Exhibit 23.2


               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8)  pertaining to the Universal  Corporation  1997 Executive Stock Plan of our
report  dated  August  7,  1997,  with  respect  to the  consolidated  financial
statements  of Universal  Corporation  included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K)
for the year  ended  June 30,  1997,  filed  with the  Securities  and  Exchange
Commission.



                                                           /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Richmond, Virginia
October 28, 1997