ward and TransTexas Gas Corporation
     has expired, and Simon Ward is now an at-will employee of TransTexas Gas
     Corporation.

2.   In the event of a termination for cause, salary shall cease on the
     effective date of termination. Salary and benefits earned to the date of
     termination will be paid in full. "Cause" shall mean:

     a.   Willful neglect or mismanagement by Simon Ward of his reasonable
          duties, responsibilities, and obligations which results in significant
          material damage to the property or interest of TransTexas Gas
          Corporation; or

     b.   Material breach of this agreement of the policies set forth in the
          Employee Handbook by Simon Ward, or

     c.   Inability of Simon Ward to perform his duties, responsibilities and
          obligations by reason of illness, accident or other incapacity for a
          continuous period of six months.

3.   Termination is without cause unless TransTexas Gas Corporation details the
     cause for termination in writing, meeting the definition of paragraph 2, at
     the time of termination. TransTexas Gas Corporation may terminate Simon
     Ward's employment without cause by giving Simon Ward written notice of
     termination. However, in the event that TransTexas Gas Corporation
     terminates Simon Ward other than for cause, TransTexas Gas Corporation
     shall pay Simon Ward his salary for twelve months past the termination of
     employment.

4.   This agreement may not be assigned without the prior written approval of
     the other party.

5.   Any disputes concerning or arising out of interpretation or application of
     this agreement shall be determined by final and binding arbitration under
     and in accordance with the rules and procedures of the American
     Arbitration's Association provided that the dispute is submitted to
     arbitration by written demand therefor delivered to and received by the
     other party within sixty days after occurrence of the event giving rise to
     the dispute.

6.   If there is a conflict between TransTexas Gas Corporation personnel
     policies and this agreement, this agreement shall prevail.


Date:                                  Date:
     ------------------------------         ------------------------------

TransTexas Gas Corporation
                                       -----------------------------------
                                       Simon Ward

By:
   --------------------------------
Gerald Barkley, Personnel Manager