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                                                                EXHIBIT 99.23(a)


               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Independent 
Auditors" and to the use of our reports dated March 15, 1999 accompanying the 
consolidated financial statements of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company 
of America and financial statement schedules and to the use of our report dated 
February 4, 1999 accompanying the financial statements of Separate Account Two 
of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company of America in Post-Effective  
Amendment No. 9 to the Registration Statement No. 33-57020 on Form S-1 and 
related prospectus of Separate Account Two of The Manufacturers Life Insurance 
Company of America.



Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
April 19, 1999