LA QUINTA INNS INC
10-K, 1997-02-28
HOTELS & MOTELS
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                          SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                               Washington, D.C.  20549

                               -----------------------

                                      FORM 10-K

(Mark One)
   /X/           ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE   
                    SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)      

                     FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996        
                                                                        
                                            OR                          
                                                                        
   / /         TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE 
                  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)     

                  For the transition period from ___________________    

                                Commission File No. 1-7790              

                                   LA QUINTA INNS, INC.                 
                 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 


                TEXAS                            74-1724417
      (State of Incorporation)    (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

                      WESTON CENTRE                       78299-2636 
                   112 EAST PECAN STREET                  (Zip Code) 
                      P.O. BOX 2636                            
                    SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS                         
          (Address of principal executive office)              

         Registrant's telephone number, including area code:   (210) 302-6000
             Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

      Title of Each Class       Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
      -------------------       -----------------------------------------
         Common Stock                 New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
       ($.10 par value)

       SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:  NONE

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports 
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act of 1934 
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the 
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to 
such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

                  YES  X                   NO            
                      ---                     ---

      Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to 
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be 
contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or 
information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 
10-K or any amendments to this Form 10-K.   /X/

      The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates 
of registrant as of January 31, 1997 was approximately $1,375,535,000.  As of 
January 31, 1997, there were 77,577,017 shares of registrant's Common Stock 
issued and outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:  Portions of the following document are 
incorporated by reference into the designated parts of this Form 10-K:  
definitive Proxy Statement, dated on or about April 15, 1997 relating to 
Registrant's 1997 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (in Part III), which 
Registrant intends to file not later than 120 days after the end of the 
fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

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                                   FORM 10-K INDEX
                                           
                                        PART I
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
Item 1.   Business.........................................................   3

Item 2.   Properties.......................................................  12

Item 3.   Legal Proceedings................................................  14

Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders..............  14

                                        PART II                              

Item 5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder      
          Matters..........................................................  15

Item 6.   Selected Financial Data..........................................  16

Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition        
          and Results of Operations........................................  18

Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data......................  25

Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting        
          and Financial Disclosure.........................................  48

                                       PART III                              

Item 10.  Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant...............  48

Item 11.  Executive Compensation...........................................  49

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management...  49

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions...................  49

                                        PART IV                              

Item 14.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K.  49

Signatures.................................................................  52

      This Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996, 
at the time of filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, modifies 
and supersedes all prior documents filed pursuant to Sections 13, 14 and 
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for purposes of any offers or 
sales of any securities after the date of such filing pursuant to any 
registration statement or prospectus filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 
1933 which incorporates by reference this Annual Report.

                                       2

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                                         PART I

ITEM 1.   BUSINESS

    La Quinta Inns, Inc. ("La Quinta" or the "Company") is the second largest 
owner/operator of hotels in the United States. La Quinta operates primarily 
in the mid-priced segment of the lodging industry. La Quinta achieved an 
occupancy percentage of 68.9% and an average daily room rate ("ADR") of 
$53.83 for the year ended December 31, 1996.  The Company has inns located in 
29 states, concentrated in the Western and Southern United States.  At 
December 31, 1996, La Quinta owned a 100% interest in 245 of its inns and a 
50% or greater interest in an additional three inns, totaling approximately 
32,000 rooms. La Quinta's business strategy is to continue to expand its 
successful core business as an owner/operator in the mid-priced segment of 
the lodging industry.
                                           
    The Company was founded in San Antonio, Texas in 1968.  La Quinta was 
originally incorporated and became a publicly traded entity in 1972 and is 
incorporated under the laws of the State of Texas.  The principal executive 
offices are located at Weston Centre, 112 East Pecan Street, P.O. Box 2636,  
San Antonio, Texas  78299-2636, telephone (210) 302-6000.
                                           
PRODUCT
                                           
    La Quinta inns appeal to guests who desire high-quality rooms, convenient 
locations and attractive prices, but who do not require banquet and 
convention facilities, in-house restaurants, cocktail lounges or room 
service.  By eliminating the costs of these management-intensive facilities 
and services, La Quinta believes it offers its customers exceptional value by 
providing rooms that are comparable in quality to full-service hotels at 
lower prices.
                                           
    The typical La Quinta inn contains approximately 130 spacious, quiet 
and comfortably furnished guest rooms averaging 300 square feet in size. 
Guests at a La Quinta inn are offered a wide range of amenities and 
services, such as its complimentary First Light-TM- breakfast program 
which includes cereal and fresh fruit, free unlimited local telephone 
calls, Airborne Express Service, a swimming pool, same-day laundry and 
dry cleaning, fax services, 24-hour front desk message service and free 
parking.  Amenities added in connection with the Company's Gold 
Medal-TM- rooms program include new 25 inch remote control televisions 
with greatly expanded free television channel choices, movies-on-demand, 
interactive video games from Nintendo-Registered Trademark- and dataport 
telephones for computer connections.  La Quinta guests typically have 
convenient access to food service at adjacent free-standing restaurants, 
including national chains such as Cracker Barrel, International House of 
Pancakes, Denny's and Perkins.  La Quinta has an ownership interest in 
123 of these adjacent buildings, which are leased to restaurant 
operators.
                                           
    La Quinta's strategy is to continue its growth as a high-quality provider 
in the mid-priced segment of the hotel industry, focusing on enhancing 
revenues, cash flow and profitability. Specifically, the Company's strategy 
centers upon:
                                           
         CONTINUED FOCUS ON MID-PRICED SEGMENT - Hotels in this price 
         category provide cost-conscious business travelers with 
         high-quality rooms and convenient locations at a moderate price.  
         Because the Company competes primarily in the mid-priced segment, 
         management's attention is totally focused on meeting the needs of 
         La Quinta's target customers.

         LA QUINTA OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF INNS - In contrast to many of 
         its competitors, La Quinta manages and has ownership interests in 
         all of its inns.  At December 31, 1996, the Company owned 100% of 
         245 inns and 50% or more of an additional three inns.  As a result, 
         the Company believes it is able to achieve a higher level of 
         consistency in both product quality and service than its 
         competition.  In addition, La Quinta's position as one of the few 
         owner-operated chains enables La Quinta to offer new services, 
         direct expansion, establish pricing strategy and to make other 
         marketing decisions on a system-wide or local basis as conditions 
         dictate, without 

                                      3
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         consulting third-party owners, management companies or franchisees 
         as required of most other lodging chains.  The Company's management 
         of the inns also enables it to control costs and allocate resources 
         effectively to provide excellent value to the consumer.
         
         NEW CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM - The Company's growth plan focuses on the 
         construction of new inns in strong economic and travel markets.  
         During 1996, La Quinta opened eleven new Inn & Suites hotels and 
         expects to open a total of 36 by the end of 1997, a rate of 
         approximately one new opening every two weeks.  The new Inn & 
         Suites offer rooms designed to accommodate the needs of the guest 
         irrespective of the purpose of the trip.  The standard two-bedded 
         room accommodates most short business trips or family travel.  The 
         King Plus-Registered Trademark- Extra rooms feature a king size 
         bed, refrigerator and microwave which may be desirable for longer 
         stays.  The Inn & Suites also offer a select number of deluxe 
         two-room suites with separate sitting and sleeping areas, double 
         vanities, a sleeper sofa, and two closets, all of which are in 
         addition to the amenities provided in the King Plus Extra rooms.
         
         GOLD MEDAL ROOMS PROGRAM - During 1995, the Company launched its Gold 
         Medal rooms program designed to strengthen the Company's 
         ability to gain additional market share and pricing advantage 
         relative to its competitors.  The program, which is expected to be 
         substantially complete by April 1997, is intended to improve the 
         quality, functionality and value of the guest rooms by enhancing 
         the decor package, including fresh, new colors, rich wood 
         furniture, contemporary bathrooms, built-in closets, oversized 
         desks, 25 inch televisions and new draperies and bedspreads.  
         Service enhancements include movies-on-demand, interactive video 
         games from Nintendo, dataport telephones for computer connections 
         and greatly expanded free television channel choices.  At January 
         31, 1997, over 185 inns had either been completed or were 
         undergoing construction related to this program.
         
         IMAGE ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM - In 1994, La Quinta completed a 
         comprehensive chainwide image enhancement program which gave the 
         inns a new, fresh, crisp appearance while preserving their unique 
         character.  The program featured new signage displaying a new logo 
         as well as exterior and lobby upgrades including brighter colors, 
         more extensive lighting, additional landscaping, enhanced guest 
         entry and a full lobby renovation with contemporary furnishings and 
         seating area for the complimentary First Light breakfast program.
                                           
COMPETITION
                                           
    Each La Quinta inn competes in its market area with numerous full service 
lodging brands, especially in the mid-priced segment, and with numerous other 
hotels, motels and other lodging establishments. Chains such as Hampton Inns, 
Fairfield Inns and Drury Inns are direct competitors of La Quinta.  Other 
competitors include Holiday Inns, Ramada Inns, Red Roof Inns and Comfort 
Inns.  There is no single competitor or group of competitors of La Quinta 
that is dominant in the lodging industry.  Competitive factors in the 
industry include reasonableness of room rates, quality of accommodations, 
degree of service and convenience of locations.
                                           
    The lodging industry in general, including La Quinta, may be adversely 
affected by national and regional economic conditions and government 
regulations.  The demand for accommodations at a particular inn may be 
adversely affected by many factors including changes in travel and weather 
patterns, local and regional economic conditions and the degree of 
competition with other lodging establishments in the area.
                                           
STRUCTURE AND OWNERSHIP
                                           
    The Company is a combined entity comprised of La Quinta Inns, Inc., which 
owned and operated 245 inns through wholly-owned subsidiaries and 
partnerships and three inns through combined unincorporated partnerships and 
joint ventures, at December 31, 1996.

                                           4
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    The Board of Directors of the Company authorized three-for-two stock 
splits effected in the form of stock dividends effective in July 1996, 
October 1994 and March 1994.  References to the Company's common stock prior 
to the July 1996 split are described herein as "pre-split" and references to 
the Company's common stock after the July 1996 split are described herein as 
"post-split".
                                           
    During 1996, the Company purchased the limited partners' interests in 
four of its combined unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures, each 
owning one inn.  At December 31, 1996, the Company had three remaining 
unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures, which each owned one inn.
                                           
    In 1995, the Company acquired all of AEW Partners, L.P. ("AEW") limited 
partner's interest in La Quinta Development Partners, L.P. ("LQDP"), which 
owned 47 inns.  The acquisition was effected through the issuance of common 
stock and cash as described below.
                                           
    On June 15, 1995, AEW notified the Company that it would exercise, 
subject to certain conditions, its option to convert two-thirds of its 
ownership interest in LQDP into 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of the 
Company's Common Stock.  AEW also agreed to sell the remaining one-third 
of its ownership interest in LQDP to the Company for a negotiated price 
of $48.2 million in cash (collectively, the "AEW Transaction").  The AEW 
Transaction was consummated on July 3, 1995.  Upon conversion of the 
partnership interest into La Quinta Common Stock, the Company issued 
5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of the Company's Common Stock having a fair 
market value of $142.8 million based on the July 3, 1995 New York Stock 
Exchange closing price.  The conversion was accounted for by increasing 
shareholders' equity by the $46.4 million value of the option and 
recording a $46.4 million non-cash adjustment entitled Conversion of 
Partner's Interest into Common Stock below net earnings in the Statement 
of Operations. There was no effect to shareholders' equity as a result 
of this accounting treatment.  The sale to La Quinta of AEW's remaining 
one-third interest in LQDP was accounted for as an acquisition of a 
minority interest and purchase accounting was applied.
                                           
    On January 24, 1994, the Company concluded the acquisition of La 
Quinta Motor Inns Limited Partnership ("LQP"), which owned 31 La Quinta 
inns that were managed by the Company.  The operations of LQP were 
accounted for under the equity method until December 1, 1993, and have 
been included in the combined financial statements of the Company 
thereafter.  In July 1994, the Company purchased nine La Quinta inns 
previously held in two unincorporated joint ventures with CIGNA 
Investments, Inc. (the "CIGNA partnerships") in which the Company held a 
1% interest and also managed.  Also, during the second quarter of 1994, 
the Company purchased the limited partners' interest in one of the 
Company's combined unincorporated joint ventures which owned one inn.  
The aggregate purchase price of these transactions was $53,255,000 of 
which a portion was financed through the Company's credit facilities.
                                           
    The following table describes the composition of inns in the La Quinta 
chain at:
                                           
                            December 31, 1996             December 31, 1995
                        --------------------------  ---------------------------
                                        La Quinta                   La Quinta
                                        Equivalent                  Equivalent
                        Inns    Rooms    Rooms (1)  Inns     Rooms   Rooms (1)
                        ----    -----    ---------  ----     -----   ---------
Owned 100% (2).........  245    31,720    31,720     230     29,522    29,522
Owned 50-67%...........    3       376       203       7        836       467
                         ---    ------    ------     ---     ------    ------
Total Company owned....  248    32,096    31,923     237     30,358    29,989
                         ---    ------    ------     ---     ------    ------
                         ---    ------    ------     ---     ------    ------

(1) Represents the Company's proportionate ownership interest in system rooms.

(2) At December 31, 1995, includes two inns acquired in 1995 that were
    closed for conversion to the La Quinta-Registered Trademark- brand
    and re-opened during 1996.
                                           
    UNINCORPORATED PARTNERSHIPS AND JOINT VENTURES - Prior to 1993, La 
Quinta financed its development, in part, through unincorporated 
partnerships and joint ventures with large insurance companies or 
financial institutions.  Under the terms of the unincorporated 
partnership and joint venture agreements, available cash flow 

                                       5
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was generally used to pay debt and provide for capital improvements, with 
remaining cash flow being distributed to the partners in accordance with 
their respective ownership interests.  Since 1993, the Company has purchased 
the interests in 22 unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures, including 
LQDP and the CIGNA partnerships.  In addition, the Company successfully 
completed the acquisition of LQP in January 1994.  At December 31, 1996, the 
Company had ownership interests between 50% and 60% in three unincorporated 
partnerships and joint ventures.

OPERATIONS
                                           
    Management of the La Quinta chain is coordinated from the Company's 
headquarters in San Antonio, Texas.  Centralized corporate services and 
functions include marketing, financing, accounting and reporting, purchasing, 
quality control, development, legal, reservations and training.
                                           
    Inn operations are currently organized into Eastern, Western and Central 
divisions with each division headed by a Divisional Vice President.  Regional 
Managers report to the Divisional Vice Presidents and are each responsible 
for approximately twelve inns.  Regional Managers are responsible for the 
service, cleanliness and profitability of the inns in their regions.
                                           
    Inn managers receive inn management training which includes an emphasis 
on service, cleanliness, cost controls, sales and basic repair skills.  
Because La Quinta's professionally trained managers are substantially 
relieved of responsibility for food service, they are able to devote their 
attention to assuring friendly guest service and quality facilities, 
consistent with chain-wide standards.  On a typical day shift, each inn 
manager will supervise one housekeeping supervisor, eight room attendants, 
two laundry workers, two general maintenance persons and three front desk 
service representatives.
                                           
    At January 31, 1997, La Quinta employed approximately 6,800 persons, of 
whom approximately 90% were compensated on an hourly basis.  Approximately 
360 individuals were employed at the corporate headquarters and 6,440 were 
employed directly in inn operations.  The Company's employees are not 
currently represented by labor unions.  Management believes its ongoing labor 
relations are good.
                                           
CUSTOMER BASE AND MARKETING
                                           
    La Quinta's combination of consistent, high-quality accommodations and 
good value is attractive to business customers, who account for more than 60% 
of rooms rented.  These core customers typically visit a given area several 
times a year, and include salespersons covering a specific territory, 
government and military personnel and technicians.  The Company also targets 
both vacation travelers and senior citizens.  For the convenience of these 
targeted customer groups, inns are generally located near suburban office 
parks, major traffic arteries or destination areas such as airports and 
convention centers.
                                           
    La Quinta has developed a strong following among its customers.  An 
external industry survey shows La Quinta's heavy users are the most loyal of 
the mid-priced segment.  The Company focuses a number of its marketing 
programs on maintaining a high number of repeat customers.  For example, La 
Quinta promotes a "Returns-Registered Trademark- Club" offering members 
preferred status and rates at La Quinta inns, along with rewards for frequent 
stays.  Over 10% of Returns Club members spend 30 nights or more per year in 
a La Quinta inn.  The Returns Club had approximately 270,000 members as of 
December 31, 1996.
                                           
    The Company focuses on reaching its target markets by utilizing 
advertising, direct sales, repeat traveler incentive programs and other 
marketing programs targeted at specific customer segments.  The Company 
advertises through television, radio and print advertisements which focus on 
quality and value.  The Company utilizes the same campaign concept throughout 
the country with minor modifications made to address regional differences.  
The Company also utilizes billboard advertisements along major highways which 
announce an upcoming La Quinta inn.

                                       6
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    The Company markets directly to companies and other organizations through 
its direct sales force of 56 sales representatives and managers.  This sales 
force calls on companies which have a significant number of individuals 
traveling in the regions in which La Quinta operates and which are capable of 
producing a high volume of room nights.
                                           
    The Company provides a central reservation system, "teLQuik-Registered 
Trademark-," which currently accounts for advance reservations for 
approximately 30% of room nights.  The teLQuik system allows customers to 
make reservations by dialing 1-800-531-5900 toll free, or from reservations 
phones placed in all La Quinta inns. These phones enable guests to make their 
next night's reservation from their previous night's La Quinta inn. Effective 
March 1997, guests will also be able to access the teLQuik system by dialing 
1-800-NUROOMS (1-800-687-6667).  In addition, approximately 45% of room 
nights reflect advance reservations made directly with individual inns and 
forwarded to the central reservation system.  In total, advance reservations 
account for approximately 75% of room nights.  In May 1996, La Quinta opened 
a second reservation center to support the growth of the chain and to provide 
uninterrupted service in times of peak demand.  Both reservation centers 
provide state-of-the-art technology in processing reservations as one virtual 
center.  La Quinta, through its national sales managers, markets its 
reservation services to travel agents and corporate travel planners who may 
access teLQuik through five major airline reservation systems.
                                           
    Information regarding inn locations, services and amenities, as well as 
reservation capabilities and a virtual reality tour of the new Gold Medal 
rooms, is available on the Company's Travel Web site at http://www.laquinta.com.

                                       7
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" PROVISIONS OF THE 
PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
                                           
    La Quinta desires to take advantage of the "safe harbor" provisions of 
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act").  Many of 
the following important factors discussed below have been discussed in the 
Company's prior filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 
                                           
    The Company wishes to caution readers that the following important 
factors, among others, could in the future cause the Company's actual results 
to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements 
made by, or on behalf of, the Company.
                                           
COMPETITION
                                           
    The profitability of inns operated by the Company is subject to 
general economic conditions, competition, the desirability of particular 
locations, the relationship between supply of and demand for hotel rooms 
and other factors.  The Company generally operates inns in markets that 
contain numerous competitors, and the continued success of its inns will 
be dependent, in large part, upon the ability of these facilities to 
compete in such areas as reasonableness of room rates, quality of 
accommodations, service level and convenience of locations.  There can 
be no assurance that demographic, geographic or other changes in markets 
will not adversely affect the convenience or desirability of the 
locations of the Company's inns.  Furthermore, there can be no assurance 
that, in the markets in which the Company's inns operate, competing 
hotels will not provide greater competition for guests than currently 
exists, and that new hotels will not enter such markets.
                                           
SEASONALITY
                                           
    The lodging industry is seasonal in nature.  Generally, the Company's inn 
revenues are greater in the second and third quarters than in the first and 
fourth quarters.  This seasonality can be expected to cause quarterly 
fluctuations in the revenue, profit margins and net earnings of the Company.
                                           
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
                                           
    In some years, construction of lodging facilities in the United 
States resulted in an excess supply of available rooms, and the 
oversupply had an adverse effect on occupancy levels and room rates in 
the industry.  Although the relationship between supply and demand has 
been favorable in recent years, the lodging industry may be adversely 
affected in the future by (i) an oversupply of available rooms, (ii) 
national and regional economic conditions, (iii) changes in travel 
patterns, (iv) taxes and government regulations which influence or 
determine wages, prices, interest rates, construction procedures and 
costs, and (v) the availability of credit.
                                           
EMPLOYMENT AND OTHER GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION
                                           
    The Company's business is subject to extensive federal, state and local 
regulatory requirements, including building and zoning requirements, all of 
which can prevent, delay, make uneconomic or significantly increase the cost 
of developing additional lodging facilities.  In addition, the Company is 
subject to laws governing its relationship with employees, including minimum 
wage requirements, overtime pay, working conditions, work permit requirements 
and discrimination claims.  An increase in the minimum wage rate, employee 
benefit costs or other costs associated with employees could adversely 
affect the Company.  Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (the 
"ADA"), all public accommodations are required to meet certain federal 
requirements related to access and use by disabled persons.  While the 
Company believes that its inns are substantially in compliance with these 
requirements, a determination that the Company is not in compliance with the 
ADA could result in the imposition of fines or an award of damages to private 
litigants.  These and other initiatives could adversely affect the Company as 
well as the lodging industry in general.  
                                            
                                         8
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ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION
                                           
    Under various federal, state and local environmental laws, ordinances and 
regulations, a current or previous owner or operator of real property may be 
liable for the costs of removal or remediation of hazardous or toxic 
substances on, under or in such property.  Such laws often impose liability 
whether or not the owner or operator knew of, or was responsible for, the 
presence of such hazardous or toxic substances.  Certain environmental laws 
and common law principles could be used to impose liability for release of 
asbestos-containing materials ("ACMs") into the air, and third parties may 
seek recovery from owners or operators of real property for personal injury 
associated with exposure to released ACMs.  Environmental laws also may 
impose restrictions on the manner in which property may be used or businesses 
may be operated, and these restrictions may require substantial expenditures. 
In connection with the ownership or operation of its inns, the Company may 
be potentially liable for any such costs.  No assurance can be given that a 
material environmental claim will not be asserted against the Company.  The 
cost of defending against claims of liability or of remediating a 
contaminated property could have a material adverse effect on the results of 
operations of the Company.
                                           
EMPLOYEES
                                           
    The Company's future success will depend, in part, on its continuing 
ability to attract, retain and motivate highly qualified personnel, who are 
in great demand.  
                                           
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
                                           
    The Company is, and is likely in the future to be, subject to certain 
types of litigation, including negligence and other tort claims.  The costs 
and effects of such legal and administrative cases and proceedings (whether 
civil or criminal), settlements and investigations are indeterminate.  There 
can be no assurance that such costs and effects would not be material to the 
Company's operations.
                                           
LODGING INDUSTRY OPERATING RISKS
                                           
    The Company is subject to all operating risks common to the lodging 
industry.  These risks include, among other things, (i) competition for 
guests from other hotels, a number of which may have greater marketing and 
financial resources than the Company, (ii) increases in operating costs due 
to inflation and other factors, which increases may not have been offset in 
recent years, and may not be offset in the future by increased room rates, 
(iii) dependence on business and commercial travelers and tourism, which 
business may fluctuate and be seasonal, (iv) increases in energy costs and 
other expenses of travel, which may deter travelers, and (v) adverse effects 
of general and local economic conditions.  The Company is also subject to the 
risk that in connection with the acquisition of inns, it may not be possible 
to transfer certain operating licenses or to obtain new licenses in a timely 
manner in the event such licenses cannot be transferred.  The failure to 
obtain these licenses could adversely affect the Company's operations.
                                           
CONSTRUCTION
                                           
    The Company may from time to time experience shortages of materials or 
qualified tradespeople or volatile increases in the cost of certain 
construction materials, resulting in longer than normal construction and 
remodeling periods, loss of revenue and increased costs.  The Company relies 
heavily on local contractors, who may be inadequately capitalized or 
understaffed.  The inability or failure of one or more local contractors to 
perform may result in construction or remodeling delays, increased cost and 
loss of revenue.
                                           
CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND AVAILABILITY OF FINANCING
                                           
    The Company's business is capital intensive, and it will have significant 
capital requirements in the future.  The Company's leverage could affect its 
ability to obtain financing in the future or to undertake refinancings on 
terms and subject to conditions deemed acceptable by the Company.  In the 
event that the 

                                    9
<PAGE>

Company's cash flow and working capital are not sufficient to fund the 
Company's expenditures or to service its indebtedness, it would be required 
to raise additional funds through the sale of additional equity securities, 
the refinancing of all or part of its indebtedness, the incurrence of 
additional permitted indebtedness or the sale of assets.  There can be no 
assurance that any of these sources of funds would be available in amounts 
sufficient for the Company to meet its obligations.  Moreover, even if the 
Company were able to meet its obligations, its leveraged capital structure 
could significantly limit its ability to finance its expansion program and 
other capital expenditures, to compete effectively or to operate successfully 
under adverse economic conditions. Additionally, financial and operating 
restrictions contained in the Company's existing indebtedness may limit the 
Company's ability to secure additional financing, and may prevent the Company 
from engaging in transactions that might otherwise be beneficial to the 
Company and to holders of the Company's common stock.  The Company's ability 
to satisfy its obligations will also be dependent upon its future 
performance, which is subject to prevailing economic conditions and 
financial, business and other factors beyond the Company's control.
                                           
GENERAL REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT RISKS
                                           
    The Company's ownership of real property, including inns, is substantial. 
 The Company's investments are subject to varying degrees of risk generally 
incident to the ownership of real property. Real estate values and income 
from the Company's inns may be adversely affected by changes in national 
economic conditions, changes in local market conditions due to changes in 
general or local economic conditions and neighborhood characteristics, 
changes in interest rates and in the availability, cost and terms of mortgage 
funds, the impact of present or future environmental legislation and 
compliance with environmental laws, the ongoing need for capital 
improvements, changes in real estate tax rates and other operating expenses, 
adverse changes in governmental rules and fiscal policies, civil unrest, acts 
of God, including earthquakes and other natural disasters (which may result 
in uninsured losses), acts of war, adverse changes in zoning laws and other 
factors which are beyond the control of the Company.
                                           
VALUE AND ILLIQUIDITY OF REAL ESTATE
                                           
    Real estate investments are relatively illiquid.  The ability of the 
Company to vary its portfolio in response to changes in economic and other 
conditions is limited.  If the Company must sell an investment, there can be 
no assurance that the Company will be able to dispose of it in the time 
period it desires or that the sales price of any investment will recoup or 
exceed the amount of the Company's investment.
                                           
PROPERTY TAXES
                                           
    Each of the Company's inns is subject to real property taxes.  The real 
property taxes on the Company's inns may increase or decrease as property tax 
rates change and as the properties are assessed or reassessed by taxing 
authorities.  If property taxes increase, the Company's operations could be 
adversely affected.
                                           
RENOVATION PROGRAM 
                                           
    Hotels in general, including the Company's inns, have an ongoing need for 
renovations and other capital improvements, particularly in older structures, 
including periodic replacement or refurbishment of furniture, fixtures and 
equipment.  The Company is in the process of renovating and upgrading guest 
rooms through its Gold Medal rooms program.  This program is designed to 
strengthen the Company's ability to gain market share and pricing advantage 
relative to its competitors through decor and service enhancements.  There 
can be no assurance that the program will be successful in generating 
revenues commensurate with the significant costs required for such 
enhancements.  Additionally, implementation of the program results in a 
significant disruption of business as 20-30 rooms are taken out of available 
supply at an inn on any given night during the construction period.  
Construction activities at each inn are essentially completed in ten to 
twelve weeks.  This disruption of business may continue for an indeterminate 
period of time after completion of the program at an inn. 

                                     10
<PAGE>

RISKS OF EXPANSION STRATEGY
                                           
    The Company intends to pursue a strategy of growth through both the 
construction of new lodging facilities and the opportunistic acquisition 
of existing lodging facilities.  There can be no assurance that the 
Company will find suitable sites for construction or suitable properties 
for acquisition or that these sites and properties will not be acquired 
by competitors of the Company.   The Company incurs certain costs in 
connection with the acquisition of new properties and may be required to 
provide significant capital expenditures for conversions and upgrades 
when acquiring a property operating under a brand other than La Quinta.  
There can be no assurance that any of the properties the Company may 
construct or acquire will be profitable following such construction or 
acquisition.  The construction or acquisition of a property that is not 
profitable, or the acquisition of a property that results in significant 
unanticipated conversion costs, could adversely affect the Company's 
profitability.  The Company may in the future require additional 
financing in order to continue to make acquisitions.  There is no 
assurance that such additional financing, if any, will be available to 
the Company on acceptable terms.  
                                           
INVESTMENT IN SINGLE INDUSTRY
                                           
    The Company is subject to risks inherent in investments in a single 
industry.  The effects on the Company's revenues resulting from a downturn in 
the lodging industry would be more pronounced than if the Company had 
diversified its investments outside of the hotel industry. 
                                           
POSSIBLE VOLATILITY OF COMMON STOCK PRICE
                                           
    The trading price of the Company's common stock may be influenced by the 
performance of, and investor expectations for, the Company, the trading 
volume of the Company's common stock and general economic and market 
conditions.  Accordingly, there can be no assurance as to the price at which 
the Company's common stock will trade in the future.
                                           
    Additional information on factors which could affect the Company's 
financial results may be included in subsequent reports filed with the 
Securities and Exchange Commission. 

                                       11
<PAGE>

ITEM 2.   PROPERTIES

      La Quinta inns appeal to guests who desire high-quality rooms, 
convenient locations and attractive prices, but who do not require banquet 
and convention facilities, in-house restaurants, cocktail lounges or room 
service.  By eliminating the costs of these management-intensive facilities 
and services, La Quinta believes it offers its customers exceptional value by 
providing rooms that are comparable in quality to full-service hotels at 
lower prices.
                                           
      During 1996, La Quinta opened eleven new Inn & Suites hotels and 
expects to open a total of 36 by the end of 1997, a rate of approximately 
one new opening every two weeks. The new Inn & Suites offer rooms designed to 
accommodate the needs of the guest irrespective of the purpose of the trip.  
The standard two-bedded room accommodates most short business trips or family 
travel.  The King Plus Extra rooms feature a king-size bed, refrigerator and 
microwave which may be desirable for longer stays.  The Inn & Suites also 
offer a select number of deluxe two-room suites with separate sitting and 
sleeping areas, double vanities, a sleeper sofa, and two closets, all of 
which are in addition to the amenities provided in the King Plus Extra rooms.
                                           
      To maintain the overall quality of La Quinta's inns, each inn undergoes 
refurbishments and capital improvements as needed.  Typically, refurbishing 
has been provided at intervals of between five and seven years, based on an 
annual review of the condition of each inn.  In each of the years ended 
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, the Company spent approximately 
$116,600,000, $40,000,000 and $75,200,000, respectively, on capital 
improvements to existing inns.  The amounts for 1996 and 1995 include 
expenditures related to the Company's Gold Medal rooms program, while the 
amount for 1994 includes expenditures related to the Company's image 
enhancement program.  As a result of these expenditures, the Company believes 
it has been able to maintain a chainwide quality of rooms and common areas at 
its properties unmatched by any other national mid-priced hotel chain. 
                                           
      During 1995, the Company launched its Gold Medal rooms program designed 
to strengthen the Company's ability to gain additional market share and 
pricing advantage relative to its competitors.  The program, which is 
expected to be substantially complete by April 1997, is intended to improve 
the quality, functionality and value of the guest rooms by enhancing the 
decor package, including fresh, new colors, rich wood furniture, contemporary 
bathrooms, built-in closets, oversized desks, 25 inch televisions and new 
draperies and bedspreads.  Service enhancements include movies-on-demand, 
interactive video games from Nintendo, dataport telephones for computer 
connections and greatly expanded free television channel choices. At January 31,
1997, over 185 inns had either been completed or were undergoing construction 
related to this program.
                                           
      In 1994, La Quinta completed a comprehensive chainwide image 
enhancement program which gave its properties a new, fresh, crisp appearance 
while preserving their unique character.  The program featured new signage 
displaying a new logo as well as exterior and lobby upgrades including 
brighter colors, more extensive lighting, additional landscaping, enhanced 
guest entry and a full lobby renovation with contemporary furnishings and 
seating area for the complimentary First Light breakfast program.

      Typically, food service for La Quinta guests is provided by adjacent, 
free standing restaurants.  At December 31, 1996, the Company owned 123 
restaurant buildings adjacent to its inns.  These restaurants generally are 
leased pursuant to build-to-suit leases that require the operator to pay, in 
addition to minimum and percentage rentals, all expenses, including building 
maintenance, taxes and insurance.


                                       12
<PAGE>

      At December 31, 1996, there were 248 inns located in 29 states, 
concentrated in the Western and Southern United States.  The Company had an 
additional 16 inns under construction, which are scheduled to open between 
February and August 1997. The states and cities in which the inns are located 
are set forth in the following table:
<TABLE>
<S>               <C>                 <C>                  <C>              <C>
ALABAMA           ILLINOIS            PENNSYLVANIA         UTAH             INNS  UNDER
Birmingham (2)    Champaign           Pittsburgh           Layton           CONSTRUCTION
Huntsville (2)    Chicago Metro (5)                        Salt Lake City
Mobile            Moline              SOUTH CAROLINA                        ALABAMA
Montgomery                            Anderson             VIRGINIA         Birmingham
Tuscaloosa        INDIANA             Charleston           Bristol
                  Indianapolis (2)    Columbia             Hampton          COLORADO
ARIZONA           Merrillville        Greenville           Richmond         Boulder
Phoenix (3)                                                Virginia Beach
Flagstaff         KANSAS              TENNESSEE                             FLORIDA
Scottsdale        Lenexa              Chattanooga          WASHINGTON       Tampa
Tucson (3)        Wichita             Kingsport            Seattle(2)
                                      Knoxville (2)        Tacoma           GEORGIA
ARKANSAS          KENTUCKY            Memphis (3)                           Atlanta
Little Rock (5)   Lexington           Nashville (3)        WYOMING
                                                           Casper           LOUISIANA
CALIFORNIA        LOUISIANA           TEXAS                Cheyenne         Alexandria
Bakersfield       Baton Rouge         Abilene              Rock Springs     Shreveport
Costa Mesa        Bossier City        Amarillo (2)
Fresno            Kenner              Arlington            OTHER            MISSOURI
Irvine            Lafayette           Austin (6)           OWNED INNS       St. Louis
La Palma          Monroe              Beaumont             (operated under 
Redding           New Orleans (5)     Bedford              other brands)    NORTH CAROLINA
Sacramento (2)    Slidell             Brownsville                           Raleigh (2)
San Bernardino    Sulphur             Clute                GEORGIA
San Diego (3)                         College Station      Columbus         SOUTH CAROLINA
San Francisco     MICHIGAN            Corpus Christi (2)                    Myrtle Beach
Stockton          Kalamazoo           Dallas Metro (15)    TEXAS
Ventura                               Del Rio              El Paso          TEXAS
                  MISSISSIPPI         Denton               La Marque        Dallas Metro (3)
COLORADO          Jackson (2)         Eagle Pass           San Antonio      Houston
Colorado Springs                      El Paso (3)
Denver (8)        MISSOURI            Fort Stockton                         UTAH
                  St. Louis           Fort Worth (2)                        Salt Lake City (2)
FLORIDA                               Galveston
Coral Springs     NEBRASKA            Georgetown
Cypress Creek     Omaha               Harlingen
Daytona Beach                         Houston Metro (17)
Deerfield Beach   NEVADA              Huntsville
Ft. Myers         Las Vegas (2)       Killeen
Gainesville       Reno                Laredo
Jacksonville (3)                      Longview
Miami             NEW MEXICO          Lubbock (2)
Orlando (3)       Albuquerque (3)     Lufkin
Pensacola         Farmington          Midland
Tallahassee (2)   Las Cruces          Nacogdoches
Tampa (5)         Santa Fe            Odessa
                                      Round Rock
GEORGIA           NORTH CAROLINA      San Angelo
Atlanta (7)       Charlotte (2)       San Antonio (11)
Augusta           Raleigh             San Marcos
Columbus                              Temple
Macon             OHIO                Texarkana
Savannah (2)      Columbus            Tyler
                                      Victoria
                  OKLAHOMA            Waco
                  Oklahoma City (3)   Wichita Falls
                  Tulsa (3)
</TABLE>
                                       13
<PAGE>

ITEM 3.   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

      In September 1993, a former officer of the Company filed suit against 
the Company and certain of its directors and their affiliate companies.  The 
suit alleged breach of an employment agreement, misrepresentation, wrongful 
termination, self-dealing, breach of fiduciary duty, usurpation of corporate 
opportunity and tortious interference with contractual relations.  
Compensatory damages of $2,500,000 and exemplary damages of $5,000,000 were 
sought in the action.  The Court granted the Company's motion for summary 
judgment in September 1996, while allowing plaintiff the opportunity to 
re-file on a limited basis.  On December 4, 1996, the case was dismissed with 
prejudice, thereby resulting in a final disposition of the case in the 
Company's favor.

      Actions for negligence or other tort claims occur routinely as an 
ordinary incident to the Company's business.  Lawsuits are pending against 
the Company which have arisen in the ordinary course of the business, but 
none of these proceedings involves a claim for damages (in excess of 
applicable excess umbrella insurance coverages) involving more than 10% of 
current assets of the Company.  The Company does not anticipate any amounts 
which it may be required to pay as a result of an adverse determination of 
such legal proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, or any other relief 
granted by reason thereof, will have a material adverse effect on the 
Company's financial position or results of operations.

      The Company has established a paid loss insurance program (the "Paid 
Loss Program") for inns owned and managed by the Company for commercial 
general liability, automobile liability and workers' compensation and 
employer's liability.  In addition to the Paid Loss Program, the Company has 
purchased excess umbrella liability policies and extended coverage property 
insurance and such other insurance as is customarily obtained for similar 
properties and which may be required by the terms of loan or similar 
documents with respect to the inns.  In connection with the general 
liability, workers' compensation and automobile coverages, all inns 
participate in the Paid Loss Program, under which claims and expenses are 
shared pro rata, with excess umbrella insurance being maintained to cover 
losses, claims and costs in excess of the deductible limits per occurrence of 
$500,000 for general liability and workers' compensation and $250,000 for 
automobile coverage.  All pro rata expenses and premiums under the Paid Loss 
Program and such other insurance as is customarily obtained with respect to 
inns owned by persons other than the Company constitute direct operating 
expenses of said inns under the terms of the respective management 
agreements. 

ITEM 4.   SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

      During the fourth quarter of the year covered by this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K, no matter was submitted to a vote of Registrant's security holders 
through the solicitation of proxies or otherwise. 

                                       14
<PAGE>


                                    PART II
                                           
ITEM 5.   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED
          STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
                                           
    The Company's Common Stock is listed on The New York Stock Exchange.  The 
range of the high and low sale prices of the Company's Common Stock for each 
of the quarters during the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, as 
adjusted for the three-for-two stock split effected in the form of a stock 
dividend in July 1996, is set forth below:
                                           
                                     1996                       1995
                           --------------------------   ------------------------
                                            Per Share                  Per Share
                           High      Low    Dividend    High     Low    Dividend
                           ----      ---    --------    ----     ---     -----
First Quarter...........  $19 3/4  $15 5/8   $.025    $19 3/8  $13 1/8   $.025
Second Quarter..........   24       17 5/8    .025     20 1/8   16 7/8    .025
Third Quarter...........   23 5/8   16 3/8    .0175    20 1/2   17 1/2    .025
Fourth Quarter..........   21 7/8   17 3/4    .0175    19 5/8   16 3/8    .025
                                           
    During 1995 and the first two quarters of 1996, the Company paid 
quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $.025 per share under its quarterly 
dividend policy as authorized by the Board of Directors.  As a result of the 
stock split in July 1996, the Board of Directors reduced the annual dividend 
rate to $.07 per share and paid quarterly cash dividends in the amount of 
$.0175 per share for the third and fourth quarters of 1996.  For restrictions 
on the Company's present or future ability to pay cash dividends, see note 3 
of Notes to Combined Financial Statements.  The declaration and payment of 
dividends in the future will be determined by the Board of Directors based 
upon the Company's earnings, financial condition, capital requirements and 
such other factors as the Board of Directors may deem relevant.
                                           
    As of January 31, 1997, the approximate number of holders of record of 
the Company's Common Stock was 993.

                                      15
<PAGE>

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
                                                      Years Ended December 31
                                           ---------------------------------------------
                                           1996      1995      1994       1993      1992
                                           ----      ----      ----       ----      ----
                                            (in thousands, except per share amounts, 
                                                     ratios and inn statistics)
<S>                                       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
  Total revenues......................  $  443,059  $413,919  $362,242  $271,850  $254,122
  Direct and corporate operating 
   costs and expenses.................     237,188   227,675   213,405   168,021   156,529
  Depreciation, amortization and 
   asset retirements..................      48,105    40,951    38,080    24,055    24,793
  Provision for premature retirement 
   of assets..........................      18,076    12,630        --        --        --
  Performance stock option............          --        --        --     4,407        --
  Non-recurring cash and non-cash 
   charges (1)........................          --        --        --        --    38,225
  Operating income....................     139,690   132,663   110,757    75,367    34,575
  Net interest expense................      41,812    39,442    37,439    26,219    27,046
  Earnings (loss) before extraordinary
   items and cumulative effect of 
   accounting change..................      60,719    51,374    37,815    19,420    (7,796)
  Net earnings (loss).................      60,195    50,657    37,815    20,301    (8,754)
  Conversion of partner's interest 
   into common stock (2)..............          --    46,364        --        --        --
  Earnings (loss) per share after
   conversion of partner's interest 
   into common stock and before
   extraordinary items and cumulative
   effect of accounting change (3)....         .75       .07       .52       .28      (.12)
  Net earnings (loss) available to
   shareholders per share (3).........         .74       .06       .52       .29      (.13)
OTHER DATA
  Construction, purchase and 
   conversion of inns.................     148,977    77,502    34,690    38,858     4,060
  Other capital expenditures (4)......     116,598    39,962    75,248    32,623    15,529
  Purchase of partners' equity 
   interests (5)......................       9,232    48,200    53,255    78,169        --
  Net cash provided by operating 
   activities.........................     148,262   128,798    94,233    78,043    60,853
  Net cash used by investing 
   activities.........................     275,179   158,828   156,492   145,027    15,166
  Net cash provided (used) by 
   financing activities...............     125,835    30,031    41,000    77,971   (40,781)
  Cash dividends declared per common 
   share..............................         .09       .10       .10       .05        --
  Cash dividends paid.................       5,330     4,957     3,465     1,015        --
  EBITDA (6)..........................     205,871   186,244   148,837   103,829    97,593
BALANCE SHEET DATA
  Total assets........................   1,199,800   964,115   845,781   749,495   539,183
  Shareholders' equity................     365,576   331,713   189,231   149,057   124,321
  Partners' capital...................       3,293     6,309    92,099    85,976    62,060
  Current installments of long-term
   debt...............................      33,299    13,322    39,976    22,491    21,711
  Long-term debt, excluding current 
   installments.......................     659,369   518,416   448,258   414,004   274,824
  Ratio of earnings to fixed 
   charges (7)........................         2.9x      3.1x      2.8x      2.4x      1.2x
  Combined effective debt-to-equity 
   ratio (8)..........................        1.79      1.53      1.59      1.76      1.47
OPERATING DATA
  Inns owned (9)......................         248       237       226       211       169
  Inns managed........................          --        --        --         9        40
                                        ----------  --------  --------  --------  --------
  Number of inns......................         248       237       226       220       209
  Occupancy percentage................        68.9%     70.8%     70.1%     65.1%     65.6%
  Average daily room rate.............      $53.83  $  51.07  $  47.65  $  46.36  $  44.33
</TABLE>


                                      16
<PAGE>

- ------------------
(1)  Non-recurring cash and non-cash charges include charges related to
     the write-down of certain joint venture interests carried on the equity 
     method, land and computer equipment, severance and other 
     employee-related costs and charges associated with a series of studies 
     to improve operating results.  For the year ended December 31, 1992, 
     these charges also include a $2,696,000 increase in the allowance for 
     certain notes receivable related to inns sold by the Company, prior to 
     1985, and $210,000 related to other corporate expense items.
     
(2)  Conversion of partner's interest into common stock is a non-recurring, 
     non-cash charge related to the AEW Transaction.  (See note 15 of Notes 
     to Combined Financial Statements.)
     
(3)  Earnings (loss) per share are computed on the basis of the weighted 
     average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding in 
     each year after giving effect to the three-for-two stock splits.

(4)  The December 31, 1996 and 1995 capital expenditures include costs
     related to the Company's Gold Medal rooms program, while the December 31,
     1994 and 1993 capital expenditures include costs related to the Company's 
     image enhancement program.
    
(5)  Purchase of partners' equity interests in 1995 is related to the
     acquisition of LQDP, while purchase of partners' equity interests in 
     1994 and 1993 includes approximately $9,672,000 and $42,091,000, 
     respectively, related to the acquisition of LQP.

(6)  EBITDA is defined as earnings before net interest expense, income 
     taxes, depreciation, amortization and asset retirements, provision for 
     premature retirement of assets, extraordinary items, partners' equity in 
     earnings, gain or loss on property transactions and other non-recurring 
     cash and non-cash charges and performance stock option.  This definition 
     differs from the traditional EBITDA definition which does not include 
     adjustments for extraordinary items, partners' equity in earnings and 
     losses, provision for premature retirement of assets, gain or loss on 
     property transactions and other non-recurring cash and non-cash charges 
     and performance stock option as follows:
    
                                   1996      1995      1994       1993      1992
                                   ----      ----      ----       ----      ----
     Extraordinary items.........  $   524   $   717  $    --  $   619  $   958
     Partners' equity in 
      earnings...................    1,499    10,227   11,406   12,965   15,081
     (Gain) loss on property 
      transactions...............       --        --      (79)   4,347     (282)
     Provision for premature 
      retirement of assets.......   18,076    12,630       --       --       --
     Non-recurring cash and 
      non-cash charges and 
      performance stock option...       --        --       --    4,407   38,225
                                           
     EBITDA is not intended to represent cash flow or any other measure of 
     performance in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles 
     ("GAAP").  EBITDA, as defined above, is included herein because 
     management believes that certain investors find it to be a useful tool 
     for measuring the ability to service debt.
                                       
(7)  For purposes of calculating this ratio, earnings include net earnings
     (loss) before income taxes, extraordinary items, and the cumulative 
     effect of accounting change, partners' equity in earnings of combined 
     unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures that have fixed charges, 
     fixed charges net of interest capitalized and amortization of 
     capitalized interest.  Fixed charges include interest expense on 
     long-term debt (before capitalized interest) and the portion of rental 
     expense allocated to interest.
                                       
(8)  Ratio of long-term debt, excluding current installments, to partners'
     capital plus shareholders' equity at year end.
                                       
(9)  As of December 31, 1996, the Company owns and operates 245 inns through
     wholly-owned subsidiaries and partnerships and three inns through 
     combined unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures.

                                   17

<PAGE>

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
         AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                                           
    The Company's financial statements include the accounts of the Company's 
wholly-owned subsidiaries and unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures 
in which the Company has at least a 50% interest, and in one case a 40% 
interest through July 3, 1995, and over which it exercises substantial legal, 
financial and operational control.  References to "Managed Inns" are to those 
inns in which the Company owned less than a 40% interest and which were 
managed by the Company under long-term management contracts through July 1994.
                                           
    The Board of Directors of the Company authorized three-for-two stock 
splits effected in the form of stock dividends effective in July 1996, 
October 1994 and March 1994.  References to the Company's common stock prior 
to the July 1996 split are described herein as "pre-split" and references to 
the Company's common stock after the July 1996 split are described herein as 
"post-split".
                                           
    During 1996, La Quinta opened eleven new Inn & Suites hotels and expects 
to open a total of 36 by the end of 1997, a rate of approximately one new 
opening every two weeks.  The new Inn & Suites offer rooms designed to 
accommodate the needs of the guest irrespective of the purpose of the trip.  
The standard two-bedded room accommodates most short business trips or family 
travel.  The King Plus-Registered Trademark- Extra rooms feature a king-size 
bed, refrigerator and microwave which may be desirable for longer stays.  The 
Inn & Suites also offer a select number of deluxe two-room suites with 
separate sitting and sleeping areas, double vanities, a sleeper sofa, and two 
closets, all of which are in addition to the amenities provided in the King 
Plus Extra rooms. 
                                           
    During 1996, the Company purchased the limited partners' interests in 
four of its combined unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures, each 
owning one inn.  At December 31, 1996, the Company had three remaining 
unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures, which each owned one inn.
                                           
    The Company acquired eleven inns during the year ended December 31, 1995 
and six inns during the year ended December 31, 1994 for conversion to the 
La Quinta-Registered Trademark- brand.
                                           
    During 1995, the Company launched its Gold Medal-TM- rooms program 
designed to strengthen the Company's ability to gain additional market share 
and pricing advantage relative to its competitors.  The program, which is 
expected to be substantially complete by April 1997, is intended to improve 
the quality, functionality and value of guest rooms by enhancing the decor 
package, including fresh, new colors, rich wood furniture, contemporary 
bathrooms, built-in closets, oversized desks, 25 inch televisions and new 
draperies and bedspreads.  Service enhancements include movies-on-demand, 
interactive video games from Nintendo-Registered Trademark-, dataport 
telephones for computer connections and greatly expanded free television 
channel choices.
                                           
    As of January 31, 1997, over 185 inns had either been completed or were 
undergoing construction related to the Gold Medal rooms program.  This 
extensive construction effort requires 20-30 rooms at a time to be taken out 
of available supply at an inn during the construction period. Construction 
activities at each inn are completed within 10-12 weeks.  The Company does 
not adjust its available rooms or occupancy percentage for rooms unavailable 
due to disruption as a result of this program.
                                           
    On June 15, 1995, AEW Partners, L.P. ("AEW") notified the Company that it 
would exercise, subject to certain conditions, its option to convert 
two-thirds of its ownership interest in La Quinta Development Partners, L.P. 
("LQDP") into 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of the Company's Common Stock.  
AEW also agreed to sell the remaining one-third of its ownership interest in 
LQDP to the Company for a negotiated price of $48.2 million in cash 
(collectively, the "AEW Transaction").  The AEW Transaction was consummated 
on July 3, 1995.  Upon conversion of the partnership interest into La Quinta 
Common Stock, the Company issued 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of the 
Company's Common Stock having a fair market value of $142.8 million based on 
the July 3, 1995 New York Stock Exchange closing price.  The conversion was 
accounted for by increasing shareholders' equity by the $46.4 million value 
of the option and recording a $46.4 million non-recurring, non-cash 
adjustment entitled Conversion of Partner's Interest into Common Stock below 
net earnings in the Statement of Operations. There was 

                                        18
<PAGE>

no net effect to shareholders' equity as a result of this accounting 
treatment.  The sale to La Quinta of AEW's remaining one-third interest in 
LQDP was accounted for as an acquisition of a minority interest and purchase 
accounting was applied.
                                           
    On July 1, 1994, the Company purchased nine inns which it managed and 
which were previously held in two unincorporated joint ventures with CIGNA 
Investments, Inc. (the "CIGNA partnerships").  The Company has continued to 
operate these properties as La Quinta inns.
                                           
    On January 24, 1994, the Company concluded the acquisition of La Quinta 
Motor Inns Limited Partnership ("LQP") which owned 31 inns managed by the 
Company.  The operations of LQP were accounted for under the equity method 
until December 1, 1993, and were included in the Combined Financial 
Statements of the Company thereafter.
                                           
    The following chart shows certain historical operating statistics and 
revenue data.  References to occupancy percentages and average daily rate 
("ADR") refer to Company Inns (inns owned by the Company or by unincorporated 
partnerships and joint ventures in which the Company owns at least a 40% 
interest).  Managed Inns are excluded from occupancy and ADR statistics for 
all periods for purposes of comparability.  All financial data is related to 
Company Inns unless otherwise specified.
                                           
<TABLE>
                                  Comparative Operating Statistics and Revenue Data
                                  -------------------------------------------------
                                               Years Ended December 31
                                               -----------------------
                                          1996           1995          1994
                                        --------       --------      --------
                                     (in thousands, except rates and percentages)
         <S>                            <C>            <C>           <C>
         Room revenue                   $416,969       $390,449      $340,230
         Other inn revenue                17,895         15,245        13,118
                                        --------       --------      --------
            Total inn revenue            434,864        405,694       353,348
         Restaurant rental and other       8,105          8,071         7,675
         Management services                  90            154         1,219
                                        --------       --------      --------
            Total revenue               $443,059       $413,919      $362,242
                                        --------       --------      --------
                                        --------       --------      --------
         Percentage of occupancy            68.9%          70.8%         70.1%
         ADR                            $  53.83       $  51.07      $  47.65
         Available rooms (1)              11,251         10,793        10,188
</TABLE>
________________________
(1) Available rooms represent the number of rooms available for sale multiplied
    by the number of days in the period reported.
                                           
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                           
    TOTAL REVENUES increased to $443,059,000 in 1996 from $413,919,000 in 
1995, an increase of $29,140,000, or 7.0%.  Of the total revenues reported in 
1996, 98.2% were revenues from inns and 1.8% were revenues from restaurant 
rentals and other revenue.  
                                           
    INN REVENUES are derived from room rentals and other sources such as 
charges to guests for long-distance telephone service, fax machine use, 
vending commissions, banquet revenues and laundry services.  Inn revenues 
increased to $434,864,000 in 1996 from $405,694,000 in 1995, an increase of 
$29,170,000, or 7.2%.  The increase in inn revenues was due primarily to an 
increase in ADR along with the revenues associated with the opening of inns 
in 1996.  ADR increased to $53.83 in 1996 from $51.07 in 1995.  The increase 
in inn revenues is partially offset by a decrease in occupancy percentage 
from 70.8% in 1995 to 68.9% in 1996.  The decrease in occupancy percentage 
primarily resulted from a significant number of rooms that were unavailable 
to rent because of construction related to the Gold Medal rooms program.  
Revenue per available room ("REVPAR", which is the product of occupancy 
percentage and ADR) increased 2.5% over 1995.  Improvements in ADR and REVPAR 
are due, in part, to the completion of the Gold Medal rooms program in most 
of the Company's major markets.

                                   19
<PAGE>

    RESTAURANT RENTAL AND OTHER REVENUES includes rental payments from 
restaurants owned by the Company and leased to and operated by third parties. 
Restaurant rental and other increased to $8,105,000 in 1996 from $8,071,000 
in 1995, an increase of $34,000.
                                           
    DIRECT EXPENSES include costs directly associated with the operation of 
Company Inns.  In 1996, approximately 39.7% of direct expenses were 
represented by salaries, wages, and related costs.  Other major categories of 
direct expenses include utilities, property taxes, repairs and maintenance 
and room supplies.  Direct expenses increased to $218,738,000 ($28.24 per 
occupied room) in 1996 compared to $209,153,000 ($27.36 per occupied room) in 
1995, an increase of $9,585,000, or 4.6%.  The increase in direct expenses 
period over period is primarily attributable to the growth in number of inns. 
As a percent of total revenues, direct expenses decreased to 49.4% in 1996 
from 50.5% in 1995.
                                           
    CORPORATE EXPENSES include the costs of general management, office rent, 
training and field supervision of inn managers and other marketing and 
administrative expenses.  The major components of corporate expenses are 
salaries, wages and related expenses.  Corporate expenses decreased to 
$18,450,000 ($1.64 per available room) in 1996 from $18,522,000 ($1.72 per 
available room) in 1995.  As a percent of total revenues, corporate expenses 
decreased to 4.2% in 1996 from 4.5% in 1995.
                                           
    DEPRECIATION, AMORTIZATION AND ASSET RETIREMENTS increased to $48,105,000 
in 1996 from $40,951,000 in 1995, an increase of $7,154,000, or 17.5%.  This 
is due primarily to the increase in fixed assets resulting from the increase 
in number of inns, acquisition of unincorporated partnerships and joint 
ventures and additions from the Gold Medal rooms program.
                                           
    A PROVISION FOR PREMATURE RETIREMENT OF ASSETS totaling $18,076,000 was 
recorded during 1996.  This non-cash charge is directly attributable to the 
Company's Gold Medal rooms program.  During the program, the Company will be 
replacing certain furniture and fixtures before the end of their normal 
useful lives and has made adjustments to reflect shorter remaining lives.  As 
a result, the Company recorded non-cash provisions for premature retirement 
of assets of $18,076,000 and $12,630,000 in 1996 and 1995, respectively.  The 
Company does not expect to record any additional provision for premature 
retirement of assets during 1997 related to this program.
                                           
    As a result of the above, OPERATING INCOME increased to $139,690,000 in 
1996 from $132,663,000 in 1995, an increase of $7,027,000, or 5.3%.  
Operating income before the provision for premature retirement of assets 
increased to $157,766,000 in 1996 from $145,293,000 in 1995, an increase of 
$12,473,000, or 8.6%.
                                           
    INTEREST INCOME primarily represents earnings on notes receivable and on 
the short-term investment of Company funds in money market instruments prior 
to their use in operations or the acquisition of inns.  Interest income 
decreased to $656,000 in 1996 from $979,000 in 1995, a decrease of $323,000.
                                           
    INTEREST ON LONG-TERM DEBT, NET increased to $42,468,000 in 1996 from 
$40,421,000 in 1995, an increase of $2,047,000, or 5.1%.  The increase in 
interest on long-term debt, net is primarily attributable to the increase in 
borrowings used for capital expenditures related to the Gold Medal rooms 
program, new inn construction and the purchase of treasury stock.  This 
increase is partially offset by an increase in capitalized interest. Interest 
on long-term debt, net includes capitalized interest of $5,429,000 and 
$1,313,000 in 1996 and 1995, respectively.  The increase in capitalized 
interest is primarily due to the construction of inns.
                                           
    PARTNERS' EQUITY IN EARNINGS reflects the interests of partners in the 
earnings of the combined unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures which 
are owned at least 50%, and in one case a 40% interest through July 31, 1995, 
and controlled by the Company.  Partners' equity in earnings decreased to 
$1,499,000 in 1996 from $10,227,000 in 1995, a decrease of $8,728,000. This 
decrease is primarily attributable to the elimination of LQDP's equity in 
earnings since July 1995.
                                           
                                       20
<PAGE>

    INCOME TAXES for 1996 were calculated using an effective tax rate of 37% 
compared to an effective income tax rate of 38.1% for 1995.  The reduction in 
the annual effective income tax rate resulted from the full year impact of 
the AEW Transaction.

    For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported EARNINGS BEFORE 
EXTRAORDINARY ITEMS of $60,719,000 in 1996 compared with $51,374,000 in 1995, 
an increase of $9,345,000, or 18.2%.  Earnings before extraordinary items and 
the provision for premature retirement of assets, net of tax, increased 
$12,915,000, or 21.8% to $72,107,000 in 1996 from $59,192,000 in 1995.
                                           
    EXTRAORDINARY ITEMS, NET OF TAX, of ($524,000) or ($.01) per share, were 
recorded during 1996 and resulted primarily from prepayment fees related to 
the early extinguishment of approximately $16,707,000 of long-term mortgage 
debt and industrial development revenue bonds.
                                           
    For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported NET EARNINGS of 
$60,195,000 in 1996 compared with $50,657,000 in 1995, an increase of 
$9,538,000, or 18.8%.
                                           
    During 1995, the Company recorded a non-cash, non-recurring charge of 
$46,364,000 as CONVERSION OF PARTNER'S INTEREST INTO COMMON STOCK which was 
directly attributable to the AEW Transaction.  This charge reduced NET 
EARNINGS AVAILABLE TO SHAREHOLDERS to $4,293,000, or $.06 per share.
                                           
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
                                           
    TOTAL REVENUES increased to $413,919,000 in 1995 from $362,242,000 in 
1994, an increase of $51,677,000, or 14.3%.  Of the total revenues reported 
in 1995, 98.0% were revenues from inns and 2.0% were revenues from restaurant 
rentals and other revenue.  
                                           
    INN REVENUES increased to $405,694,000 in 1995 from $353,348,000 in 1994, 
an increase of $52,346,000, or 14.8%.  The increase in inn revenues was due 
primarily to an increase in occupancy percentage and ADR along with the 
revenues associated with the acquisition of 9 operating inns in 1995, the 
CIGNA partnerships in July 1994 and six inns in the last half of 1994. 
Occupancy percentage increased to 70.8% in 1995 from 70.1% in 1994.  ADR 
increased to $51.07 in 1995 from $47.65 in 1994.  REVPAR increased 8.3% over 
1994. Improvements are due, in part, to the substantial completion of the 
Company's image enhancement program in mid-1994.
                                           
    RESTAURANT RENTAL AND OTHER REVENUES increased to $8,071,000 in 1995 from 
$7,675,000 in 1994, an increase of $396,000, or 5.2%.  This increase is 
primarily the result of the additional restaurant buildings owned by the 
Company through the acquisition of the CIGNA partnerships.
                                           
    MANAGEMENT SERVICES REVENUE is primarily related to fees earned by the 
Company for services rendered in conjunction with Managed Inns.  Management 
services revenue decreased to $154,000 in 1995 from $1,219,000 in 1994.  The 
decrease is due to the acquisition of the CIGNA partnerships in July 1994, 
eliminating the related management fees earned by the Company.
                                           
    In 1995, approximately 42.0% of DIRECT EXPENSES were represented by 
salaries, wages, and related costs.  Direct expenses increased to 
$209,153,000 ($27.36 per occupied room) in 1995 compared to $194,894,000 
($27.30 per occupied room) in 1994, an increase of $14,259,000, or 7.3%.  The 
increase in direct expenses period over period is primarily attributable to 
the growth in number of inns.  As a percent of total revenues, direct 
expenses decreased to 50.5% in 1995 from 53.8% in 1994.
                                           
    CORPORATE EXPENSES increased to $18,522,000 ($1.72 per available room) in 
1995 from $18,511,000 ($1.78 per available room, including Managed Inns) in 
1994.  As a percent of total revenues, corporate expenses decreased to 4.5% 
in 1995 from 5.1% in 1994.
                                           

                                         21
<PAGE>

    DEPRECIATION, AMORTIZATION AND ASSET RETIREMENTS increased to $40,951,000 
in 1995 from $38,080,000 in 1994, an increase of $2,871,000, or 7.5%.  This 
is due primarily to the increase in fixed assets resulting from the 
acquisition of inns, acquisition of unincorporated partnerships and joint 
ventures and additions from the image enhancement program, which was 
substantially complete by the end of 1994.  The increase is partially offset 
by a reduction in depreciation on assets which became fully depreciated 
during 1995.  Depreciation, amortization and asset retirements also includes 
asset retirements associated with the image enhancement program and other 
capital improvements.
                                           
    A PROVISION FOR PREMATURE RETIREMENT OF ASSETS totaling $12,630,000 was 
recorded during 1995.  This non-cash charge is directly attributable to the 
Company's Gold Medal rooms program.  During the program, the Company will be 
replacing certain furniture and fixtures before the end of their normal 
useful lives and has made adjustments to reflect shorter remaining lives.
                                           
    As a result of the above, OPERATING INCOME increased to $132,663,000 in 
1995 from $110,757,000 in 1994, an increase of $21,906,000, or 19.8%.  
Operating income before the provision for premature retirement of assets 
increased to $145,293,000 in 1995 from $110,757,000 in 1994, an increase of 
$34,536,000, or 31.2%.
                                           
    INTEREST INCOME decreased to $979,000 in 1995 from $1,421,000 in 1994, a 
decrease of $442,000, or 31.1%.  The decrease in interest income is primarily 
attributable to the decrease in notes receivable.
                                           
    INTEREST ON LONG-TERM DEBT, NET increased to $40,421,000 in 1995 from 
$38,860,000 in 1994, an increase of $1,561,000, or 4.0%.  The increase is 
primarily attributable to the increase in the outstanding balance on the 
Company's credit facilities as a result of the AEW Transaction and the 
acquisitions of the CIGNA partnerships and 17 inns since June 1994.  While 
long-term debt, including current installments has increased, the Company's 
weighted average interest rate on long-term borrowings decreased due to 
favorable interest rates negotiated in the Amended Credit Facility and the 
issuance of the 7.4% Senior Notes due 2005, along with improved market 
conditions.
                                           
    PARTNERS' EQUITY IN EARNINGS decreased to $10,227,000 in 1995 from 
$11,406,000 in 1994, a decrease of $1,179,000, or 10.3%.  This decrease is 
primarily attributable to the elimination of LQDP's equity in earnings for 
the last half of 1995 and is partially offset by increases in LQDP's equity 
in earnings during the first half of 1995.
                                           
    INCOME TAXES for 1995 were calculated using an effective tax rate of 
38.1% compared to an effective income tax rate of 39.0% for 1994.  The 
Company's annual income tax rate in 1995 reflects the impact of the 
difference between aggregate recorded cost and tax basis of acquired assets 
from the AEW Transaction.  The reduction in the annual effective income tax 
rate also reflects a reduction of the estimated state income tax rate.
                                           
    For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported EARNINGS BEFORE 
EXTRAORDINARY ITEMS of $51,374,000 in 1995 compared with $37,815,000 in 1994, 
an increase of $13,559,000, or 35.9%.  Earnings before extraordinary items 
and the provision for premature retirement of assets, net of tax, increased 
$21,377,000, or 56.5% to $59,192,000 in 1995 from $37,815,000 in 1994.
                                           
    EXTRAORDINARY ITEMS, NET OF TAX, of ($717,000) were recorded during 1995 
and resulted primarily from prepayment fees related to the early 
extinguishment of approximately $16,800,000 of long-term mortgage debt with 
an average interest rate of 10.3%.
                                           
    For the reasons discussed above, the Company reported NET EARNINGS of 
$50,657,000 in 1995 compared with $37,815,000 in 1994, an increase of 
$12,842,000, or 34.0%.
                                           
    During 1995, the Company recorded a non-cash, non-recurring charge of 
$46,364,000 as CONVERSION OF PARTNER'S INTEREST INTO COMMON STOCK which was 
directly attributable to the AEW Transaction.  This charge reduced NET 
EARNINGS AVAILABLE TO SHAREHOLDERS to $4,293,000, or $.06 per share, in 1995 
from $37,815,000, or $.52 per share in 1994. 

                                        22
<PAGE>

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
                                           
     During the year ended December 31, 1996, the Company's capital needs 
were met primarily through operating cash flows and through the issuance of 
$100 million of 7.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2004, the issuance of $50 
million of 7.11% Medium-Term Notes due 2001 and borrowings under its $250 
million Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities, as defined below.  During the year 
ended December 31, 1995, the Company funded its capital needs primarily 
through operating cash flows, the issuance of $100 million of 7.4% Senior 
Unsecured Notes due 2005 and borrowings under its $250 million Bank Unsecured 
Credit Facilities.
                                           
      At December 31, 1996, the Company had a $200 million Bank Unsecured 
Line of Credit and a $50 million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of Credit (the 
"Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities").  The $200 million Bank Unsecured Line of 
Credit matures August 2000 and the $50 million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of 
Credit matures September 1997.  At December 31, 1996, the Company had 
$32,411,000 available on its Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities, net of 
$7,489,000 of letters of credit collateralizing its insurance programs and 
certain mortgages.  The Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities bear interest at the 
prime rate or LIBOR, adjusted for an applicable margin, as defined under the 
related credit agreements.  The applicable margin is based upon predetermined 
levels of cash flow to indebtedness or credit ratings received from specified 
credit rating agencies, also as defined in the related credit agreements.  
At December 31, 1996, borrowings under the Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities 
bear interest at LIBOR plus 45 basis points on $185,000,000 of outstanding 
borrowings, the prime rate less 50 basis points on $6,800,000 of outstanding 
borrowings, LIBOR plus 50 basis points on $15,000,000 of outstanding 
borrowings and the prime rate on $3,300,000 of outstanding borrowings.  The 
Credit Facilities require an annual commitment fee of 20 basis points on the 
$200 million Bank Unsecured Line of Credit and 15 basis points on the $50 
million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of Credit.
                                           
       On February 7, 1997, the Company completed negotiations to amend and 
restate its existing credit facilities.  The amended credit facility will 
provide the Company with a $325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit with a 
consortium of banks and will mature in February 2002.  Borrowings under the 
$325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit will bear interest at the prime rate or 
LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which is currently 33.75 basis points, as 
defined in the related credit agreement.  The applicable margin is determined 
quarterly based upon predetermined levels of indebtedness to cash flows or 
ratings received by specified credit rating agencies as defined in the 
related credit agreement.  The $325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit requires 
an annual commitment fee of 18.75 basis points.
                                           
      On January 19, 1996, La Quinta filed a shelf registration statement 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission which would allow the Company to 
issue up to $250 million principal amount of Debt Securities.  The 
registration statement became effective on January 25, 1996. During 1996, the 
Company issued $100 million of 7.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2004 and $50 
million of 7.11% Medium-Term Notes due 2001 under this registration 
statement.  In February 1997, the Company issued an additional $50 million of 
7.27% Medium-Term Notes due 2007 under this registration statement.
                                           
     On January 23, 1992 with the approval of the Company's Board of 
Directors, the Company entered into two interest rate swap agreements (the 
"Agreements") which exchanged the Company's variable rate interest payments 
for the fixed rate interest payments of a major financial institution (the 
"Counterparty").  The debt ("Notional Amount") underlying the Agreements was 
$16,890,000 and $44,420,000.  Under the Agreements, the Company effectively 
pays a fixed rate of interest at 6.50% and 5.26% and the Counterparty pays a 
percentage of prime interest rate and the variable rate demand note interest 
rate ("VRDN").  In the event the VRDN rate exceeds the fixed interest rate of 
5.26% or the percentage of prime interest rate exceeds 6.50%, the 
Counterparty pays to the Company that difference times the Notional Amount, 
on a monthly basis.  Should the fixed interest rate of 5.26% exceed the VRDN 
interest rate or the fixed interest rate of 6.50% exceed the percentage of 
prime interest rate, the Company pays the difference times the Notional 
Amount to the Counterparty, on a monthly basis.  These Agreements resulted in 
net payments to the Counterparty of $585,000, $442,000 and $1,040,000 in the 
years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. The Notional 
Amounts are reduced over the life of the Agreements by scheduled amortization 
payments.  At December 31, 1996, the Notional Amounts of debt 

                                       23
<PAGE>

remaining under the Agreements were $6,585,000 and $30,350,000 which bear 
interest at a weighted average variable interest rate of 6.18% and 3.87%, 
respectively.  The Agreements expired on February 1, 1997 and were not 
renewed or replaced by the Company.
                                           
      As a result of the VRDN rate decreasing to 3.77% at December 31, 1996 
from 4.37% at December 31, 1995, the estimated fair value of the interest 
rate swap agreements net payable position decreased to $84,000 at December 
31, 1996 from $402,000 at December 31, 1995.
                                           
      At December 31, 1996, the Company had $1,508,000 of cash and cash 
equivalents, compared to $2,590,000 at December 31, 1995.
                                           
      Net cash provided by operating activities increased to $148,262,000 in 
1996 from $128,798,000 in 1995, an increase of $19,464,000 or 15.1%.  In 
1995, net cash provided by operating activities increased by $34,565,000 or 
36.7% from $94,233,000 in 1994.  The increase in net cash provided by 
operating activities in both 1996 and 1995 was the result of improved REVPAR, 
which increased by 2.5% in 1996 and 8.3% in 1995, increases in deferred 
credits for 1996 and increases in accrued expenses for 1995.
                                           
      Net cash used by investing activities of $275,179,000 in 1996 reflects 
expenditures related to the new inn construction projects and the Gold Medal 
rooms program.  Net cash used in investing activities of $158,828,000 in 1995 
reflects the impact of the AEW Transaction, the acquisition and conversion of 
eleven inns, cost related to the new inn construction projects and the Gold 
Medal rooms program.
                                           
     Net cash provided by financing activities was $125,835,000 in 1996 
compared with $30,031,000 in 1995.  The net increase is primarily the result 
of increased borrowings.  These borrowings were primarily used for capital 
expenditures related to the Gold Medal rooms program, new inn construction 
and the purchase of treasury stock.  Net cash provided by financing 
activities was $30,031,000 in 1995 compared to $41,000,000 in 1994.  The 
decrease was due to improvement in net cash provided by operating activities 
and a stabilization of cash used by investing activities.
                                           
     During 1996, 1995 and 1994, the Board of Directors authorized a series 
of plans for the repurchase of up to a total of $50,000,000 of the Company's 
common stock.  During January 1996, the Board of Directors, through a 
resolution independent of the $50,000,000 series of repurchase plans, 
approved a private transaction for the repurchase of $11,500,000 of the 
Company's common stock from a related party (see note 13 of Notes to Combined 
Financial Statements).  Repurchases of $42,094,000, $12,244,000 and 
$7,115,000 were made under these plans, including the private transaction, 
during 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.  Additional repurchases will be 
made from time to time in the open market or private transactions as deemed 
appropriate by the Company.
                                           
COMMITTMENTS
                                           
     The estimated additional cost to complete the Gold Medal rooms program 
and the construction of new inns for which commitments have been made is 
approximately $105,665,000 at December 31, 1996, of which approximately 
$34,603,000 relates to the Gold Medal rooms program.  Funds on hand, 
anticipated future cash flows and amounts available on the Company's Bank 
Unsecured Credit Facilities are sufficient to complete these projects.  The 
Company will evaluate from time to time the necessity of other financing 
alternatives.

SEASONALITY
                                           
     Demand, and thus room occupancy, is affected by normally recurring 
seasonal patterns and, at most La Quinta inns, is higher in the spring and 
summer months (March through August) than in the balance of the year.
                                           
INFLATION
                                           
     The rate of inflation as measured by changes in the average consumer 
price index has not had a material effect on the revenues or net earnings of 
the Company in the three most recent years.

                                       24
<PAGE>

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
                                           
                                LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                                           
                               COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           
                                                           DECEMBER 31
                                                      ----------------------
                                                         1996         1995
ASSETS                                                ----------    --------
                                           
Current assets:
 Cash and cash  equivalents......................    $  1,508       $  2,590
 Receivables:
  Trade and other (net of allowance of $108 
   and $118).....................................      12,302         12,789
  Income taxes...................................       3,835             --
 Supplies and prepayments........................      10,811          9,602
 Deferred income taxes...........................       9,277          8,981
                                                   ----------       --------
    Total current assets.........................      37,733         33,962
                                                   ----------       --------

Notes receivable, excluding current installments
 (net of allowance of $1,793 and $2,171).........       3,700          3,240
Property and equipment, net......................   1,148,190        915,750
Deferred charges and other assets, at cost less 
 applicable amortization.........................      10,177         11,163
                                                   ----------       --------
     Total assets................................  $1,199,800       $964,115
                                                   ----------       --------
                                                   ----------       --------
                                           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 Current installments of long-term debt..........   $  33,299      $  13,322
 Accounts payable................................      55,088         32,758
 Accrued expenses................................      53,584         40,915
                                                   ----------       --------
    Total current liabilities....................     141,971         86,995
                                                   ----------       --------
Long-term debt, excluding current installments...     659,369        518,416
Deferred income taxes, pension and other.........      29,591         20,682
Partners' capital................................       3,293          6,309
Shareholders' equity:
 Common stock ($.10 par value; 100,000 shares 
  authorized; 84,274  and 54,883 shares issued)..       8,427          5,488
  Additional paid-in capital.....................     240,453        222,221
  Retained earnings..............................     188,610        133,745
  Treasury stock, at cost (6,704 and 
   2,849 shares).................................     (71,914)       (29,741)
                                                   ----------       --------
    Total shareholders' equity...................     365,576        331,713
                                                   ----------       --------
    Total liabilities and shareholders' equity...  $1,199,800       $964,115
                                                   ----------       --------
                                                   ----------       --------




            See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       25

<PAGE>
                                       
                              LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                                       
                     COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                   (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
                                                             YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                         ------------------------------
                                                           1996       1995       1994
                                                         --------   --------   --------
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>        <C>
Revenues:
  Inn.................................................   $434,864   $405,694   $353,348
  Restaurant rental and other.........................      8,105      8,071      7,675
  Management services.................................         90        154      1,219
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Total revenues....................................    443,059    413,919    362,242
                                                         --------   --------   --------

Operating costs and expenses:
  Direct..............................................    218,738    209,153    194,894
  Corporate...........................................     18,450     18,522     18,511
  Depreciation, amortization and asset retirements....     48,105     40,951     38,080
  Provision for premature retirement of assets........     18,076     12,630          -
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Total operating costs and expenses................    303,369    281,256    251,485
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Operating income..................................    139,690    132,663    110,757
                                                         --------   --------   --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest income.....................................       (656)      (979)    (1,421)
  Interest on long-term debt, net.....................     42,468     40,421     38,860
  Partners' equity in earnings........................      1,499     10,227     11,406
  Net gain on property transactions...................          -          -        (79)
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Earnings before income taxes and 
     extraordinary items..............................     96,379     82,994     61,991
Income taxes..........................................     35,660     31,620     24,176
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Earnings before extraordinary items...............     60,719     51,374     37,815
Extraordinary items, net of income taxes..............       (524)      (717)         -
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Net earnings......................................     60,195     50,657     37,815
Conversion of partner's interest into common stock....          -    (46,364)         -
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Net earnings available to shareholders............    $60,195   $  4,293   $ 37,815
                                                         --------   --------   --------
                                                         --------   --------   --------

Earnings per common and common equivalent share:
    Earnings after conversion of partner's 
     interest into common stock and before 
     extraordinary items..............................    $   .75   $    .07   $    .52
    Extraordinary items, net of income taxes..........       (.01)      (.01)         -
                                                         --------   --------   --------
    Net earnings available to shareholders............    $   .74   $    .06   $    .52
                                                         --------   --------   --------
                                                         --------   --------   --------

Weighted average number of common and common 
 equivalent shares outstanding, as restated 
 for stock splits.....................................     80,949     77,966     72,936
                                                         --------   --------   --------
                                                         --------   --------   --------
</TABLE>


           See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      26

<PAGE>
                                       
                              LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                                       
                  COMBINED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
                                                                             ADDITIONAL              MINIMUM
                                       COMMON STOCK       TREASURY STOCK      PAID-IN     RETAINED   PENSION
                                     SHARES   AMOUNT    SHARES     AMOUNT     CAPITAL     EARNINGS  LIABILITY     TOTAL
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------
<S>                                  <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>
Balances at December 31, 1993.....   32,111   $ 3,211   (1,733)   $(13,328)   $ 60,573    $100,059   $(1,458)   $149,057
  Effect of stock split at 
   October 25, 1994...............   16,163     1,616     (717)          -      (1,616)          -         -           -
  Stock options...................      485        49      412       3,104       9,802           -         -      12,955
  Purchase of treasury stock......        -         -     (323)     (7,115)          -           -         -      (7,115)
  Dividends paid..................        -         -        -           -           -      (3,465)        -      (3,465)
  Net earnings....................        -         -        -           -           -      37,815         -      37,815
  Minimum pension liability.......        -         -        -           -           -           -       (16)        (16)
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------

Balances at December 31, 1994.....   48,759     4,876   (2,361)    (17,339)     68,759     134,409    (1,474)    189,231
  Stock options...................      824        82       (6)       (158)     11,228           -         -      11,152
  Purchase of treasury stock......        -         -     (482)    (12,244)          -           -         -     (12,244)
  Conversion of partner's 
   interest into common stock.....    5,300       530        -           -     142,234     (46,364)        -      96,400
  Dividends paid..................        -         -        -           -           -      (4,957)        -      (4,957)
  Net earnings....................        -         -        -           -           -      50,657         -      50,657
  Minimum pension liability.......        -         -        -           -           -           -     1,474       1,474
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------

Balances at December 31, 1995.....   54,883     5,488   (2,849)    (29,741)    222,221     133,745         -     331,713
  Effect of stock split at 
   July 15, 1996..................   27,678     2,768   (1,735)          -      (2,768)          -         -           -
  Stock options...................    1,713       171       (3)        (79)     21,000           -         -      21,092
  Purchase of treasury stock......        -         -   (2,117)    (42,094)          -           -         -     (42,094)
  Dividends paid..................        -         -        -           -           -      (5,330)        -      (5,330)
  Net earnings....................        -         -        -           -           -      60,195         -      60,195
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------

Balances at December 31, 1996.....   84,274   $ 8,427   (6,704)   $(71,914)   $240,453    $188,610   $     -    $365,576
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------
                                     ------   -------   ------    --------    --------    --------   -------    --------
</TABLE>




           See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      27

<PAGE>
                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                        COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31   
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                    1996      1995      1994
                                                 --------- --------- ---------
Cash flows from operating activities:
 Net earnings....................................$  60,195 $  50,657 $  37,815
 Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net 
  cash provided by operating activities:
 Depreciation and amortization of property and 
  equipment and asset retirements................   48,105    40,951    38,080
 Provision for premature retirement of assets....   18,076    12,630        --
 Gain on sale of assets..........................       --        --       (79)
 Partners' equity in earnings....................    1,499    10,227    11,406
 Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
  Receivables....................................      349      (537)   (2,013)
  Income taxes...................................    3,239     2,646     9,291
  Supplies and prepayments.......................   (2,431)   (1,818)   (2,622)
  Accounts payable and accrued expenses..........    8,517     9,704    (1,291)
  Deferred charges and other assets..............    1,804       656     1,470
  Deferred credits and other.....................    8,909     3,682     2,176
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   Net cash provided by operating activities.....  148,262   128,798    94,233
                                                  --------  --------  --------
Cash flows from investing activities:
 Construction, purchase and conversion of inns... (148,977)  (77,502)  (34,690)
 Other capital expenditures...................... (116,598)  (39,962)  (75,248)
 Proceeds from property transactions.............       --        --     2,565
 Purchase of partners' equity interests..........   (9,232)  (48,200)  (53,255)
 Decrease in notes receivable and investments....     (372)    6,836     4,136
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   Net cash used by investing activities......... (275,179) (158,828) (156,492)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
Cash flows from financing activities:
 Proceeds from line of credit and long-term 
  borrowings.....................................  651,149   645,723   417,102
 Principal payments on line of credit and 
  long-term borrowings........................... (494,105) (601,121) (369,955)
 Capital distributions to partners...............   (1,129)   (2,495)   (1,144)
 Dividends to shareholders.......................   (5,330)   (4,957)   (3,465)
 Purchase of treasury stock......................  (24,012)  (12,346)   (7,013)
 Purchase of treasury stock from related party...  (11,500)       --        --
 Net proceeds from stock transactions............   10,762     5,227     5,475
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   Net cash provided by financing activities.....  125,835    30,031    41,000
                                                  --------  --------  --------
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash 
 equivalents.....................................   (1,082)        1   (21,259)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year...    2,590     2,589    23,848
                                                  --------  --------  --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year......... $  1,508  $  2,590  $  2,589
                                                  --------  --------  --------
                                                  --------  --------  --------

            See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       28
<PAGE>
                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31   
                                                 -----------------------------
                                                    1996      1995      1994
                                                 --------- --------- ---------
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing
and financing activities:

Tax benefit from stock options exercised.........  $10,330   $ 6,027    $7,480
Accrual for purchase of treasury stock...........    6,582        --       102
Debt incurred in connection with acquisitions of 
 unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures..    3,700        --        --
Effect of stock splits...........................    2,768        --     1,616
Adjustment to carrying value of property and 
 equipment.......................................       --    51,081        --
Conversion of partner's interest into common 
 stock...........................................       --    46,364        --
Minimum pension liability........................       --     2,889       147

            See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       29

<PAGE>
                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1)  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
                                           
BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

     The Company develops, owns and operates inns.  At December 31, 1996, the 
Company owned and operated 248 inns in 29 states, concentrated in the Western 
and Southern United States.  The combined financial statements include the 
accounts of subsidiaries (all wholly-owned) and unincorporated partnerships 
and joint ventures in which the Company has at least a 50% interest, and in 
one case a 40% interest through July 3, 1995, and exercises substantial 
legal, financial and operational control.  All significant intercompany 
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in combination.  Certain 
reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform with the 
current period presentation.
                                           
CASH EQUIVALENTS
                                           
     All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at 
the date of acquisition are considered cash equivalents.
                                           
DEFERRED CHARGES
                                           
     Deferred charges consist primarily of issuance costs related to 
long-term debt, loan fees, closing fees and organizational costs.  Issuance 
costs are amortized over the life of the related debt using the interest 
method.  Organizational costs are amortized over five years.  Loan fees and 
closing fees are amortized over the respective terms of the loans.
                                           
SELF-INSURANCE PROGRAMS
                                           
     The Company uses a paid loss retrospective insurance plan for general 
and auto liability and workers' compensation.  Predetermined loss limits have 
been arranged with insurance companies to limit the Company's per occurrence 
cash outlay.
                                            
     The Company maintains a self-insurance program for major medical and 
hospitalization coverage for employees and dependents which is partially 
funded by payroll deductions.  Payments for major medical and hospitalization 
to individual participants less than specified amounts are self-insured by 
the Company.  Claims for benefits in excess of these amounts are covered by 
insurance purchased by the Company.
                                           
     Provisions have been made in the combined financial statements which 
represent the expected future payments based on estimated ultimate cost for 
incidents incurred through the balance sheet date.
                                           
EARNINGS PER SHARE
                                           
     Earnings per share are computed on the basis of the weighted average 
number of common and common equivalent (dilutive stock options) shares 
outstanding in each year after giving retroactive effect to the stock splits 
effected in the form of stock dividends as discussed in note 7 of these 
Combined Financial Statements.  Primary and fully diluted earnings per share 
are not significantly different.
                                           
ADVERTISING
                                           
     Substantially all costs of advertising, promotion and marketing programs 
are charged to operations in the year incurred.  These costs were 
approximately $19,370,000, $17,523,000 and $16,167,000 for the years ended 
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. 

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       30
<PAGE>

                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INTEREST RATE SWAPS
                                           
     The accounting treatment for the Company's off balance sheet interest 
rate swaps is to record net interest received or paid as an adjustment to 
interest expense.
                                           
USE OF ESTIMATES
                                           
     The Company has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to 
the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent 
assets and liabilities to prepare these financial statements in conformity 
with generally accepted accounting principles.  Actual results could differ 
from those estimates.
                                           
(2)  PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

                                                   December 31
                                            -------------------------
                                               1996            1995
                                            ----------     ----------
                                                  (in thousands)
Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $  988,711     $  864,605
Furniture, fixtures and equipment . . . .      148,691        121,032
Land and leasehold improvements . . . . .      183,207        174,165
Construction in progress. . . . . . . . .      120,286         29,862
                                            ----------     ----------
   Total property and equipment . . . . .    1,440,895      1,189,664
Less accumulated depreciation and 
 amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      292,705        273,914
                                            ----------     ----------
   Net property and equipment . . . . . .   $1,148,190     $  915,750
                                            ----------     ----------
                                            ----------     ----------
                                           
                                           
     At December 31, 1996, approximately $207,391,000 of the net property and 
equipment shown above was pledged as collateral under certain mortgages and 
industrial development revenue bonds (IRBs).
                                           
     Property and equipment is recorded at cost.  Depreciation and 
amortization of property and equipment is computed using the straight-line 
method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows: 40 years for 
buildings; 4 to 10 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment; 10 to 20 
years for leasehold and land improvements.  Maintenance and repairs are 
charged to operations as incurred.  Expenditures for improvements are 
capitalized.
                                           
     At December 31, 1996 and 1995, land and leasehold improvements includes 
$1,315,000 and $2,664,000, respectively for properties held for sale stated 
at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value.  Charges to reduce 
the carrying amounts of properties held for sale to net realizable value are 
recognized in income.
                                           
     The Company launched its Gold Medal rooms program during the third 
quarter of 1995.  During implementation of this program, the Company will be 
replacing certain furniture and fixtures before the end of their normal 
useful life and has made adjustments to reflect shorter remaining lives.  As 
a result, the Company has recorded non-cash provisions for premature 
retirement of assets of $18,076,000 and $12,630,000 during 1996 and 1995, 
respectively.  The Company does not expect to record any additional provision 
for premature retirement of assets during 1997 related to this program.
                                           
     The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121 
"Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of" ("FAS 
121") during 1996.  FAS 121 requires the Company to recognize impairment 
losses on property and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount of long-lived assets may not be 
recoverable.  Such losses are determined by comparing the sum of the expected 
future undiscounted net cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset.  
Impairment losses are recognized in operating income as they are determined.  
The adoption of FAS 121 had no material effect on the Company's financial 
position or results of operations.

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       31
<PAGE>
                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(3)  LONG-TERM DEBT

                                                          December 31
                                                   -------------------------
                                                      1996            1995
                                                   ----------     ----------
                                                         (in thousands)
Mortgage loans maturing 1998-2001 (8.81%
 weighted average effective interest rate) . . .   $  58,337       $  76,108
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, 
 maturing 1997-2012 (6.34% weighted  
 average effective interest rate). . . . . . . .      49,394          58,837
Bank unsecured line of credit, maturing 
 August 31, 2000 (7.08% effective
 interest rate at December 31, 1996) . . . . . .     191,800         177,000
Bank unsecured line of credit, maturing
 September 8, 1997 (7.6% effective 
 interest rate at December 31, 1996) . . . . . .      18,300              --
Senior unsecured notes, due 2005 (7.57% 
 effective interest rate). . . . . . . . . . . .      99,917          99,793
Senior unsecured notes, due 2004 (7.09% 
 effective interest rate). . . . . . . . . . . .     101,220              --
Medium-term notes due 2001 (7.12% 
 effective interest rate). . . . . . . . . . . .      50,000              --
Senior unsecured subordinated notes, due
 2003 (9.58% effective interest rate). . . . . .     120,000         120,000
Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       3,700              --
                                                   ---------       ---------
    Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     692,668         531,738
Less current installments. . . . . . . . . . . .      33,299          13,322
                                                   ---------       ---------
    Net long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 659,369       $ 518,416
                                                   ---------       ---------
                                                   ---------       ---------

     At December 31, 1996, the Company had a $200 million Bank Unsecured Line 
of Credit and a $50 million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of Credit (the "Bank 
Unsecured Credit Facilities").  The $200 million Bank Unsecured Line of 
Credit matures August 2000 and the $50 million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of 
Credit matures September 1997.  At December 31, 1996, the Company had 
$32,411,000 available on its Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities, net of 
$7,489,000 of letters of credit collateralizing its insurance programs and 
certain mortgages.  The Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities bear interest at the 
prime rate or LIBOR, adjusted for an applicable margin, as defined under the 
related credit agreements.  The applicable margin is based upon predetermined 
levels of cash flow to indebtedness or credit ratings received from specified 
credit rating agencies, also as defined in the related credit agreements.  At 
December 31, 1996, borrowings under the Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities bear 
interest at LIBOR plus 45 basis points on $185,000,000 of outstanding 
borrowings, the prime rate less 50 basis points on $6,800,000 of outstanding 
borrowings, LIBOR plus 50 basis points on $15,000,000 of outstanding 
borrowings and the prime rate on $3,300,000 of outstanding borrowings.  The 
Credit Facilities require an annual commitment fee of 20 basis points on the 
$200 million Bank Unsecured Line of Credit and 15 basis points on the $50 
million 364-Day Bank Unsecured Line of Credit. 

     Annual maturities for the five years subsequent to December 31, 1996 and 
thereafter are as follows:
                                           
                                         (in thousands)
                          1997 . . . . .  $  33,299
                          1998 . . . . .     11,194
                          1999 . . . . .     10,886
                          2000 . . . . .    242,234
                          2001 . . . . .     65,888
                          Thereafter . .    329,167
                                          ---------
                                          $ 692,668
                                          ---------
                                          ---------

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       32
<PAGE>

                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Maturities for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 2000 include the 
$18,300,000 and $191,800,000 balances on the $50 million 364-Day Bank 
Unsecured Line of Credit and the $200 million Bank Unsecured Line of Credit, 
respectively.
                                           
     Interest paid during the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 
amounted to $44,501,000, $39,912,000 and $40,105,000, respectively.
                                           
     On January 19, 1996, La Quinta filed a shelf registration statement with 
the Securities and Exchange Commission which would allow the Company to issue 
up to $250 million principal amount of Debt Securities.  The registration 
statement became effective on January 25, 1996. Under this registration 
statement, the Company has issued $100 million of 7.25% Senior Unsecured 
Notes due 2004 and $50 million of 7.11% Medium-Term Notes due 2001.  The 
proceeds of these financings were used to repay outstanding amounts on the 
Company's Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities.
                                           
     In September 1995, the Company completed an offering of $100,000,000 in 
principal amount of 7.40% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2005.  The proceeds of 
the offering were used to repay amounts outstanding on the Company's Bank 
Unsecured Credit Facilities.
                                           
     The Company recognizes gains and losses on extinguishments of debt as 
extraordinary items in the period in which the debt is extinguished.  The 
Company reported extraordinary items, net of income taxes, of $524,000, and 
$717,000 in 1996 and 1995, respectively, related to these refinancings and 
retirements.
                                           
     The Company is obligated by agreements relating to eighteen issues of 
IRBs in an aggregate amount of $44,795,000 to purchase the bonds at face 
value prior to maturity under certain circumstances. The bonds have floating 
interest rates which are indexed periodically.  Bondholders may, when the 
rate is changed, put the bonds to the designated remarketing agent. If the 
remarketing agent is unable to resell the bonds, it may draw upon an 
irrevocable letter of credit which secure the IRBs.  In such event, the 
Company would be required to repay the funds drawn on the letters of credit 
within 24 months.
                                           
     As of December 31, 1996 no draws had been made upon any such letters of 
credit.  The schedule of annual maturities shown above includes these IRBs as 
if they will not be subject to repayment prior to maturity.  Assuming all 
bonds under such IRB arrangements are presented for payment prior to December 
31, 1997 and the remarketing agents are unable to resell such bonds, the 
maturities of long-term debt shown above would increase by $28,380,000 for 
the year ending December 31, 1999.
                                           
     On January 23, 1992, with the approval of the Company's Board of 
Directors, the Company entered into two interest rate swap agreements (the 
"Agreements") which exchanged the Company's variable rate interest payments 
for the fixed rate interest payments of a major financial institution (the 
"Counterparty").  The debt ("Notional Amounts") underlying the Agreements 
was $16,890,000 and $44,420,000.  Under the Agreements, the Company 
effectively pays a fixed rate of interest at 6.50% and 5.26% and the 
Counterparty pays a percentage of prime interest rate and the variable rate 
demand note interest rate ("VRDN").  In the event the VRDN rate exceeds the 
fixed interest rate of 5.26% or the percentage of prime interest rate exceeds 
6.50%, the Counterparty pays to the Company that difference times the 
Notional Amount, on a monthly basis.  Should the fixed interest rate of 5.26% 
exceed the VRDN interest rate or the fixed interest rate of 6.50% exceed the 
percentage of prime interest rate, the Company pays the difference times the 
Notional Amount to the Counterparty, on a monthly basis.  These Agreements 
resulted in net payments to the Counterparty of $585,000, $442,000 and 
$1,040,000 in the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. 
The Notional Amounts are reduced over the life of the Agreements by scheduled 
amortization payments.  At December 31, 1996, the Notional Amounts of debt 
remaining under the Agreements were $6,585,000 and $30,350,000 which bear 
interest at a weighted average variable interest rate of 6.18% and 3.87%, 
respectively.  The Agreements expired on February 1, 1997 and were not 
renewed or replaced by the Company.

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       33
<PAGE>

                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     As a result of the VRDN rate decreasing to 3.77% at December 31, 1996 
from 4.37% at December 31, 1995, the estimated fair value of the interest 
rate swap agreements net payable position decreased to $84,000 at December 
31, 1996 from $402,000 at December 31, 1995.
                                           
     The Bank Unsecured Credit Facilities and certain agreements associated 
with IRBs are governed by a uniform covenant agreement.  The most restrictive 
covenants provide for the following:  minimum net worth, limitations on the 
incurrence of debt, mergers, sales of substantial assets, loans and advances, 
certain investments or any material changes in character of business.
                                           
     The Company's 9 1/4% Senior Unsecured Subordinated Notes due 2003 are 
governed by a Trust Indenture dated May 15, 1993. The Trust Indenture 
contains certain covenants for the benefit of holders of the notes, 
including, among others, covenants placing limitations on the incurrence of 
debt, dividend payments, certain investments, transactions with related 
persons, asset sales, mergers and the sale of substantially all the assets of 
the Company.
                                           
     The Company's 7.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2005, 7.25% Senior 
Unsecured Notes due 2004 and the 7.11% Medium-Term Notes due 2001 are all 
governed by a Trust Indenture dated September 15, 1995.  The Trust Indenture 
contains covenants which place limitations on certain liens on assets, sale 
and leaseback transactions, mergers and the sale of substantially all of the 
assets of the Company.
                                           
     At December 31, 1996, the Company was in compliance with all 
restrictions and covenants.

(4)  ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
                                           
     At December 31, 1996 and 1995, accounts payable and accrued expenses 
consisted of the following:
   
                                                 December 31
                                              -----------------
                                               1996       1995
                                              -----      ------
    Accounts payable:
       Construction . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 30,920   $  9,666
       Trade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     16,125     13,695
       Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      8,043      6,437
       Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . .         --      2,960
                                            --------   --------
                                            $ 55,088   $ 32,758
                                            --------   --------
                                            --------   --------

    Accrued expenses:
       Payroll and employee benefits. . .   $ 25,570   $ 25,201
       Property taxes . . . . . . . . . .     10,607      9,640
       Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . .      8,241      4,845
       Treasury stock purchase  . . . . .      6,582         --
       Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      2,584      1,229
                                            --------   --------
                                            $ 53,584   $ 40,915
                                            --------   --------
                                            --------   --------

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      34
<PAGE>
                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5)  UNINCORPORATED PARTNERSHIPS AND JOINT VENTURES
                                           
     At December 31, 1996, the Company had an ownership interest between 
50% and 60% in three unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures.  
Summary financial information with respect to unincorporated 
partnerships and joint ventures included in the combined financial 
statements is provided below in order to provide further understanding 
of the Company's structure and to present the financial position and 
results of operations of the unincorporated partnerships and joint 
ventures included in the combined financial statements.  Cost and equity 
investments are not included in other summarized data as such 
investments are not considered significant.
                                           
     The following financial information includes the activity of the 
acquired unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures through the date 
of acquisition (see note 15).
                                           
                                                             December 31
                                                           ----------------
                                                           1996       1995
                                                           -----     ------
                                                            (in thousands)
ASSETS
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   827   $  2,598
Property and equipment, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . .      7,335     13,559
Deferred charges and other assets. . . . . . . . . . .          9         13
                                                          -------   --------
                                                          $ 8,171   $ 16,170
                                                          -------   --------
                                                          -------   --------
                                                         
LIABILITIES AND OWNERS' EQUITY                           
Total current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   766   $  1,194
Long-term debt, excluding current                        
 installments of $488 and $475 . . . . . . . . . . . .        763      1,251
Owners' equity:                                          
   Company's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      3,349      7,416
   Partners' . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      3,293      6,309
                                                          -------   --------
                                                          $ 8,171   $ 16,170
                                                          -------   --------
                                                          -------   --------

                                                   Years Ended December 31
                                                -----------------------------
                                                  1996      1995       1994
                                                ------     ------     ------
                                                        (in thousands)
Revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 9,625  $ 58,265   $ 85,600
Operating costs and expenses . . . . . . . . .    6,124    38,434     62,775
                                                -------   -------   --------
Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    3,501    19,831     22,825
Other deductions, principally interest . . . .      (70)   (1,019)    (2,066)
                                                -------   -------   --------
Earnings before extraordinary items. . . . . .    3,431    18,812     20,759
Extraordinary items. . . . . . . . . . . . . .       --        --        (75)
                                                -------   -------   --------
                                                -------   -------   --------
    Pretax earnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 3,431  $ 18,812   $ 20,684
                                                -------   -------   --------
                                                -------   -------   --------

Equity in pretax earnings:
    Company's. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 1,932   $ 8,585   $  9,278
    Partners'. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    1,499    10,227     11,406
                                                -------   -------   --------
                                                $ 3,431   $18,812   $ 20,684
                                                -------   -------   --------
                                                -------   -------   --------

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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                                       35
<PAGE>
                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(6)  INCOME TAXES

     Income tax expense attributable to income from continuing operations 
consists of:

                                                   Years Ended December 31
                                                -----------------------------
                                                  1996       1995       1994
                                                ------      ------     ------
                                                        (in thousands)
       Federal
         Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $24,540   $ 26,992   $ 16,038
         Deferred. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    7,393      1,015      4,984
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                 31,933     28,007     21,022
                                                -------   --------   --------
     
       State
         Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    2,630      3,447      2,871
         Deferred. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    1,097        166        283
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                  3,727      3,613      3,154
                                                -------   --------   --------

       Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $35,660   $ 31,620   $ 24,176
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                -------   --------   --------

     The effective tax rate varies from the statutory rate for the following 
reasons:

                                                   Years Ended December 31
                                                -----------------------------
                                                  1996       1995       1994
                                                ------      ------     ------
                                                        (in thousands)
                                           
       Tax expense at statutory rate . . . .    $33,732   $ 29,048   $ 21,697
       State income taxes, net of          
        Federal benefit. . . . . . . . . . .      2,512      2,482      1,948
       Other, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (584)        90        531
                                                -------   --------   --------
           Provision for income taxes. . . .    $35,660   $ 31,620   $ 24,176
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                -------   --------   --------

     The following are cash transactions relating to the Company's income 
taxes:

                                                   Years Ended December 31
                                                -----------------------------
                                                  1996       1995       1994
                                                ------      ------     ------
                                                        (in thousands)
       Income taxes paid . . . . . . . . . . .  $23,326   $ 24,777    $ 9,716
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                -------   --------   --------
       Income tax refund . . . . . . . . . . .  $     5   $    111    $    99
                                                -------   --------   --------
                                                -------   --------   --------

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                                       36
<PAGE>
                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant 
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of 
December 31, 1996 and 1995 are presented below:

                                                  Years Ended December 31
                                                  -----------------------
                                                      1996       1995
                                                   ---------    --------
                                                       (in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
   Notes receivable and land, principally 
    due to allowance and write-downs for
    financial reporting purposes . . . . . . . .   $  1,983   $  3,447
   Property and equipment, principally 
    due to acquisitions of partnership
    interests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     13,627     14,046
   Expense provisions and deferred gains . . . .     12,592     12,414
                                                   --------   --------
   Total gross deferred tax assets . . . . . . .     28,202     29,907
                                                   --------   --------
Deferred tax liabilities:
   Investments in partnerships, principally 
    due to differences in depreciation 
    and capitalized interest . . . . . . . . . .       (306)      (352)
   Property and equipment, principally 
    due to differences in depreciation 
    and capitalized interest . . . . . . . . . .    (40,156)   (34,365)
   Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     (2,741)    (1,701)
                                                   --------   --------
   Total gross deferred tax liabilities. . . . .    (43,203)   (36,418)
                                                   --------   --------
   Net deferred tax liability. . . . . . . . . .   $(15,001)  $ (6,511)
                                                   --------   --------
                                                   --------   --------

     The Company anticipates that the reversal of existing taxable temporary 
differences will more likely than not provide sufficient taxable income to 
realize the tax benefits of the remaining deferred tax assets.
                                           
(7)  SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                           
     The Board of Directors authorized three-for-two stock splits effected in 
the form of stock dividends effective in July 1996, October 1994 and March 
1994.  Earnings per share, the weighted average number of shares outstanding, 
shareholders' equity and the following information have been adjusted to give 
effect to each of these distributions.
                                           
     During 1996, 1995 and 1994, the Board of Directors authorized a 
series of plans for the repurchase of up to a total of $50,000,000 of 
the Company's common stock. During January 1996, the Board of Directors, 
through a resolution independent of the $50,000,000 series of repurchase 
plans, approved a private transaction for the repurchase of $11,500,000 
of the Company's common stock from a related party (see note 13).  
Repurchases of $42,094,000, $12,244,000 and $7,115,000 were made under 
these plans, including the private transaction, during 1996, 1995 and 
1994, respectively.  Additional repurchases will be made from time to 
time in the open market or private transactions as deemed appropriate by 
the Company.

     The Company's stock option plans cover the granting of options to 
purchase an aggregate of 8,849,474 common shares. Options granted under the 
plans are issuable to certain officers, employees and directors generally at 
prices not less than fair market value at date of grant. Options are 
generally exercisable in four equal installments on successive anniversary 
dates of the date of grant and are exercisable thereafter in whole or in 
part.  Outstanding options not exercised expire ten years from the date of 
grant.  The Company accounts for these plans under Accounting Principles 
Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," under which 
no compensation cost has been recognized.  Upon exercise, the excess of the 
option price received over the par value of the shares issued, net of 
expenses, is credited to additional paid-in capital. 

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       37
<PAGE>
                            LA QUINTA INNS, INC.          

                   NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      A summary of the status of the Company's stock option plans at December 
31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 and changes during the years then ended is presented 
in the table and narrative below:
<TABLE>
                                     1996                 1995                1994
                              ------------------  ------------------  ------------------
                                        Wtd Avg             Wtd Avg             Wtd Avg 
                                Shares  Ex Price    Shares  Ex Price   Shares   Ex Price
                              --------- --------  --------- --------  --------- --------
<S>                           <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Outstanding at beg. of year.. 8,602,598  $ 6.21   9,489,704  $ 5.05   9,451,850  $ 3.24
Granted...................... 1,140,781   19.00     673,313   17.99   1,958,066   12.14
Canceled or expired..........  (209,965)  14.40    (323,607)   4.28    (124,068)   7.70
Exercised....................(1,968,540)   5.47  (1,236,812)   4.22  (1,796,144)   3.04
                             ----------          ----------          ----------        
Outstanding at end of year... 7,564,874    8.11   8,602,598    6.21   9,489,704    5.05
                             ----------          ----------          ----------        
                             ----------          ----------          ----------        
Exercisable at end of year... 5,969,894    5.52   6,905,570    5.04   5,808,896    3.20
                             ----------          ----------          ----------        
                             ----------          ----------          ----------        
Weighted average fair                                                
 value of options granted....   $  6.18             $  6.23          
</TABLE>
      The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant 
using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following 
weighted-average assumptions used for grants in 1996 and 1995, respectively: 
risk-free interest rates of 5.70 and 6.12 percent; expected dividend yields 
of .45 and .50 percent; expected lives of 3.44 and 3.97 years; and expected 
volatilities of 37 and 36 percent.

      Had the compensation cost for these plans been determined consistent 
with Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 123, "Accounting for 
Stock-Based Compensation" (Statement 123), the Company's net earnings and 
earnings per share would have been reduced to the following pro forma amounts:

                                               1996       1995
                                              -------    -------
      Net Earnings:           As Reported     $60,195    $50,657
                              Pro Forma       $58,952    $50,278

      Earnings Per Share:     As Reported     $   .74    $   .65
                              Pro Forma       $   .73    $   .64

      The net earnings and earnings per share information for 1995 shown above 
does not reflect the $46,364,000 non-recurring, non-cash item related to the 
AEW Transaction as further discussed in note 15.

      The Company is not required to apply the Statement 123 method of 
accounting to stock options granted prior to January 1, 1995.  As such, the 
pro forma compensation cost reflected above may not be a representation of 
future results.

      The following table summarizes information about stock options 
outstanding at December 31, 1996:
<TABLE>
                              Options Outstanding                     Options Exercisable
                   ---------------------------------------------  ---------------------------
       Range         Number         Wtd Avg                         Number  
         of        Outstanding     Remaining         Wtd Avg      Exercisable     Wtd Avg
  Exercise Prices  at 12/31/96  Contractual Life  Exercise Price  at 12/31/96  Exercise Price
  ---------------  -----------  ----------------  --------------  -----------  --------------
  <S>              <C>          <C>               <C>              <C>          <C>          
  $ 2.33 to  6.02   4,555,545      5.25 Years         $ 3.16       4,542,890       $ 3.15
   11.70 to 14.06   1,476,486      7.25                12.11       1,219,442        12.06
   16.67 to 21.13   1,532,843      9.10                18.95         207,562        18.87
                    ---------                                      ---------  
    2.33 to 21.13   7,564,874      6.42                 8.11       5,969,894        5.52
                    ---------                                      ---------  
                    ---------                                      ---------  
</TABLE>
      During 1996, 150,000 options of the Company's common stock were granted 
to an officer of the Company, subject to shareholder approval.  The Company 
expects to obtain shareholder approval at its Annual 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       38
<PAGE>
                            LA QUINTA INNS, INC.          

                   NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting of Shareholders in May 1997.  These options were not included in the 
above disclosures for 1996 stock options granted, weighted average fair value 
of stock options granted or pro forma earnings and earnings per share.

      The exercise of non-qualified stock options results in state and 
federal income tax benefits to the Company related to the difference between 
market price at the date of exercise and the option price. During 1996, 1995 
and 1994, approximately $10,330,000, $6,027,000 and $7,480,000, respectively, 
was credited to additional paid-in capital for the tax benefits of options 
exercised.

      Under the terms of the La Quinta Development Partners, L.P. ("LQDP" or 
the "Development Partnership") partnership agreement, AEW Partners, L.P. 
("AEW Partners") had the ability to convert 66 2/3% of its 60% ownership in 
the Development Partnership into a specified number of shares of the 
Company's Common Stock (adjusted for stock splits, cash dividends, and 
distributions from LQDP to AEW).  As further discussed in note 15, AEW 
exercised its conversion option during 1995 and 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) 
of the Company's common stock were issued to AEW.  These shares were 
registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and were sold, 
together with 20,250 shares (pre-split) of the Company's Common Stock owned 
by AEW prior to the conversion, in an underwritten secondary public offering.

(8)  PENSION PLAN AND OTHER

      The Retirement Plan and Trust of La Quinta Inns, Inc. (the "Plan") is a 
defined benefit pension plan covering all employees.  The Plan was amended in 
1993 to allow highly compensated employees to rejoin the Retirement Plan as 
active participants.  Benefits accruing under the Plan are determined 
according to a career average benefit formula which is integrated with Social 
Security benefits.  For each year of service as a participant in the Plan, an 
employee accrues a benefit equal to one percent of his or her annual 
compensation plus .65 percent of compensation in excess of the Social 
Security covered compensation amount.  The Company's funding policy for the 
Retirement Plan is to annually contribute the minimum amount required by 
federal law.

      The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and Trust (the "SERP") 
continues to cover a select group of management employees.  Benefits under 
the SERP are determined by a formula which considers service and total 
compensation; the results of the formula-derived benefit are then reduced by 
the participant's pension entitlement from the qualified Retirement Plan.

      The following table sets forth the funded status and amounts recognized 
in the Company's combined financial statements for the Plan at December 31, 
1996 and 1995.
                                                                December 31
                                                             ------------------
                                                              1996       1995
                                                             --------  --------
                                                               (in thousands)
Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
 Accumulated benefit obligation, including vested benefits 
  of $9,006 and $9,273...................................... $(10,171) $(10,209)
                                                             --------  --------
                                                             --------  --------
 Projected benefit obligation for services rendered to date. $(13,246) $(13,589)
 Plan assets at fair value, primarily marketable stocks 
  and CDs...................................................   10,338     8,923
                                                             --------  --------
 Projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets......   (2,908)   (4,666)
 Unrecognized net loss from past experiences different from
  those assumed.............................................    1,702     3,083
 Prior service costs........................................    1,180     1,354
 Additional minimum liability...............................       --    (1,056)
                                                             --------  --------
 Accrued pension costs...................................... $    (26)  $(1,285)
                                                             --------  --------
                                                             --------  --------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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                                       39
<PAGE>
                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            
     The following table sets forth the funded status of the SERP and amounts
recognized in the Company's financial statements for the SERP:
                                             
                                                   December 31
                                                  --------------
                                                  1996      1995
                                                  (in thousands)

Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
 Accumulated benefit obligation, including 
  vested benefits of $1,065 and $1,287.......    $(1,743)  $(1,867)
                                                 -------   -------
                                                 -------   -------
 Projected benefit obligation for services 
  rendered to date............................   $(4,590)  $(4,836)
   Unrecognized net (gain) loss from past 
    experiences different from those assumed..      (152)      769
   Prior service costs........................      (236)      (60)
                                                 -------   -------
     Accrued pension costs....................   $(4,978)  $(4,127)
                                                 -------   -------
                                                 -------   -------
                                           
     The Company maintains a trust account intended for use in settling 
benefits due under the SERP.  The Company had no funds accumulated in the 
trust account at December 31, 1996 and 1995.
                                           
The assumptions used in the calculations shown above were:
                                           
                                       1996          1995           1994
                                  -----------    -----------     -----------
                                           
Discount rate.................          7.50%           7.25%          8.50%
Expected long-term rate of 
 return on assets.............          8.00%           8.00%          8.00%
Rate of increase in 
 compensation levels...........   5.00%-6.00%     5.00%-6.00%    5.00%-6.00%
                                           
     The combined net periodic pension cost for the Plan and the SERP 
includes the following components:
                                           
                                                     Years Ended December 31
                                                     ------------------------
                                                      1996     1995     1994
                                                     ------   ------   ------
                                                          (in thousands)
Service cost (benefits earned during the period)..   $2,144   $1,571   $1,604
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation.....    1,298    1,072    1,258
Actual return on plan assets......................     (963)  (1,639)     228
Net amortization and deferral.....................      577      410      (96)
Net deferred asset gain...........................      195    1,041       --
                                                     ------   ------   ------
Net periodic pension cost before allocation to
  Managed Inns (See note 13)......................    3,251    2,455    2,994
Cost allocated to Managed Inns....................       --       --      (30)
                                                     ------   ------   ------
  Net periodic pension cost.......................   $3,251   $2,455   $2,964
                                                     ------   ------   ------
                                                     ------   ------   ------

    In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company established a 
401(k) Savings Plan and Trust (the "Savings Plan") effective January 1, 1994. 
The Savings Plan is designed to be a qualified plan under sections 401 and 
410 through 417 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Under the Savings Plan, 
eligible employees are allowed to defer income on a pre-tax basis through 
contributions to the Savings Plan and the Company matches a portion of such 
contributions.  The Company's matching contributions totaled approximately 
$170,000, $157,000 and $131,000 in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. 

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
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                                       40
<PAGE>
                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

  (9)     OPERATING LEASES
                                           
LESSEE
                                           
     The Company leases a portion of the real estate and equipment used in 
operations.  Certain ground lease arrangements contain contingent rental 
provisions based upon revenues and also contain renewal options at fair 
market values at the conclusion of the initial lease terms.  In 1993, the 
Company entered into two ten year operating leases for its corporate 
headquarters and reservation facilities in San Antonio.
                                           
     Future annual minimum rental payments required under operating leases 
that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one 
year at December 31, 1996 follow:
                                           
                                            (in thousands)
     1997..................................    $ 3,091
     1998..................................      2,852
     1999..................................      2,694
     2000..................................      2,460
     2001..................................      2,115
     Later years...........................      5,785
                                               -------
     Total minimum payments required.......    $18,997
                                               -------
                                               -------
                                             
     Total rental expense for operating leases was approximately $3,258,000, 
$3,188,000 and $3,196,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 
1994, respectively.
                                           
LESSOR
                                           
     The Company leases restaurants it owns to third parties.  The leases are 
accounted for as operating leases expiring during a period from 1997 to 2016 
and provide for minimum rentals and contingent rentals based on a percentage 
of annual sales in excess of stipulated amounts.  The following is a summary 
of restaurant property leased at December 31, 1996:
                                           

                                            (in thousands)

     Buildings.............................    $32,378
     Less: accumulated depreciation........     11,505
                                               -------
                                                20,873
     Land..................................     17,839
                                               -------
       Total leased property...............    $38,712
                                               -------
                                               -------

      Minimum future rentals to be received under the noncancelable 
restaurant leases in effect at December 31, 1996 follow:

                                            (in thousands)

     1997..................................    $ 6,515
     1998..................................      6,260
     1999..................................      5,906
     2000..................................      5,438
     2001..................................      4,834
     Later years...........................     17,402
                                               -------
                                               $46,355
                                               -------
                                               -------

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     41
                                                                
<PAGE>
                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

     Contingent rental income amounted to approximately $1,270,000, 
$1,198,000 and $1,025,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 
1994, respectively.
                                           
(10)    COMMITMENTS

     The estimated additional cost to complete the Gold Medal rooms program 
and the construction of new inns for which commitments have been made is 
approximately $105,665,000 at December 31, 1996, of which approximately 
$34,603,000 relates to the Gold Medal rooms program.  Funds on hand, 
anticipated future cash flows and amounts available on the Company's Bank 
Unsecured Credit Facilities are sufficient to complete these projects.
                                           
(11)    CONTINGENCIES
                                           
LITIGATION
                                           
     In September 1993, a former officer of the Company filed suit against 
the Company and certain of its directors and their affiliate companies.  The 
suit alleged breach of an employment agreement, misrepresentation, wrongful 
termination, self-dealing, breach of fiduciary duty, usurpation of corporate 
opportunity and tortious interference with contractual relations.  
Compensatory damages of $2,500,000 and exemplary damages of $5,000,000 were 
sought in the action.  The Court granted the Company's motion for summary 
judgment in September 1996, while allowing plaintiff the opportunity to 
re-file on a limited basis.  On December 4, 1996, the case was dismissed with 
prejudice, thereby resulting in a final disposition of the case in the 
Company's favor.
                                           
     The Company is also party to various lawsuits and claims generally 
incidental to its business.  The Company does not anticipate any amounts 
which it may be required to pay as a result of an adverse determination of 
such legal proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, or any other relief 
granted by reason, thereof, will have a material adverse effect on the 
Company's financial position or results of operations.
                                           
SEVERANCE AND EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
                                           
     The Company has entered into a five year employment agreement which 
includes a severance provision granting an executive the right to receive 
certain benefits, including among others, his annual base salary and bonus if 
there occurs a termination (as defined in the respective agreement) within 
the five year term of the agreement, or resignation (as defined in the 
agreement).  As of December 31, 1996, the maximum contingent liability under 
the severance provision of this agreement was approximately $1,680,000. 









- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
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                                         42
<PAGE>

                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(12)  QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
                                           
      The unaudited combined results of operations by quarter are summarized 
below:
                                           
                                            First    Second     Third     Fourth
                                           Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter
                                           -------   -------   -------   -------
                                          (in thousands, except per share data)
Year ended December 31, 1996:
  Revenues..............................  $102,758  $116,022  $121,902  $102,377
  Operating income......................    27,857    42,676    43,796    25,361
  Earnings before extraordinary items...    10,867    20,157    20,649     9,046
  Net earnings..........................    10,867    19,913    20,484     8,931
  Earnings per share before  
   extraordinary items..................       .13       .25       .25       .11
  Earnings per share....................  $    .13  $    .25  $    .25  $    .11
                                           
Year ended December 31, 1995:
  Revenues..............................  $ 96,735  $110,043  $113,906  $ 93,235
  Operating income......................    32,692    40,936    34,538    24,497
  Earnings before extraordinary items...    11,070    16,691    14,932     8,681
  Conversion of partner's interest
   into common stock....................        --        --   (46,364)       --
  Net earnings (loss) available to
   shareholders.........................    11,070    16,691   (32,149)    8,681

  Earnings (loss) per share after 
   conversion of partner's interest 
   into common stock and before 
   extraordinary items..................       .15       .23      (.38)      .11
  Earnings (loss) per share available to
   shareholders.........................  $    .15  $    .23  $   (.39) $    .11

Year ended December 31, 1994:
  Revenues..............................  $ 78,243  $ 92,563  $104,364  $ 87,072
  Operating income......................    20,277    30,352    35,932    24,196
  Net earnings..........................     5,542    11,280    14,011     6,982
  Earnings per share....................  $    .08  $    .15  $    .19  $    .09
                                           
      The decrease in net earnings (loss) available to shareholders in the 
third quarter of 1995 resulted from the provision for premature retirement of 
assets of $8,577,000, $5,309,000 net of tax (see note 2) and the conversion 
of partner's interest into common stock of $46,364,000 (see note 15).
                                           
(13)  RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
                                           
STOCK REPURCHASE
                                           
      On January 22, 1996, the Company agreed to purchase 500,000 shares 
(pre-split) of its common stock for $11,500,000 from The Airlie Group 
L.P. ("Airlie").  Airlie is an investment limited partnership of which a 
corporation owned by a director of the Company is an indirect co-general 
partner.  These shares were purchased at a discount to the closing stock 
price as of January 19, 1996.  This transaction was approved by the Board 
of Directors through a resolution independent of the $50,000,000 series 
of stock repurchase plans described in note 7.

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          43
<PAGE>

                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANAGEMENT SERVICES FEE
                                           
      The Company earned management and licensing fees as well as fees for 
chain services such as bookkeeping, national advertising and reservations 
through June 30, 1994 from all inns owned by the two joint ventures (the 
"CIGNA Partnerships") between the Company and investments partnerships 
managed by CIGNA Investments, Inc.  The inns operated under the La Quinta 
name and were managed by the Company in accordance with long-term management 
agreements.
                                           
OTHER RECURRING TRANSACTIONS
                                           
      La Quinta pays all direct operating expenses on behalf of the 
unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures and is reimbursed for all such 
payments.
                                           
(14)  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
                                           
      The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the value 
of each class of financial instruments for which it is practical to estimate 
that value:
                                           
NOTES RECEIVABLE
                                           
      The carrying value for notes receivable approximates the fair value 
based on the estimated underlying value of the collateral.
                                           
LONG-TERM DEBT

      The fair value of the Company's long-term debt is estimated based on 
the current market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current 
rates available to the Company for debt of the same maturities.
                                           
INTEREST RATE SWAP AGREEMENTS
                                           
      The fair value of interest rate swap agreements represents the 
estimated amount the Company would receive (pay) to terminate the agreements 
while taking into consideration current interest rates.
                                           
      The estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments are 
summarized as follows:
                                           
                                     December 31, 1996      December 31, 1995
                                   ---------------------  ----------------------
                                   Carrying   Estimated   Carrying    Estimated
                                    Amount    Fair Value   Amount     Fair Value
                                    ------    ----------   ------     ----------
                                                   (in thousands)
Notes receivable................  $   3,700   $   3,700   $   3,240   $   3,240
Long-term debt, including 
 current installments and 
 related letters of credit......   (692,668)   (699,227)   (531,738)   (548,855)
Interest rate swap agreements 
 in a net (payable) receivable
 position.......................        (42)        (84)        (27)       (402)
                                           
      The carrying value of accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued 
expenses approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these items.

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         44
<PAGE>

                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           
(15)  ACQUISITION OF PARTNERS' INTERESTS
                                           
      During 1996, the Company purchased the limited partners' interests in 
four of the Company's combined unincorporated partnerships and joint 
ventures, which each owned one inn.

      On June 15, 1995, AEW Partners, L. P. ("AEW") notified the Company that 
it would exercise its option, subject to certain conditions, to convert 
two-thirds of its ownership interest in La Quinta Development Partners, L.P. 
("LQDP") into 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of the Company's Common Stock and 
also agreed to sell its remaining ownership interest in LQDP to the Company 
for a negotiated price of $48.2 million in cash (collectively, the "AEW 
Transaction").  Under the terms of the LQDP Partnership Agreement, AEW paid 
$3.0 million in 1990 for an option, subject to certain vesting and other 
conditions, to convert two-thirds of its ownership interest in LQDP into a 
specified number of shares (adjusted for stock splits, cash dividends and 
distributions from LQDP to AEW) of the Company's Common Stock. The AEW 
Transaction was consummated on July 3, 1995.  The Company financed the cash 
portion of the AEW Transaction through borrowings under its bank credit 
facilities.
                                           
      Upon conversion of the partnership interest into La Quinta Common 
Stock, the Company issued 5,299,821 shares (pre-split) of Common Stock having 
a fair market value of $142.8 million based on the July 3, 1995 New York 
Stock Exchange closing price.  The conversion was accounted for by increasing 
shareholders' equity by the $46.4 million value of the option and recording a 
$46.4 million non-recurring, non-cash adjustment entitled Conversion of 
Partner's Interest into Common Stock below net earnings in the Statement of 
Operations.  There was therefore no net effect to shareholders' equity as a 
result of this accounting treatment.  The sale to La Quinta of AEW's 
remaining one-third interest in LQDP was accounted for as an acquisition of a 
minority interest and purchase accounting was applied.  The carrying value of 
certain property and equipment acquired in the AEW Transaction was increased 
by approximately $51.1 million to reflect fair market value as of July 3, 
1995.
                                           
      As permitted under the LQDP Partnership Agreement, AEW requested that 
the Common Stock be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
for sale in an underwritten secondary public offering.  Pursuant to this 
request, the Company filed a registration statement, which became effective 
July 31, 1995, with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to 
such sale.  AEW bore all of the costs related to the registration and sale of 
the Common Stock in the offering.
                                            
      The following unaudited pro forma information reflects the combined 
results of operations of the Company as if the AEW Transaction had occurred 
on January 1, 1995 and January 1, 1994.  The pro forma information gives 
effect to certain adjustments, including additional depreciation expense on 
property and equipment based on their fair values, increased interest expense 
on additional debt incurred, elimination of AEW's Partners' equity in 
earnings and the related income tax effect of those adjustments.  The pro 
forma information does not reflect the $46.4 million non-recurring, non-cash 
item described above.  The pro forma per share effect of this item is ($.57) 
for both the years ended December 31, 1995 and 1994.  The pro forma results 
are not necessarily indicative of operating results that would have occurred 
had the AEW Transaction been consummated as of the beginning of 1995 and 
1994, nor are they necessarily indicative of future operating results. 
                                           
                                                      (Unaudited)
                                                       Pro Forma
                                                      December 31,
                                                   -------------------
                                                     1995       1994
                                                   --------   --------
                                         (in thousands, except per share data)
     Total revenues .............................  $413,919   $362,242
                                                   --------   --------
                                                   --------   --------
     Earnings before extraordinary items ........  $ 54,698   $ 41,050
                                                   --------   --------
                                                   --------   --------
     Earnings before extraordinary
      items per share ...........................  $    .67   $    .51
                                                   --------   --------
                                                   --------   --------

- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         45
<PAGE>

                               LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                        NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

      On January 24, 1994, the Company concluded the acquisition La Quinta 
Motor Inns Limited Partnership ("LQP"), which owned 31 La Quinta inns that 
were managed by the Company.  The operations of LQP were accounted for under 
the equity method until December 1, 1993, and have been included in the 
combined financial statements of the Company thereafter.  Additionally, in 
July 1994, the Company purchased nine La Quinta inns previously held by the 
CIGNA partnerships and during the second quarter of 1994, the Company 
purchased the limited partners' interest in one of the Company's combined 
unincorporated joint ventures which owned one inn.  The aggregate purchase 
price of these transactions was $53,255,000 of which a portion was financed 
through the Company's credit facilities.
                                           
(16)  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
                                           
      On February 7, 1997, the Company completed negotiations to amend and 
restate its existing credit facilities.  The amended credit facility will 
provide the Company with a $325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit with a 
consortium of banks and will mature in February 2002.  Borrowings under the 
$325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit will bear interest at the prime rate or 
LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which is currently 33.75 basis points, as 
defined in the related credit agreement.  The applicable margin is determined 
quarterly based upon predetermined levels of indebtedness to cash flows or 
ratings received by specified credit rating agencies as defined in the 
related credit agreement.  The $325,000,000 Unsecured Line of Credit requires 
an annual commitment fee of 18.75 basis points.  
                                           
      On February 24, 1997, the Company issued $50,000,000 in 7.27% 
Medium-Term Notes due 2007, with an effective interest rate of 7.33%.  
These Medium-Term Notes were issued under the shelf registration statement 
described in note 3.
                                            
      On February 26, 1997, the Board of Directors authorized a plan for the 
repurchase of up to $10,000,000 of the Company's common stock under its stock 
repurchase program (see note 7).  Purchases will be made from time to time in 
the open market or private transactions as deemed appropriate by the Company.


- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        46
<PAGE>
                                          
                                           
                             INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
                                           
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
La Quinta Inns, Inc.:
                                           
      We have audited the combined balance sheets of La Quinta Inns, Inc. as 
of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the related combined statements of 
operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the 
three-year period ended December 31, 1996.  These combined financial 
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our 
responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial 
statements based on our audits.
                                           
      We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing 
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free 
of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, 
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  
An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.
                                           
      In our opinion, the combined financial statements referred to above 
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of La Quinta 
Inns, Inc. as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the results of its operations 
and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting 
principles.
                                           
                                           
                                           
                                           
                                           
                                           
                                           KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP

San Antonio, Texas
January 31, 1997, except
for note 16, which is as 
of February 26, 1997

                                      47
<PAGE>

ITEM 9.   CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING
          AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
                                           
       Not applicable
                                           
                                       PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
                                           
(a)  DIRECTORS OF REGISTRANT
                                           
       There is incorporated in this Item 10(a) by reference that portion of 
the Company's definitive Proxy Statement, which Registrant intends to file 
not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this 
Form 10-K, appearing under the captions "Election of Directors," and "Meetings
and Committees of the Board of Directors."
                                           
(b)  EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
                                           
       Certain information is set forth below concerning the executive 
officers of the Company, each of whom has been elected to serve until the 
regular annual meeting of the Board of Directors following the next Annual 
Meeting of Shareholders and until his/her successor is duly elected and 
qualified.
                                           
Gary L. Mead             49   President and Chief Executive Officer and Director
Ezzat S. Coutry          52   Executive Vice President and Chief Operating 
                               Officer
William C. Hammett, Jr.  50   Sr. Vice President - Chief Financial Officer
Stephen B. Hickey        52   Sr. Vice President - Marketing
Steven T. Schultz        50   Sr. Vice President - Development
John F. Schmutz          49   Vice President - General Counsel and Secretary
                                           
       Gary L. Mead has been Director, President and Chief Executive Officer 
of the Company since March 1992.  He served as Executive Vice President - 
Finance of Motel 6 G.P., Inc., the managing general partner of Motel 6, L.P., 
from October 1987 to January 1991.
                                           
       Ezzat S. Coutry has been Executive Vice President and Chief Operating 
Officer of the Company since November 1996.  He served as Regional Vice 
President of the Midwest Region for Marriott Hotels, Resorts & Suites from 
July 1990 to October 1996.  He served as Senior Vice President of Sales for 
Marriott Hotels, Resorts & Suites from July 1989 to June 1990 and Senior Vice 
President of Rooms Operations for Marriott Hotels, Resorts & Suites from 
January 1989 to June 1989.
                                           
       William C. Hammett, Jr. has been Senior Vice President - Chief 
Financial Officer of the Company since August 1996. He served as Senior Vice 
President - Accounting and Administration from June 1992 to August 1996.  He 
served as Executive Vice President - Finance of Motel 6 G.P., Inc., from 
February 1991 to June 1992.  He served as Vice President-Controller of Motel 
6 G.P., Inc. from September 1988 to February 1991.  He served as Controller 
of Spartan Food Systems from August 1973 to September 1988.
                                           
       Stephen B. Hickey has been Senior Vice President - Marketing of the 
Company since June 1995.  He served as Senior Vice President - Marketing of 
T.G.I Friday's, Inc. from September 1989 to June 1995. He served as Vice 
President - Corporate Marketing of Wendy's International from October 1988 to 
August 1989.
                                           
       Steven T. Schultz has been Senior Vice President - Development of the 
Company since June 1992.  He served as Senior Vice President - Development of 
Embassy Suites from October 1986 to June 1992.

                                           48
<PAGE>

       John F. Schmutz has been Vice President - General Counsel and 
Secretary of the Company since June 1992.  He served as Vice President - 
General Counsel of Sbarro, Inc. from  May 1991 to June 1992.  He served as 
Vice President - Legal of Hardee's Food Systems, Inc. from April 1983 to May 
1991.
                                           
ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
                                           
       There are incorporated in this Item 11 by reference those portions of 
the Company's definitive Proxy Statement, which Registrant intends to file 
not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 
10-K, appearing under the captions "Executive Compensation," "Compensation 
Pursuant to Plans," "Other Compensation," "Compensation of Directors," and 
"Termination of Employment and Change of Control Arrangements."
                                           
ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND 
          MANAGEMENT
                                           
       There are incorporated in this Item 12 by reference those portions of 
the Company's definitive Proxy Statement, which Registrant intends to file 
not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 
10-K, appearing under the captions "Principal Shareholders" and "Security 
Ownership of Management."
                                           
ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
                                           
       There is incorporated in this Item 13 by reference that portion of the 
Company's definitive Proxy Statement, which Registrant intends to file not 
later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 
10-K, appearing  under the caption "Certain Relationships and Related 
Transactions."
                                            
                                      PART IV
                                       
ITEM 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
                                           
(a)     The following documents are filed as part of this report:
                                           
(1)        Financial Statements
                                                  
           The Combined Financial Statements of the Company appearing in Item 8
           are as follows:
                                             
           Combined Balance Sheets at December 31, 1996 and 1995
           Combined Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31,
           1996, 1995 and 1994
           Combined Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years
           ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994
           Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
           1996, 1995 and 1994
           Notes to Combined Financial Statements
           Independent Auditors' Report on financial statements

(2)        Financial Statement Schedules
                                             
           All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable 
           regulation to the Securities and Exchange Commission are not 
           required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and
           have been omitted.
                                             
(3)        The following exhibits are filed as a part of this Report:
                                           
(3)(a)     Restated Articles of Incorporation of La Quinta Inns, Inc., as 
           amended on May 21, 1993. (6) 
                                           
(3)(b)     Amended and Restated By-Laws of La Quinta Inns, Inc. (1)    

                                       49
<PAGE>

(10)(a)*   La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan. (2) 
                                        
(10)(b)*   Amendment No. 1 to La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option
           Plan. (3) 
                                        
(10)(c)*   Amendment No. 2 to La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan. (4)
                                        
(10)(d)*   Amended and Restated La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option
           Plan, as of November 21, 1991. (1) 
                                        
(10)(e)*   Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and Trust Agreement
           of Registrant, dated April 20, 1990, by and between Registrant 
           and Frost National Bank. (5) 
                                        
(10)(f)    Form of Indemnification Agreement, made and entered into as
           of November 15, 1990 and thereafter (with respect to persons 
           who became directors of Registrant after such dates), by and 
           between Registrant and each of its directors. (5)
                                        
(10)(g)    Form of Indemnification Agreement, made and entered into as
           of November 15, 1990 and thereafter (with respect to persons 
           who became directors of Registrant after such dates), by and 
           between Registrant and each of its officers. (5)
                                        
(10)(h)*   Employment Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992, by and between
           Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1) 
                                        
(10)(i)*   Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992,
           between Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1)
                                        
(10)(j)*   Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992, between
           Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1) 
                                        
(10)(k)    Second Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated 
           June 15, 1993.  (6)
                                        
(10)(l)    Indenture dated May 15, 1993  Re: $120,000,000 9 1/4% Senior
           Subordinated Notes due 2003. (6)
                                        
(10)(m)    $126,795,786.64 Credit Agreement Among La Quinta Inns, Inc.
           Certain lenders and NationsBank of Texas, N.A. as Administrative 
           Lender dated June 15, 1993. (6)
                                             
(10)(n)    $241,844,955.21 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Among 
           La Quinta Inns, Inc. Certain lenders and NationsBank of Texas, N.A.
           as Administrative Lender dated January 25, 1994. (7)
                                        
(10)(o)    Third Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated as
           of January 25, 1994. (7)
                                        
(10)(p)    Fifth Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated as
           of September 12, 1995. (8)
                                        
(10)(q)    Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (Facility A), dated as of
           September 12, 1995. (8)
                                        
(10)(r)    Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (Facility B), dated as of
           September 12, 1995. (8)
                                        
(10)(s)    Indenture dated September 15, 1995   Re:  Debt Securities. (8)
                                        
(10)(t)    Officers' certificate defining terms of $100,000,000 7.4% Senior
           Notes due 2005. (9)

(10)(u)    $325,000,000 First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement among 
           La Quinta Inns, Inc., certain lenders and NationsBank, N.A. as
           Administrative Lender, dated as of February 7, 1997 filed herewith.
                                             
                                        50
<PAGE>

(11)       Statement regarding computation of per share earnings filed 
           herewith.
                                        
(12)       Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges filed herewith.
                                        
(21)       Subsidiaries of La Quinta Inns, Inc. as of January 31, 1997 filed
           herewith.
                                        
(22)       Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed by Registrant
           within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by the
           Registrant's Form 10-K.
                                        
(23)       Consent by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP dated February 27, 1997 to
           incorporation by reference of their report dated January 31, 1997,
           except for note 16, which is as of February 26, 1997, in various
           Registration Statements filed herewith.
                                        
(24)       Powers of Attorney filed herewith.
                                        
(27)       Financial Data Schedule filed herewith.

____________________________
*          Indicates management compensation agreement.

(1)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991 and
           incorporated herein by reference.
                                        
(2)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 1984 and 
           incorporated herein by reference.

(3)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form S-8 (No. 2-97266) and incorporated herein by
           reference.

(4)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form S-8 (No. 33-26470) and incorporated herein by
           reference.

(5)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990 and
           incorporated herein by reference. 

(6)        Previously filed as an exhibit to Registrant's Registration 
           Statement on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 1993 and 
           incorporated herein by reference.

(7)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993 and
           incorporated herein by reference.

(8)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form S-3 (No. 2-61755) and incorporated herein by
           reference.

(9)        Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration
           Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995 and
           incorporated herein by reference.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
           Not applicable. 

                                         51
<PAGE>

                                      SIGNATURES

      Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed 
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                        LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                                        (Registrant)

                                        By:  /s/ GARY L. MEAD                
                                             ----------------------------------
                                             Gary L. Mead
                                             President and 
                                             Chief Executive Officer

                                             /s/ WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR.       
                                             ----------------------------------
                                             William C.Hammett, Jr.
                                             Senior Vice President
                                             Chief Financial Officer

Date:  February 28, 1997

      Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, 
this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the 
registrant, and in the capacities and on the date indicated.

          Signature                                   Title
          ---------                                   -----

       /s/ GARY L. MEAD
- -------------------------------
           Gary L. Mead          President and Chief Executive Officer, Director

  /s/ WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR.  
- -------------------------------
      William C. Hammett, Jr.    Senior Vice President - Chief Financial Officer

     /s/ THOMAS M. TAYLOR*
- -------------------------------
         Thomas M. Taylor        Chairman of the Board

  /s/ WILLIAM H. CUNNINGHAM*
- -------------------------------
      William H. Cunningham      Director

     /s/ WILLIAM RAZZOUK*
- -------------------------------
         William Razzouk         Director

      /s/ PETER STERLING*
- -------------------------------
          Peter Sterling         Director

    /s/ KENNETH T. STEVENS*
- -------------------------------
        Kenneth T. Stevens       Director

*By: /s/ WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR.
    -------------------------------
         William C. Hammett, Jr.
            ATTORNEY-IN-FACT    

Date:  February 28, 1997

                                       52

<PAGE>
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
Number                 Description of Exhibit 
- -------                ---------------------- 

 (3)(a)   Restated Articles of Incorporation of La Quinta Inns, Inc., as 
          amended on May 21, 1993. (6)
                                           
 (3)(b)   Amended and Restated By-Laws of La Quinta Inns, Inc. (1)
                                                       
(10)(a)*  La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan. (2) 
                                        
(10)(b)*  Amendment No. 1 to La Quinta                                        
          Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan. (3) 
                                        
(10)(c)*  Amendment No. 2 to La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan. (4) 
                                        
(10)(d)*  Amended and Restated La Quinta Inns, Inc. 1984 Stock Option Plan, 
          as of November 21, 1991. (1) 
                                        
(10)(e)*  Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and Trust Agreement of 
          Registrant, dated April 20, 1990, by and between Registrant and 
          Frost National Bank. (5) 
                                        
(10)(f)   Form of Indemnification Agreement, made and entered into as of 
          November 15, 1990 and thereafter (with respect to persons who 
          became directors of  Registrant after such dates), by and between 
          Registrant and each of its directors. (5)

(10)(g)   Form of Indemnification Agreement, made and entered into as of 
          November 15, 1990 and thereafter (with respect to persons who 
          became directors of Registrant after such dates), by and between 
          Registrant and each of its officers. (5)

(10)(h)*  Employment Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992, by and between 
          Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1) 

(10)(i)*  Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992, 
          between Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1)

(10)(j)*  Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1992, between 
          Registrant and Gary L. Mead. (1) 

(10)(k)   Second Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated June 
          15, 1993. (6)

(10)(l)   Indenture dated May 15, 1993 Re: $120,000,000 9 1/4% Senior 
          Subordinated Notes due 2003. (6)

(10)(m)   $126,795,786.64 Credit Agreement Among La Quinta Inns, Inc.  
          Certain lenders and NationsBank of Texas, N.A. as Administrative 
          Lender dated June 15, 1993. (6)

(10)(n)   $241,844,955.21 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Among La 
          Quinta Inns, Inc.  Certain lenders and NationsBank of Texas, N.A. 
          as Administrative Lender dated January 25, 1994. (7)

(10)(o)   Third Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated as of 
          January 25, 1994. (7)

(10)(p)   Fifth Amended and Restated Master Covenant Agreement dated as of 
          September 12, 1995. (8)

(10)(q)   Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (Facility A), dated as of 
          September 12, 1995. (8)

(10)(r)   Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (Facility B), dated as of 
          September 12, 1995. (8)

(10)(s)   Indenture dated September 15, 1995 Re:  Debt Securities. (8)

<PAGE>

(10)(t)   Officers' certificate defining terms of $100,000,000 7.4% Senior 
          Notes due 2005. (9)

(10)(u)   $325,000,000 First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement among La 
          Quinta Inns, Inc., certain lenders and NationsBank, N.A. as 
          Administrative Lender, dated as of February 7, 1997 filed herewith.

(11)      Statement regarding computation of per share earnings filed 
          herewith.

(12)      Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges filed herewith.

(21)      Subsidiaries of La Quinta Inns, Inc. as of January 31, 1997 filed   
          herewith.

(22)      Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement to be filed by Registrant 
          within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by the 
          Registrant's Form 10-K.

(23)      Consent by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP dated February 27, 1997 to 
          incorporation by reference of their report dated Januay 31, 1997, 
          except for note 16, which is as of February 26, 1997, in various 
          Registration Statements filed herewith.

(24)      Powers of Attorney filed herewith.

(27)      Financial Data Schedule filed herewith.
                                                            
  *  Indicates management compensation agreement.

(1)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991 and 
     incorporated herein by reference.

(2)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended May 31, 1984 and incorporated 
     herein by reference.

(3)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form S-8 (No. 2-97266) and incorporated herein by reference.

(4)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form S-8 (No. 33-26470) and incorporated herein  by 
     reference.

(5)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended  December 31, 1990 and 
     incorporated herein by reference. 

(6)  Previously filed as an exhibit to Registrant's Registration Statement on 
     Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 1993 and incorporated herein by 
     reference.

(7)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993 and 
     incorporated herein by reference.

(8)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form S-3 (No. 2-61755) and incorporated herein by reference.

(9)  Previously filed as an exhibit to the Registrant's Registration 
     Statement on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995 and 
     incorporated herein by reference.

(b)  Reports on Form 8-K.

     Not applicable. 



<PAGE>
                                                                 Exhibit (10)(u)


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------









                                       
                                 $325,000,000

                 FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT

                                     AMONG

                              LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                                CERTAIN LENDERS

                                      AND

             NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER

                                       
                                February 7, 1997









                                       
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
                                       
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

                                                                            PAGE
                                                                            ----
                                   ARTICLE 1

                                  DEFINITIONS

Section 1.1    DEFINED TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
Section 1.2    AMENDMENTS AND RENEWALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
Section 1.3    CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 2

                                   ADVANCES

Section 2.1    THE ADVANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
        (a)    REVOLVING CREDIT ADVANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
        (b)    THE SWING LINE LOANS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
        (c)    BID RATE ADVANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
Section 2.2    MANNER OF BORROWING AND DISBURSEMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . .  22
Section 2.3    INTEREST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
        (a)    ON BASE RATE ADVANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
        (b)    ON LIBOR ADVANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
        (c)    ON SWING LINE ADVANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
        (d)    ON BID RATE ADVANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
        (e)    INTEREST IF NO NOTICE OF SELECTION OF INTEREST RATE BASIS . .  27
        (f)    INTEREST AFTER AN EVENT OF DEFAULT. . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
Section 2.4    FEES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
        (a)    FACILITY FEE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
        (b)    CLOSING FEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
        (c)    OTHER FEES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
Section 2.5    PREPAYMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
        (a)    VOLUNTARY PREPAYMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
        (b)    MANDATORY PREPAYMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
        (c)    PREPAYMENTS, GENERALLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
Section 2.6    REDUCTION OF COMMITMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
        (a)    VOLUNTARY REDUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
        (b)    MANDATORY REDUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
        (c)    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
Section 2.7    NON-RECEIPT OF FUNDS BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER . . . . . .  30
Section 2.8    PAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL OF ADVANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
        (a)    END OF INTEREST PERIOD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31

<PAGE>

        (b)    COMMITMENT REDUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
        (c)    MATURITY DATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
Section 2.9    REIMBURSEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
Section 2.10   MANNER OF PAYMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
Section 2.11   LIBOR LENDING OFFICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32
Section 2.12   SHARING OF PAYMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32
Section 2.13   CALCULATION OF RATES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
Section 2.14   BOOKING LOANS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
Section 2.15   TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
Section 2.16   LETTERS OF CREDIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
        (a)    THE LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
        (b)    REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  37
        (c)    DRAWING AND REIMBURSEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  37
        (d)    INCREASED COSTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
        (e)    OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39
        (f)    COMPENSATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  40
        (g)    L/C CASH COLLATERAL ACCOUNT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 3

                              CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

Section 3.1    CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE INITIAL ADVANCES AND THE
               INITIAL LETTERS OF CREDIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
Section 3.2    CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO ALL ADVANCES AND LETTERS OF
               CREDIT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  45
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 4

                        REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Section 4.1    REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  46
        (a)    ORGANIZATION; POWER; QUALIFICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
        (b)    AUTHORIZATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
        (c)    COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LOAN PAPERS AND CONTEMPLATED
               TRANSACTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
        (d)    LICENSES, ETC.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
        (e)    COMPLIANCE WITH LAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
        (f)    TITLE TO PROPERTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
        (g)    LITIGATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
        (h)    TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
        (i)    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS; MATERIAL LIABILITIES. . . . . . . . . .  48
        (j)    NO ADVERSE CHANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
        (k)    ERISA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49



                                     - ii -
<PAGE>

        (l)    COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATIONS G, T, U AND X . . . . . . . . . .  50
        (m)    GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  50
        (n)    ABSENCE OF DEFAULT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
        (o)    INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
        (p)    ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
        (q)    CERTAIN FEES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
        (r)    NECESSARY AUTHORIZATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
        (s)    PATENTS, ETC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
        (t)    DISCLOSURE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
        (u)    SOLVENCY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Section 4.2    SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, ETC . . . . . . .  53
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 5

                               BUSINESS COVENANTS

Section 5.1    MAINTENANCE OF PROPERTY, INSURANCE, ACCOUNTING
               PRACTICES, CORPORATE EXISTENCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Section 5.2    INSPECTION OF PROPERTIES AND BOOKS. . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
Section 5.3    MERGER AND SALE OF ASSETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
Section 5.4    NET WORTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
Section 5.5    CONTINGENT LIABILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
Section 5.6    INCURRENCE AND RETENTION OF DEBT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
Section 5.7    INVESTMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Section 5.8    NOTICE OF LITIGATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Section 5.9    LEVERAGE RATIO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Section 5.10   CASH FLOW RATIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Section 5.11   SENIOR DEBT RATIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Section 5.12   LIENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
Section 5.13   ACCOUNTING CHANGES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
Section 5.14   AMENDMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUBORDINATED DEBT
               DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
Section 5.15   LEASE-BACKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
Section 5.16   ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
Section 5.17   ERISA COMPLIANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
Section 5.18   BUSINESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
Section 5.19   TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
Section 5.20   USE OF PROCEEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
Section 5.21   INDEMNITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 6

                                  INFORMATION



                                    - iii -
<PAGE>

Section 6.1    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER REPORTS BY THE BORROWER. . . .  61
Section 6.2    OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  63
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 7

                                    DEFAULT

Section 7.1    EVENTS OF DEFAULT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  63
Section 7.2    REMEDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  66
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 8

                           CHANGES IN CIRCUMSTANCES

Section 8.1    LIBOR BASIS DETERMINATION INADEQUATE. . . . . . . . . . . . .  66
Section 8.2    ILLEGALITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  67
Section 8.3    INCREASED COSTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  67
Section 8.4    EFFECT ON BASE RATE ADVANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  69
Section 8.5    CAPITAL ADEQUACY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  69
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 9

                            AGREEMENT AMONG LENDERS

Section 9.1    AGREEMENT AMONG LENDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  69
        (a)    ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  69
        (b)    REPLACEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER. . . . . . . . . . . . .  70
        (c)    EXPENSES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  70
        (d)    DELEGATION OF DUTIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  70
        (e)    RELIANCE BY ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  71
        (f)    LIMITATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER'S LIABILITY . . . . . . .  71
        (g)    LIABILITY AMONG LENDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  71
        (h)    RIGHTS AS LENDER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  72
Section 9.2    LENDER CREDIT DECISION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  72
Section 9.3    BENEFITS OF ARTICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  72
                                       
                                   ARTICLE 10

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

Section 10.1   NOTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  72
Section 10.2   EXPENSES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  73
Section 10.3   WAIVERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74



                                     - iv -
<PAGE>

Section 10.4   DETERMINATION BY THE LENDERS CONCLUSIVE AND BINDING . . . . .  74
Section 10.5   SET-OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74
Section 10.6   ASSIGNMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  75
Section 10.7   COUNTERPARTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
Section 10.8   SEVERABILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
Section 10.9   INTEREST AND CHARGES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
Section 10.10  CONFIDENTIALITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
Section 10.11  HEADINGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  78
Section 10.12  AMENDMENT AND WAIVER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  78
Section 10.13  EXCEPTION TO COVENANTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  78
Section 10.14  NO LIABILITY OF ISSUING BANK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
SECTION 10.15  GOVERNING LAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
SECTION 10.16  WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
SECTION 10.17  ENTIRE AGREEMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  80










                                     - v -
<PAGE>

SCHEDULES AND EXHIBITS

Schedule 1:   LIBOR Lending Offices
Schedule 2:   Existing Litigation
Schedule 3:   Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures
Schedule 4:   Existing Investments
Schedule 5:   Investment Policy
Schedule 6:   Unincorporated Ventures to be Purchased
Schedule 7:   Existing Letters of Credit
Schedule 8:   Significant Investments
Schedule 9:   Guaranteed Contingent Obligations
Schedule 10:  Existing Liens




Exhibit A:    Revolving Credit Note
Exhibit B:    Bid Rate Note
Exhibit C:    Swing Line Note
Exhibit D:    Subsidiary Guaranty
Exhibit E:    Assignment Agreement
Exhibit F:    Confidentiality Agreement










                                    - vi -

<PAGE>
                     FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT

    THIS FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT is dated as of February 
7, 1997, among LA QUINTA INNS, INC., a Texas corporation ("Borrower"), the 
Lenders from time to time party hereto, and NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A., a 
national banking association, as administrative agent for the Lenders.

                                      BACKGROUND

    The Borrower, certain of the Lenders and the Administrative Lender are 
parties to that (i) Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (Facility A) dated 
as of September 12, 1995 and (ii) Amended and Restated Credit Agreement 
(Facility B), dated as of September 12, 1995 (said Credit Agreements, as 
amended, the "Existing Credit Agreements").  The Borrower has requested that 
the Lenders amend and restate the Existing Credit Agreements by making a 
credit facility available to the Borrower in the maximum principal amount of 
$325,000,000 pursuant to this Agreement.  The Lenders have agreed to provide 
such credit facility, subject to the terms and conditions set forth below.

    In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, 
and other good and valuable consideration hereby acknowledged, the parties 
hereto agree that the Existing Credit Agreements are amended and restated in 
their entirety as follows:

                                      ARTICLE 1

                                     DEFINITIONS

    Section 1.1    DEFINED TERMS.  For purposes of this Agreement:

    "ADDITIONAL COSTS" has the meaning set forth in Section 8.5 hereof.

    "ADJUSTMENT DATE" means, for purposes of the Applicable Margin, the 
facility fees payable pursuant to Section 2.4(a) hereof and the Letter of 
Credit fees payable pursuant to Sections 2.16(f)(i) and 2.16(f)(ii) hereof, 
(i) when the Applicable Margin and such fees are based on the Leverage Ratio, 
the date of receipt by the Administrative Lender of the financial statements 
required to be delivered pursuant to Section 6.1(a) or 6.1(b) hereof which 
results in a change in the Applicable Margin and (ii) when the Applicable 
Margin and such fees are based on the Index Debt Rating, the effective date 
of any issuance of, or change in, the Index Debt Rating which results in a 
change in the Applicable Margin.

<PAGE>
    "ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER" means NationsBank of Texas, N.A., a national 
banking association, as administrative agent for Lenders, or such successor 
administrative agent appointed pursuant to Section 9.1(b) hereof.

    "ADVANCE" means a Revolving Credit Advance, a Swing Line Advance or a Bid 
Rate Advance and "ADVANCES" means Revolving Credit Advances, Swing Line 
Advances and Bid Rate Advances.

    "AFFILIATE" means any Person that directly or indirectly through one or 
more Subsidiaries Controls, or is Controlled By or Under Common Control with, 
the Borrower.

    "AGREEMENT" means this Credit Agreement, as amended, modified, 
supplemented and restated from time to time.

    "AGREEMENT DATE" means the date of this Agreement.

    "APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS" means applicable laws pertaining to 
health or the environment, including without limitation, the Comprehensive 
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended 
by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (as amended from 
time to time, "CERCLA"), the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, 
as amended by the Used Oil Recycling Act of 1980, the Solid Waste Disposal 
Act amendments of 1980, and the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 
(as amended from time to time, "RCRA"), the Texas Water Code, and the Texas 
Solid Waste Disposal Act.

    "APPLICABLE LAW" means (a) in respect of any Person, all provisions of 
constitutions, statutes, rules, regulations and orders of governmental bodies 
or regulatory agencies applicable to such Person and its properties, 
including, without limiting the foregoing, all orders and decrees of all 
courts and arbitrators in proceedings or actions to which the Person in 
question is a party, and (b) in respect of contracts relating to interest or 
finance charges that are made or performed in the State of Texas, "APPLICABLE 
LAW" shall mean the laws of the United States of America, including without 
limitation 12 USC Sections  85 and 86, as amended from time to time, and any 
other statute of the United States of America now or at any time hereafter 
prescribing the maximum rates of interest on loans and extensions of credit, 
and the laws of the State of Texas, including, without limitation, Article 
5069-1.04, Title 79, Revised Civil Statutes of Texas, 1925, as amended ("Art. 
1.04"), and any other statute of the State of Texas now or at any time 
hereafter prescribing maximum rates of interest on loans and extensions of 
credit; provided that the parties hereto agree that the provisions of Chapter 
15, Title 79, Revised Civil Statutes of Texas, 1925, as amended, shall not 
apply to Advances, this Agreement, the Notes or any other Loan Papers.

    "APPLICABLE MARGIN" means the following per annum percentages, applicable 
in the following situations:

                                       -2-
<PAGE>

                                             Base Rate   LIBOR
              Applicability                    Basis     Basis
              -------------                    -----     -----

CATEGORY 1 - The Leverage Ratio is not less     0.00     0.7000
than 3.50 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
any two of the following:  BB by S&P, BB by
ARA or Ba2 by Moody's                           


CATEGORY 2 - The Leverage Ratio is less         0.00     0.4750
than 3.50 to 1 but not less than 3.00 to 1
or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
following:  BB+ by S&P, BB+ by ARA or Ba1
by Moody's

CATEGORY 3 - The Leverage Ratio is less         0.00     0.3375
than 3.00 to 1 but not less than 2.50 to 1
or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
following:  BBB- by S&P, BBB- by ARA or
Baa3 by Moody's                            

CATEGORY 4 - The Leverage Ratio is less         0.00     0.2500
than 2.50 to 1 but not less than 2.0 to 1
or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
following:  BBB by S&P, BBB by ARA or Baa2
by Moody's                                 

CATEGORY 5 - The Leverage Ratio is less         0.00     0.2250
than 2.00 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
any two of the following:  BBB+ or better
by S&P, BBB+ or better by ARA or Baa1 or
better by Moody's                          

The Applicable Margin payable by the Borrower on the Revolving Credit 
Advances outstanding hereunder shall be adjusted on each Adjustment Date if 
determined based on the (i) Leverage Ratio, according to the performance of 
the Borrower for the most recent fiscal quarter or (ii) the Index Debt 
Rating, according to the most recent determination of the Index Debt Rating.  
For purposes of the foregoing, (a) if the Index Debt Rating and the Leverage 
Ratio are in different categories, the Applicable Margin shall be determined 
on whichever of the Index Debt Rating or the Leverage Ratio falls within the 
superior (or numerically higher) category, (b) if the Applicable Margin is 
determined based on the Leverage Ratio and the financial statements of the 
Borrower setting forth the Leverage Ratio are not received by the 
Administrative Lender by the date required pursuant to Section 6.1(a) or 
6.1(b), the Applicable Margin shall be determined as if the Leverage Ratio is 
not less than 3.50 to 1 until such time as the financial statements are 
received, (c) if the Index Debt Rating established by ARA shall fall within a 
different category than both Moody's and S&P, the Applicable Margin shall be 
determined by reference to Moody's or S&P, whichever shall be the superior 
(or numerically higher) category, but not to exceed two rating levels higher 
than the other rating agency.  If the rating system of Moody's, S&P or ARA 
shall change prior to the Maturity Date, the Borrower and the Lenders shall 
negotiate in good faith to amend the references to specific ratings in this 
definition to reflect such changed rating system.

    "ARA" means Duff & Phelps Credit Ratings Company or Fitch Investor 
Services or any other nationally recognized rating agency approved in writing 
by the Determining Lenders which shall have a rating system identical to S&P.

                                       -3-
<PAGE>
    "ART. 1.04" has the meaning specified in the definition of "Applicable 
Law."

    "ASSIGNEES" means any assignee of a Lender pursuant to an Assignment 
Agreement and has the meaning specified in Section 10.6 hereof.

    "ASSIGNMENT AGREEMENT" has the meaning specified in Section 10.6 hereof.

    "AUTHORIZED OFFICER" means any of the following officers of the Borrower: 
President, Senior Vice President-Accounting & Administration, Senior Vice 
President-Finance, Vice President & General Counsel or Vice 
President-Treasurer.

    "AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY" means such senior personnel of the Borrower as may 
be duly authorized and designated in writing by the Borrower to execute 
documents, agreements and instruments on behalf of the Borrower, and to 
request Advances or Letters of Credit hereunder.

    "BASE RATE ADVANCE" means a Revolving Credit Advance which the Borrower 
requests to be made as a Base Rate Advance or which is reborrowed as a Base 
Rate Advance, in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.2 hereof.

    "BASE RATE BASIS" means, for any day, a per annum interest rate equal to 
the higher of (a) the sum of (i) 0.50% plus (ii) the Federal Funds Rate on 
such day plus (iii) the Applicable Margin, or (b) the sum of (i) the Prime 
Rate on such day plus (ii) the Applicable Margin.  The Base Rate Basis shall 
be adjusted automatically as of the opening of business on the effective date 
of each change in the Prime Rate to account for such change.

    "BID RATE ADVANCE" means an Advance the interest rate on which is 
determined by agreement between the Borrower and the Lender making such 
Advance pursuant to Section 2.1(c) hereof.

    "BID RATE NOTE" means each promissory note of the Borrower evidencing Bid 
Rate Advances, substantially in the form of EXHIBIT B hereto, together with 
any extension, renewal or amendment thereof or substitution therefor.

    "BOND LETTERS OF CREDIT" has the meaning specified in the Facility A 
Credit Agreement.

    "BORROWER" has the meaning specified in the initial paragraph of this 
Agreement.

    "BUSINESS DAY" means a day on which banks are open for the transaction of 
business in Dallas, Texas and New York, New York, and, with respect to any 
LIBOR Advance, in London, England.

                                       -4-
<PAGE>
    "CAPITAL LEASES" mean all capital leases and subleases, as defined in the 
Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting 
Standards No. 13, dated November 1976, as amended.

    "CAPITAL STOCK" means, with respect to any Person, any capital stock, 
partnership or joint venture interests of such Person and shares, interests, 
participations or other ownership interests (however designated) of any 
Person and any rights (other than debt securities convertible into corporate 
stock), warrants or options to purchase any of the foregoing.

    "CAPITALIZED LEASE OBLIGATIONS" means that portion of any obligation of 
the Borrower or any Subsidiary as lessee under a lease which at the time 
would be required to be capitalized on a balance sheet prepared in accordance 
with GAAP.

    "CHANGE OF CONTROL" means (a) any "person" or "group" (as such terms are 
used for purposes of Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, whether or 
not applicable), is or becomes the "beneficial owner" (as that term is used 
in Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, whether or not applicable, 
except that a person shall be deemed to have "beneficial ownership" of all 
shares that any such person has the right to acquire, whether such right is 
exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time, directly or 
indirectly, of more than 50% of the total voting power in the aggregate of 
all classes of Capital Stock then outstanding of the Borrower normally 
entitled to vote in elections of directors, PROVIDED, that for the purposes 
of this clause (a), neither Thomas M. Taylor & Co., Trust for the benefit of 
Mr. Taylor's son, Sid R. Bass, Inc., Lee M. Bass, Inc., The Bass Management 
Trust, Annie R. Bass Trust for Lee M. Bass, Ann R. Bass Trust for Sid R. 
Bass, Peter Sterling Trusts nor Peter Sterling, each of which is a principal 
shareholder of the Borrower as of the Agreement Date, nor any person who on 
the Agreement Date is, or at any time thereafter becomes, a member of any 
group which includes any of such entities and persons, shall be deemed to be 
a "person" or "group" for purposes of this definition, or (b) during any 
period of 24 consecutive months after February 7, 1997, individuals who at 
the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors of the 
Borrower (together with any new directors whose election by such Board or 
whose nomination for election by the shareholders of the Borrower was 
approved by a vote of a majority of the directors then still in office who 
were either directors at the beginning of such period or whose election or 
nomination for election was previously so approved), cease for any reason to 
constitute a majority of the Board of Directors of the Borrower then in 
office.

    "CODE" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, together with 
all regulations thereunder.

    "COMBINED" means, with respect to financial statements, the combined 
accounts of the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures which 
are included in the Borrower's Annual Report to Shareholders and in the 
Borrower's Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the 
"Combined Financial Statements").
                                       -5-
<PAGE>
    "COMMITMENT" means $325,000,000, as reduced pursuant to Section 2.6 
hereof.

    "CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT" has the meaning specified in Section 10.10 
hereof.

    "CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME" means, for any period, determined in accordance 
with GAAP on a Combined basis, consolidated net income for such period.

    "CONTROL" or "CONTROLLED BY" or "UNDER COMMON CONTROL" means possession, 
directly or indirectly, of power to direct or cause the direction of 
management or policies (whether through ownership of voting securities, by 
contract or otherwise); provided, however, that in any event any Person which 
beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 10% or more (in number of votes) 
of the securities having ordinary voting power for the election of directors 
of a corporation shall be conclusively presumed to control such corporation.

    "CONTROLLED GROUP" shall mean as of the applicable date, as to any 
Person, all members of a controlled group of corporations and all trades or 
businesses (whether or not incorporated) which are under common control with 
such Person and which, together with such Person, are treated as a single 
employer under Section 414(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Code; provided, 
however, that the Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures of the Borrower 
shall be deemed to be members of the Borrower's Controlled Group.

    "CURRENT MATURITIES" means, with respect to any Person, the principal 
portion payable by such Person on Long Term Debt during the twelve-month 
period immediately succeeding the date of determination.

    "DEBT" of any Person means, at any date, without duplication, all 
obligations, contingent or otherwise, (a) of such Person for borrowed money 
(whether or not the recourse of the lender is to the whole of the assets of 
such Person or only to a portion thereof), (b) of such Person evidenced by 
bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments, (c) of such Person 
representing the balance deferred and unpaid of the purchase price of any 
property or services (other than accounts payable or other obligations 
arising in the ordinary course of business), if and to the extent any of the 
foregoing described in clauses (a), (b) and (c) would appear as a liability 
on the balance sheet of such Person, (d) of such Person in respect of 
bankers' acceptances, letters of credit or other similar instruments (or 
reimbursement obligations with respect thereto), (e) of such Person under 
Capitalized Lease Obligations, (f) all liabilities secured by a Lien on any 
asset of such Person to the extent of the value of such asset, whether or not 
such liability is an obligation of such Person, (g) all liability of others 
guaranteed by such Person (but only to the extent of such guarantees), (h) to 
the extent not otherwise included, obligations of such Person under currency 
risk-hedging agreements and Interest Rate Protection Agreements, (i) the 
liquidation preference and any mandatory redemption payment obligations 
(without duplication) of such Person's Subsidiaries in respect of preferred 
stock issued by any such Subsidiary, (j) in the case of such Person, the 
liquidation preference and any mandatory redemption payment 

                                       -6-
<PAGE>
obligations (without duplication) in respect of Disqualified Capital Stock, 
and (k) in the case of such Person, unfunded vested benefits under any Plan.

    "DEBTOR RELIEF LAWS" means any applicable liquidation, conservatorship, 
bankruptcy, moratorium, rearrangement, insolvency, reorganization or similar 
debtor relief Laws affecting the rights of creditors generally from time to 
time in effect.

    "DEFAULT" means an Event of Default and/or any of the events specified in 
Section 7.1, regardless of whether there shall have occurred any passage of 
time or giving of notice that would be necessary in order to constitute such 
event an Event of Default.

    "DEFAULT RATE" means a simple per annum interest rate equal to the lesser 
of (a) the Highest Lawful Rate, or (b) the sum of the Prime Rate plus three 
percent.

    "DETERMINING LENDERS" means, on any date of determination, any 
combination of the Lenders having at least 51% of the aggregate amount of the 
Revolving Credit Advances then outstanding (which for purpose of the 
calculation shall include for each Lender an amount equal to the product of 
such Lender's Specified Percentage multiplied by the aggregate principal 
amount of Swing Line Loans outstanding); provided, however, that if there are 
no Revolving Credit Advances outstanding hereunder, "DETERMINING LENDERS" 
shall mean any combination of Lenders whose Specified Percentages hereunder 
aggregate at least 51%.

    "DISQUALIFIED CAPITAL STOCK" means, with respect to any Person any series 
or class of Capital Stock of such Person which is or may be required to be 
redeemed, in whole or in part, or may be put to such Person or any of its 
Subsidiaries, in whole or in part, at the option of the Holder thereof, on or 
prior to the final maturity of the Senior Subordinated Notes, or is or may be 
convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for such Capital Stock on or 
prior to the Maturity Date; PROVIDED, that Capital Stock will not be deemed 
to be Disqualified Capital Stock if it may only be redeemed or put solely in 
consideration of Qualified Capital Stock.

    "DOMESTIC SUBSIDIARY" means any Subsidiary of the Borrower organized 
under the laws of any state within the United States.

    "EBITDA" means, for any period, determined in accordance with GAAP on a 
Combined basis, the sum of (a) Operating Income, plus (b) nonrecurring, 
non-cash charges which decrease Operating Income, plus (c) depreciation, 
amortization and non-cash fixed asset retirements, minus (d) nonrecurring 
credits which are included in Operating Income.

    "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as 
amended from time to time, and any regulation promulgated thereunder.

    "ERISA EVENT" means, with respect to the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, 
(a) a Reportable Event (other than a Reportable Event not subject to the 
provision for 30-day notice to the PBGC 

                                       -7-
<PAGE>
under regulations issued under Section 4043 of ERISA), (b) the withdrawal of 
any such Person or any member of its Controlled Group from a Plan subject to 
Title IV of ERISA during a plan year in which it was a "substantial employer" 
as defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA, (c) the filing of a notice of 
intent to terminate under Section 4041(c) of ERISA, (d) the institution of 
proceedings to terminate a Plan by the PBGC, (e) the failure to make required 
contributions which could result in the imposition of a lien under Section 
412 of the Code or Section 302 of ERISA, or (f) any other event or condition 
which might reasonably be expected to constitute grounds under Section 4042 
of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to 
administer, any Plan or the imposition of any liability under Title IV of 
ERISA other than PBGC premiums due but not delinquent under Section 4007 of 
ERISA.

    "EVENT OF DEFAULT" means any of the events specified in Section 7.1, 
provided that any requirement for notice or lapse of time has been satisfied.

    "EXISTING CREDIT AGREEMENTS" has the meaning specified in the Background 
provision of this Agreement.

    "EXISTING INVESTMENTS" means those Investments described on SCHEDULE 4 
hereto.

    "EXISTING LETTERS OF CREDIT" means those Letters of Credit outstanding on 
the Agreement Date, as described on SCHEDULE 7 hereto.

    "FACILITY A CREDIT AGREEMENT" means that certain Amended and Restated 
Credit Agreement (Facility A), dated as of September 12, 1995, among the 
Borrower, the lenders party thereto, and NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as 
administrative lender, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise 
modified from time to time.

    "FEDERAL FUNDS RATE" means, for any day, the rate per annum (rounded 
upwards if necessary, to the nearest 1/100th of 1%) equal to the weighted 
average of the rates on overnight Federal funds transactions with members of 
the Federal Reserve System arranged by Federal funds brokers on such day, as 
published by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas on the Business Day next 
succeeding such day, provided that (a) if such day is not a Business Day, the 
Federal Funds Rate for such day shall be such rate on such transactions on 
the next preceding Business Day as so published on the next succeeding 
Business Day, and (b) if no such rate is so published on such next succeeding 
Business Day, the Federal Funds Rate for such day shall be the average rate 
quoted to the Administrative Lender on such day on such transactions as 
determined by Administrative Lender.

    "FEE LETTER" has the meaning specified in Section 2.4(c) hereof.

    "FINANCIAL LETTER OF CREDIT" means any Letter of Credit issued under the 
Letter of Credit Facility which is a "financial guarantee - type standby 
letter of credit" as defined in Appendix A to 12 CFR Part 3 issued by the 
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

                                       -8-
<PAGE>

    "FOREIGN SUBSIDIARY" means any Subsidiary that is not a Domestic
Subsidiary.

    "GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles, set forth in the
Opinions of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of
Certified Public Accountants, or their successors which are applicable in the
circumstances as of the date in question (except as stated in the last sentence
of this definition).  The requisite that such principles be applied on a
consistent basis shall mean that the accounting principles observed in a current
period are comparable in all material respects to those applied in a preceding
period, except as otherwise required by the adoption of Statements by the
Financial Accounting Standards Board.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, each
determination and computation with respect to financial covenants and ratios in
this Agreement shall be made in accordance with GAAP as in effect on the
Agreement Date.

    "GUARANTY" or "GUARANTEED", as applied to an obligation of another Person,
means and includes (a) a guaranty, direct or indirect, in any manner, of any
part or all of such obligation, and (b) an agreement, direct or indirect,
contingent or otherwise, the practical effect of which is to assure in any way
the payment or performance (or payment of damages in the event of
nonperformance) of any part or all of such obligation, including, without
limiting the foregoing, any reimbursement obligations with respect to amounts
which may be drawn by beneficiaries of outstanding letters of credit.

    "GUARANTY AGREEMENTS" means the Subsidiary Guaranty and any other Guaranty
executed by a Guarantor.

    "GUARANTOR" means each Significant Subsidiary.

    "HIGHEST LAWFUL RATE" means at the particular time in question the maximum
rate of interest which, under Applicable Law, the Lenders are then permitted to
charge on the Obligations.  If the maximum rate of interest which, under
Applicable Law, the Lenders are permitted to charge on the Obligations shall
change after the date hereof, the Highest Lawful Rate shall be automatically
increased or decreased, as the case may be, from time to time as of the
effective time of each change in the Highest Lawful Rate without notice to the
Borrower.  For purposes of determining the Highest Lawful Rate under the
Applicable Law of the State of Texas, the applicable rate ceiling shall be
(a) the indicated rate ceiling described in and computed in accordance with the
provisions of Section (a)(1) of Art. 1.04, or (b) if the parties subsequently
contract as allowed by Applicable Law, the quarterly ceiling or the annualized
ceiling computed pursuant to Section (d) of Art. 1.04; provided, however, that
at any time the indicated rate ceiling, the quarterly ceiling or the annualized
ceiling shall be less than 18% per annum or more than 24% per annum, the
provisions of Sections (b)(1) and (2) of said Art. 1.04 shall control for
purposes of such determination, as applicable.

    "INCREASED ADVANCE COSTS" has the meaning specified in Section 8.3 hereof.


                                   -9-
<PAGE>

    "INCREASED ADVANCE COSTS RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE" has the meaning
specified in Section 8.3 hereof.

    "INCREASED ADVANCE COSTS SET DATE" has the meaning specified in Section 8.3
hereof.

    "INCREASED LETTER OF CREDIT COSTS" has the meaning specified in
Section 2.16(d) hereof.

    "INCREASED LETTER OF CREDIT COSTS RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE" has the
meaning specified in Section 2.16(d) hereof.

    "INCREASED LETTER OF CREDIT COSTS SET DATE" has the meaning specified in
Section 2.16(d) hereof.

    "INDEMNIFIED MATTERS" has the meaning specified in Section 5.21 hereof.

    "INDEMNITEES" has the meaning specified in Section 5.21 hereof.

    "INDEX DEBT RATING" means the rating applicable to the Borrower's senior,
unsecured, non-credit-enhanced long term indebtedness for borrowed money ("Index
Debt") or the implied rating established by Moody's, S&P or ARA as if the
Borrower had outstanding Index Debt.

    "INTEREST EXPENSE" of any Person means, for any period, the aggregate
interest expense in respect of Debt (including amortization of original issue
discount and non-cash interest payments or accruals, and dividends on
Disqualified Capital Stock, but excluding amortization of Debt issuance costs)
of such Person and all commissions, discounts, other fees and charges owed with
respect to letters of credit and bankers' acceptance financing and costs
associated with currency and Interest Rate Protection Agreements, all in
accordance with GAAP; PROVIDED, that interest expense attributable to that
portion of the Debt of another Person that is a direct or indirect, contingent
or primary, recourse obligation of such Person subsequent to the Agreement Date
shall be added thereto.

    "INTEREST PERIOD" means, for any LIBOR Advance, the period beginning on the
day such Advance is made and ending one, two, three, six months or twelve months
thereafter (as the Borrower shall select).

    "INTEREST RATE PROTECTION AGREEMENT" means an interest rate swap, cap,
collar or similar interest rate protection agreement between the Borrower or any
Subsidiary and other Person.

    "INVESTMENT" means, in one or a series of related transactions, any direct
or indirect acquisition of all or substantially all assets of any Person, or any
direct or indirect purchase or other acquisition of, or beneficial interest in,
capital stock or other securities of any other Person, or any direct or indirect
loan, advance (other than advances to employees for moving and travel expenses,
drawing accounts and similar expenditures in the ordinary course of business) or
capital


                                   -10-
<PAGE>

contribution or transfer of property, assets or value to, or investment,
in any other Person, including without limitation the incurrence or sufferance
of Debt or the purchase of accounts receivable of any other Person that are not
current assets or do not arise in the ordinary course of business.

    "INVESTMENT POLICY" means that certain Amended and Restated La Quinta Inns,
Inc. Statement of Investment Policy as of October 1989 in effect on the
Agreement Date as specified on SCHEDULE 5 hereto.

    "ISSUING BANK" means NationsBank of Texas, N.A. in its capacity as issuer
of the Letters of Credit.

    "LENDER" means each financial institution shown on the signature pages
hereof so long as such financial institution maintains a Commitment or is owed
any part of the Obligations (including the Administrative Lender in its
individual capacity), and each Assignee that hereafter becomes party hereto
pursuant to Section 10.6 hereof.

    "L/C CASH COLLATERAL ACCOUNT" has the meaning specified in Section 2.16(g)
hereof.

    "L/C RELATED DOCUMENTS" has the meaning specified in Section 2.16(e)
hereof.

    "LETTERS OF CREDIT" means letters of credit under the Letter of Credit
Facility and letters of credit issued under the Facility A Credit Agreement and
outstanding on the Agreement Date.

    "LETTER OF CREDIT AGREEMENT" has the meaning specified in Section 2.16(b)
hereof.

    "LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY" means the amount of Letters of Credit the
Issuing Bank may issue pursuant to Section 2.16(a) hereof.

    "LEVERAGE RATIO" means, for any date of determination, the ratio of
(i) Total Debt as of the last day of the fiscal quarter immediately preceding
the date of determination to (ii) EBITDA for the four consecutive fiscal
quarters preceding the date of determination.  For purposes of calculation of
EBITDA, there shall be (i) included in EBITDA (without duplication) the EBITDA
of any assets acquired during any such four fiscal quarters and (ii) excluded
from EBITDA the EBITDA of any asset disposed during any such four fiscal
quarters.

    "LIBOR ADVANCE" means a Revolving Credit Advance which the Borrower
requests to be made as a LIBOR Advance or which is reborrowed as a LIBOR
Advance, in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.2 hereof.

    "LIBOR BASIS" means, with respect to each LIBOR Advance for each Interest
Period, a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (a) the Highest Lawful Rate or
(b) the sum of the LIBOR Rate plus the Applicable Margin.  The LIBOR Basis
shall, with respect to LIBOR Advances


                                   -11-
<PAGE>

subject to reserve or deposit requirements, be subject to premiums for such 
reserve or deposit requirements assessed by each Lender to the extent 
incurred by such Lender, which are payable directly to each Lender.

    "LIBOR LENDING OFFICE" means, with respect to a Lender, the office
designated as its LIBOR Lending Office on SCHEDULE 1 attached hereto, and such
other office of the Lender or any of its affiliates hereafter designated by
notice to the Borrower and the Administrative Lender.

    "LIBOR RATE" means, for any Interest Period, the interest rate per annum
(rounded upward to the nearest one-sixteenth (1/16th) of one percent) at which
deposits in United States Dollars are offered to the Administrative Lender by
leading banks reasonably selected by the Administrative Lender in the London
interbank market at approximately 11:00 a.m. (London time), two Business Days
before the first day of such Interest Period, in an amount approximately equal
to the principal amount of, and for a length of time approximately equal to the
Interest Period for, the LIBOR Advance sought by the Borrower.

    "LIEN" means, with respect to any property, any mortgage, lien, pledge,
collateral assignment, hypothecation, charge, security interest, title retention
agreement, levy, execution, seizure, attachment, garnishment or other
encumbrance of any kind in respect of such property, whether or not choate,
vested or perfected.

    "LOAN PAPERS" means this Agreement, the Notes, the Guaranty Agreements, the
Fee Letter, and any other document or agreement executed or delivered from time
to time by the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other Person in connection
herewith or as security for all or any part of the Obligations.

    "LOAN PARTY" means the Borrower and each Guarantor.

    "LONG TERM DEBT" means any obligation which is due one year or more from
the date of creation thereof which under GAAP is shown as a liability, plus
(without duplication) amounts equal to the aggregate net rentals (after making
allowances for any interest, taxes or other expenses included therein) payable
more than one year from the date of creation thereof under Capital Leases.

    "MAINTENANCE CAPITAL EXPENDITURES" means, for any date of determination, an
amount equal to the product of (a) 5% multiplied by (b) room revenues (as
disclosed in the Borrower's most recent Form 10-K and 10-Q) of the Borrower, its
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures, for the four consecutive fiscal
quarters  preceding the date of determination.

    "MASTER COVENANT AGREEMENT" means the Fifth Amended and Restated Master
Covenant Agreement dated as of September 12, 1995, by and between the Borrower
and NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as such agreement may be amended, restated,
supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.


                                   -12-
<PAGE>


    "MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE OR EFFECT" means any act or circumstance or event
which (a) is material and adverse to the combined or consolidated financial
condition of the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures as
represented in the Combined Financial Statements most recently delivered to the
Lenders at the time of any determination thereof or is material and adverse to
the combined or consolidated business operations or properties of the Borrower,
its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures or (b) impairs the ability of the
Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other Person to perform in any material respect
their respective obligations under the Loan Papers.

    "MATERIAL AMOUNT" means, as of the determination thereof, an amount equal
to the greater of (a) $1,000,000 or (b) the lesser of (i) $4,000,000 or (ii) 1%
of the consolidated revenues of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries computed on a
Combined basis for the fiscal year preceding the date of determination.

    "MATURITY DATE" means February 28, 2002, or the earlier date of termination
in whole of the Commitment pursuant to Section 2.6 or 7.2 hereof.

    "MAXIMUM AMOUNT" means the maximum amount of interest which, under
Applicable Law, the Lenders are permitted to charge on the Obligations.

    "MOODY'S" means Moody's Investors Service, Inc.

    "MULTIEMPLOYER PLAN" means, as to any Person, at any time, a "multiemployer
plan" within the meaning of Section 4001(a)(3) of ERISA and to which such Person
or any member of its Controlled Group is making, or is obligated to make
contributions or has made, or been obligated to make, contributions.

    "NECESSARY AUTHORIZATION" means any right, franchise, license, permit,
consent, approval or authorization from, or any filing or registration with, any
governmental or other regulatory authority necessary or appropriate to enable
the Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture to maintain and operate
its business and properties.

    "NET CASH PROCEEDS" means the aggregate amount of cash received by the
Borrower in respect of the sale of Capital Stock of the Borrower, less the sum
of all fees, commissions and other expenses incurred in connection with such
sale.

    "NET INCOME" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the net
income (loss) of such Person for such period, as determined in accordance with
GAAP.

    "NET INTEREST EXPENSE" means, with respect to any Person for any period,
the sum of (i) Interest Expense of such Persons for such period minus
(ii) interest income of such Person for such period as reflected on an income
statement of such Person prepared in accordance with GAAP.


                                   -13-
<PAGE>

    "NET WORTH" means an amount equal to the sum of the Capital Stock and
additional paid-in-capital plus retained earnings (or minus accumulated deficit)
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, less (i) treasury stock and (ii) amounts
attributable to the extent included, (1) to any write-up in book value of assets
resulting from a revaluation thereof subsequent to September 30, 1996, and
(2) to Disqualified Capital Stock, all in accordance with GAAP.

    "NON-FINANCIAL LETTER OF CREDIT" means any Letter of Credit issued under
the Letter of Credit Facility which is a "performance-based standby letter of
credit" as defined in Appendix A to 12 CFR Part 3 issued by the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency.

    "NOTE" means any Revolving Credit Note, Swing Line Note or Bid Rate Note
and "NOTES" means the Revolving Credit Notes, the Swing Line Notes and the Bid
Rate Notes.

    "NOTICE OF ISSUANCE" has the meaning specified in Section 2.16(b) hereof.

    "OBLIGATIONS" means (a) all obligations of any nature (whether matured or
unmatured, fixed or contingent, including the Reimbursement Obligations) of the
Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other Person to any of the Lenders and the
Issuing Bank under the Loan Papers as they may be amended from time to time, and
(b) all obligations of the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other Person for
losses, damages, expenses or any other liabilities of any kind that any Lender
may suffer by reason of a breach by the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other
Person of any obligation, covenant or undertaking with respect to any Loan
Paper.

    "OBLIGOR" means Borrower or each other Person liable for performance of any
of the Obligations or the property of which secures any of the Obligations.

    "OPERATING INCOME" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the
operating income (loss) of such Person, as determined in accordance with GAAP.

    "OPERATING LEASE" means any operating lease, as defined in the Financial
Accounting Standard Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 13,
dated November, 1976 or otherwise in accordance with GAAP.

    "OTHER TAXES" has the meaning specified in Section 2.15 hereof.

    "PARENT COMPANY" means, with respect to financial statements, the
uncombined, consolidated financial statements of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries, including equity method investments, as defined by GAAP, in
Unincorporated Ventures and designated "La Quinta Inns, Inc. (Parent Company and
Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries)" on the Borrower's audit report.

    "PARTICIPANT" has the meaning specified in Section 10.6(c) hereof.

    "PARTICIPATION" has the meaning specified in Section 10.6(c) hereof.


                                   -14-
<PAGE>

    "PARTNERS' CAPITAL" means the equity in the net assets of Unincorporated
Ventures of all the partners or venturers (other than the Borrower or a
Subsidiary) of such Unincorporated Ventures, or minority interest holders, as
determined in accordance with GAAP.

    "PAYMENT DATE" means the last day of the Interest Period for any LIBOR
Advance.

    "PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any entity
succeeding to any or all of its functions under ERISA.

    "PERMITTED INVESTMENT" means Investments in (i) wholly-owned Domestic
Subsidiaries (a) that are subject to the provisions of this Agreement, (b) that
unconditionally guarantee the performance of the Borrower's obligations under
this Agreement and (c) that concurrently deliver to the Lenders (1) an opinion
acceptable to the Lenders with respect to the validity and enforceability of
such guarantee and (2) such other documents, such as corporate resolutions,
certificates of incumbency, by-laws and articles of incorporation, as the
Lenders shall reasonably require, (ii) Investments in any Person other than a
wholly-owned Subsidiary in any one or a series of related transactions with a
fair market value not in excess of $25,000,000 in the aggregate for all
Investments in all such Persons, (iii) Investments for the purpose of satisfying
the Borrower's or any Subsidiary's guarantee obligations with respect to the
Debt of any Person in which the Borrower or any Subsidiary owned any interest
and which obligation was in existence as of the Agreement Date; (iv) Investments
in Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures which do not guarantee the
performance of the Borrower's obligations under this Agreement made in the
ordinary course of business, consistent with past practices for the purpose of
providing for the day to day operating requirements of such Subsidiary or
Unincorporated Venture, PROVIDED, that such Investments shall (a) not be used
for acquisition or conversion of any inns and (b) be evidenced by a note or
other evidence of indebtedness and (c) not at any time exceed $10,000,000 in
aggregate principal amount, (v) Investments permitted by Sections II.B., II.C.
(provided that, notwithstanding Section II.C.3. of the Investment Policy, banks
shall be required to have at least $150,000,000 in capital and surplus), II.E.
and II.H. of the Investment Policy, (vi) loans or advances to employees as
compensation for services in the ordinary course of business not in excess of
$2,000,000 aggregate principal amount, (vii) Investments in the ordinary course
of business, consistent with past practice, in the Borrower's National
Advertising Fund, (viii) Existing Investments, (ix) Investments in Capital Stock
of Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures listed on SCHEDULE 3 hereto for the
purpose of acquiring no less than 100% of the capital stock or partnership
interests, as appropriate, of such Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures,
(x) Investments in notes payable to the Borrower as a result of the sale of inns
in an aggregate principal amount not in excess of $10,000,000, provided that the
Borrower shall obtain and continue to hold a perfected first Lien (subject to
Permitted Liens) in such inns, (xi) Investments in wholly-owned Foreign
Subsidiaries (a) that are subject to the provisions of this Agreement and
(b) not to exceed in aggregate amount $1,000,000 for all Investments in all
Foreign Subsidiaries, and (xii) Investments consisting of the purchase,
redemption, or other acquisition or retirement for value of any shares of the
Capital Stock of the Borrower.  For purposes of the calculation of the amount of
any Investments permitted hereunder, Investments will be calculated at all times
at 


                                   -15-
<PAGE>

the amount of the original Investment with no reduction for write-offs or
write-downs.  No Investment which is a Permitted Investment other than pursuant
to clause (ii) of the definition of "PERMITTED INVESTMENTS" shall reduce the
amount of Investments permitted pursuant to such clause (ii).

    "PERMITTED LIENS" means, as applied to any Person:

    (i)  any Lien in favor of the Administrative Lender or a trustee on its
behalf to secure the Obligations;

    (ii) (a) Liens on real estate for real estate taxes not yet delinquent,
(b) Liens created by lease agreements to secure the payments of rental amounts
and other sums not yet due thereunder, (c) Liens on leasehold interests created
by the lessor in favor of any mortgagee of the leased premises, and (d) Liens
for taxes, assessments, governmental charges, levies or claims that are being
diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which
adequate reserves shall have been set aside on such Person's books, but only so
long as no foreclosure, restraint, sale or similar proceedings have been
commenced with respect thereto;

    (iii)     Liens of carriers, warehousemen, mechanics, laborers and
materialmen and other similar Liens incurred in the ordinary course of business
for sums not yet due or being contested in good faith, if such reserve or
appropriate provision, if any, as shall be required by GAAP shall have been made
therefor;

    (iv) Liens incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with
worker's compensation, unemployment insurance or similar legislation;

    (v)  Easements, rights-of-way, restrictions and other similar encumbrances
on the use of real property which do not interfere with the ordinary conduct of
the business of such Person;

    (vi) Liens created to secure the purchase price of fixed assets acquired by
such Person, which is incurred solely for the purpose of financing the
acquisition of such assets and incurred at the time of acquisition, so long as
(a) each such Lien shall at all times be confined solely to the asset or assets
so acquired (and proceeds thereof), (b) the Liens were placed on such assets at
the time such assets were acquired and (c) the aggregate principal amount of
Debt secured by such Liens does not exceed, together with the principal amount
of Debt secured by Liens permitted pursuant to clause (vii) below, $25,000,000,
and refinancings thereof so long as any such Lien remains solely on the asset or
assets acquired and the amount of Debt related thereto is not increased;

    (vii)     Liens existing on any property acquired by such Person prior to
the acquisition of such property by such Person, provided (a) such Lien shall at
all times be confined solely to the property so acquired (and proceeds thereof)
and (b) the aggregate principal amount of Debt secured by such Liens does not
exceed, together with the principal amount of Debt secured by


                                   -16-
<PAGE>

Liens permitted pursuant to clause (vi) above, $25,000,000 and refinancings 
thereof so long as any such Lien remains solely on the asset or assets 
acquired and the amount of Debt related thereto is not increased;

    (viii)    Liens in respect of judgments or awards for which appeals or
proceedings for review are being prosecuted and in respect of which a stay of
execution upon any such appeal or proceeding for review shall have been secured,
provided that (a) such Person shall have established adequate reserves for such
judgments or awards, (b) such judgments or awards shall be fully insured and the
insurer shall not have denied coverage, or (c) such judgments or awards shall
have been bonded to the satisfaction of the Lenders;

    (ix) Any Liens existing on the Agreement Date which are described on
SCHEDULE 10 hereto, and Liens resulting from the refinancing of the related
Debt, provided that the Debt secured thereby shall not be increased and the
Liens shall not cover additional assets of the Borrower;

    (x)  any obligations or duties, affecting any property, to any municipality
or public authority with respect to any franchise, grant, license or permit
which do not materially impair the use of any material property for the purposes
for which such property is held by such Person;

    (xi) zoning laws or ordinances and municipal regulations which do not
materially impair the use of any material property for the purposes for which
such property is held by such Person;

    (xii)     Liens, minor irregularities in or deficiencies of title on any
property which do not materially impair the use of any material property for the
purposes for which such property is held by such Person; and

    (xiii)    Liens otherwise permitted or contemplated by the Loan Papers.

    "PERSON" means and includes an individual, corporation, partnership, trust
or unincorporated organization, or a government or any agency or political
subdivision thereof.

    "PLAN" means an employee benefit plan as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA
(including a Multiemployer Plan that is covered by Title IV of ERISA) pursuant
to which any employees of the Borrower, its Subsidiaries, Unincorporated
Ventures or any member of their Controlled Group participate.

    "PRIME RATE" means, at any time, the prime interest rate announced or
published by the Administrative Lender from time to time as its reference rate
for the determination of interest rates for loans of varying maturities in
United States dollars to United States residents of varying degrees of
creditworthiness and being quoted at such time by the Administrative Lender as
its "prime rate;" it being understood that such rate may not be the lowest rate
of interest charged by the Administrative Lender.


                                   -17-
<PAGE>

    "QUALIFIED CAPITAL STOCK" means any Capital Stock of the Borrower that is
not Disqualified Capital Stock.

    "QUARTERLY DATE" means the last Business Day of each February, May, August
and November, beginning February 28, 1997.

    "REIMBURSEMENT OBLIGATIONS" means, in respect of any Letter of Credit as at
any date of determination, the sum of (a) the maximum aggregate amount which is
then available to be drawn under such Letter of Credit plus (b) the aggregate
amount of all drawings under such Letter of Credit and not theretofore
reimbursed by the Borrower.

    "REFINANCING ADVANCE" means any Revolving Credit Advance which is used to
pay the principal amount (or any portion thereof) of a Revolving Credit Advance
at the end of its Interest Period and which, after giving effect to such
application, does not result in an increase in the aggregate amount of
outstanding Revolving Credit Advances.

    "REGULATORY MODIFICATION RETROACTIVE EFFECTIVE DATE" has the meaning
specified in Section 8.5 hereof.

    "REGULATORY MODIFICATION SET DATE" has the meaning specified in Section 8.5
hereof.

    "RELEASE DATE" means the date on which the Notes have been paid, all other
Obligations due and owing have been paid and performed in full, and the
Commitment has been terminated.

    "REPORTABLE EVENT" has the meaning specified in Section 4043(b) of ERISA.

    "REVOLVING CREDIT ADVANCE" means an Advance made pursuant to Section 2.1(a)
hereof.

    "REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE" means any Promissory Note of the Borrower
evidencing Revolving Credit Advances hereunder, substantially in the form of
EXHIBIT A hereto, together with any extension, renewal or amendment thereof or
substitution therefor.

    "RIGHTS" means rights, remedies, powers and privileges.

    "S&P" means Standard & Poor's Ratings Group, a Division of McGraw-Hill,
Inc., a New York corporation.

    "S.E.C." means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

    "SENIOR DEBT" means Total Debt of the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and
Unincorporated Ventures, as appropriate, other than Subordinated Debt.


                                   -18-
<PAGE>


    "SENIOR NOTES" means, collectively, the Borrower's (a) $100,000,000 senior
unsecured notes due 2005, (b) $100,000,000 senior unsecured notes due 2004 and
(c) $50,000,000 medium term notes due 2001.

    "SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES" means the Borrower's $120,000,000 9-1/4% Senior
Subordinated Notes due May 15, 2003 issued pursuant to the Senior Subordinated
Note Indenture.

    "SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTE INDENTURE" means the Indenture pursuant to which
the Senior Subordinated Notes have been issued, as the same may be amended,
supplemented or otherwise modified.

    "SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS" means those investments of the Borrower in the
joint ventures or partnerships set forth on SCHEDULE 8 hereto.

    "SIGNIFICANT SUBSIDIARY" means any Subsidiary of the Borrower (a) the
revenues attributable to which for the then most recently completed four fiscal
quarters constituted (or, with respect to Subsidiaries acquired during such four
fiscal quarters, would have constituted had the revenues of such Subsidiary been
included for such period) 2.5% or more of the consolidated revenues of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries for such period, or (b) the assets of which as of
the end of such period constituted 2.5% or more of the consolidated assets of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as of the end of such period.

    "SOLVENT" means, with respect to any Person, that the fair value of the
assets of such Person (both at fair valuation and at present fair saleable
value) is, on the date of determination, greater than the total amount of
liabilities (including contingent and unliquidated liabilities) of such Person
as of such date and that, as of such date, such Person is able to pay all
liabilities of such Person as such liabilities mature and such Person does not
have unreasonably small capital with which to carry on its business.  In
computing the amount of contingent or unliquidated liabilities at any time, such
liabilities will be computed at the amount which, in light of all the facts and
circumstances existing at such time, represents the amount that can reasonably
be expected to become an actual or matured liability discounted to present value
at rates believed to be reasonable by such Person. 

    "SPECIAL COUNSEL" means the law firm of Donohoe, Jameson & Carroll, P.C.,
or such other legal counsel as the Administrative Lender may select.

    "SPECIFIED PERCENTAGE" means, as to any Lender, the percentage indicated
beside its name on the signature pages hereof, or if applicable, specified in
its most recent Assignment Agreement.

    "SUBSIDIARY" with respect to any Persons, means (a) a corporation at least
a majority of whose Capital Stock with voting power, under ordinary
circumstances, to elect directors is at the time, directly or indirectly, owned
by such Person, by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or by
one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or (b) a partnership, joint venture




                                   -19-
<PAGE>

or similar entity in which 100% of the ownership, capital, interest or 
profits is at the time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person, by such 
Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or by one or more 
Subsidiaries of such Person.

    "SUBSIDIARY GUARANTY" means the Guaranty executed by each Significant 
Subsidiary guaranteeing payment and performance of the Obligations, 
substantially in the form of EXHIBIT D hereto, as such agreement may be 
amended, modified, supplemented or restated from time to time.

    "SUBORDINATED DEBT" means any debt, obligation or liability (whether 
primary, contingent or otherwise) of the Borrower, a Subsidiary or an 
Unincorporated Venture which by its terms is subordinate in right of payment 
to the Obligations, provided that the Determining Lenders approve the terms 
thereof prior to or at the time of the issuance thereof.

    "SWING LINE ADVANCE" means an Advance made pursuant to Section 2.1(b)
hereof.

    "SWING LINE BANK" means NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and any successor
thereto appointed in accordance with Section 9.1(b) hereof.

    "SWING LINE FACILITY" has the meaning specified in Section 2.1(b) hereof.

    "SWING LINE NOTE" means the Swing Line Note of the Borrower payable to the
order of the Swing Line Bank, substantially in the form of EXHIBIT C hereto,
together with any extension, renewal or amendment thereof or substitution
therefor.

    "TAXES" has the meaning specified in Section 2.15 hereof.

    "TOTAL DEBT" means, as of any date of determination, the sum (without 
duplication) of (a) all Debt of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, minus 
(b)(i) the aggregate face amount of Bond Letters of Credit outstanding and 
(ii) all Debt of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries of the type described in 
(A) clauses (f) and (g) of the definition of "DEBT" herein which are set 
forth on SCHEDULE 9 hereto and (B) clauses (h) and (k) of the definition of 
"DEBT" herein.

    "TRIBUNAL" means any state, commonwealth, federal, foreign territorial, or
other court or governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or
instrumentality.

    "UCC" means the Uniform Commercial Code of Texas, as amended from time to
time.

    "UNINCORPORATED VENTURES" means those Persons designated as "Unincorporated
Ventures" on SCHEDULE 3 hereto.

    Section 1.2    AMENDMENTS AND RENEWALS.  Each definition of an agreement in
this Article 1 shall include such agreement as amended to date, and as amended
or renewed from time


                                   -20-
<PAGE>


to time in accordance with its terms, but only with the prior written consent 
of the Determining Lenders or all Lenders as required pursuant to Section 
10.12 hereof.

    Section 1.3    CONSTRUCTION.  The terms defined in this Article 1 (except 
as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement) for all purposes shall 
have the meanings set forth in Section 1.1 hereof, and the singular shall 
include the plural, and vice versa, unless otherwise specifically required by 
the context. All accounting terms used in this Agreement which are not 
otherwise defined herein shall be construed in accordance with GAAP on a 
consolidated basis for the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, unless otherwise 
expressly stated herein.

                                      ARTICLE 2

                                       ADVANCES

    Section 2.1    THE ADVANCES.

    (a)  REVOLVING CREDIT ADVANCES.  Each Lender severally agrees, upon the 
terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement, to make Revolving 
Credit Advances to the Borrower from time to time up to and including the 
Maturity Date in an aggregate amount not to exceed an amount equal to (i) its 
Specified Percentage of the Commitment less (ii) an amount equal to its 
Specified Percentage of the aggregate amount of all Reimbursement Obligations 
then outstanding (assuming compliance with all conditions to drawing) for the 
purposes set forth in Section 5.20 hereof.  Notwithstanding the immediately 
preceding sentence, at no time shall the sum of (i) the aggregate principal 
amount of Revolving Credit Advances outstanding, plus (ii) the aggregate 
principal amount of Swing Line Advances outstanding, plus (iii) the aggregate 
principal amount of all Reimbursement Obligations, plus (iv) the aggregate 
principal amount of Bid Rate Advances exceed the Commitment.  Subject to 
Section 2.9 hereof, Revolving Credit Advances may be repaid and then 
reborrowed. Any Revolving Credit Advance shall, at the option of the Borrower 
as provided in Section 2.2 hereof (and, in the case of LIBOR Advances, 
subject to availability and to the provisions of Article 8 hereof), be made 
as a Base Rate Advance or a LIBOR Advance; provided that there shall not be 
outstanding to any Lender, at any one time, more than six LIBOR Advances.  On 
the Maturity Date unless sooner paid as provided herein, the outstanding 
Revolving Credit Advances shall be repaid in full.

    (b)  THE SWING LINE LOANS.  The Borrower may request Swing Line Bank to
make, and Swing Line Bank may, if in its sole discretion it elects to do so,
make, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth, loans ("Swing Line
Loans") to Borrower from time to time on any Business Day during the period from
the date hereof until the Maturity Date in an aggregate amount not to exceed at
any time outstanding the lesser of (i) $10,000,000 and (ii) the sum of (A) the
Commitment, MINUS (B) the aggregate principal amount of Revolving Credit
Advances then outstanding MINUS (C) the aggregate principal amount of all
Reimbursement Obligations then outstanding (assuming compliance with all
conditions to drawing) (the "Swing Line Facility")


                                   -21-
<PAGE>


minus (D) the aggregate principal amount of all Bid Rate Advances then 
outstanding.  Each Swing Line Advance shall be in an amount not less than 
$50,000.  Within the limits of the Swing Line Facility, so long as the Swing 
Line Bank, in its sole discretion, elects to make Swing Line Advances, Swing 
Line Advances may be repaid and then reborrowed.

    (c)  BID RATE ADVANCES.  Each Lender may, in its sole discretion and on the
terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and such other agreements that
such Lender may enter into with the Borrower, make Bid Rate Advances to the
Borrower from time to time in an aggregate amount not in excess of the
difference between (i) the Commitment minus (ii) the sum of (A) the aggregate
outstanding principal amount of all Revolving Credit Advances, plus (B) the
aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Bid Rate Advances, plus (C) the
amount of all Reimbursement Obligations plus (D) the aggregate outstanding
principal amount of all Swing Line Advances.  Each Bid Rate Advance shall be for
a period of not less than 7 days and not more than 90 days.  The Lenders shall
have no obligation hereunder to offer any Bid Rate Advances and the Borrower may
not request any Bid Rate Advances unless the Index Debt Rating is the same as or
better than any two of the following:  BBB- by S&P , BBB- by ARA or Baa3 by
Moody's.  Bid Rate Advances may not be prepaid without the prior written consent
of the Lender making such Bid Rate Advance.

    Section 2.2    MANNER OF BORROWING AND DISBURSEMENT.

    (a)  In the case of Base Rate Advances, the Borrower, through an Authorized
Signatory, shall give the Administrative Lender prior to 10:30 a.m., Dallas,
Texas time, on the date of any proposed Base Rate Advance irrevocable written
notice, or irrevocable telephonic notice followed immediately by written notice
(provided, however, that the Borrower's failure to confirm any telephonic notice
in writing shall not invalidate any notice so given), of its intention to borrow
or reborrow a Base Rate Advance hereunder.  Such notice of borrowing shall
specify the requested funding date, which shall be a Business Day, and the
amount of the proposed aggregate Base Rate Advances to be made by Lenders.

    (b)  In the case of LIBOR Advances, the Borrower, through an Authorized
Signatory, shall give the Administrative Lender at least three Business Days'
irrevocable written notice for LIBOR Advances, or irrevocable telephonic notice
followed immediately by written notice (provided, however, that the Borrower's
failure to confirm any telephonic notice in writing shall not invalidate any
notice so given), of its intention to borrow or reborrow a LIBOR Advance
hereunder.  Notice shall be given to the Administrative Lender prior to 11:00
a.m., Dallas, Texas time, in order for such Business Day to count toward the
minimum number of Business Days required.  LIBOR Advances shall in all cases be
subject to availability and to Article 8 hereof.  For LIBOR Advances, the notice
of borrowing shall specify the requested funding date, which shall be a Business
Day, the amount of the proposed aggregate LIBOR Advances to be made by Lenders
and the Interest Period selected by the Borrower, provided that no such Interest
Period shall extend past the Maturity Date.


                                   -22-
<PAGE>

    (c)  In the case of Swing Line Advances, the Borrower, through an
Authorized Signatory, shall give the Swing Line Bank and the Administrative
Lender prior to 12:00 noon, Dallas, Texas time, on the date of any proposed
Swing Line Advance irrevocable written notice or irrevocable telephonic notice
followed immediately by written notice (provided, however, that the Borrower's
failure to confirm any telephonic notice in writing shall not invalidate any
notice so given), of its intention to borrow or reborrow a Swing Line Advance. 
Such notice of borrowing shall specify the requested funding date, which shall
be a Business Day, and the amount of the proposed Swing Line Advance.

    (d)  Subject to Sections 2.1 and 2.9 hereof, at least three Business Days
prior to each Payment Date for a LIBOR Advance, the Borrower, through an
Authorized Signatory, shall give the Administrative Lender irrevocable written
notice, or irrevocable telephonic notice followed immediately by written notice
(provided, however, that the Borrower's failure to confirm any telephonic notice
in writing shall not invalidate any notice so given), specifying whether all or
a portion of such LIBOR Advance outstanding on the Payment Date (i) is to be
repaid and then reborrowed in whole or in part as a Base Rate Advance or a LIBOR
Advance, or (ii) is to be repaid and not reborrowed; provided, however,
notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if on any Payment
Date a Default shall exist, such LIBOR Advance may only be reborrowed as a Base
Rate Advance.  Upon such Payment Date, such LIBOR Advance shall, subject to the
provisions hereof, be so repaid and, as applicable, reborrowed.

    (e)  Subject to Sections 2.1 and 2.9 hereof, upon irrevocable written
notice to the Administrative Lender prior to 11:00 a.m., Dallas, Texas, time on
the date of payment of a Base Rate Advance (or three Business Days if the
Borrower wishes to reborrow a LIBOR Advance, through an Authorized Signatory, or
irrevocable telephonic notice followed immediately by written notice (provided,
however, that the Borrower's failure to confirm any telephonic notice in writing
shall not invalidate any notice so given), the Borrower may repay a Base Rate
Advance on such date, and (i) reborrow all or a portion of the principal amount
thereof as a Base Rate Advance, (ii) provided no Default or Event of Default has
occurred and is continuing, reborrow all or a portion of the principal amount
thereof as one or more LIBOR Advances, or (iii) not reborrow all or any portion
of such Base Rate Advance.  Upon such date of repayment, such Base Rate Advance
shall, subject to the provisions hereof, be so repaid and, as applicable,
reborrowed.

    (f)  The aggregate amount of Base Rate Advances to be made by the Lenders
on any day shall be in a principal amount which is at least $1,000,000 and which
is an integral multiple of $100,000; provided, however, that such amount may
equal the unused amount of the Commitment.  The aggregate amount of LIBOR
Advances having the same Interest Period and to be made by the Lenders on any
day shall be in a principal amount which is at least $3,000,000 and which is an
integral multiple of $500,000.

    (g)  The Administrative Lender shall promptly notify the Lenders of each
notice (other than with respect to a Swing Line Advance) received from the
Borrower pursuant to this Section and the LIBOR Rate for any proposed LIBOR
Advance.  Failure of the Borrower to give any


                                   -23-
<PAGE>

notice in accordance with Section 2.2(d) hereof shall result in a repayment 
of any such existing LIBOR Advance on the applicable Payment Date by a 
Refinancing Advance which is a Base Rate Advance.  Each Lender shall, not 
later than 1:00 p.m., Dallas, Texas time, on the date of any Revolving Credit 
Advance that is not a Refinancing Advance, deliver to the Administrative 
Lender, at its address set forth herein, such Lender's Specified Percentage 
of such Revolving Credit Advance in immediately available funds in accordance 
with the Administrative Lender's instructions. Prior to 2:00 p.m., Dallas, 
Texas time, on the date of any Revolving Credit Advance hereunder that is not 
a Refinancing Advance, the Administrative Lender shall, subject to 
satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Article 3, disburse the amounts 
made available to the Administrative Lender by the Lenders by (i) 
transferring such amounts by wire transfer pursuant to the Borrower's 
instructions, or (ii) in the absence of such instructions, crediting such 
amounts to the account of the Borrower maintained with the Administrative 
Lender.  All Revolving Credit Advances shall be made by each Lender according 
to its Specified Percentage.  No Lender shall be relieved of its obligation 
to fund its Specified Percentage of any Revolving Credit Advance 
notwithstanding the fact that at any time the aggregate outstanding principal 
amount of all Bid Rate Advances made by such Lender exceed its Specified 
Percentage of the Commitment.

    (h)  If, in its sole discretion, the Swing Line Bank elects to make the 
requested Swing Line Advance, the Swing Line Bank shall, not later than 1:30 
p.m., Dallas, Texas time, on the date of any Swing Line Advance, deliver to 
the Administrative Lender at its address set forth herein, the amount of such 
Swing Line Advance in immediately available funds in accordance with the 
Administrative Lender's instructions.  Prior to 2:00 p.m., Dallas, Texas 
time, on the date of any Swing Line Advance, the Administrative Lender shall, 
subject to the conditions set forth in Article 3, disburse the amount made 
available to the Administrative Lender by the Swing Line Bank by (i) 
transferring such amounts by wire transfer pursuant to the Borrower's 
instruction or (ii) in the absence of such instructions, crediting such 
amounts to the account of the Borrower maintained with the Administrative 
Lender.  Forthwith upon demand by the Swing Line Bank and in any event upon 
the making of the request or the granting of the consent specified by Section 
7.2 to authorize the Administrative Lender to declare the Advances due and 
payable pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.2, each Lender, including the 
Swing Line Bank, notwithstanding the failure of the Borrower at such time to 
satisfy each condition specified in Article 3, shall make by 12:00 noon 
(Dallas, Texas time) on the first Business Day following receipt by such 
Lender of notice from the Swing Line Bank, a Revolving Credit Advance which 
is a Base Rate Advance in an amount equal to the product of (i) the Specified 
Percentage of such Lender times (ii) the aggregate outstanding principal 
amount of the Swing Line Advances.  The proceeds of such Revolving Credit 
Advances shall be applied by the Administrative Lender to repay the 
outstanding Swing Line Advance.

    (i)  BID RATE ADVANCES

         (i)  In the case of Bid Rate Advances, the Borrower, through an
    Authorized Signatory, shall give the Administrative Lender (which shall
    promptly notify the Lenders) prior to 11:00 a.m., Dallas, Texas time, at
    least one Business Day prior to the proposed 


                                   -24-
<PAGE>

    borrowing, irrevocable written notice of its intention to borrow a Bid 
    Rate Advance.  Such notice of borrowing shall specify (i) the 
    requested funding date, which shall be a Business Day, (ii) the 
    aggregate amount of the proposed Bid Rate Advances, (iii) the 
    maturities of such Bid Rate Advances selected by the Borrower, 
    provided that no such maturities shall extend past the Maturity Date 
    and (iv) any other terms applicable thereto.
    
         (ii) Each Lender shall, if, in its sole discretion, it elects to do
    so, irrevocably offer to make one or more Bid Rate Advances to the Borrower
    as part of such proposed borrowing at a rate or rates of interest specified
    by such Lender in its sole discretion, by making a written quote to the
    Administrative Lender (which shall give prompt notice thereof to the
    Borrower) before 9:30 a.m., Dallas, Texas time, on the date of such
    proposed borrowing, setting forth the minimum amount and maximum amount of
    each Bid Rate Advance which such Lender would be willing to make as part of
    the proposed borrowing (which amounts may exceed such Lender's Specified
    Percentage of the Commitment) and the rate or rates of interest therefor. 
    If NationsBank of Texas, N.A. elects to offer to make one or more Bid Rate
    Advances, it shall deliver its written quote with respect to the proposed
    borrowing to the Borrower prior to the Administrative Lender's receipt of
    any other Lender's written quote for such proposed borrowing.  The
    Administrative Lender shall notify the Borrower of each written quote
    provided by each Lender with respect to the proposed borrowing before 10:00
    a.m., Dallas, Texas, on the date of such proposed borrowing.  If any Lender
    shall elect not to make such an offer, such Lender shall so notify the
    Administrative Lender before 9:30 a.m., Dallas, Texas time, on the date of
    such proposed borrowing, and such Lender shall not make any Bid Rate
    Advance as part of such borrowing.  If any Lender shall fail to respond to
    the Administrative Lender by such time, such Lender shall be deemed to have
    elected not to make an offer.

         (iii)     The Borrower shall, in turn, before 10:30 a.m., Dallas,
    Texas time, on the date of such proposed borrowing either

              (A)  cancel such proposed borrowing by giving the Administrative
         Lender notice to that effect, or

              (B)  accept one or more of the offers made by any Lender or
         Lenders pursuant to clause (ii) above, in its sole discretion, by
         giving notice to the Administrative Lender of the amount of each Bid
         Rate Advance (which amount shall be equal to or greater than the
         minimum amount, and equal to or less than the maximum amount, for
         which notification was given to the Borrower by the Administrative
         Lender on behalf of such Lender for such Bid Rate Advance pursuant to
         clause (ii) above) to be made by each Lender as part of such
         borrowing, and reject any remaining offers made by the Lenders
         pursuant to clause (ii) above by giving the Administrative Lender
         notice to that effect.


                                   -25-
<PAGE>

         (iv) If the Borrower notifies the Administrative Lender that such
    proposed borrowing is cancelled pursuant to clause (iii)(A) above, the
    Administrative Lender shall give prompt notice thereof to the Lenders and
    such borrowing shall not be made.

         (v)  If the Borrower accepts one or more of the offers made by any
    Lender or Lenders pursuant to clause (iii)(B) above, the Administrative
    Lender shall in turn promptly notify each Lender of the date, rate of
    interest, and amount of each Bid Rate Advance and the Lender making such
    Advance.

    Section 2.3    INTEREST.

    (a)  ON BASE RATE ADVANCES.

         (i)  The Borrower shall pay interest on the outstanding unpaid
    principal amount of each Base Rate Advance, from the date such Advance is
    made until it is due (whether at maturity, by reason of acceleration, by
    scheduled reduction, or otherwise) or repaid, which shall be payable as set
    forth in Section 2.3(a)(ii) hereof, at a simple interest rate per annum
    equal to the Base Rate Basis for such Base Rate Advance as in effect from
    time to time, provided that interest on such Base Rate Advance shall not
    exceed the Maximum Amount.  If at any time the Base Rate Basis would exceed
    the Highest Lawful Rate, interest payable on such Base Rate Advance shall
    be limited to the Highest Lawful Rate, but the Base Rate Basis shall not
    thereafter be reduced below the Highest Lawful Rate until the total amount
    of interest accrued on such Advance equals the amount of interest that
    would have accrued if the Base Rate Basis had been in effect at all times.

         (ii) Interest on each Base Rate Advance shall be computed on the basis
    of a year of 365 or 366 days, as applicable, for the number of days
    actually elapsed, and shall be payable in arrears on each Quarterly Date
    and on the Maturity Date.

    (b)  ON LIBOR ADVANCES.

         (i)  The Borrower shall pay interest on the unpaid principal amount of
    each LIBOR Advance, from the date such Advance is made until it is due
    (whether at maturity, by reason of acceleration, by scheduled reduction, or
    otherwise) or repaid, at a rate per annum equal to the LIBOR Basis for such
    Advance.  The Administrative Lender, whose determination shall be
    conclusive, shall determine the LIBOR Basis on the second Business Day
    prior to the applicable funding date and shall notify the Borrower and the
    Lenders of such LIBOR Basis.

         (ii) Subject to Section 10.9 hereof, interest on each LIBOR Advance
    shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year for the actual number of
    days elapsed, and shall be payable in arrears on the applicable Payment
    Date and on the Maturity Date; provided, 


                                   -26-
<PAGE>

    however, that if the Interest Period for such Advance exceeds three 
    months, interest shall also be due and payable in arrears on each Quarterly
    Date during such Interest Period.

    (c)  ON SWING LINE ADVANCES.

         (i)  The Borrower shall pay interest on the outstanding principal
    amount of such Swing Line Advance, from the date such Swing Line Advance is
    made until it is due (whether at maturity, by reason of acceleration or
    otherwise) or repaid, which shall be payable as set forth in
    Section 2.3(c)(ii) hereof, equal to the Base Rate in effect from time to
    time minus 1/2%, but not higher than the Highest Lawful Rate.

         (ii) Interest on each Swing Line Advance shall be computed on the
    basis of a year of 365 or 366 days, as applicable, for the number of days
    actually elapsed, and shall be payable in arrears on each Quarterly Date
    and on the Maturity Date.

    (d)  ON BID RATE ADVANCES.  The Borrower shall pay interest on the
outstanding unpaid principal amount of each Bid Rate Advance at a per annum rate
equal to the interest rate agreed to by the Borrower and the Lender making such
Bid Rate Advance pursuant to Section 2.2(i) hereof.  Interest on each Bid Rate
Advance shall be computed and shall be payable at such times as agreed upon
between the Borrower and the Lender making such Advance pursuant to
Section 2.2(i) hereof.

    (e)  INTEREST IF NO NOTICE OF SELECTION OF INTEREST RATE BASIS.  If the
Borrower fails to give the Administrative Lender timely notice of its selection
of a LIBOR Basis or an Interest Period for a LIBOR Advance, or if for any reason
a determination of a LIBOR Basis for any Advance is not timely concluded due to
the fault of the Borrower, the appropriate Base Rate Basis shall apply to such
Advance.

    (f)  INTEREST AFTER AN EVENT OF DEFAULT.  (i) After an Event of Default
(other than an Event of Default specified in Section 7.1(f) hereof) and during
any continuance thereof, at the option of Determining Lenders, and (ii) after an
Event of Default specified in Section 7.1(f) hereof and during any continuance
thereof, automatically and without any action by the Administrative Lender or
any Lender, the Obligations shall bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the
Default Rate.  Such interest shall be payable on the earlier of demand or the
Maturity Date, and shall accrue until the earlier of (i) waiver or cure (to the
satisfaction of the Determining Lenders) of the applicable Event of Default,
(ii) agreement by the Lenders to rescind the charging of interest at the Default
Rate, or (iii) payment in full of the Obligations.  The Lenders shall not be
required to accelerate the maturity of the Advances, to exercise any other
rights or remedies under the Loan Papers, or to give notice to the Borrower of
the decision to charge interest at the Default Rate.  The Lenders will undertake
to notify the Borrower, after the effective date, of the decision to charge
interest at the Default Rate.

                                     -27-
<PAGE>

    Section 2.4    FEES.

    (a)  FACILITY FEE.  Subject to Section 10.9 hereof, the Borrower agrees to
pay to the Administrative Lender, for the ratable account of the Lenders, a
facility fee on the daily average amount of the Commitment at the following per
annum percentages, applicable in the following situations:


          Applicability                                           Percentage
          -------------                                           ----------
Category 1 - The Leverage Ratio is not less                         0.3000
than 3.50 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is any
two of the following: BB by S&P, BB by ARA or
Ba2 by Moody's

Category 2 - The Leverage Ratio is less than                        0.2250
3.50 to 1 but not less than 3.0 to 1 or the
Index Debt Rating is any two of the following:
BB+ by S&P, BB+ by ARA or Ba1 by Moody's

Category 3 - The Leverage Ratio is less than                        0.1875
3.00 to 1 but not less than 2.50 to 1 or the
Index Debt Rating is any two of the following: 
BBB- by S&P, BBB- by ARA or Baa3 by Moody's

Category 4 - The Leverage Ratio is less than                        0.1500
2.50 to 1 but not less than 2.0 to 1 or the
Index Debt Rating is any two of the following: 
BBB by S&P, BBB by ARA or Baa2 by Moody's

Category 5 - The Leverage Ratio is less than                        0.1250
2.00 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is any two
of the following:  BBB+ or better by S&P, BBB+
or better by ARA or Baa1 or better by Moody's


Such fee shall accrue from the date of the initial Advance and shall be payable
(i) in arrears on each Quarterly Date and on the Maturity Date, fully earned
when due and, subject to Section 10.9 hereof, nonrefundable when paid and
(ii) computed on the basis of a year of 365 or 366 days, as applicable, for the
actual number of days elapsed.  (a) If the Index Debt Rating and the Leverage
Ratio are in different categories, the facility fee shall be determined on
whichever of the Index Debt Rating or the Leverage Ratio falls within the
superior (or numerically higher) category, (b) if the facility fee is determined
based on the Leverage Ratio and the financial statements of the Borrower setting
the Leverage Ratio are not received by the Administrative Lender by the date
required pursuant to Section 6.1(a) or 6.1(b) hereof, the facility fee shall be
determined as if the Leverage Ratio is not less than 3.50 to 1 until such time
as the financial statements are received, (c) if the Index Debt Rating
established by ARA shall fall within a different category than both Moody's and
S&P, the facility fee shall be determined by reference to Moody's or S&P,
whichever shall be the superior (or numerically higher) category, but not to
exceed two rating levels higher than the other rating agency and (e) such fee
shall be adjusted on each Adjustment Date if determined based on the
(i) Leverage Ratio, according to the performance of the Borrower for the most
recent fiscal quarter or (ii) the Index Debt Rating, according to the most
recent


                                   -28-
<PAGE>

determination of the Index Debt Rating.  If the rating system of Moody's,
S&P or ARA shall change prior to the Maturity Date, the Borrower and the Lenders
shall negotiate in good faith to amend the references to specific ratings to
reflect such changed rating system.

    (b)  CLOSING FEE.  Subject to Section 10.9 hereof, the Borrower agrees to
pay to the Administrative Lender, for the account of each Lender a closing fee
equal to (i) 0.10% of such Lender's portion of the Commitment if such Lender's
portion of the Commitment is $35,000,000 or greater, (ii) 0.075% of such
Lender's portion of the Commitment if such Lender's portion of the Commitment is
$25,000,000, and (iii) 0.050% of such Lender's portion of the Commitment if such
Lender's portion of the Commitment is $15,000,000.  Such fee shall be payable on
the date of the initial Advance, fully earned when due and, subject to
Section 10.9 hereof, nonrefundable when paid.

    (c)  OTHER FEES.  Subject to Section 10.9 hereof, the Borrower agrees to
pay to the Administrative Lender, for its account and not the account of the
Lenders, the fees provided for in the letter agreement ("Fee Letter"), dated as
of the Agreement Date, between the Borrower and the Administrative Lender on the
date and in the amounts specified therein.

    Section 2.5    PREPAYMENT.

    (a)  VOLUNTARY PREPAYMENTS.  The principal amount of any Base Rate Advance
may be prepaid in full or in part at any time, without penalty and without
regard to the Payment Date for such Advance, upon notice as required for a
repayment of a Base Rate Advance as provided in Section 2.2(e) hereof.  LIBOR
Advances may be voluntarily prepaid upon notice as required for repayments of
LIBOR Advances as provided in Section 2.2(d) hereof, but only so long as the
Borrower concurrently reimburses the Lenders in accordance with Section 2.9
hereof.  The principal amount of any Swing Line Advance may be prepaid in full
or in part at any time, without penalty and without regard to the Payment Date
for such Advance.  Any notice of prepayment shall be irrevocable.

    (b)  MANDATORY PREPAYMENT.  On or before the date of any reduction of the
Commitment, the Borrower shall prepay outstanding Advances in an amount
necessary to reduce the same to an amount less than or equal to the Commitment
as so reduced.  The Borrower shall first prepay all Base Rate Advances, second
prepay all Swing Line Advances and shall thereafter prepay LIBOR Advances.  To
the extent that any prepayment requires that a LIBOR Advance be repaid on a date
other than the last day of its Interest Period, the Borrower shall reimburse
each Lender in accordance with Section 2.9 hereof.  To the extent that
outstanding Advances and Reimbursement Obligations exceed the Commitment after
any reduction thereof, the Borrower shall repay any such excess amount and all
accrued interest thereon on the date of such reduction.

    (c)  PREPAYMENTS, GENERALLY.  Any prepayment of an Advance shall be
accompanied by interest accrued on the principal amount being prepaid.  Any
voluntary partial prepayment of a Base Rate Advance shall be in a principal
amount of $100,000 or an integral multiple thereof.


                                   -29-
<PAGE>

Any voluntary partial prepayment of a Swing Line Advance shall be in a 
principal amount of $50,000 or an integral multiple thereof.  All voluntary 
prepayments shall be applied in the order directed in writing by the Borrower 
to the Administrative Lender.  If the Borrower fails to so direct the 
Administrative Lender or if the prepayment occurs during the occurrence and 
continuance of an Event of Default, such prepayment shall be applied in the 
inverse order of maturity.

    Section 2.6    REDUCTION OF COMMITMENT.

    (a)  VOLUNTARY REDUCTION.  The Borrower shall have the right, upon not less
than 10 Business Days' notice (provided no notice shall be required for a
termination in whole of the Commitment) by an Authorized Signatory to the
Administrative Lender (if telephonic, to be confirmed by telex or in writing on
or before the date of reduction or termination), which shall promptly notify the
Lenders, to terminate or reduce the Commitment, in whole or in part.  Each
partial termination shall be in an aggregate amount which is at least $1,000,000
and which is an integral multiple of $100,000, and no voluntary reduction in the
Commitment shall cause any LIBOR Advance to be repaid prior to the last day of
its Interest Period.

    (b)  MANDATORY REDUCTION.  On the Maturity Date, the Commitment shall
automatically reduce to zero.

    (c)  GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.  Upon any reduction of the Commitment pursuant
to this Section, the Borrower shall immediately make a repayment of applicable
Advances in accordance with Section 2.5(b) hereof.  The Borrower shall reimburse
each Lender for any loss or out-of-pocket expense incurred by each Lender in
connection with any such payment, as set forth in Section 2.9 hereof to the
extent applicable.  The Borrower shall not have any right to rescind any
termination or reduction.  Once reduced, the Commitment may not be increased or
reinstated.

    Section 2.7    NON-RECEIPT OF FUNDS BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER.  Unless
the Administrative Lender shall have been notified by a Lender prior to the date
of any proposed Revolving Credit Advance (which notice shall be effective upon
receipt) that such Lender does not intend to make the proceeds of such Revolving
Credit Advance available to the Administrative Lender, the Administrative Lender
may assume that such Lender has made such proceeds available to the
Administrative Lender on such date, and the Administrative Lender may in
reliance upon such assumption (but shall not be required to) make available to
the Borrower a corresponding amount.  If such corresponding amount is not in
fact made available to the Administrative Lender by such Lender, the
Administrative Lender shall, without prejudice to the Borrower's rights against
such Lender, be entitled to recover such amount on demand from such Lender (or,
if such Lender fails to pay such amount forthwith upon such demand, from the
Borrower) together with interest thereon in respect of each day during the
period commencing on the date such amount was available to the Borrower and
ending on (but excluding) the date the Administrative Lender receives such
amount from the Lender, at a per annum rate equal to the lesser of (i) the
Highest Lawful Rate or (ii)(A) in the case of such Lender, the Federal Funds
Rate


                                   -30-
<PAGE>



or (B) in the case of the Borrower, the interest rate applicable to such
Revolving Credit Advance.  No Lender shall be liable for any other Lender's
failure to fund a Revolving Credit Advance hereunder.

    Section 2.8    PAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL OF ADVANCES.  The Borrower agrees to
pay the principal amount of the Advances to the Administrative Lender for the
account of the Lenders as follows:

    (a)  END OF INTEREST PERIOD.  The principal amount of each Advance
hereunder shall be due and payable on its Payment Date, which principal payment
(other than in respect of a Bid Rate Advance) may be made by means of a
Refinancing Advance.

    (b)  COMMITMENT REDUCTION.  On the date of reduction of the Commitment
pursuant to Section 2.6 hereof, including the Maturity Date, the aggregate
amount of the Advances outstanding on such date of reduction in excess of the
Commitment as reduced shall be due and payable, which principal payment may not
be made by means of Refinancing Advances.

    (c)  MATURITY DATE.  To the extent not otherwise required to be paid
earlier as provided herein, the principal amount of the Advances, all accrued
interest and fees thereon, and all other Obligations related thereto, shall be
due and payable in full on the Maturity Date.

    Section 2.9    REIMBURSEMENT.  Whenever any Lender shall sustain or incur 
any losses or reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with (a) 
failure by the Borrower to borrow or repay any LIBOR Advance after having 
given notice of its intention to borrow or repay in accordance with Section 
2.2 hereof (whether by reason of the Borrower's election not to proceed or 
the non-fulfillment of any of the conditions set forth in Article 3 hereof), 
or (b) any prepayment for any reason of any LIBOR Advance in whole or in 
part, the Borrower agrees to pay to any such Lender, upon its demand, an 
amount sufficient to compensate such Lender for all such losses and 
out-of-pocket expenses, subject to Section 10.9 hereof.  Such Lender's good 
faith determination of the amount of such losses or out-of-pocket expenses, 
calculated in its usual fashion, absent manifest error, shall be binding and 
conclusive.  Such losses shall include, without limiting the generality of 
the foregoing, lost profits and reasonable expenses incurred by such Lender 
in connection with the re-employment of funds prepaid, repaid, converted or 
not borrowed, converted or paid, as the case may be.  Upon request of the 
Borrower, such Lender shall provide a certificate setting forth the amount to 
be paid to it by the Borrower hereunder and calculations therefor.

    Section 2.10   MANNER OF PAYMENT.

    (a)  Each payment (including prepayments) by the Borrower of the principal
of or interest on the Advances, fees, and any other amount owed under this
Agreement or any other Loan Paper shall be made not later than 12:00 noon
(Dallas, Texas time) on the date specified for


                                   -31-
<PAGE>



payment under this Agreement to the Administrative Lender at the 
Administrative Lender's office, in lawful money of the United States of 
America constituting immediately available funds.

    (b)  If any payment under this Agreement or any other Loan Paper shall be
specified to be made upon a day which is not a Business Day, it shall be made on
the next succeeding day which is a Business Day, unless such Business Day falls
in another calendar month, in which case payment shall be made on the preceding
Business Day.  Any extension of time shall in such case be included in computing
interest and fees, if any, in connection with such payment.

    (c)  The Borrower agrees to pay principal, interest, fees and all other
amounts due under the Loan Papers without deduction for set-off or counterclaim
or any deduction whatsoever.

    (d)  If some but less than all amounts due from the Borrower are received
by the Administrative Lender, the Administrative Lender shall apply such amounts
in the following order of priority:  (i) to the payment of the Administrative
Lender's expenses incurred on behalf of the Lenders then due and payable, if
any; (ii) to the payment of all other fees and amounts then due and payable
under the Loan Papers; (iii) to the payment of interest then due and payable on
the Advances; (iv) to the payment of principal then due and payable on the
Advances; and (v) to the payment of any outstanding Reimbursement Obligations.

    (e)  Each payment by the Borrower in respect of obligations relating to the
Revolving Credit Advances and the Letters of Credit (whether for principal,
interest, fees or otherwise) shall be made to the Administrative Lender for the
account of the Lenders pro rata in accordance with their respective Specified
Percentages.  Each payment by the Borrower in respect of obligations relating to
Swing Line Advances (whether for principal, interest, fees or otherwise) shall
be made to the Administrative Lender for the account of the Swing Line Bank. 
Each payment by the Borrower in respect of obligations related to Bid Rate
Advances (whether for principal, interest, fees or otherwise) shall be made to
the Administrative Lender for the account of each Lender holding such Bid Rate
Advance.  Notwithstanding anything in this Section 2.10(e) or any other
provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Paper to the contrary, any payment
by the Borrower in respect of any Advances after acceleration of the Advances
pursuant to Section 7.2 or any monies received by the Administrative Lender as a
result of the exercise of remedies under any Loan Papers after acceleration of
the Advances pursuant to Section 7.2 shall be distributed pro rata to each
Lender based on the percentage that the outstanding Advances and Reimbursement
Obligations owed to such Lender bears to the aggregate Advances and
Reimbursement Obligations owed to all Lenders.

    Section 2.11   LIBOR LENDING OFFICES.  Each Lender's initial LIBOR Lending
Office is set forth opposite its name in SCHEDULE 1 attached hereto.  Each
Lender shall have the right at any time and from time to time to designate a
different office of itself or of any Affiliate as such Lender's LIBOR Lending
Office, and to transfer any outstanding LIBOR Advance to such LIBOR Lending
Office.  No such designation or transfer shall result in any liability on the
part of the Borrower for increased costs or expenses resulting solely from such
designation or transfer


                                   -32-
<PAGE>

(except any such transfer which is made by a Lender pursuant to Section 8.2 
or 8.3 hereof, or otherwise for the purpose of complying with Applicable 
Law).  Increased costs for expenses resulting from a change in law occurring 
subsequent to any such designation or transfer shall be deemed not to result 
solely from such designation or transfer.

    Section 2.12   SHARING OF PAYMENTS.  Any Lender obtaining a payment
(whether voluntary or involuntary, due to the exercise of any right of set-off,
or otherwise) on account of its Revolving Credit Advances or its participation
in the Letters of Credit (other than pursuant to Sections 2.15, 2.16(d), 8.3 or
8.5), in excess of its Specified Percentage of all payments made by the Borrower
with respect to Revolving Credit Advances and the Letters of Credit shall
purchase from each other Lender such participation in the Revolving Credit
Advances made by such other Lender or its participation in the Letters of Credit
as shall be necessary to cause such purchasing Lender to share the excess
payment pro rata according to Specified Percentages with each other Lender;
provided, however, that if all or any portion of such excess payment is
thereafter recovered from such purchasing Lender, the purchase shall be
rescinded and the purchase price restored to the extent of such recovery, but
without interest.  The Borrower agrees that any Lender so purchasing a
participation from another Lender pursuant to this Section, to the fullest
extent permitted by law, may exercise all its rights of payment (including the
right of set-off) with respect to such participation as fully as if such Lender
were the direct creditor of the Borrower in the amount of such participation.

    Section 2.13   CALCULATION OF RATES.  The provisions of this Agreement
relating to calculation of the LIBOR Rate are included only for the purpose of
determining the rate of interest or other amounts to be paid hereunder that are
based upon such rate, it being understood that each Lender shall be entitled to
fund and maintain its funding of all or any part of a LIBOR Advance as it sees
fit.

    Section 2.14   BOOKING LOANS.  Any Lender may make, carry or transfer
Advances at, to or for the account of any of its branch offices or the office of
any Affiliate.

    Section 2.15   TAXES.

    (a)  Any and all payments by the Borrower hereunder shall be made, in
accordance with Section 2.10, free and clear of and without deduction for any
and all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, deductions, charges and
withholdings, and all liabilities with respect thereto, EXCLUDING, in the case
of each Lender and the Administrative Lender, taxes imposed on, based upon or
measured by its overall net income, net worth or capital, and franchise taxes,
doing business taxes or minimum taxes imposed on it, (i) by the jurisdiction
under the laws of which such Lender or the Administrative Lender (as the case
may be) is organized and in which it has its applicable lending office or any
political subdivision thereof; (ii) by any other jurisdiction, or any political
subdivision thereof, other than those imposed by reason of (A) an asserted
relation of such jurisdiction to the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, (B) the activities of the Borrower in such jurisdiction, or (C) the
activities in connection with the transactions 


                                   -33-
<PAGE>

contemplated by this Agreement of a Lender or the Administrative Lender; 
(iii) by reason of failure by the Lender or the Administrative Lender to 
comply with the requirements of paragraph (e) of this Section 2.15; and (iv) 
in the case of any Lender, any Taxes in the nature of transfer, stamp, 
recording or documentary taxes resulting from a transfer (other than as a 
result of foreclosure) by such Lender of all or any portion of its interest 
in this Agreement, the Notes or any other Loan Papers (all such non-excluded 
taxes, levies, imposts, deductions, charges, withholdings and liabilities 
being hereinafter referred to as "Taxes").  If the Borrower shall be required 
by law to deduct any Taxes from or in respect of any sum payable hereunder to 
any Lender or the Administrative Lender, (x) the sum payable shall be 
increased as may be necessary so that after making all required deductions 
(including deductions applicable to additional sums payable under this 
Section 2.15) such Lender or the Administrative Lender (as the case may be) 
receives an amount equal to the sum it would have received had no such 
deductions been made, (y) the Borrower shall make such deductions and (z) the 
Borrower shall pay the full amount deducted to the relevant taxation 
authority or other authority in accordance with Applicable Law.

    (b)  In addition, the Borrower agrees to pay any and all stamp and
documentary taxes and any and all other excise and property taxes, charges and
similar levies (other than (i) Taxes described in clause (iv) of the first
sentence of Section 2.15(a) and (ii) mortgage taxes payable in Oklahoma) that
arise from any payment made hereunder or from the execution, delivery or
registration of, or otherwise with respect to, this Agreement or any other Loan
Paper (hereinafter referred to as "Other Taxes").

    (c)  The Borrower will indemnify each Lender and the Administrative Lender
for the full amount of Taxes and Other Taxes (including, without limitation, any
Taxes or Other Taxes imposed by any jurisdiction on amounts payable under this
Section 2.15) paid by such Lender or the Administrative Lender (as the case may
be) and all liabilities (including penalties, additions to tax, interest and
reasonable expenses) arising therefrom or with respect thereto whether or not
such Taxes or Other Taxes were correctly or legally asserted, other than
penalties, additions to tax, interest and expenses arising as a result of gross
negligence on the part of such Lender or the Administrative Lender, PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that the Borrower shall have no obligation to indemnify such Lender or
the Administrative Lender unless and until such Lender or the Administrative
Lender shall have delivered to the Borrower a certificate setting forth in
reasonable detail the basis of the Borrower's obligation to indemnify such
Lender or the Administrative Lender pursuant to this Section 2.15.  This
indemnification shall be made within 30 days from the date such Lender or the
Administrative Lender (as the case may be) makes written demand therefor.

    (d)  Within 30 days after the date of any payment of Taxes, the Borrower
will furnish to the Administrative Lender the original or a certified copy of a
receipt evidencing payment thereof.  If no Taxes are payable in respect of any
payment hereunder, the Borrower will furnish to the Administrative Lender a
certificate from each appropriate taxing authority, or an opinion of counsel
acceptable to the Administrative Lender, in either case stating that such
payment is exempt from or not subject to Taxes, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that such
certificate or opinion need


                                   -34-
<PAGE>

only be given if:  (i) the Borrower makes any payment from any account 
located outside the United States, or (ii) the payment is made by a payor 
that is not a United States Person.  For purposes of this Section 2.15 the 
terms "United States" and "United States Person" shall have the meanings set 
forth in Section 7701 of the Code.

    (e)  Each Lender which is not a United States Person hereby agrees that:

         (i)  it shall, no later than the Agreement Date (or, in the case of a
    Lender which becomes a party hereto pursuant to Section 10.6 after the
    Agreement Date, the date upon which such Lender becomes a party hereto)
    deliver to the Borrower through the Administrative Lender, with a copy to
    the Administrative Lender:

         (A)  if any lending office is located in the United States of America,
              two (2) accurate and complete signed originals of Internal
              Revenue Service Form 4224 or any successor thereto ("Form 4224"),

         (B)  if any lending office is located outside the United States of
              America, two (2) accurate and complete signed originals of
              Internal Revenue Service Form 1001 or any successor thereto
              ("Form 1001").

    in each case indicating that such Lender is on the date of delivery thereof
    entitled to receive payments of principal, interest and fees for the
    account of such lending office or lending offices under this Agreement free
    from withholding of United States Federal income tax;

         (ii) if at any time such Lender changes its lending office or lending
    offices or selects an additional lending office it shall, at the same time
    or reasonably promptly thereafter but only to the extent the forms
    previously delivered by it hereunder are no longer effective, deliver to
    the Borrower through the Administrative Lender, with a copy to the
    Administrative Lender, in replacement for the forms previously delivered by
    it hereunder:

         (A)  if such changed or additional lending office is located in the
              United States of America, two (2) accurate and complete signed
              originals of Form 4224; or

         (B)  otherwise, two (2) accurate and complete signed originals of
              Form 1001,

    in each case indicating that such Lender is on the date of delivery thereof
    entitled to receive payments of principal, interest and fees for the
    account of such changed or additional lending office under this Agreement
    free from withholding of United States Federal income tax;


                                   -35-

<PAGE>

         (iii)     it shall, before or promptly after the occurrence of any
    event (including the passing of time but excluding any event mentioned in
    clause (ii) above) requiring a change in the most recent Form 4224 or
    Form 1001 previously delivered by such Lender and if the delivery of the
    same be lawful, deliver to the Borrower through the Administrative Lender
    with a copy to the Administrative Lender, two (2) accurate and complete
    original signed copies of Form 4224 or Form 1001 in replacement for the
    forms previously delivered by such Lender;

         (iv) it shall, promptly upon the request of the Borrower to that
    effect, deliver to the Borrower such other forms or similar documentation
    as may be required from time to time by any applicable law, treaty, rule or
    regulation in order to establish such Lender's tax status for withholding
    purposes; and

         (v)  it shall notify the Borrower within 30 days after any event
    (including an amendment to, or a change in any applicable law or regulation
    or in the written interpretation thereof by any regulatory authority or any
    judicial authority, or by ruling applicable to such Lender of any
    governmental authority charged with the interpretation or administration of
    any law) shall occur that results in such Lender no longer being capable of
    receiving payments without any deduction or withholding of United States
    federal income tax.

    (f)  Without prejudice to the survival of any other agreement of the
Borrower hereunder, the agreements and obligations of the Borrower contained in
this Section 2.15 shall survive the payment in full of principal and interest
hereunder.

    (g)  Any Lender claiming any additional amounts payable pursuant to this
Section 2.15 shall use its reasonable best efforts (consistent with its internal
policy and legal and regulatory restrictions) to change the jurisdiction of its
lending office, if the making of such a change would avoid the need for, or
reduce the amount of, any such additional amounts which may thereafter accrue
and would not, in the reasonable judgment of such Lender, be materially
disadvantageous to such Lender.

    (h)  Each Lender (and the Administrative Lender with respect to payments to
the Administrative Lender for its own account) agrees that (i) it will take all
reasonable actions by all usual means to maintain all exemptions, if any,
available to it from United States withholding taxes (whether available by
treaty, existing administrative waiver, by virtue of the location of any
Lender's lending office) and (ii) otherwise cooperate with the Borrower to
minimize amounts payable by the Borrower under this Section 2.15; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, the Lenders and the Administrative Lender shall not be obligated by
reason of this Section 2.15(h) to contest the payment of any Taxes or Other
Taxes or to disclose any information regarding its tax affairs or tax
computations or reorder its tax or other affairs or tax or other planning. 
Subject to the foregoing, to the extent the Borrower pays sums pursuant to this
Section 2.15 and the Lender or the Administrative Lender receives a refund of
any or all of such sums, such refund shall be 

                                     - 36 -
<PAGE>

applied to reduce any amounts then due and owing under this Agreement or, to 
the extent that no amounts are due and owing under this Agreement at the time 
such refunds are received, the party receiving such refund shall promptly pay 
over all such refunded sums to the Borrower, provided that no Default or 
Event of Default is in existence at such time.

    Section 2.16   LETTERS OF CREDIT.

    (a)  THE LETTER OF CREDIT FACILITY.  The Borrower may request the Issuing 
Bank, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth, to issue, and the 
Issuing Bank shall, if so requested, issue, Financial Letters of Credit and 
Non-Financial Letters of Credit (collectively, the "Letters of Credit") for 
the account of the Borrower from time to time on any Business Day from the 
date of the initial Advance until the Maturity Date in an aggregate maximum 
amount (assuming compliance with all conditions to drawing) not to exceed at 
any time outstanding the lesser of (i) $25,000,000 (the "Letter of Credit 
Facility") and (ii) the remainder of (A) the Commitment MINUS (B) the 
aggregate principal amount of Advances then outstanding.  No Letter of Credit 
shall have an expiration date (including all rights of renewal) later than 
the Maturity Date. Immediately upon the issuance of each Letter of Credit (or 
upon the Agreement Date, with respect to Existing Letters of Credit), the 
Issuing Bank shall be deemed to have sold and transferred to each Lender, and 
each Lender shall be deemed to have purchased and received from the Issuing 
Bank, in each case irrevocably and without any further action by any party, 
an undivided interest and participation in such Letter of Credit, each 
drawing thereunder and the obligations of the Borrower under this Agreement 
in respect thereof in an amount equal to the product of (x) such Lender's 
Specified Percentage times (y) the maximum amount available to be drawn under 
such Letter of Credit (assuming compliance with all conditions to drawing).  
Within the limits of the Letter of Credit Facility, and subject to the limits 
referred to above, the Borrower may request the issuance of Letters of Credit 
under this Section 2.16(a), repay any Advances resulting from drawings 
thereunder pursuant to Section 2.16(c) and request the issuance of additional 
Letters of Credit under this Section 2.16(a).

    (b)  REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE.  Each Letter of Credit shall be issued upon
notice, given not later than 11:00 a.m. (Dallas time) on the third Business Day
prior to the date of the proposed issuance of such Letter of Credit, by the
Borrower to the Issuing Bank, which shall give to the Administrative Lender and
each Lender prompt notice thereof by telex, telecopier or cable.  Each Letter of
Credit shall be issued upon notice given in accordance with the terms of any
separate agreement between the Borrower and the Issuing Bank in form and
substance reasonably satisfactory to the Borrower and the Issuing Bank providing
for the issuance of Letters of Credit pursuant to this Agreement and containing
terms and conditions not inconsistent with this Agreement (a "Letter of Credit
Agreement"), PROVIDED that if any such terms and conditions are inconsistent
with this Agreement, this Agreement shall control.  Each such notice of issuance
of a Letter of Credit (a "Notice of Issuance") shall be by telex, telecopier or
cable, specifying therein, in the case of a Letter of Credit, the requested
(A) date of such issuance (which shall be a Business Day), (B) maximum amount of
such Letter of Credit, (C) expiration date of such Letter of Credit, (D) name
and address of the beneficiary of such Letter of Credit, (E) form of such 

                                      - 37 -
<PAGE>

Letter of Credit and (F) such other information as shall be required pursuant 
to the relevant Letter of Credit Agreement.  If the requested terms of such 
Letter of Credit are acceptable to the Issuing Bank in its reasonable 
discretion, the Issuing Bank will, upon fulfillment of the applicable 
conditions set forth in Article 3 hereof, make such Letter of Credit 
available to the Borrower at its office referred to in Section 10.1 or as 
otherwise agreed with the Borrower in connection with such issuance.

    (c)  DRAWING AND REIMBURSEMENT.  The payment by the Issuing Bank of a draft
drawn under any Letter of Credit shall constitute for all purposes of this
Agreement the making by the Issuing Bank of a Revolving Credit Advance, which
shall bear interest at the applicable Base Rate Basis, in the amount of such
draft (but without any requirement for compliance with the conditions set forth
in Article 3 hereof).  In the event that a drawing under any Letter of Credit is
not reimbursed by the Borrower by 11:00 a.m. (Dallas time) on the first Business
Day after such drawing, the Issuing Bank shall promptly notify Administrative
Lender and each other Lender.  Each such Lender shall, on the first Business Day
following such notification, make a Revolving Credit Advance, which shall bear
interest at the applicable Base Rate Basis, and shall be used to repay the
applicable portion of the Issuing Bank's Revolving Credit Advance with respect
to such Letter of Credit, in an amount equal to the amount of its participation
in such drawing for application to reimburse the Issuing Bank (but without any
requirement for compliance with the applicable conditions set forth in Article 3
hereof) and shall make available to the Administrative Lender for the account of
the Issuing Bank, by deposit at the Administrative Lender's office, in same day
funds, the amount of such Revolving Credit Advance.  In the event that any
Lender fails to make available to the Administrative Lender for the account of
the Issuing Bank the amount of such Revolving Credit Advance, the Issuing Bank
shall be entitled to recover such amount on demand from such Lender together
with interest thereon at a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (i) the Highest
Lawful Rate or (ii) the Federal Funds Rate.

    (d)  INCREASED COSTS.  If any change in any law or regulation or in the
interpretation thereof by any court or administrative or governmental authority
charged with the administration thereof shall either (i) impose, modify or deem
applicable any reserve, special deposit or similar requirement against letters
of credit or guarantees issued by, or assets held by, or deposits in or for the
account of, the Issuing Bank or any Lender or (ii) impose on the Issuing Bank or
any Lender any other condition regarding this Agreement or such Lender or any
Letter of Credit, and the result of any event referred to in the preceding
clause (i) or (ii) shall be to increase the cost to the Issuing Bank of issuing
or maintaining any Letter of Credit or to any Lender of purchasing any
participation therein or making any Advance pursuant to Section 2.16(c)
("Increased Letter of Credit Costs"), then, upon demand by the Issuing Bank or
such Lender, the Borrower shall, subject to Section 10.9 hereof, pay to the
Issuing Bank or such Lender, from time to time as specified by the Issuing Bank
or such Lender, additional amounts that shall be sufficient to compensate the
Issuing Bank or such Lender for such Increased Letter of Credit Costs. 
Notwithstanding the foregoing, any demand for Increased Letter of Credit Costs
shall not include any Letter of Credit Costs with respect to any period more
than 180 days prior to the date that the Issuing Bank or any Lender gives notice
to the Borrower of such Increased Letter of Credit Costs 

                                      - 38 -
<PAGE>

unless the effective date of the condition which results in the right to 
receive Increased Letter of Credit Costs is retroactive (the "Increased 
Letter of Credit Costs Retroactive Effective Date").  If any Increased Letter 
of Credit Costs has an Increased Costs Letter of Credit Retroactive Effective 
Date and the Issuing Bank or any Lender demands compensation within 180 days 
after the date setting the Increased Letter of Credit Costs Effective Date 
(the "Increased Letter of Credit Costs Set Date"), the Issuing Bank or such 
Lender, as appropriate, shall have the right to receive such Increased Letter 
of Credit Costs from the Increased Letter of Credit Retroactive Effective 
Date.  If the Issuing Bank or a Lender does not demand such Increased Letter 
of Credit Costs within 180 days after the Increased Letter of Credit Costs 
Set Date, the Issuing Bank or such Lender, as appropriate, may not receive 
payment of Increased Letter of Credit Costs with respect to any period more 
than 180 days prior to such demand.  A certificate as to the amount of such 
Increased Costs, submitted to the Borrower by the Issuing Bank or such 
Lender, shall include in reasonable detail the basis for the demand for 
additional compensation and shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, 
absent manifest error.  The obligations of the Borrower under this Section 
2.16(d) shall survive termination of this Agreement.  The Issuing Bank or any 
Lender claiming any additional compensation under this Section 2.16(d) shall 
use reasonable efforts (consistent with legal and regulatory restrictions) to 
reduce or eliminate any such additional compensation which may thereafter 
accrue and which efforts would not, in the sole discretion of the Issuing 
Bank or such Lender, be otherwise disadvantageous.

    (e)  OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE.  The obligations of the Borrower under this
Agreement with respect to any Letter of Credit, any Letter of Credit Agreement
and any other agreement or instrument relating to any Letter of Credit or any
Advance pursuant to Section 2.16(c) shall be unconditional and irrevocable, and
shall be paid strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, such
Letter of Credit Agreement and such other agreement or instrument under all
circumstances, including, without limitation, the following circumstances:

         (i)   any lack of validity or enforceability of this Agreement, any
    other Loan Paper, any Letter of Credit Agreement, any Letter of Credit or
    any other agreement or instrument relating thereto (collectively, the "L/C
    Related Documents");

         (ii)  any change in the time, manner or place of payment of, or in any
    other term of, all or any of the Obligations of the Borrower in respect of
    the Letters of Credit or any Advance pursuant to Section 2.16(c) or any
    other amendment or waiver of or any consent to departure from all or any of
    the L/C Related Documents;

         (iii) the existence of any claim, set-off, defense or other right
    that the Borrower may have at any time against any beneficiary or any
    transferee of a Letter of Credit (or any Persons for whom any such
    beneficiary or any such transferee may be acting), the Issuing Bank, any
    Lender or any other Person, whether in connection with this Agreement, the
    transactions contemplated hereby or by the L/C Related Documents or any
    unrelated transaction;

                                        - 39 -
<PAGE>

         (iv) any statement or any other document presented under a Letter of
    Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent, invalid or insufficient in any
    respect or any statement therein being untrue or inaccurate in any respect,
    except to the extent that the failure of the Issuing Bank to determine such
    insufficiency is a result of the Issuing Bank's gross negligence or wilful
    misconduct;

         (v)  payment by the Issuing Bank under a Letter of Credit against
    presentation of a draft or certificate that does not comply with the terms
    of the Letter of Credit, except for any payment made upon the Issuing
    Bank's gross negligence or willful misconduct;

         (vi) any exchange, release or non-perfection of any collateral, or any
    release or amendment or waiver of or consent to departure from any
    Subsidiary Guaranty or any other guarantee, for all or any of the
    Obligations of the Borrower in respect of the Letters of Credit or any
    Advance pursuant to Section 2.16(c); or

         (vii) any other circumstance or happening whatsoever, whether or
    not similar to any of the foregoing, including, without limitation, any
    other circumstance that might otherwise constitute a defense available to,
    or a discharge of, the Borrower or a guarantor, other than the Issuing's
    Bank gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

    (f)  COMPENSATION.

         (i)  FINANCIAL LETTERS OF CREDIT.  Subject to Section 10.9 hereof, the
    Borrower shall pay to the Administrative Lender for the account of each
    Lender a fee (which shall be payable quarterly in arrears on each Quarterly
    Date and on the Maturity Date) on the average daily amount available for
    drawing under all outstanding Financial Letters of Credit at the following
    per annum percentages, applicable in the following situations:


                 Applicability                            Percentage
                 -------------                            ----------
      CATEGORY 1 - The Leverage Ratio is not less            1.000
      than 3.50 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
      any two of the following:  BB by S&P, BB by
      ARA or Ba2 by Moody's

      CATEGORY 2 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.700
      than 3.50 to 1 but not less than 3.00 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BB+ by S&P, BB+ by ARA or Ba1
      by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 3 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.525
      than 3.00 to 1 but not less than 2.50 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BBB- by S&P, BBB- by ARA or
      Baa3 by Moody's
      
                                       - 40 -
<PAGE>

      CATEGORY 4 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.400
      than 2.50 to 1 but not less than 2.00 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BBB by S&P, BBB by ARA or Baa2
      by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 5 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.350
      than 2.00 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
      any two of the following:  BBB+ or better
      by S&P, BBB+ or better by ARA or Baa1 or
      better by Moody's
      


         (ii) NON-FINANCIAL LETTERS OF CREDIT.  Subject to Section 10.9 hereof,
    the Borrower shall pay to the Administrative Lender for the account of each
    Lender a fee (which shall be payable quarterly in arrears on each Quarterly
    Date and on the Maturity Date) on the average daily amount available for
    drawing under all outstanding Non-Financial Letters of Credit at the
    following per annum percentages, applicable in the following situations:

                  Applicability                            Percentage
                  -------------                            ----------
      CATEGORY 1 - The Leverage Ratio is not less            0.5000
      than 3.50 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
      any two of the following:  BB by S&P, BB by
      ARA or Ba2 by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 2 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.3500
      than 3.50 to 1 but not less than 3.00 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BB+ by S&P, BB+ by ARA or Ba1
      by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 3 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.2625
      than 3.00 to 1 but not less than 2.50 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BBB- by S&P, BBB- by ARA or
      Baa3 by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 4 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.2000
      than 2.50 to 1 but not less than 2.00 to 1
      or the Index Debt Rating is any two of the
      following:  BBB by S&P, BBB by ARA or Baa2
      by Moody's
      
      CATEGORY 5 - The Leverage Ratio is less                0.1750
      than 2.00 to 1 or the Index Debt Rating is
      any two of the following:  BBB+ or better
      by S&P, BBB+ or better by ARA or Baa1 or
      better by Moody's

         (iii)     ADJUSTMENT OF LETTER OF CREDIT FEE.  The fee payable in
    respect of the Letters of Credit shall be adjusted on each Adjustment Date
    if determined based on the (i) Leverage Ratio, on a quarterly basis
    according to the performance of the Borrower for the most recent fiscal
    quarter or (ii) the Index Debt Rating, according to the most recent
    determination of the Index Debt Rating.  For purposes of the foregoing,
    (a) if the Index Debt Rating and the Leverage Ratio are in different
    categories, the letter of credit fee shall 

                                     - 41 -
<PAGE>

    be determined on whichever of the Index Debt Rating or the Leverage 
    Ratio falls within the superior (or numerically higher) category, (b) if 
    the Letter of Credit fee is determined based on the Leverage Ratio and 
    the financial statements of the Borrower setting forth the Leverage 
    Ratio are not received by the Administrative Lender by the date required 
    pursuant to Section 6.1(a) or 6.1(b) hereof, the Letter of Credit fee 
    shall be determined as if the Leverage Ratio is not less than 3.50 to 1 
    until such time as such financial statements are received, (c) if the 
    Index Debt Rating established by ARA shall fall within a different 
    category than both Moody's and S&P, the Letter of Credit fee shall be 
    determined by reference to Moody's or S&P, whichever shall be the 
    superior (or numerically higher) category, but not to exceed two rating 
    levels higher than the other rating agency.  If the rating system of 
    Moody's, S&P or ARA shall change prior to the Maturity Date, the 
    Borrower and the Lenders shall negotiate in good faith to amend the 
    references to specific ratings to reflect such changed rating system.

         (iv) OTHER FEES.  In addition to the foregoing fees, subject to
    Section 10.9 hereof, the Borrower shall also pay to the Issuing Bank for
    its sole account (i) such customary fees, costs and expenses as may be
    separately agreed to between the Borrower and the Issuing Bank and (ii) an
    issuance and fronting fee in the amount of 0.075% of the average daily
    amount available for drawing under all outstanding Letters of Credit, which
    fronting fee shall be payable quarterly in arrears on each Quarterly Date
    and on the Maturity Date.

    (g)  L/C CASH COLLATERAL ACCOUNT.

         (i)  Upon the occurrence and continuance of an Event of Default and
    demand by the Administrative Lender pursuant to Section 7.2(c), the
    Borrower will promptly pay to the Administrative Lender in immediately
    available funds (which payment may not be made by means of an Advance) an
    amount equal to 102% of the maximum amount then available to be drawn under
    the Letters of Credit then outstanding.  Any amounts so received by the
    Administrative Lender shall be deposited by the Administrative Lender in a
    deposit account maintained by the Issuing Bank (the "L/C Cash Collateral
    Account").

         (ii) As security for the payment of all Reimbursement Obligations and
    for any other Obligations, the Borrower hereby grants, conveys, assigns,
    pledges, sets over and transfers to the Administrative Lender (for the
    benefit of the Issuing Bank and Lenders), and creates in the Administrative
    Lender's favor (for the benefit of the Issuing Bank and Lenders) a Lien in,
    all money, instruments and securities at any time held in or acquired in
    connection with the L/C Cash Collateral Account, together with all proceeds
    thereof.  The L/C Cash Collateral Account shall be under the sole dominion
    and control of the Administrative Lender and the Borrower shall have no
    right to withdraw or to cause the Administrative Lender to withdraw any
    funds deposited in the L/C Cash Collateral Account.  At any time and from
    time to time, upon the Administrative Lender's request, the Borrower
    promptly shall execute and deliver any and all such further instruments and

                                        - 42 -
<PAGE>

    documents, including UCC financing statements, as may be necessary,
    appropriate or desirable in the Administrative Lender's judgment to obtain
    the full benefits (including perfection and priority) of the security
    interest created or intended to be created by this paragraph (ii) and of
    the rights and powers herein granted.  The Borrower shall not create or
    suffer to exist any Lien on any amounts or investments held in the L/C Cash
    Collateral Account other than (A) the Lien granted under this
    paragraph (ii) and (B) Permitted Collateral Liens.

         (iii)     The Administrative Lender shall (A) apply any funds in the
    L/C Cash Collateral Account on account of Reimbursement Obligations when
    the same become due and payable if and to the extent that the Borrower
    shall fail directly to pay such Reimbursement Obligations and (B) after the
    Maturity Date and provided no Letters of Credit are outstanding, apply any
    proceeds remaining in the L/C Cash Collateral Account FIRST to pay any
    unpaid Obligations then outstanding hereunder and THEN to refund any
    remaining amount to the Borrower.

         (iv) The Borrower, no more than once in any calendar month, may direct
    the Administrative Lender to invest the funds held in the L/C Cash
    Collateral Account (so long as the aggregate amount of such funds exceeds
    any relevant minimum investment requirement) in (A) direct obligations of
    the United States or any agency thereof, or obligations guaranteed by the
    United States or any agency thereof and (B) one or more other types of
    investments permitted by the Determining Lenders, in each case with such
    maturities as the Borrower, with the consent of the Determining Lenders,
    may specify, pending application of such funds on account of Reimbursement
    Obligations or on account of other Obligations, as the case may be.  In the
    absence of any such direction from the Borrower, the Administrative Lender
    shall invest the funds held in the L/C Cash Collateral Account (so long as
    the aggregate amount of such funds exceeds any relevant minimum investment
    requirement) in one or more types of investments with the consent of the
    Determining Lenders with such maturities as the Administrative Lender, with
    the consent of the Determining Lenders, may specify, pending application of
    such funds on account of Reimbursement Obligations or on account of other
    Obligations, as the case may be.  All such investments shall be made in the
    Administrative Lender's name for the account of the Lenders.  The Borrower
    recognizes that any losses or taxes with respect to such investments shall
    be borne solely by the Borrower, and the Borrower agrees to hold the
    Administrative Lender and the Lenders harmless from any and all such losses
    and taxes.  Administrative Lender may liquidate any investment held in the
    L/C Cash Collateral Account in order to apply the proceeds of such
    investment on account of the Reimbursement Obligations (or on account of
    any other Obligation then due and payable, as the case may be) without
    regard to whether such investment has matured and without liability for any
    penalty or other fee incurred (with respect to which the Borrower hereby
    agrees to reimburse the Administrative Lender) as a result of such
    application.

                                      - 43 -
<PAGE>
         (v)  At such time, if any, which the Commitment has been terminated
    and the only unpaid amount of the Obligations outstanding is Reimbursement
    Obligations, the Administrative Lender shall release to the Borrower, no
    more than once in any calendar month, the amount by which funds held in the
    L/C Cash Collateral Account exceed 110% of the aggregate outstanding
    Reimbursement Obligations.  At such time as any Event of Default is cured
    or waived, the Administrative Lender shall, upon written instruction from
    the Borrower, promptly distribute to the Borrower any funds held in the L/C
    Cash Collateral Account.

         (vi) The Borrower shall pay to the Administrative Lender the fees
    customarily charged by the Issuing Bank with respect to the maintenance of
    accounts similar to the L/C Cash Collateral Account.


                                      ARTICLE 3

                                 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

    Section 3.1    CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE INITIAL ADVANCES AND THE 
INITIAL LETTERS OF CREDIT.  The obligation of each Lender to sign this 
Agreement and to make any Advance, and the obligation of the Issuing Bank to 
issue Letters of Credit is subject to receipt by the Administrative Lender of 
the following, in form and substance satisfactory to each Lender, with a copy 
(except for the Notes) for each Lender, or satisfaction of the following:

    (a)  a loan certificate of the Borrower certifying as to the accuracy of 
its representations and warranties in the Loan Papers, certifying that no 
Default has occurred, and including a certificate of incumbency with respect 
to each Authorized Signatory, and including (i) a copy of the articles of 
incorporation of the Borrower, certified to be true, complete and correct by 
the secretary of state of its state of incorporation, (ii) a copy of the 
by-laws of the Borrower, as in effect on the Agreement Date, (iii) a copy of 
the resolutions of the Borrower authorizing it to execute, deliver and 
perform this Agreement, the Notes and the other Loan Papers to which it is a 
party, and (iv) a copy of a certificate of good standing and a certificate of 
existence for its state of incorporation and each state in which it is 
qualified to do business;

    (b)  a certificate of an officer acceptable to the Lenders of each 
Significant Subsidiary, certifying as to the incumbency of the officers 
signing the Loan Papers to which it is a party, and including (i) a copy of 
its articles of incorporation (or articles of partnership or other 
appropriate governing documents), certified as true, complete and correct by 
the secretary of state of its state of incorporation or organization, (ii) a 
copy of its by-laws (or partnership agreement or other appropriate governing 
document), as in effect on the Agreement Date, (iii) a copy of the 
resolutions authorizing it to execute, deliver and perform the Loan Papers to 
which it is a party, and (iv) a copy of a certificate of good standing and a 
certificate of existence for its state of incorporation;


                                       -44-

<PAGE>

    (c)  duly executed Revolving Credit Notes, payable to the order of the 
respective Lenders and in an amount for each Lender equal to its Specified 
Percentage of the Commitment;

    (d)  opinions of counsel to the Borrower and the Subsidiaries addressed 
to the Lenders and in form and substance satisfactory to the Lenders, dated 
the Agreement Date, and covering the matters set forth in Sections 4.1(a), 
(b), (c), (g), (l), (m) and (o) and such other matters incident to the 
transactions contemplated hereby as the Administrative Lender or Special 
Counsel may reasonably request;

    (e)  reimbursement for the Administrative Lender for Special Counsel's 
reasonable fees and expenses rendered through the Agreement Date;

    (f)  evidence that all corporate or other proceedings of the Borrower and 
Subsidiaries taken in connection with the transactions contemplated by this 
Agreement and the other Loan Papers shall be reasonably satisfactory in form 
and substance to the Lenders and Special Counsel; and the Lenders shall have 
received copies of all documents or other evidence which the Administrative 
Lender, Special Counsel or any Lender may reasonably request in connection 
with such transactions;

    (g)  the closing fee as required pursuant to Sections 2.4(b);

    (h)  the duly executed and completed Guaranty Agreements, dated as of the 
Agreement Date;

    (i)  any fees required to be paid pursuant to the Fee Letter;

    (j)  a certificate of an officer acceptable to the Lenders, in form and 
substance satisfactory to the Lenders, certifying that the execution, 
delivery and performance by the Obligors of the Loan Papers will not violate 
or result in a default in respect of any of the terms of the Senior 
Subordinated Notes or the Senior Notes;

    (k)  payment in full of all accrued and outstanding obligations under the 
Existing Credit Agreements (other than in respect of the Existing Letters of 
Credit) whereupon all obligations of the Borrower (excluding those 
obligations which expressly survive termination of the Existing Credit 
Agreements) and the lenders party thereto shall terminate;

    (l)  the duly executed Swing Line Note, payable to the order of the Swing 
Line Bank in the principal amount of $10,000,000;

    (m)  duly executed Bid Rate Notes, payable to the order of each Lender in 
the principal amount of $325,000,000; and


                                       -45-

<PAGE>

    (n)  in form and substance satisfactory to the Lenders and Special 
Counsel, such other documents, instruments and certificates as the 
Administrative Lender or any Lender may reasonably require in connection with 
the transactions contemplated hereby, including without limitation the 
status, organization or authority of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or any 
other Person executing a Loan Paper, and the enforceability of the Obligation.

    Section 3.2    CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO ALL ADVANCES AND LETTERS OF 
CREDIT. The obligation of each Lender to make each Advance hereunder, and the 
obligation of the Issuing Bank to issue each Letter of Credit hereunder is 
subject to fulfillment of the following conditions immediately prior to or 
contemporaneously with each such Advance or issuance:

    (a)  With respect to Advances other than Refinancing Advances and each 
issuance of a Letter of Credit, all of the representations and warranties of 
the Borrower under this Agreement, which, pursuant to Section 4.2 hereof, are 
made at and as of the time of such Advance or issuance, shall be true and 
correct at such time in all material respects, both before and after giving 
effect to the application of the proceeds of the Advance or issuance;

    (b)  The incumbency of the Authorized Signatories shall be as stated in 
the certificate of incumbency delivered in the Borrower's loan certificate 
pursuant to Section 3.1(a) or as subsequently modified and reflected in a 
certificate of incumbency delivered to the Administrative Lender.  The 
Lenders may, without waiving this condition, consider it fulfilled and a 
representation by the Borrower made to such effect if no written notice to 
the contrary, dated on or before the date of such Advance or issuance, is 
received by the Administrative Lender from the Borrower prior to the making 
of such Advance or issuance;

    (c)  There shall not exist a Default hereunder, with respect to Advances 
other than Refinancing Advances, or with respect to the issuance of Letters 
of Credit, or an Event of Default, with respect to any Refinancing Advance, 
and, with respect to each Advance other than a Refinancing Advance, and with 
respect to issuance of each Letter of Credit, the Administrative Lender shall 
have received written or telephonic certification thereof by an Authorized 
Signatory (which certification, if telephonic, shall be followed promptly by 
written certification);

    (d)  The aggregate Advances and Reimbursement Obligations, after giving 
effect to such proposed Advance or Letter of Credit, shall not exceed the 
maximum principal amount then permitted to be outstanding hereunder;

    (e)  The Administrative Lender shall have received all such other
certificates, reports, statements, opinions of counsel or other documents as the
Administrative Lender or any Lender may reasonably request; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that the obligation of each Lender to make a Revolving Credit Advance pursuant
to Sections 2.2(g) and 2.16(c) shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not
be affected by any circumstances, including, without limitation, (i) the
occurrence of any Default or Event of Default, (ii) the failure of the Borrower
to satisfy any condition set forth in this Section 3.2, or (iii) any other
circumstance, happening or event 


                                       -46-

<PAGE>

whatsoever, except that the conditions precedent set forth in Sections 3.1 
and 3.2 with respect to the Swing Line Loan or the Letter of Credit for which 
such Revolving Credit Advance is made pursuant to Section 2.2(g) or 2.16(c) 
shall have been satisfied in full at the time of the making of such Swing 
Line Loan or the issuance of such Letter of Credit; and

    (f)  The making of such Advance or the issuance of or participation in 
such Letter of Credit by any Lender does not violate or contravene any 
Applicable Law and is not enjoined, temporarily, preliminarily or permanently.

                                      ARTICLE 4

                            REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

    Section 4.1    REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.  The Borrower hereby 
represents and warrants to each Lender as follows:

    (a)  ORGANIZATION; POWER; QUALIFICATION.  As of the Agreement Date, the 
respective jurisdiction of incorporation and percentage ownership by the 
Borrower or another Subsidiary of the Subsidiaries and Unincorporated 
Ventures listed on SCHEDULE 3 are true and correct.  Each of the Borrower and 
its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures is a corporation or partnership, 
as designated on SCHEDULE 3, duly organized, validly existing and in good 
standing under the laws of its state of organization.  All of the outstanding 
Capital Stock of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated 
Ventures has been validly issued and fully paid and is non-assessable.  Each 
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries has the corporate or other power and 
authority to own its properties and to carry on its business as now being and 
hereafter proposed to be conducted.  Each of the Borrower and its 
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures is duly qualified, in good standing 
and authorized to do business in each jurisdiction in which the character of 
its properties or the nature of its business requires such qualification or 
authorization except where the failure to be so qualified or authorized would 
not have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (b)  AUTHORIZATION.  The Borrower has corporate power and has taken all 
necessary corporate action to authorize it to borrow hereunder.  Each of the 
Loan Parties has corporate or other power and has taken all necessary 
corporate or other action to execute, deliver and perform the Loan Papers to 
which it is party in accordance with the terms thereof, and to consummate the 
transactions contemplated thereby.  Each Loan Paper has been duly executed 
and delivered by the Loan Party executing it.  Each of the Loan Papers to 
which the Loan Parties are party is a legal, valid and binding respective 
obligation of the Loan Party executing it, enforceable in accordance with its 
terms, subject to the following qualifications:  (i) equitable principles 
generally, and (ii) Debtor Relief Laws (insofar as any such law relates to 
the bankruptcy, insolvency or similar event of any Loan Party).

                                       -47-
<PAGE>

    (c)  COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LOAN PAPERS AND CONTEMPLATED TRANSACTIONS.  
The execution, delivery and performance by the Loan Parties of the Loan 
Papers to which they are respectively a party, and the consummation of the 
transactions contemplated thereby, do not and will not (i) require any 
consent or approval not already obtained, (ii) violate any Applicable Law, 
(iii) conflict with, result in a breach of, or constitute a default under the 
articles of incorporation, by-laws, articles of partnership, partnership 
agreements or similar governing documents of any Loan Party, or under any 
Necessary Authorization, indenture, agreement or other instrument, to which 
any Loan Party is a party or by which they or their respective properties may 
be bound, or (iv) result in or require the creation or imposition of any Lien 
upon or with respect to any property now owned or hereafter acquired by any 
Loan Party, except Permitted Liens.

    (d)  LICENSES, ETC.  All Necessary Authorizations have been duly 
obtained, and are in full force and effect without any known conflict with 
the rights of others and free from any unduly burdensome restrictions which 
could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  The Borrower 
and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures are and will continue to be 
in compliance in all material respects with all provisions thereof.  No 
circumstance exists which might impair the utility of the Necessary 
Authorization or the right to renew such Necessary Authorization the effect 
of which would have a Material Adverse Effect.  No Necessary Authorization 
which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect is the 
subject of any pending or, to the best of the Borrower's knowledge, 
threatened challenge, suspension, cancellation or revocation.

    (e)  COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures are in compliance in all respects with all Applicable 
Laws, except where the failure to so comply would not have a Material Adverse 
Effect.

    (f)  TITLE TO PROPERTIES.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures have good and indefeasible title to, or a valid 
leasehold interest in, all of their material assets.  None of their assets 
are subject to any Liens, except Permitted Liens.  No effective financing 
statement or other Lien filing (except relating to Permitted Liens) is on 
file in any state or jurisdiction that names the Borrower or any of its 
Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures as debtor or covers (or purports to 
cover) any assets of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or 
Unincorporated Ventures.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures have not signed any such financing statement or 
filing, nor any security agreement authorizing any Person to file any such 
financing statement or filing.

    (g)  LITIGATION.  Except as reflected on SCHEDULE 2 hereto, there is no
action, suit or proceeding pending against, or, to the best of the Borrower's
knowledge, threatened against the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or
Unincorporated Ventures, or in any other manner relating directly and adversely
to the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures, or any of
their properties, in any court or before any arbitrator of any kind or before or
by any governmental body in which the amount claimed (in excess of applicable
insurance) exceeds a Material Amount.  The Borrower maintains insurance coverage
for the litigation set forth on 


                                       -48-

<PAGE>

SCHEDULE 2 hereto and no insurance carrier has denied coverage or reserved 
rights with respect to any such litigation.

    (h)  TAXES.  All federal, state and other tax returns of the Borrower and 
its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures required by law to be filed have 
been duly filed and all federal, state and other taxes, assessments and other 
governmental charges or levies upon the Borrower, its Subsidiaries or 
Unincorporated Ventures or any of their respective properties, income, 
profits and assets, which are due and payable, have been paid, unless the 
same are being diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, 
with adequate reserves established therefor, and no Lien (other than a 
Permitted Lien) has attached and no foreclosure, distraint, sale or similar 
proceedings have been commenced.  The charges, accruals and reserves on the 
books of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures in 
respect of their respective taxes are, in the judgment of the Borrower, 
adequate.

    (i)  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS; MATERIAL LIABILITIES.  The Borrower has 
furnished or caused to be furnished to the Lenders copies of its December 31, 
1995 and September 30, 1996 financial statements, which  present fairly in 
accordance with GAAP the financial position of the Borrower and its 
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures as at such dates and the results of 
operations for the periods then ended.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures taken as a whole have no material liabilities, 
contingent or otherwise, nor material losses, except as set forth in the 
December 31, 1995 financial statements.

    (j)  NO ADVERSE CHANGE.  Since December 31, 1995, no event or 
circumstances has occurred or arisen that could have a Material Adverse 
Effect.

    (k)  ERISA.  None of the Borrower or its Controlled Group maintains or 
contributes to any Plan other than those disclosed to the Administrative 
Lender in writing.  Each such Plan (other than any Multiemployer Plan) is in 
compliance in all material respects with the applicable provisions of ERISA, 
the Code, and any other applicable Federal or state law, rule or regulation.  
With respect to each Plan (other than any Multiemployer Plan) of the Borrower 
and each member of its Controlled Group, all reports required under ERISA or 
any other Applicable Law to be filed with any governmental authority, the 
failure of which to file could reasonably result in liability of the Borrower 
or any member of its Controlled Group in excess of a Material Amount, have 
been duly filed.  All such reports are true and correct in all material 
respects as of the date given.  No Plan of the Borrower or any member of its 
Controlled Group has been terminated under Section 4041(c) of ERISA nor has 
any accumulated funding deficiency (as defined in Section 412(a) of the Code) 
been incurred (without regard to any waiver granted under Section 412 of the 
Code), nor has any funding waiver from the Internal Revenue Service been 
received or requested the result of which could reasonably be expected to 
have Material Adverse Effect.  None of the Borrower or any member of its 
Controlled Group has failed to make any contribution or pay any amount due or 
owing as required under the terms of any such Plan, or by Section 412 of the 
Code or Section 302 of ERISA by the due date under Section 412 of the Code 
and Section 302 of ERISA the result of which could reasonably be expected to 
have Material Adverse Effect.  There 

                                       -49-

<PAGE>

has been no ERISA Event or any event requiring disclosure under Section 
4041(c)(3)(C) or 4063(a) of ERISA with respect to any Plan or its related 
trust of the Borrower or any member of its Controlled Group since the 
effective date of ERISA.  The present value of the benefit liabilities, as 
defined in Title IV of ERISA, of each Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA 
(other than a Multiemployer Plan) of the Borrower and each member of its 
Controlled Group does not exceed by more than $10,000,000 the present value 
of the assets of each such Plan as of the most recent valuation date using 
each such Plan's actuarial assumptions at such date.  There are no pending, 
or to the best of the Borrower's knowledge threatened, claims, lawsuits or 
actions (other than routine claims for benefits in the ordinary course) 
asserted or instituted against, and neither the Borrower nor any member of 
its Controlled Group has knowledge of any threatened litigation or claims 
against, the assets of any Plan or its related trust or against any fiduciary 
of a Plan with respect to the operation of such Plan the result of which 
could reasonably be expected to have Material Adverse Effect.  None of the 
Borrower or, to the best of the Borrower's knowledge, any member of its 
Controlled Group has engaged in any prohibited transactions, within the 
meaning of Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code, in connection 
with any Plan the result of which could reasonably be expected to have 
Material Adverse Effect.  None of the Borrower or any member of its 
Controlled Group has withdrawn from any Multiemployer Plan, nor has incurred 
or reasonably expects to incur (A) any liability under Title IV of ERISA 
(other than premiums due under Section 4007 of ERISA to the PBGC), (B) any 
withdrawal liability (and no event has occurred which with the giving of 
notice under Section 4219 of ERISA would result in such liability) under 
Section 4201 of ERISA as a result of a complete or partial withdrawal (within 
the meaning of Section 4203 or 4205 of ERISA) from a Multiemployer Plan, or 
(C) any liability under Section 4062 of ERISA to the PBGC or to a trustee 
appointed under Section 4042 of ERISA.  None of the Borrower, any member of 
its Controlled Group, or any organization to which the Borrower or any member 
of its Controlled Group is a successor or parent corporation within the 
meaning of ERISA Section 4069(b), has engaged in a transaction within the 
meaning of ERISA Section 4069 the result of which could reasonably be 
expected to have Material Adverse Effect.  None of the Borrower or any member 
of its Controlled Group maintains or has established any Plan, which is a 
material welfare benefit plan within the meaning of Section 3(1) of ERISA and 
which provides for continuing benefits or coverage for any participant or any 
beneficiary of any participant after such participant's termination of 
employment, except as may be required by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget 
Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended ("COBRA") and the regulations 
thereunder. Each of Borrower and its Controlled Group which maintains a Plan 
which is a welfare benefit plan within the meaning of Section 3(1) of ERISA 
has complied in all material respects with any applicable notice and 
continuation requirements of COBRA and the regulations thereunder, except to 
the extent that the failure to so comply could not reasonably be expected to 
have a Material Adverse Effect. None of the Borrower or any member of its 
Controlled Group maintains, has established, or has ever participated in a 
multiemployer welfare benefit arrangement within the meaning of Section 
3(40)(A) of ERISA.

    (l)  COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATIONS G, T, U AND X.  The Borrower is not 
engaged principally or as one of its important activities in the business of 
extending credit for the purpose of purchasing or carrying any margin stock 
within the meaning of Regulations G, T, U and X of 

                                       -50-
<PAGE>

the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and no part of the 
proceeds of the Advances or any Letters of Credit will be used to purchase or 
carry any margin stock or to extend credit to others for the purpose of 
purchasing or carrying any margin stock.  No assets of the Borrower and its 
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures are margin stock.  None of the 
Borrower and its Subsidiaries nor any agent acting on their behalf, have 
taken or will knowingly take any action which might cause this Agreement or 
any other Loan Papers to violate any regulation of the Board of Governors of 
the Federal Reserve System or to violate the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, 
in each case as in effect now or as the same may hereafter be in effect.

    (m)  GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures are not required to obtain any Necessary 
Authorization that has not already been obtained from, or effect any material 
filing or registration that has not already been effected with, any federal, 
state or local regulatory authority in connection with the execution and 
delivery of this Agreement or any other Loan Paper, or the performance 
thereof (other than any enforcement of remedies by the Administrative Lender 
on behalf of the Lenders, in accordance with their respective terms, 
including any borrowings hereunder.

    (n)  ABSENCE OF DEFAULT.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures are in compliance in all respects with all of the 
provisions of their articles of incorporation, by-laws, articles of 
partnership, partnership agreement or other governing documents, and no event 
has occurred or failed to occur, which has not been remedied or waived, the 
occurrence or non-occurrence of which constitutes, or which with the passage 
of time or giving of notice or both would constitute, (i) an Event of Default 
or (ii) a default by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or 
Unincorporated Ventures under any material indenture, agreement or other 
instrument, or any judgment, decree or order to which the Borrower or any of 
its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures or by which they or any of their 
material properties is bound.

    (o)  INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT.  The Borrower is not required to register 
under the provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.  
Neither the entering into or performance by the Borrower of this Agreement 
nor the issuance of the Notes violates any provision of such act or requires 
any consent, approval, or authorization of, or registration with, the 
Securities and Exchange Commission or any other governmental or public body 
of authority pursuant to any provisions of such act.

    (p)  ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS.  Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary or
Unincorporated Venture has any actual knowledge or reason to believe that any
substance deemed hazardous by any Applicable Environmental Law, has been
installed on any real property now owned by the Borrower or any of its
Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures which, individually or in the aggregate,
would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  The 

                                       -51-
<PAGE>

Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures have complied in 
all respects with all Applicable Environmental Laws except to the extent that 
the failure to so comply, individually or in the aggregate, would not 
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  The Borrower and 
its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures are not in violation in any 
respects of or subject to any existing, pending or, to the best of the 
Borrower's knowledge, threatened investigation or inquiry by any governmental 
authority or to any material remedial obligations under any Applicable 
Environmental Laws, except to the extent that the results of such 
investigation, inquiry or remedial obligation would not, individually or in 
the aggregate, be reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, and 
this representation and warranty would continue to be true and correct 
following disclosure to the applicable governmental authorities of all 
relevant facts, conditions and circumstances, if any, pertaining to any real 
property of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures.  
The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures have obtained 
all material permits, licenses or similar authorizations necessary to 
construct, occupy, operate or use any buildings, improvements, fixtures, and 
equipment forming a part of any real property of the Borrower or any 
Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture by reason of any Applicable 
Environmental Laws, except where the failure to obtain such authorization 
would not, individually or in the aggregate, be reasonably expected to have a 
Material Adverse Effect.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures undertook, at the time of acquisition of any real 
property, reasonable inquiry into the previous ownership and uses of such 
real property consistent with good commercial or customary practice as 
applied and used in the real estate industry at the time of each such 
acquisition.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures 
have taken all reasonable steps to determine, and the Borrower and its 
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures have no actual knowledge or reason 
to believe, after reasonable investigation, that any hazardous substances or 
solid wastes have been disposed of or otherwise released on or to the real 
property of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated 
Ventures, within the meaning of the Applicable Environmental Laws, except to 
the extent that the failure to so dispose or release, individually or in the 
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (q)  CERTAIN FEES.  No broker's, finder's or other fee or commission will 
be payable by the Borrower (other than to the Lenders hereunder) with respect 
to the making of the Commitments or the Advances or the issuance of the 
Letters of Credit hereunder.  The Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold 
harmless the Administrative Lender and each Lender from and against any 
claims, demand, liability, proceedings, costs or expenses asserted with 
respect to or arising in connection with any such fees or commissions.

    (r)  NECESSARY AUTHORIZATIONS.  No event has occurred which permits (or 
with the passage of time would permit) the revocation or termination of any 
Necessary Authorization, or which could result in the imposition of any 
restriction thereon, of such a nature that could reasonably be expected to 
have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (s)  PATENTS, ETC.  The Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated 
Ventures have obtained all patents, trademarks, service-marks, trade names, 
copyrights, licenses and other rights, free from burdensome restrictions, 
that are necessary for the operation of their business as presently conducted 
and as proposed to be conducted.  Nothing has come to the attention of the 

                                       -52-
<PAGE>

Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures to the effect 
that (i) any process, method, part or other material presently contemplated 
to be employed by the Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture 
may infringe any patent, trademark, service-mark, trade name, copyright, 
license or other right owned by any other Person, or (ii) there is pending or 
overtly threatened any claim or litigation against or affecting the Borrower 
or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture contesting its right to sell or 
use any such process, method, part or other material, provided with respect 
to clauses (i) and (ii) that such events are limited to those which could 
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (t)  DISCLOSURE.  Neither this Agreement nor any other document, 
certificate or statement which has been furnished to any Lender by or on 
behalf of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture in 
connection herewith contained any untrue statement of a material fact or 
omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statement 
contained herein and therein not misleading at the time it was furnished.  
There is no fact known to the Borrower and not known to the public generally 
that could reasonably be expected to materially adversely affect the assets 
or business of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures, 
or in the future could reasonably be expected (so far as the Borrower can now 
foresee) to have a Material Adverse Effect, which has not been set forth in 
this Agreement or in the documents, certificates and statements furnished to 
the Lenders by or on behalf of the Borrower prior to the date hereof in 
connection with the transaction contemplated hereby.

    (u)  SOLVENCY.  The Borrower is, and Borrower and its Subsidiaries and 
Unincorporated Ventures on a consolidated basis are, Solvent.

    Section 4.2    SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, ETC.  All 
representations and warranties made under this Agreement and the other Loan 
Papers shall be deemed to be made at and as of the Agreement Date and at and 
as of the date of each Advance and issuance of each Letter of Credit, and 
each shall be true and correct when made, except to the extent (a) previously 
fulfilled in accordance with the terms hereof, (b) applicable to a specific 
date or modified to give effect to the transactions expressly permitted 
hereby, or (c) previously waived in writing by the Determining Lenders with 
respect to any particular factual circumstance.  All such representations and 
warranties shall survive, and not be waived by, the execution hereof by any 
Lender, any investigation or inquiry by any Lender, or by the making of any 
Advance or the issuance of any Letter of Credit under this Agreement.

                                      ARTICLE 5

                                  BUSINESS COVENANTS

    So long as any of the Obligations are outstanding and unpaid or the 
Commitment is outstanding (whether or not the conditions to borrowing have 
been or can be fulfilled):

                                       -53-
<PAGE>

    Section 5.1    MAINTENANCE OF PROPERTY, INSURANCE, ACCOUNTING PRACTICES,
CORPORATE EXISTENCE.  The Borrower covenants and agrees to, and will cause each
Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to:

    (a)  Maintain its material property in good condition and make all
necessary renewals, replacements, additions, betterments and improvements
thereto, consistent with sound business practice and as is customary in the case
of corporations or other entities of established reputation engaged in the same
or a similar business and similarly situated;

    (b)  Maintain, with financially sound and reputable insurers, or through
its own program of self-insurance, insurance with respect to its material
properties and business against such casualties and contingencies, of such
types, and in such amounts as is customary in the case of corporations or other
entities of established reputation engaged in the same or a similar business and
similarly situated;

    (c)  Keep books of record and accounts in which entries will be made of all
of its business transactions, and will reflect in its financial statements
adequate accruals and appropriations to reserves, all in accordance with GAAP;

    (d)  Do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in
full force and effect its material rights;

    (e)  Do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in
full force and effect its existence (except as may be specifically permitted by
this Agreement); and

    (f)  Cause to be paid and discharged (i) all lawful tax assessments and
governmental charges imposed from the income or profits of the Borrower, its
Subsidiaries and Unincorporated Ventures or upon any property belonging to the
Borrower, any Subsidiary or any Unincorporated Venture and (ii) all lawful
claims, whether for labor, materials, supplies, services or anything else, which
have become due and payable and which by law have or may become a Lien upon the
property of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated
Ventures shall not be required to cause to be paid or discharged any such tax
assessment, charge or claim so long as the amount, applicability or validity
thereof shall be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, and
adequate book reserves shall have been established to the extent required by
GAAP with respect thereto.

    Section 5.2    INSPECTION OF PROPERTIES AND BOOKS.  The Borrower covenants
and agrees that it will permit, and will cause each Subsidiary and
Unincorporated Venture to permit, any Lender, upon (i) reasonable request, if
such request is prior to the occurrence of a Default or an Event of Default or
(ii) request, if such request is after the occurrence of a Default or an Event
of Default, to any Authorized Officer, to visit and inspect any of the
properties of, to examine the books of account and records of the Borrower, any
Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture and to 

                                    - 54 -
<PAGE>

take extracts therefrom and to discuss the affairs, finances or accounts of 
the Borrower, any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture, and to be advised as 
to the same by the officers of the Borrower, at all such times during normal 
business hours, in such detail and through such agents and representatives as 
such Bank may reasonably desire.

    Section 5.3    MERGER AND SALE OF ASSETS.

    (a)  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will not, and will cause
each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to not, directly or indirectly sell,
transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its assets (whether now owned or
hereafter acquired, and including any interest in a joint venture or
partnership) unless immediately prior to, and after giving effect to, such sale,
transfer or other disposition, the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated
Ventures are and will be in compliance with all covenants hereunder and there
shall otherwise be no Default or Event of Default hereunder; and

    (b)  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will not, and will cause
each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to not, merge into or consolidate
with any other Person; provided, however, if after giving effect to any such
merger or consolidation, (i) the business of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or
Unincorporated Venture, as appropriate, will not be materially changed and
(ii) the Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture, as appropriate,
will not be in default in respect of any of the covenants contained in any
material agreement, including, without limitation, this Agreement, to which the
Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture is a party or by which its
property may be bound,

         (1)  any corporation, partnership or joint venture may merge or
    consolidate with the Borrower, provided that the Borrower shall be the
    continuing and surviving corporation,

         (2)  any Subsidiary may merge with or consolidate with any
    corporation, partnership or joint venture, provided that, unless such
    merger or consolidation shall be with the Borrower, such Subsidiary shall
    be the continuing and surviving corporation, and

         (3)  any Unincorporated Venture may merge with or consolidate with any
    corporation, partnership or joint venture, provided that, unless such
    merger or consolidation shall be with the Borrower or a Subsidiary, such
    Unincorporated Venture shall be the continuing and surviving person.

    Section 5.4    NET WORTH.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will
not allow its Net Worth at any time to be less than the sum of (i) $315,000,000
plus (ii) 50% of Consolidated Net Income (excluding Consolidated Net Income for
any fiscal quarter in which Consolidated Net Income was a negative number)
earned on or after December 31, 1996, plus (iii) 75% of the Net Cash Proceeds of
any equity issues of the Borrower's Capital Stock on or after December 31, 1996.

                                    - 55 -
<PAGE>

    Section 5.5    CONTINGENT LIABILITIES.  The Borrower covenants and agrees
that it will not, and will cause each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to
not, guarantee, endorse, contingently agree to purchase, or otherwise become
liable, directly or indirectly, upon the obligation of or in connection with the
earnings, the assets, the stock, or the dividends of any other Person (other
than the Borrower or any Subsidiary), including obligations of the Borrower,
each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture arising solely by virtue of any of
them being a general partner or venturer of any Unincorporated Venture, except
(i) the obligations in respect of the written agreements in existence on the
Agreement Date in respect of any Significant Investments, (ii) the guarantees
and other contingent obligations set forth on SCHEDULE 9 hereto,
(iii) endorsements in the ordinary course of business of negotiable instruments
for deposit or collection, (iv) guarantees of loans to any employee; PROVIDED,
THAT any such guaranty of an employee loan shall not exceed the amount of
$100,000 per employee, and the amount of such guaranties of employee loans,
together with the amount of Investments permitted pursuant to clause (vi) of the
definition of "Permitted Investments," shall not exceed, in the aggregate, more
than $2,000,000, and (v) guarantees and contingent obligations incurred after
the Agreement Date not to exceed $20,000,000 in aggregate principal amount.

    Section 5.6    INCURRENCE AND RETENTION OF DEBT.  The Borrower covenants
and agrees that it will not, and will cause each Subsidiary and Unincorporated
Venture to not, incur, create, assume, or suffer to exist any Debt (other than
Debt existing on the Agreement Date) unless, immediately prior to, and after the
incurrence of, such Debt, the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and Unincorporated
Ventures are and will be in compliance with all covenants hereunder and there
shall otherwise be no Default or Event of Default hereunder.

    Section 5.7    INVESTMENTS.  The Borrower will not, and will cause each
Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to not, make or permit to remain any
Investment other than a Permitted Investment.

    Section 5.8    NOTICE OF LITIGATION.  The Borrower covenants and agrees
that it will, and will cause each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to,
promptly give notice in writing to the Lenders (i) of any litigation to which
the Borrower, any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture becomes a party, if
(A) the amount in controversy exceeds $500,000 and (B) the Borrower's insurance
carrier does not acknowledge coverage with respect to such litigation, and
(ii) of all proceedings before any governmental or regulatory agencies
(A) affecting or potentially affecting the business or property of the Borrower,
any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture in an amount in excess of $500,000 or
(B) materially affecting the ability of the Borrower, any Subsidiary or
Unincorporated Venture to perform their respective covenants and obligations
hereunder or under any other obligations owed any Lender.

    Section 5.9    LEVERAGE RATIO.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it
will not allow the Leverage Ratio to be greater than (a) 4.00 to 1 at the end of
any fiscal quarter occurring during the period from the Agreement Date through
and including March 31, 1998 and (b) 3.75 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter
thereafter.

                                    - 56 -
<PAGE>

    Section 5.10   CASH FLOW RATIO.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it
will not allow the ratio of (i)(a) EBITDA, plus (b) lease expense pursuant to
Operating Leases, minus (c) Maintenance Capital Expenditures to (ii) (a) Net
Interest Expense, plus (b) lease expense pursuant to Operating Leases, plus
(c) Current Maturities, in each case other than Current Maturities (which, with
respect to Current Maturities, shall be for the four consecutive fiscal quarters
immediately succeeding the date of determination) for the four consecutive
fiscal quarters immediately preceding the date of determination, to be less than
1.50 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter.

    Section 5.11   SENIOR DEBT RATIO.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that
it will not allow the ratio of (i) Senior Debt as of the last day of the fiscal
quarter immediately preceding the date of determination to (ii) EBITDA for the
four consecutive fiscal quarters immediately preceding the date of
determination, to be greater than (a) 3.25 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter
occurring during the period from the Agreement Date through and including
March 31, 1998 and (b) 3.00 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter thereafter. 
For purposes of this Section 5.11, with respect to assets not owned at all times
during the four consecutive quarters immediately preceding the date of
determination of EBITDA, there shall be (i) included in EBITDA (without
duplication) the EBITDA of any assets acquired during any such four consecutive
fiscal quarters immediately preceding the date of determination and
(ii) excluded from EBITDA the EBITDA of any asset disposed of during any such
four consecutive fiscal quarters immediately preceding the date of
determination.

    Section 5.12   LIENS.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will not
create, assume or suffer to exist, or permit any Subsidiary or Unincorporated
Venture to create, assume or suffer to exist, any Lien on any asset now owned or
hereafter acquired by it except Permitted Liens.  Other than with respect to
Senior Notes, the Borrower shall not, and shall not permit any Subsidiary or
Unincorporated Venture to, agree with any Person that it shall not create,
assume, incur, permit or suffer to exist or to be created, assumed, incurred or
permitted to exist, directly or indirectly, any Lien on any of its assets.

    Section 5.13   ACCOUNTING CHANGES.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that
it will not, and will not permit an of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated
Ventures to, make any change in its accounting treatment or financial reporting
practices, except as permitted or required by GAAP in effect from time to time. 
The Borrower will not change its fiscal year or the calculation of its fiscal
quarter ends.

    Section 5.14   AMENDMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUBORDINATED DEBT DOCUMENTS. 
The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will not, and it will not permit any
Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture to, directly or indirectly, amend, modify,
supplement, waive compliance with, or assent to noncompliance with, any term,
provision or condition of any of the documents governing or evidencing the
Subordinated Debt, which (i) the Determining Lenders deem material (including,
without limitation, relating to events of default, acceleration rights, interest
rates, tenor, maturity date, subordination, covenants, prohibition against
amending any documents 

                                    - 57 -
<PAGE>

related to this Agreement and definitions with respect thereto (including, 
without limitation, the definition of "Senior Debt")) or (ii) places any 
further restrictions on the Borrower, its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated 
Ventures or increases the obligations of the Borrower, its Subsidiaries or 
Unincorporated Ventures thereunder or confers on the holders thereof any 
additional rights.

    Section 5.15   LEASE-BACKS.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will
not, and will not permit any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture to, enter into
any arrangements, directly or indirectly, with any Person, whereby the Borrower,
any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture shall sell or transfer any property,
whether now owned or hereafter acquired, used or useful in its business, and
thereafter rent or lease the property so sold or transferred in an aggregate
amount (determined at the greater of fair market value or net book value) in
excess of $20,000,000 during the term of this Agreement.

    Section 5.16   ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS.

    (a)  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will not, and will not
permit any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures to, use, generate,
manufacture, produce, store, release, discharge or dispose of on, under or about
any real property owned or leased by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or
Unincorporated Ventures (such owned or leased real property, the "Property"), or
transport to or from the Property, any Hazardous Substance (as defined below),
or (to the extent within the Borrower's or such Subsidiary's or Unincorporated
Venture's control) permit any other Person to do so, where such could reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (b)  The Borrower shall keep and maintain and shall cause each Subsidiary
and Unincorporated Venture to keep and maintain, the Property in compliance with
any Applicable Environmental Law where the failure to do so could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

    (c)  In the event that any investigation, site monitoring, containment,
cleanup, removal, restoration or other remedial work of any kind or nature (the
"Remedial Work") with respect to the Property is required to be performed by the
Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or Unincorporated Ventures under any
applicable local, state or federal law or regulation, any judicial order, or by
any governmental entity because of, or in connection with, the current or future
presence, suspected presence, release or suspected release of a Hazardous
Substance in or into the air, soil, groundwater or surface water at, on, under
or within the Property (or any portion thereof), the Borrower or such Subsidiary
or Unincorporated Venture shall within thirty (30) days after written demand for
performance thereof by the Determining Lenders (or such shorter period of time
as may be required under any applicable law, regulation, order or agreement),
commence and thereafter diligently prosecute to completion, all such Remedial
Work.

                                    - 58 -
<PAGE>

    (d)  The Borrower will defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Lenders, and
their respective employees, agents, officers and directors, from and against any
claims, demands, penalties, fines, liabilities, settlements, damages, costs and
expenses of whatever kind or nature known or unknown, contingent or otherwise,
arising out of, or in any way relating to the violation of, noncompliance with
or liability under any Applicable Environmental Law applicable to the operations
of the Borrowers or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture or the Property, or
any orders, requirements or demands of Tribunal related thereto, including,
without limitation, attorneys' and consultants' fees, investigation and
laboratory fees, response costs, court costs and litigation expenses, except to
the extent that any of the foregoing arise out of the gross negligence or
willful misconduct of the party seeking indemnification therefor.  This
indemnity shall continue in full force and effect regardless of the termination
of this Agreement.

    (e)  As used herein, the term "Hazardous Substance" means those substances
included within the definitions of "hazardous substances", "hazardous
materials", "toxic substances", or "solid waste" under the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, 42
U.S.C. Sections 9601 ET SEQ., the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of
1976, 42 U.S.C. Sections 6901 ET SEQ. and the Hazardous Materials Transportation
Act, 49 U.S.C. Sections 1801 ET SEQ., and in the regulations promulgated
pursuant to said laws, and such other substances, materials and wastes which are
or become regulated under applicable local, state or federal law, or which are
classified as hazardous or toxic under federal, state, or local laws or
regulations.

    Section 5.17   ERISA COMPLIANCE.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it
shall, and shall cause each Subsidiary and Unincorporated Venture to (i) at all
times, make prompt payment of all contributions required under all Plans and
required to meet the minimum funding standard set forth in ERISA with respect to
its Plans, (ii) after the discovery by an Authorized Officer, notify the Lenders
immediately of any fact, including, but not limited to, any Reportable Event
arising in connection with any of its Plans, which might constitute grounds for
termination thereof by the PBGC or for the appointment by the appropriate United
States District Court of a trustee to administer such Plan, together with a
statement, if requested by any Lender, as to the reason therefor and the action,
if any, proposed to be taken with respect thereto, and (iii) not permit any Plan
to be subject to any involuntary termination proceedings.

    Section 5.18   BUSINESS.  The Borrower covenants and agrees that it will
not, and will not permit any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture to, engage in,
directly or through other Persons, any business other than the businesses now
carried on and other businesses directly related thereto.

    Section 5.19   TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES.  The Borrower covenants and
agrees that it will not, and will not permit any Subsidiary or Unincorporated
Venture to, directly or indirectly, enter into any transaction (including, but
not limited to, the sale or exchange of property or the rendering of service)
with any of its Affiliates, other than in the ordinary course of business and
upon fair and reasonable terms no less favorable than the Borrower or any
Subsidiary or 

                                    - 59 -
<PAGE>

Unincorporated Venture could obtain or could become entitled to in an 
arm's-length transaction with a Person which was not an Affiliate.

    Section 5.20   USE OF PROCEEDS.  The Borrower shall use the proceeds of the
Commitment to refinance the debt outstanding under the Existing Credit
Agreements and for working capital and general corporate purposes, including
repayment of Debt.

    Section 5.21   INDEMNITY.

    (a)  THE BORROWER AGREES TO DEFEND, PROTECT, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS
THE ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER, EACH LENDER, EACH OF THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES, AND
EACH OF THEIR RESPECTIVE (INCLUDING SUCH AFFILIATES') OFFICERS, DIRECTORS,
EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, ATTORNEYS, SHAREHOLDERS AND CONSULTANTS (INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, THOSE RETAINED IN CONNECTION WITH THE SATISFACTION OR ATTEMPTED
SATISFACTION OF ANY OF THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH HEREIN) OF EACH OF THE FOREGOING
(COLLECTIVELY, "INDEMNITEES") FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES,
OBLIGATIONS, LOSSES, DAMAGES, PENALTIES, ACTIONS, JUDGMENTS, SUITS, CLAIMS,
COSTS, EXPENSES AND DISBURSEMENTS OF ANY KIND OR NATURE WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING,
WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE FEES AND DISBURSEMENTS OF COUNSEL FOR SUCH INDEMNITEES
IN CONNECTION WITH ANY INVESTIGATIVE, ADMINISTRATIVE OR JUDICIAL PROCEEDING,
WHETHER OR NOT SUCH INDEMNITEES SHALL BE DESIGNATED A PARTY THERETO), IMPOSED
ON, INCURRED BY, OR ASSERTED AGAINST SUCH INDEMNITEES (WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT
OR CONSEQUENTIAL AND WHETHER BASED ON ANY FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAWS AND
REGULATIONS, UNDER COMMON LAW OR AT EQUITABLE CAUSE, OR ON CONTRACT, TORT OR
OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM OR CONNECTED WITH THE PAST, PRESENT OR FUTURE OPERATIONS
OF THE BORROWER OR ANY OTHER OBLIGOR OR THEIR RESPECTIVE PREDECESSORS IN
INTEREST, OR THE PAST, PRESENT OR FUTURE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION OF PROPERTY OF
THE BORROWER OR ANY OTHER OBLIGOR), IN ANY MANNER RELATING TO OR ARISING OUT OF
THIS AGREEMENT, ANY OTHER LOAN PAPERS, OR ANY ACT, EVENT OR TRANSACTION OR
ALLEGED ACT, EVENT OR TRANSACTION RELATING OR ATTENDANT THERETO, THE MAKING OF
ANY PARTICIPATIONS IN THE ADVANCES OR THE LETTERS OF CREDIT AND THE MANAGEMENT
OF THE ADVANCES OR THE LETTERS OF CREDIT, INCLUDING IN CONNECTION WITH, OR AS A
RESULT, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, OF ANY NEGLIGENCE OF ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER OR ANY
LENDER (OTHER THAN THOSE MATTERS RAISED EXCLUSIVELY BY A PARTICIPANT AGAINST THE
ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER OR ANY LENDER AND NOT THE BORROWER), OR THE USE OR
INTENDED USE OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE ADVANCES OR THE LETTERS OF CREDIT HEREUNDER,
OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY INVESTIGATION OF ANY POTENTIAL MATTER COVERED HEREBY,
BUT EXCLUDING (i) ANY CLAIM OR 

                                    - 60 -
<PAGE>

LIABILITY THAT ARISES AS THE RESULT OF THE GROSS NEGLIGENCE OR WILLFUL 
MISCONDUCT OF ANY INDEMNITEE, AS FINALLY JUDICIALLY DETERMINED BY A COURT OF 
COMPETENT JURISDICTION, AND (ii) MATTERS RAISED BY ONE LENDER AGAINST ANOTHER 
LENDER OR BY ANY SHAREHOLDERS OF A LENDER AGAINST A LENDER OR ITS MANAGEMENT 
(COLLECTIVELY, "INDEMNIFIED MATTERS").  TO THE EXTENT THAT ANY INDEMNIFIED 
MATTER INVOLVES ONE OR MORE INDEMNITEES, SUCH INDEMNITEES SHALL USE THE SAME 
LEGAL COUNSEL UNLESS ANY INDEMNITEE IN ITS REASONABLE DISCRETION DETERMINES 
THAT CONFLICTS EXIST OR MAY ARISE IN CONNECTION WITH SUCH REPRESENTATION.

    (b)  IN ADDITION, THE BORROWER SHALL PERIODICALLY, UPON REQUEST, REIMBURSE
EACH INDEMNITEE FOR ITS REASONABLE LEGAL AND OTHER ACTUAL EXPENSES (INCLUDING
THE COST OF ANY INVESTIGATION AND PREPARATION) INCURRED IN CONNECTION WITH ANY
INDEMNIFIED MATTER.  IF FOR ANY REASON THE FOREGOING INDEMNIFICATION IS
UNAVAILABLE TO ANY INDEMNITEE OR INSUFFICIENT TO HOLD ANY INDEMNITEE HARMLESS
WITH RESPECT TO INDEMNIFIED MATTERS, THEN THE BORROWER SHALL CONTRIBUTE TO THE
AMOUNT PAID OR PAYABLE BY SUCH INDEMNITEE AS A RESULT OF SUCH LOSS, CLAIM,
DAMAGE OR LIABILITY IN SUCH PROPORTION AS IS APPROPRIATE TO REFLECT NOT ONLY THE
RELATIVE BENEFITS RECEIVED BY THE BORROWER AND THE BORROWER'S STOCKHOLDERS ON
THE ONE HAND AND SUCH INDEMNITEE ON THE OTHER HAND BUT ALSO THE RELATIVE FAULT
OF THE BORROWER AND SUCH INDEMNITEE, AS WELL AS ANY OTHER RELEVANT EQUITABLE
CONSIDERATIONS.  THE REIMBURSEMENT, INDEMNITY AND CONTRIBUTION OBLIGATIONS UNDER
THIS SECTION SHALL BE IN ADDITION TO ANY LIABILITY WHICH THE BORROWER MAY
OTHERWISE HAVE, SHALL EXTEND UPON THE SAME TERMS AND CONDITIONS TO EACH
INDEMNITEE, AND SHALL BE BINDING UPON AND INURE TO THE BENEFIT OF ANY
SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS, HEIRS AND PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE BORROWER, THE
ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER, THE LENDERS AND ALL OTHER INDEMNITEES.  THIS SECTION
SHALL SURVIVE ANY TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT AND PAYMENT OF THE OBLIGATIONS.


                                      ARTICLE 6

                                     INFORMATION

    Section 6.1    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER REPORTS BY THE BORROWER.  The
Borrower will deliver to each Lender:

                                    - 61 -
<PAGE>

    (a)  As soon as practicable after the end of each of the first three
quarterly fiscal periods in each fiscal year of the Borrower, and in any event
within 45 days thereafter, duplicate copies of

         (1)  Combined balance sheets, statements of earnings, shareholders'
    equity and cash flows for the portion of the fiscal year ending with such
    quarter; all in reasonable detail and accompanied by an Officer's
    Certificate certifying that the aforementioned financial statements present
    fairly the financial position of the Borrower (Combined Basis) at the end
    of such quarter and the results of operations and the changes in financial
    position for the portion of the fiscal year ending with such quarter,
    determined in accordance with GAAP; and

         (2)  An Officer's Certificate (with calculations and a new SCHEDULE 9
    attached thereto) certifying (i) as to any increases or reductions in
    interest in the Significant Investments, and (ii) compliance with
    Sections 5.4, 5.5, 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11.

    (b)  As soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year of the
Borrower and in any event within 120 days thereafter, duplicate copies of:

         (1)  Combined balance sheets, statements of earnings, shareholders'
    equity and cash flows of the Borrower for such year; all in reasonable
    detail, prepared on a basis consistent with the financial statements
    delivered to all Lenders in prior periods and accompanied by an unqualified
    opinion and report of KPMG Peat Marwick, or other independent certified
    accountants of recognized standing selected by the Borrower and reasonably
    consented to by the Determining Lenders, which report shall state that no
    default under this Agreement and no condition or event which after notice
    or lapse of time or both would constitute a default under this Agreement
    has come to the knowledge of such accountants or, if such is not the case,
    the details of such default or such condition or event; and

         (2)  An Officer's Certificate (with calculations and a new SCHEDULE 9
    attached thereto) certifying (i) as to any increases or reductions in
    interest in the Significant Investments, and (ii) compliance with
    Sections 5.4, 5.5, 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11.

    (c)  As soon as practicable after the Borrower or any Subsidiary files with
the S.E.C. any of the following documents and in any event within 10 days
thereafter, a copy of:

         (1)  Any final Registration Statement filed for the registration of
    any securities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (except a
    Registration Statement on Form S-8 for the registration of stock to be
    issued in connection with any Stock Plan);

         (2)  Each Annual and Periodic Report filed under Section 13 or 15(d)
    of the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934, as amended;

                                    - 62 -



<PAGE>

         (3)  Each definitive Proxy Statement filed pursuant to the Securities 
    Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

    together with any other document filed with the S.E.C. or the New York
    Stock Exchange, Inc., as may be requested by any Lender.

    (d)  Upon request by any Lender, copies of the following:

         (1)  Each annual report/return, as well as all schedules and
    attachments required to be filed with the Department of Labor and/or the
    Internal Revenue Service pursuant to ERISA and the regulations promulgated
    thereunder, in connection with each of its Plans for each Plan year; and

         (2)  Such additional information concerning any of its Plans as may be
    reasonably requested.

    (e)  On the date of receipt by the Borrower of any change in the Index 
Debt Rating, a copy of such change.

    (f)  Promptly upon the occurrence of a Default or Event of Default, a 
written notice specifying the nature and period of existence thereof and what 
action is being taken or is proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

    (g)  Promptly upon becoming aware thereof, notice of the commencement or 
filing (or of a threat to commence or file) of any action, suit or proceeding 
before any court or any federal, state, municipal or other governmental 
agency or authority involving claims for damages, fines or penalties in 
excess of $500,000 (after deducting any amount with respect to which the 
Borrower, any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture is insured) against or in 
any other way relating to the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any Unincorporated 
Venture or any of their respective properties or businesses.

    (h)  Promptly upon becoming aware of any event, circumstance or condition 
which could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Change or 
Effect, a written notice specifying the details thereof and what action is 
being taken or is proposed to be taken with respect thereto.

    (i)  With reasonable promptness, such other data and information as from 
time to time may be reasonably requested by any Lender.

    (j)  Notwithstanding anything in this Section 6.1 to the contrary, (i) if
the terms of any Subordinated Debt of the Borrower requires delivery of Parent
Company financial statements and (ii) any Lender shall request delivery of
Parent Company financial statements, the Borrower shall also deliver to such
Lender the financial statements required to be delivered pursuant to

                                       -63-

<PAGE>

(1) Section 6.1(a) on a Parent Company basis within 60 days after the end of 
the first three quarterly fiscal periods of the Borrower and (2) Section 
6.1(b) on a Parent Company basis within 120 days after the end of each fiscal 
year of the Borrower.

    Section 6.2    OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE.  Each set of financial statements 
delivered pursuant to Sections 6.1(a) and (b) shall be accompanied by an 
Officer's Certificate stating whether there exists on the date of such 
certificate any condition or event which then constitutes, or which after 
notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute, a breach of any covenant 
herein, and if any such condition or event then exists, specifying the nature 
and period of existence thereof and the action the Borrower is taking or 
proposes to take with respect thereto.

                                      ARTICLE 7

                                       DEFAULT

    Section 7.1    EVENTS OF DEFAULT.  Each of the following shall constitute 
an Event of Default, whatever the reason for such event, and whether 
voluntary, involuntary, or effected by operation of law or pursuant to any 
judgment or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any 
governmental or non-governmental body:

    (a)  The Borrower fails to make any payment of principal on any Note or 
any Reimbursement Obligation on the date such payment is due;

    (b)  The Borrower fails to make any payment of interest on any Note, 
Reimbursement Obligation or any other costs, fees, expenses or other amounts 
payable hereunder or under the other Loan Papers within one Business Day 
after the date such payment is due;

    (c)  The Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture fails to 
perform or observe (i) any covenant contained in Sections 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 
5.7, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11, 5.12, 5.13, 5.14, 5.15, 5.19 or 5.20 of this Agreement 
or (ii) any other covenant in this Agreement or any other Loan Paper (other 
than the Master Covenant Agreement) to be performed or observed by it and 
such failure with respect to such other covenants continues for a period of 
30 days after any Lender has given written notice specifying such failure to 
the Borrower;

    (d)  Any material warranty or representation by or on behalf of the 
Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture contained in this 
Agreement or any other Loan Paper is false or misleading in any material 
respect;

    (e)  The Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture fails to make
any payment due on any other Debt in an aggregate amount of at least $1,000,000
beyond any applicable grace period, including any extension thereof, or any
other event or condition shall exist in respect of such Debt or any agreement
securing or relating to such Debt if and only if the 

                                       -64-
<PAGE>

effect of such failure to make such payment or such event or condition is to 
cause or permit the holder of such Debt or any Person acting on such holder's 
behalf to cause such Debt to become due, repurchased or redeemed prior to its 
stated maturity;

    (f)  The Borrower or any Significant Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture 
(i) shall become insolvent, (ii) shall fail to pay its debts generally as 
they become due, (iii) shall make a general assignment for the benefit of 
creditors, (iv) shall voluntarily seek, consent to, or acquiesce in the 
benefit of any Debtor Relief Law, (v) shall become a party to or is made the 
subject of any proceeding provided for by any Debtor Relief Law, other than 
as a creditor or claimant (unless, in the event such proceeding is 
involuntary, the petition instituting same is dismissed within 60 days after 
its filing), or (vi) take any corporate or other action for the purpose of 
effecting any of the foregoing;

    (g)  The Borrower or any Subsidiary or Unincorporated Venture fails to 
have discharged, within a period of 45 days after the expiration of all 
rights of appeal, any judgment, warrant of attachment, sequestration, or 
similar proceeding against any of its respective assets with a value, 
individually or collectively, in excess of a Material Amount;

    (h)  Any material provision of any Loan Paper after delivery thereof 
hereunder shall for any reason cease to be valid and binding on the Person 
(other than any Lender) executing such Loan Paper, or the Borrower or such 
Person shall so state in writing;

    (i)  A final judgment or judgments for the payment of money shall be 
entered by a court or courts against the Borrower or any Subsidiary or 
Unincorporated Venture and such judgment or judgments remain unstayed or 
undischarged for a period of 30 days from the date of entry thereof and the 
aggregate amount of all such judgments exceeds a Material Amount (net of 
actual insurance coverage if the Lenders receive evidence satisfactory to 
them that coverage exists);

    (j)  With respect to any Plan of the Borrower or any member of its
Controlled Group:  (i) the Borrower, any such member, or any other party-in-
interest or disqualified person shall engage in transactions which in the 
aggregate would reasonably result in a direct or indirect liability to the 
Borrower or any member of its Controlled Group in excess of $100,000 under 
Section 409 or 502 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code; (ii) the Borrower or 
any member of its Controlled Group shall incur any accumulated funding 
deficiency, as defined in Section 412 of the Code, in the aggregate in excess 
of $100,000, or request a funding waiver from the Internal Revenue Service 
for contributions in the aggregate in excess of $100,000; (iii) the Borrower 
or any member of its Controlled Group shall incur any withdrawal liability in 
the aggregate in excess of $100,000 as a result of a complete or partial 
withdrawal within the meaning of Section 4203 or 4205 of ERISA, or any other 
liability with respect to a Plan in excess of $100,000, unless the amount of 
such liability has been funded within the Plan or pursuant to one or more 
insurance contracts; (iv) the Borrower or any member of its Controlled Group 
shall fail to make a required contribution by the due date under Section 412 
of the Code or Section 302 of ERISA which would 

                                       -65-
<PAGE>

result in the imposition of a lien under Section 412 of the Code or Section 
302 of ERISA; (v) the Borrower, any member of its Controlled Group or any 
Plan sponsor shall notify the PBGC of an intent to terminate, or the PBGC 
shall institute proceedings to terminate, or the PBGC shall institute 
proceedings to terminate, any Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA; (vi) a 
Reportable Event shall occur with respect to a Plan subject to Title IV of 
ERISA, and within 15 days after the reporting of such Reportable Event to the 
Administrative Lender, the Administrative Lender shall have notified the 
Borrower in writing that the Determining Lenders have made a determination 
that, on the basis of such Reportable Event, there are reasonable grounds for 
the termination of such Plan by the PBGC or for the appointment by the 
appropriate United States District Court of a trustee to administer such Plan 
and as a result thereof an Event of Default shall have occurred hereunder; 
(vii) a trustee shall be appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction to 
administer any Plan or the assets thereof; (viii) the benefits of any Plan 
shall be increased, or the Borrower or any member of its Controlled Group 
shall begin to maintain, or begin to contribute to, any Plan, without the 
prior written consent of the Determining Lenders; or (ix) any ERISA Event 
with respect to a Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA shall have occurred, and 
30 days thereafter (A) such ERISA Event, other than such event described in 
clause (f) of the definition of ERISA Event herein, (if correctable) shall 
not have been corrected and (B) the then present value of such Plan's benefit 
liabilities, as defined in Title IV of ERISA, shall exceed the then current 
value of assets accumulated in such Plan; provided, however, that the events 
listed in subsections (v) through (ix) shall constitute Events of Default 
only if, as of the date thereof or any subsequent date, the amount of 
liability that the Borrower or any member of its Controlled Group reasonably 
is likely to incur in the aggregate under Section 4062, 4063, 4064, 4219 or 
4023 of ERISA or any other provision of law with respect to all such Plans, 
computed by the actuary of the Plan taking into account any applicable rules 
and regulations of the PBGC at such time, and based on the actuarial 
assumptions used by the Plan, resulting from or otherwise associated with 
such event exceeds $100,000; or

    (k)  A Change of Control shall have occurred.

    Section 7.2    REMEDIES.  If an Event of Default shall have occurred and 
shall be continuing:

    (a)  With the exception of an Event of Default specified in Section 
7.1(f) hereof, the Administrative Lender shall, upon the direction of the 
Determining Lenders, terminate the Commitment and/or declare the principal of 
and interest on the Advances and all Obligations and other amounts owed under 
the Loan Papers to be forthwith due and payable without presentment, demand, 
protest or notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived, 
anything in the Loan Papers to the contrary notwithstanding.

    (b)  Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default specified in Section 
7.1(f) hereof, such principal, interest and other amounts shall thereupon and 
concurrently therewith become due and payable and the Commitment shall 
automatically forthwith terminate, all without any action by the 
Administrative Lender, any Lender or any holders of the Notes and without 
presentment, 

                                       -66-
<PAGE>

demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are expressly 
waived, anything in the Loan Papers to the contrary notwithstanding.

    (c)  If any Letter of Credit shall be then outstanding, the 
Administrative Lender may demand upon the Borrower to, and forthwith upon 
such demand, the Borrower shall, pay to the Administrative Lender in same day 
funds at the office of the Administrative Lender in such demand for deposit 
in the L/C Cash Collateral Account, an amount equal to 102% of the maximum 
amount available to be drawn under the Letters of Credit then outstanding.

    (d)  The Administrative Lender, and the Lenders may exercise all of the 
post-default rights granted to them under the Loan Papers or under Applicable 
Law.

    (e)  The rights and remedies of the Administrative Lender and the Lenders 
hereunder shall be cumulative, and not exclusive.

                                      ARTICLE 8

                               CHANGES IN CIRCUMSTANCES

    Section 8.1    LIBOR BASIS DETERMINATION INADEQUATE.  If with respect to 
any proposed LIBOR Advance for any Interest Period, any Lender determines 
that (i) deposits in dollars (in the applicable amount) are not being offered 
to that Lender in the relevant market for such Interest Period or (ii) the 
LIBOR Basis for such proposed LIBOR Advance does not adequately cover the 
cost to such Lender of making and maintaining such proposed LIBOR Advance for 
such Interest Period, such Lender shall forthwith give notice thereof to the 
Borrower, whereupon until such Lender notifies the Borrower that the 
circumstances giving rise to such situation no longer exist, the obligation 
of such Lender to make LIBOR Advances shall be suspended.

    Section 8.2    ILLEGALITY.  If any applicable law, rule or regulation, or 
any change therein or adoption thereof, or interpretation or administration 
thereof by any governmental authority, central bank or comparable agency 
charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by 
any Lender (or its LIBOR Lending Office) with any request or directive 
(whether or not having the force of law) of any such authority, central bank 
or comparable agency, shall make it unlawful or impossible for such Lender 
(or its LIBOR Lending Office) to make, maintain or fund its LIBOR Advances, 
such Lender shall so notify the Borrower and the Administrative Lender.  
Before giving any notice to the Borrower pursuant to this Section, the 
notifying Lender shall designate a different LIBOR Lending Office or other 
lending office if such designation will avoid the need for giving such notice 
and will not, in the sole judgment of the Lender, be materially 
disadvantageous to the Lender.  Upon receipt of such notice, notwithstanding 
anything contained in Article 2 hereof, the Borrower shall repay in full the 
then outstanding principal amount of each LIBOR Advance owing to the 
notifying Lender, together with accrued interest thereon, on either (a) the 
last day of the Interest Period applicable to such Advance, if the Lender 

                                       -67-
<PAGE>

may lawfully continue to maintain and fund such Advance to such day, or (b) 
immediately, if the Lender may not lawfully continue to fund and maintain 
such Advance to such day.  Concurrently with repaying each affected LIBOR 
Advance owing to such Lender, notwithstanding anything contained in Article 2 
hereof, the Borrower shall borrow a Base Rate Advance from such Lender, and 
such Lender shall make such Base Rate Advance, in an amount such that the 
outstanding principal amount of the Advances owing to such Lender shall equal 
the outstanding principal amount of the Advances owing immediately prior to 
such repayment.

    Section 8.3    INCREASED COSTS.

    (a)  If any applicable law, rule or regulation, or any change in or 
adoption of any law, rule or regulation, or any interpretation or 
administration thereof by any governmental authority, central bank or 
comparable agency charged with the interpretation or administration thereof 
or compliance by any Lender (or its LIBOR Lending Office) with any request or 
directive (whether or not having the force of law) of any such authority, 
central bank or compatible agency:

         (i)  shall subject a Lender (or its LIBOR Lending Office) to any Tax
    (net of any tax benefit engendered thereby) with respect to its LIBOR
    Advances or its obligation to make such Advances, or shall change the basis
    of taxation of payments to a Lender (or to its LIBOR Lending Office) of the
    principal of or interest on its LIBOR Advances or in respect of any other
    amounts due under this Agreement, as the case may be, or its obligation to
    make such Advances (except for changes in the rate of tax on the overall
    net income, net worth or capital of the Lender and franchise taxes, doing
    business taxes or minimum taxes imposed upon such Lender); or

         (ii) shall impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve (including,
    without limitation, any imposed by the Board of Governors of the Federal
    Reserve System), special deposit or similar requirement against assets of,
    deposits with or for the account of, or credit extended by, a Lender's
    LIBOR Lending Office or shall impose on the Lender (or its LIBOR Lending
    Office) or on the United States market for certificates of deposit or the
    London interbank market any other condition affecting its LIBOR Advances or
    its obligation to make such Advances (but excluding any reserves or
    deposits that are included in the calculation of LIBOR Basis);

and the result of any of the foregoing is to increase the cost to a Lender 
(or its LIBOR Lending Office) of making or maintaining any LIBOR Advances, or 
to reduce the amount of any sum received or receivable by a Lender (or its 
LIBOR Lending Office) with respect thereto, by an amount deemed by a Lender 
to be material ("Increased Advance Costs"), then, within 15 days after demand 
by a Lender, the Borrower agrees to pay to such Lender such additional amount 
as will compensate such Lender for such increased costs or reduced amounts, 
subject to Section 10.9 hereof.  The affected Lender will as soon as 
practicable notify the Borrower of any event of which it has knowledge, 
occurring after the date hereof, which will entitle such Lender to 
compensation pursuant to this Section and will designate a different LIBOR 
Lending Office or other lending 

                                       -68-
<PAGE>

office if such designation will avoid the need for, or reduce the amount of, 
such compensation and will not, in the sole judgment of the affected Lender 
made in good faith, be materially disadvantageous to such Lender.  
Notwithstanding the foregoing, any Lender's demand for Increased Advance 
Costs shall not include any Increased Advance Costs with respect to any 
period more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender gives notice to 
the Borrower of such Increased Advance Costs unless the effective date of the 
condition which results in the right to receive Increased Advance Costs is 
retroactive (the "Increased Advance Costs Retroactive Effective Date").  If 
any Increased Advance Costs has an Increased Advance Costs Retroactive 
Effective Date and any Lender demands compensation within 180 days after the 
date setting the Increased Advance Costs Retroactive Effective Date (the 
"Increased Advance Costs Set Date"), such Lender shall have the right to 
receive such Increased Advance Costs from the Increased Advance Costs 
Retroactive Effective  Date.  If a Lender does not demand such Increased 
Advance Costs within 180 days after the Increased Advance Costs Set Date, 
such Lender may not receive payment of Increased Advance Costs with respect 
to any period more than 180 days prior to such demand.

    (b)  A certificate of any Lender claiming compensation under this Section 
and setting forth the additional amounts to be paid to it hereunder and 
calculations therefor shall be conclusive in the absence of manifest error.  
In determining such amount, a Lender may use any reasonable averaging and 
attribution methods.  If a Lender demands compensation under this Section, 
the Borrower may at any time, upon at least five Business Days' prior notice 
to the Lender, after reimbursement to the Lender by the Borrower in 
accordance with this Section of all costs incurred, prepay in full the then 
outstanding LIBOR Advances of the Lender, together with accrued interest 
thereon to the date of prepayment, along with any reimbursement required 
under Section 2.9 hereof. Concurrently with prepaying such LIBOR Advances, 
the Borrower shall borrow a Base Rate Advance from the Lender, and the Lender 
shall make such Base Rate Advance, in an amount such that the outstanding 
principal amount of the Advances owing to such Lender shall equal the 
outstanding principal amount of the Advances owing immediately prior to such 
prepayment.

    Section 8.4    EFFECT ON BASE RATE ADVANCES.  If notice has been given 
pursuant to Section 8.1, 8.2 or 8.3 hereof suspending the obligation of a 
Lender to make LIBOR Advances, or requiring LIBOR Advances of a Lender to be 
repaid or prepaid, then, unless and until the Lender notifies the Borrower 
that the circumstances giving rise to such repayment no longer apply, all 
Advances which would otherwise be made by such Lender as LIBOR Advances shall 
be made instead as Base Rate Advances.

    Section 8.5    CAPITAL ADEQUACY.  If either (a) the introduction of or 
any change in or in the interpretation of any law, rule or regulation or (b) 
compliance by a Lender with any law, rule or regulation or any guideline or 
request from any central bank or other governmental authority (whether or not 
having the force of law) affects or would affect the amount of capital 
required or expected to be maintained by a Lender or any corporation 
controlling such Lender, and such Lender determines that the amount of such 
capital is increased by or based upon the existence of 

                                       -69-
<PAGE>

such Lender's Commitment or Advances hereunder and other commitments or 
advances of such Lender of this type, then, upon demand by such Lender, 
subject to Section 10.9, the Borrower shall immediately pay to such Lender, 
from time to time as specified by such Lender, additional amounts sufficient 
to compensate such Lender with respect to such circumstances (collectively, 
"Additional Costs"), to the extent that such Lender reasonably determines in 
good faith such increase in capital to be allocable to the existence of such 
Lender's Commitment hereunder.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, any Lender's 
demand for Additional Costs shall not include any Additional Costs with 
respect to any period more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender 
gives notice to the Borrower of such Additional Costs unless the effective 
date of the Regulatory Modification which results in the right to receive 
Additional Costs is retroactive (the "Regulatory Modification Retroactive 
Effective Date"). If any Regulatory Modification has a Regulatory 
Modification Retroactive Effective Date and any Lender demands compensation 
within 180 days after the date setting the Regulatory Modification 
Retroactive Effective Date (the "Regulatory Modification Set Date"), such 
Lender shall have the right to receive such Additional Costs from the 
Regulatory Modification Retroactive Effective Date.  If a Lender does not 
demand such Additional Costs within 180 days after the Regulatory 
Modification Set Date, such Lender may not receive payment of Additional 
Costs with respect to any period more than 180 days prior to such demand.  A 
certificate as to such amounts submitted to the Borrower by a Lender 
hereunder, shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding 
for all purposes.

                                      ARTICLE 9

                               AGREEMENT AMONG LENDERS

    Section 9.1    AGREEMENT AMONG LENDERS.  The Lenders agree among 
themselves that:

    (a)  ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER.  Each Lender hereby appoints the 
Administrative Lender as its nominee in its name and on its behalf, to 
receive all documents and items to be furnished hereunder; to act as nominee 
for and on behalf of all Lenders under the Loan Papers; to, except as 
otherwise expressly set forth herein, take such action as may be requested by 
the Determining Lenders, provided that, unless and until the Administrative 
Lender shall have received such requests, the Administrative Lender may take 
such administrative action, or refrain from taking such administrative 
action, as it may deem advisable and in the best interests of the Lenders; to 
arrange the means whereby the proceeds of the Advances of the Lenders are to 
be made available to the Borrower; to distribute promptly to each Lender 
information, requests and documents received from the Borrower, and each 
payment (in like funds received) with respect to any of such Lender's 
Advances, fee or other amount; and to deliver to the Borrower requests, 
notices, demands, approvals and consents received from the Lenders. The 
Administrative Lender agrees to promptly distribute to each Lender, at such 
Lender's address set forth below information, requests, documents and 
payments received from the Borrower.  The Administrative Lender shall have no 
duties or responsibilities except those expressly set forth in this 
Agreement.  The duties of the Administrative Lender are mechanical and 
administrative in nature and the Administrative 

                                       -70-

<PAGE>

Lender shall have no fiduciary relationship in respect of any Lender by 
reason of this Agreement or any other Loan Paper.

    (b)  REPLACEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER.  Should the Administrative 
Lender or any successor Administrative Lender ever cease to be a Lender 
hereunder, or should the Administrative Lender or any successor 
Administrative Lender ever resign as Administrative Lender, or should the 
Administrative Lender or any successor Administrative Lender ever be removed 
with cause by the Determining Lenders, then the Lender appointed by the 
Determining Lenders shall forthwith become the Administrative Lender, and the 
Borrower and the Lenders shall execute such documents as any Lender may 
reasonably request to reflect such change.  If the Administrative Lender also 
then serves in the capacity of the Swing Line Bank or the Issuing Bank, such 
resignation or removal shall constitute resignation or removal of the Swing 
Line Bank and the Issuing Bank. Any resignation or removal of the 
Administrative Lender or any successor Administrative Lender shall become 
effective upon the appointment by the Determining Lenders of a successor 
Administrative Lender; provided, however, that if the Lenders fail for any 
reason to appoint a successor within 60 days after such removal or 
resignation, the Administrative Lender or any successor Administrative Lender 
(as the case may be) shall thereafter have no obligation to act as 
Administrative Lender hereunder.

    (c)  EXPENSES.  Each Lender shall pay its pro rata share, based on its 
Specified Percentage, of any expenses paid by the Administrative Lender 
directly and solely in connection with any of the Loan Papers if 
Administrative Lender does not receive reimbursement therefor from other 
sources within 60 days after the date incurred, unless payment of such fees 
is being diligently disputed by such Lender or the Borrower in good faith.  
Any amount so paid by the Lenders to the Administrative Lender shall be 
returned by the Administrative Lender pro rata to each paying Lender to the 
extent later paid by the Borrower or any other Person on the Borrower's 
behalf to the Administrative Lender.

    (d)  DELEGATION OF DUTIES.  The Administrative Lender may execute any of 
its duties hereunder by or through officers, directors, employees, attorneys 
or agents, and shall be entitled to (and shall be protected in relying upon) 
advice of counsel concerning all matters pertaining to its duties hereunder.

    (e)  RELIANCE BY ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER.  The Administrative Lender and 
its officers, directors, employees, attorneys and agents shall be entitled to 
rely and shall be fully protected in relying on any writing, resolution, 
notice, consent, certificate, affidavit, letter, cablegram, telegram, telex 
or teletype message, statement, order, or other document or conversation 
reasonably believed by it or them in good faith to be genuine and correct and 
to have been signed or made by the proper Person and, with respect to legal 
matters, upon opinions of counsel selected the Administrative Lender.  The 
Administrative Lender may, in its reasonable judgment, deem and treat the 
payee of any Note as the owner thereof for all purposes hereof.

                                       -71-
<PAGE>

    (f)  LIMITATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER'S LIABILITY.  Neither the 
Administrative Lender nor any of its officers, directors, employees, 
attorneys or agents shall be liable for any action taken or omitted to be 
taken by it or them hereunder in good faith and believed by it or them to be 
within the discretion or power conferred to it or them by the Loan Papers or 
be responsible for the consequences of any error of judgment, except for its 
or their own gross negligence or wilful misconduct.  Except as aforesaid, the 
Administrative Lender shall be under no duty to enforce any rights with 
respect to any of the Advances, or any security therefor.  After the 
occurrence of a Default or an Event of Default, the Administrative Lender 
shall not be compelled to do any act hereunder or to take any action towards 
the execution or enforcement of the powers hereby created or to prosecute or 
defend any suit in respect hereof, unless indemnified to its satisfaction 
against loss, cost, liability and expense.  The Administrative Lender shall 
not be responsible in any manner to any Lender for the effectiveness, 
enforceability, genuineness, validity or due execution of any of the Loan 
Papers, or for any representation, warranty, document, certificate, report or 
statement made herein or furnished in connection with any Loan Papers, or be 
under any obligation to any Lender to ascertain or to inquire as to the 
performance or observation of any of the terms, covenants or conditions of 
any Loan Papers on the part of the Borrower. To the extent not reimbursed by 
the Borrower, each Lender hereby severally, indemnifies and holds harmless 
the Administrative Lender, pro rata according to its Specified Percentage, 
from and against any and all liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, 
penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses and/or disbursements of 
any kind or nature whatsoever which may be imposed on, asserted against, or 
incurred by the Administrative Lender in any way with respect to any Loan 
Papers or any action taken or omitted by the Administrative Lender under the 
Loan Papers (including any negligent action of the Administrative Lender), 
except to the extent the same result from gross negligence or wilful 
misconduct by the Administrative Lender.

    (g)  LIABILITY AMONG LENDERS.  No Lender shall incur any liability (other 
than the sharing of expenses and other matters specifically set forth herein 
and in the other Loan Papers) to any other Lender, except for acts or 
omissions in bad faith or which are the result of gross negligence or wilful 
misconduct.

    (h)  RIGHTS AS LENDER.  With respect to its commitment hereunder, the 
Advances made by it and Note issued to it, the Administrative Lender shall 
have the same rights as a Lender and may exercise the same as though it were 
not the Administrative Lender, and the term "Lender" or "Lenders" shall, 
unless the context otherwise indicates, include the Administrative Lender in 
its individual capacity.  The Administrative Lender or any Lender may accept 
deposits from, act as trustee under indentures of, and generally engage in 
any kind of business with, the Borrower and any of its Affiliates, and any 
Person who may do business with or own securities of the Borrower or any of 
its Affiliates, all as if the Administrative Lender were not the 
Administrative Lender hereunder and without any duty to account therefor to 
the Lenders.

    Section 9.2    LENDER CREDIT DECISION.  Each Lender acknowledges that it 
has, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Lender or any 
other Lender and based upon the financial statements delivered to such Lender 
by the Borrower, and such other documents 

                                       - 72 -
<PAGE>

and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis 
and decision to enter into this Agreement.  Each Lender also acknowledges 
that it will, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative 
Lender or any other Lender and based upon such documents and information as 
it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own credit 
decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement and the other 
Loan Papers.

    Section 9.3    BENEFITS OF ARTICLE.  None of the provisions of this 
Article shall inure to the benefit of any Person other than Lenders; 
consequently, no Person shall be entitled to rely upon, or to raise as a 
defense, in any manner whatsoever, the failure of the Administrative Lender 
or any Lender to comply with such provisions.

                                      ARTICLE 10

                                    MISCELLANEOUS

    Section 10.1   NOTICES.

    (a)  All notices and other communications under this Agreement shall be in
writing and shall be deemed to have been given on the date personally delivered
or sent by telecopy (answerback received), or three days after deposit in the
mail, designated as certified mail, return receipt requested, postage-prepaid,
or one day after being entrusted to a reputable commercial overnight delivery
service, or one day after being delivered to the telegraph office or sent out by
telex addressed to the party to which such notice is directed at its address
determined as provided in this Section.  All notices and other communications
under this Agreement shall be given to the parties hereto at the following
addresses:

         (i)  If to the Borrower, at:

              La Quinta Inns, Inc.
              112 E. Pecan Street, Suite 1200
              San Antonio, Texas  78205
              Attn:    William C. Hammett, Jr.
                       Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer
 
         (ii) If to the Administrative Lender, at:

              NationsBank of Texas, N.A.
              901 Main Street, 67th Floor
              Dallas, Texas  75202
              Attn:    Jeffrey H. Susman
                       Senior Vice President

                                  - 73 -
<PAGE>

         (iii) If to a Lender, at its address shown below its name on the
               signature pages hereof, or if applicable, set forth in its
               Assignment Agreement.

    (b)  Any party hereto may change the address to which notices shall be
directed by giving 10 days' written notice of such change to the other parties.

    Section 10.2   EXPENSES.  The Borrower shall promptly pay:

    (a)  all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of the Administrative Lender in
connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of this
Agreement and the other Loan Papers, the transactions contemplated hereunder and
thereunder, and the making of Advances hereunder, including without limitation
the reasonable fees and disbursements of Special Counsel;

    (b)  all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees of the
Administrative Lender in connection with the administration of the transactions
contemplated in this Agreement and the other Loan Papers and the preparation,
negotiation, execution and delivery of any waiver, amendment or consent by the
Lenders relating to this Agreement or the other Loan Papers; and

    (c)  all costs, out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees of the
Administrative Lender and each Lender incurred for enforcement, collection,
restructuring, refinancing and "work-out", or otherwise incurred in obtaining
performance under the Loan Papers, and all costs and out-of-pocket expenses of
collection if default is made in the payment of the Notes, which in each case
shall include without limitation fees and expenses of consultants, counsel for
the Administrative Lender and any Lender, and administrative fees for the
Administrative Lender.

    Section 10.3   WAIVERS.  The rights and remedies of the Lenders under this
Agreement and the other Loan Papers shall be cumulative and not exclusive of any
rights or remedies which they would otherwise have.  No failure or delay by the
Administrative Lender or any Lender in exercising any right shall operate as a
waiver of such right.  The Lenders expressly reserve the right to require strict
compliance with the terms of this Agreement in connection with any funding of a
request for an Advance or the issuance of any Letter of Credit.  In the event
that any Lender decides to fund an Advance or the Issuing Bank decides to issue
a Letter of Credit at a time when the Borrower is not in strict compliance with
the terms of this Agreement, such decision by such Lender shall not be deemed to
constitute an undertaking by the Lender to fund any further requests for
Advances or the Issuing Bank to honor any further requests for Letters of Credit
or preclude the Lenders from exercising any rights available under the Loan
Papers or at law or equity.  Any waiver or indulgence granted by the Lenders
shall not constitute a modification of this Agreement, except to the extent
expressly provided in such waiver or indulgence, or constitute a course of
dealing by the Lenders at variance with the terms of the Agreement such as to
require further notice by the Lenders of the Lenders' intent to require strict
adherence to the terms of the Agreement in the future.  Any such actions shall
not in any way affect the ability of the Administrative Lender or the Lenders,
in their discretion, to exercise any rights available to 

                                      - 74 -
<PAGE>

them under this Agreement or under any other agreement, whether or not the 
Administrative Lender or any of the Lenders are a party thereto, relating to 
the Borrower.

    Section 10.4   DETERMINATION BY THE LENDERS CONCLUSIVE AND BINDING.  Any
material determination required or expressly permitted to be made by the
Administrative Lender or any Lender under this Agreement shall be made in good
faith, and shall when made, absent manifest error, be conclusive and binding on
all parties.

    Section 10.5   SET-OFF.  In addition to any rights now or hereafter granted
under Applicable Law and not by way of limitation of any such rights, upon the
occurrence of an Event of Default, each Lender and any subsequent holder of any
Note, and any assignee or participant in any Note is hereby authorized by the
Borrower at any time or from time to time, without notice to the Borrower or any
other Person, any such notice being hereby expressly waived, to set-off,
appropriate and apply any deposits (general or special (except trust and escrow
accounts), time or demand, including without limitation Debt evidenced by
certificates of deposit, in each case whether matured or unmatured) and any
other Debt at any time held or owing by such Lender or holder to or for the
credit or the account of the Borrower, against and on account of the Obligations
and other liabilities of the Borrower to such Lender or holder, irrespective of
whether or not (a) the Lender or holder shall have made any demand hereunder, or
(b) the Administrative Lender or holder shall have declared the principal of and
interest on the Advances and other amounts due hereunder to be due and payable
as permitted by Section 7.2 and although such obligations and liabilities, or
any of them, shall be contingent or unmatured.  Any sums obtained by any Lender
or by any assignee, participant or subsequent holder of any Note shall be
subject to pro rata treatment of all Obligations and other liabilities
hereunder.

    Section 10.6   ASSIGNMENT.

    (a)  The Borrower may not assign or transfer any of its rights or
obligations hereunder or under the other Loan Papers without the prior written
consent of the Lenders.

    (b)  No Lender shall be entitled to assign its interest in this Agreement,
its Notes or its Advances, except as hereinafter set forth.

    (c)  With the prior written consent of the Borrower (which consent may be
withheld for any reason or for no reason), a Lender may at any time sell
participations in all or any part of its Advances, its portion of the
Commitment, and all other interests of such Lender under this Agreement and the
other Loan Papers, including but not limited to the Letters of Credit and the
Reimbursement Obligations (collectively, "Participations") to any banks or other
financial institutions ("Participants") provided that such Participation shall
not confer on any Person (other than the parties hereto) any right to vote on,
approve or sign amendments or waivers, or any other independent benefit or any
legal or equitable right, remedy or other claim under this Agreement or any
other Loan Papers, other than the right to vote on, approve, or sign amendments
or waivers or consents with respect to items that would result in (i) any
increase in the commitment 

                                      - 75 -
<PAGE>

of any Participant; or (ii)(A) the extension of the date of maturity of, or 
(B) the extension of the due date for any payment of principal, interest or 
fees respecting, or (C) the reduction of the amount of any installment of 
principal or interest on or the change or reduction of any mandatory 
reduction required hereunder, or (D) a reduction of the rate of interest on, 
the Advances, the Letters of Credit or the Reimbursement Obligations, or 
change in Applicable Margin; or (iii) the release of security for the 
Obligations having a value in excess of a Material Amount, including without 
limitation any guarantee; or (iv) the reduction of any fees payable 
hereunder.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Borrower agrees that the 
Participants shall be entitled to the benefits of Article 8 and Section 10.5 
hereof as though they were Lenders and the Lenders may provide copies of all 
financial information received from the Borrower to such Participants.  To 
the fullest extent it may effectively do so under Applicable Law, the 
Borrower agrees that any Participant may exercise any and all rights of 
banker's lien, set-off and counterclaim with respect to this Participation as 
fully as if such Participant were the holder of the Advances in the amount of 
its Participation. Notwithstanding anything in this Section 9.6(c) to the 
contrary, a Lender may sell Participations to its affiliates without the 
prior written consent of the Borrower.

    (d)  Each Lender may assign to one or more financial institutions or 
funds organized under the laws of the United States, or any state thereof, or 
under the laws of any other country that is a member of the Organization for 
Economic Cooperation and Development, or a political subdivision of any such 
country, which is engaged in making, purchasing or otherwise investing in 
commercial loans in the ordinary course of its business (each, an "Assignee") 
its rights and obligations under this Agreement and the other Loan Papers; 
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that (i) except as otherwise provided herein, each such 
assignment shall be subject to the prior written consent of the 
Administrative Lender and the Borrower (which consent shall not be 
unreasonably withheld), (ii) each such assignment shall be of a constant, and 
not a varying, percentage of the Lender's rights and obligations under this 
Agreement, (iii) the amount of the Commitment and Advances being assigned 
pursuant to each such assignment (determined as of the date of the assignment 
with respect to such assignment) shall in no event be less than $10,000,000, 
(iv) the applicable Lender, Administrative Lender and applicable Assignee 
shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Lender an Assignment and 
Acceptance Agreement (an "Assignment Agreement") in substantially the form of 
EXHIBIT E hereto, together with the Notes subject to such assignment, and (v) 
the Assignee or the Lender executing the Assignment Agreement as the case may 
be, shall deliver to the Administrative Lender a processing fee of $3,500.  
Upon such execution, delivery and acceptance from and after the effective 
date specified in each Assignment Agreement, which effective date shall be at 
least three Business Days after the execution thereof, (A) the Assignee 
thereunder shall be party hereto and, to the extent that rights and 
obligations hereunder have been assigned to it pursuant to such Assignment 
Agreement, have the rights and obligations of a Lender hereunder and (B) the 
assigning Lender shall, to the extent that rights and obligations hereunder 
have been assigned by it pursuant to such Assignment Agreement, relinquish 
such rights and be released from such obligations under this Agreement. 
Notwithstanding anything in this clause (d) to the contrary, any Lender may 
assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to an affiliate of 
such Lender without the prior written consent of the Administrative Lender 
and the Borrower, but otherwise subject to the restrictions set forth herein.

                                      - 76 -
<PAGE>

    (e)  Notwithstanding anything in clause (d) above to the contrary, any
Lender may assign and pledge all or any portion of its Advances and Notes to any
Federal Reserve Bank as collateral security pursuant to Regulation A of F.R.S.
Board and any Operating Circular issued by such Federal Reserve Bank; provided,
however, that no such assignment under this clause (e) shall release the
assignor Lender from its obligations hereunder.

    (f)  Upon its receipt of an Assignment Agreement executed by a Lender and
an Assignee, and any Note subject to such assignment, the Borrower shall, within
three Business Days after its receipt of such Assignment Agreement, at its own
expense, execute and deliver to the Administrative Lender in exchange for the
surrendered Note a new Note to the order of such Assignee in an amount equal to
the portion of the Advances and Commitment assigned to it pursuant to such
Assignment Agreement and a new Note to the order of the assigning Lender in an
amount equal to the portion of the Advances and Commitment retained by it
hereunder.  Such new Notes shall be in an aggregate principal amount equal to
the aggregate principal amount of such surrendered Note, shall be dated the
effective date of such Assignment Agreement and shall otherwise be in
substantially the form of EXHIBIT A hereto.

    (g)  Any Lender may, in connection with any assignment or participation or
proposed assignment or participation pursuant to this Section 10.6, disclose to
the assignee or Participant or proposed assignee or participant, any information
relating to the Borrower furnished to such Lender by or on behalf of the
Borrower.

    (h)  Except as specifically set forth in this Section 10.6, nothing in this
Agreement or any other Loan Papers, expressed or implied, is intended to or
shall confer on any Person other than the respective parties hereto and thereto
and their successors and assignees permitted hereunder and thereunder any
benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or other claim under this
Agreement or any other Loan Papers.

    (i)  Notwithstanding anything in this Section 10.6 to the contrary, no
Assignee or Participant shall be entitled to receive any greater payment under
Section 2.15 or Section 8.3 than such assigning or participating Lender would
have been entitled to receive with respect to the interest assigned or
participated to such Assignee or Participant.

    Section 10.7   COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in any number
of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such
separate counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same instrument.

    Section 10.8   SEVERABILITY.  Any provision of this Agreement which is for
any reason prohibited or found or held invalid or unenforceable by any court or
governmental agency shall be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or
invalidity or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions
hereof in such jurisdiction or affecting the validity or enforceability of such
provision in any other jurisdiction.

                                      - 77 -
<PAGE>

    Section 10.9   INTEREST AND CHARGES.  It is not the intention of any 
parties to this Agreement to make an agreement in violation of the laws of 
any applicable jurisdiction relating to usury.  Regardless of any provision 
in any Loan Papers, no Lender shall ever be entitled to receive, collect or 
apply, as interest on the Obligations, any amount in excess of the Maximum 
Amount.  If any Lender or participant ever receives, collects or applies, as 
interest, any such excess, such amount which would be excessive interest 
shall be deemed a partial repayment of principal and treated hereunder as 
such; and if principal is paid in full, any remaining excess shall be paid to 
the Borrower.  In determining whether or not the interest paid or payable, 
under any specific contingency, exceeds the Maximum Amount, the Borrower and 
the Lenders shall, to the maximum extent permitted under Applicable Law, (a) 
characterize any nonprincipal payment as an expense, fee or premium rather 
than as interest, (b) exclude voluntary prepayments and the effect thereof, 
and (c) amortize, prorate, allocate and spread in equal parts, the total 
amount of interest throughout the entire contemplated term of the Obligations 
so that the interest rate is uniform throughout the entire term of the 
Obligations; provided, however, that if the Obligations are paid and 
performed in full prior to the end of the full contemplated term thereof, and 
if the interest received for the actual period of existence thereof exceeds 
the Maximum Amount, the Lenders shall refund to the Borrower the amount of 
such excess or credit the amount of such excess against the total principal 
amount of the Obligations owing, and, in such event, the Lenders shall not be 
subject to any penalties provided by any laws for contracting for, charging 
or receiving interest in excess of the Maximum Amount. This Section shall 
control every other provision of all agreements pertaining to the 
transactions contemplated by or contained in the Loan Papers.

    Section 10.10  CONFIDENTIALITY.  Each Lender and the Administrative Lender
agrees (on behalf of itself and each of its affiliates, directors, officers,
employees and representatives) to use reasonable precautions to keep
confidential, in accordance with customary procedures for handling confidential
information of this nature and in accordance with safe and sound banking
practices, any non-public information supplied to it by the Borrower pursuant to
this Agreement which is identified by the Borrower as being confidential at the
time the same is delivered to the Lenders or the Administrative Lender, provided
that nothing herein shall limit the disclosure of any such information (a) to
the extent required by statute, rule, regulation or judicial process, (b) to
counsel for any Lender or the Administrative Lender, (c) to bank examiners,
auditors or accountants of any Lender, (d) to the Administrative Lender or any
other Lender, (e) in connection with any litigation to which any one or more of
Lenders is a party, provided, further, that, unless specifically prohibited by
Applicable Law or court order, each Lender shall, prior to disclosure thereof,
notify the Borrower of any request for disclosure of any such non-public
information (i) by any governmental agency or representative thereof (other than
any such request in connection with an examination of such Lender's financial
condition by such governmental agency) or (ii) pursuant to legal process, or
(f) to any assignee or participant (or prospective assignee or participant) so
long as such assignee or participant (or prospective assignee or participant)
first executes and delivers to the respective Lender an agreement (a
"Confidentiality Agreement") in substantially the form of EXHIBIT F hereto; and
provided finally that in no event 

                                   - 78 -
<PAGE>

shall any Lender or the Administrative Lender be obligated or required to 
return any materials furnished by the Borrower.

    Section 10.11  HEADINGS.  Headings used in this Agreement are for
convenience only and shall not be used in connection with the interpretation of
any provision hereof.

    Section 10.12  AMENDMENT AND WAIVER.  The provisions of this Agreement may
not be amended, modified or waived except by the written agreement of the
Borrower and the Determining Lenders; provided, however, that no such amendment,
modification or waiver shall be made (a) without the consent of all Lenders, if
it would (i) increase the Specified Percentage or commitment of any Lender, or
(ii) extend the date of maturity of, extend the due date for any payment of
principal or interest on, reduce the amount of any installment of principal or
interest on, or reduce the rate of interest on, any Advance, the Reimbursement
Obligations or other amount owing under any Loan Papers, or (iii) release any
security for or guaranty of the Obligations (except pursuant to this Agreement),
or (iv) reduce the fees payable hereunder, or (v) revise this Section 10.12, or
(vi) waive the date for payment of any of the Obligations, or (vii) amend the
definition of Determining Lenders; or (b) without the consent of the
Administrative Lender, if it would alter the rights, duties or obligations of
the Administrative Lender.  Neither this Agreement nor any term hereof may be
amended orally, nor may any provision hereof be waived orally but only by an
instrument in writing signed by the Administrative Lender and, in the case of an
amendment, by the Borrower.

    Section 10.13  EXCEPTION TO COVENANTS.  Neither the Borrower nor any
Subsidiary shall be deemed to be permitted to take any action or fail to take
any action which is permitted as an exception to any of the covenants contained
herein or which is within the permissible limits of any of the covenants
contained herein if such action or omission would result in the breach of any
other covenant contained herein.

    Section 10.14  NO LIABILITY OF ISSUING BANK.  The Borrower assumes all
risks of the acts or omissions of any beneficiary or transferee of any Letter of
Credit with respect to its use of such Letter of Credit.  Neither the Issuing
Bank nor any Lender nor any of their respective officers or directors shall be
liable or responsible for:  (a) the use that may be made of any Letter of Credit
or any acts or omissions of any beneficiary or transferee in connection
therewith; (b) the validity, sufficiency or genuineness of documents, or of any
endorsement thereon, even if such documents should prove to be in any or all
respects invalid, insufficient, fraudulent or forged; (c) payment by the Issuing
Bank against presentation of documents that do not comply with the terms of a
Letter of Credit, including failure of any documents to bear any reference or
adequate reference to the Letter of Credit, except for any payment made upon the
Issuing Bank's gross negligence or willful misconduct; or (d) any other
circumstances whatsoever in making or failing to make payment under any Letter
of Credit, EXCEPT that the Borrower shall have a claim against the Issuing Bank,
and the Issuing Bank shall be liable to the Borrower, to the extent of any
direct, but not consequential, damages suffered by the Borrower that the
Borrower proves were caused by (i) the Issuing Bank's willful misconduct or
gross negligence in determining whether documents 

                                    - 79 -
<PAGE>

presented under any Letter of Credit comply with the terms of the Letter of 
Credit or (ii) the Issuing Bank's willful failure to make lawful payment 
under a Letter of Credit after the presentation to it of a draft and 
certificates strictly complying with the terms and conditions of the Letter 
of Credit.  In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, the 
Issuing Bank may accept documents that appear on their face to be in order, 
without responsibility for further investigation, regardless of any notice or 
information to the contrary.

    SECTION 10.15  GOVERNING LAW.  THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS 
SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE 
OF TEXAS; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 5069-15.10(B), TITLE 
79, REVISED CIVIL STATUTES OF TEXAS, 1925, AS AMENDED, IT IS AGREED THAT THE 
PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 15, TITLE 79, REVISED CIVIL STATUTES OF TEXAS, 1925, AS 
AMENDED, SHALL NOT APPLY TO THE ADVANCES, THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN 
PAPERS.  WITHOUT EXCLUDING ANY OTHER JURISDICTION, THE BORROWER AGREES THAT 
THE STATE AND FEDERAL COURTS OF TEXAS LOCATED IN DALLAS, TEXAS SHALL HAVE 
JURISDICTION OVER PROCEEDINGS IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER 
LOAN PAPERS.

    SECTION 10.16  WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.  EACH OF THE BORROWER, THE 
ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER AND THE LENDERS HEREBY KNOWINGLY VOLUNTARILY, 
IRREVOCABLY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVE, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, 
ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF 
OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OF THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS OR THE 
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND THEREBY.  THIS PROVISION IS A MATERIAL 
INDUCEMENT TO EACH LENDER ENTERING INTO THIS AGREEMENT AND MAKING ANY 
ADVANCES HEREUNDER.

    SECTION 10.17  ENTIRE AGREEMENT.  THIS WRITTEN AGREEMENT, TOGETHER WITH 
THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS, REPRESENTS THE FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND 
MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS OR SUBSEQUENT 
ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES HERETO.  THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL 
AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                        - 80 -
<PAGE>

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Credit Agreement is executed as of the date 
first set forth above.

BORROWER:                         LA QUINTA INNS, INC.


                                  By: /s/ William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                     -----------------------------------------
                                     William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                     Senior Vice President-Chief Financial
                                     Office


ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER:            NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A., as Administrative
                                  Lender


                                  By: /s/ Jeffrey H. Susman
                                     -----------------------------------------
                                     Jeffrey H. Susman
                                     Senior Vice President


LENDERS:                          NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A., as a Lender

Specified Percentage:
    12.3076923077%
                                  By: /s/ Jeffrey H. Susman
                                     -----------------------------------------
                                     Jeffrey H. Susman
                                     Senior Vice President

                                  901 Main Street, 67th Floor
                                  Dallas, Texas 75202
                                  Attn: Jeffrey H. Susman
                                        Senior Vice President



                                    - 81 -
<PAGE>

                                  BANK OF AMERICA ILLINOIS
Specified Percentage:
    10.7692307692%
                                  By: /s/ W. Thomas Barnett
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: W. Thomas Barnett
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  333 Clay Street, Suite 4550
                                  Houston, Texas 77002
                                  Attn: W. Thomas Barnett
                                        Vice President










                                    - 82 -
<PAGE>

                                  THE BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ M.D. Smith
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: M.D. Smith
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Agent
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  600 Peachtree Street N.E., Suite 2700
                                  Atlanta, Georgia 30308
                                  Attn: F.C.H. Ashby
                                        Senior Assistant Agent










                                    - 83 -
<PAGE>

                                  THE FROST NATIONAL BANK
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ Suzanne Peterson
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: Suzanne Peterson
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  100 West Houston Street
                                  San Antonio, Texas 78205
                                  Attn: Suzanne Peterson










                                    - 84 -
<PAGE>

                                  GUARANTY FEDERAL BANK, F.S.B.
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ Jim R. Hamilton
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: Jim R. Hamilton
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  1100 N.E. Loop 410
                                  San Antonio, Texas 78209
                                  Attn: Jim R. Hamilton
                                        Vice President










                                    - 85 -
<PAGE>

                                  SOCIETE GENERALE, SOUTHWEST AGENCY
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ Richard A. Gould
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: Richard A. Gould
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  1111 Bagby, Suite 2020
                                  Houston, Texas 77002
                                  Attn: Richard A. Gould
                                        Vice President










                                    - 86 -
<PAGE>

                                  TEXAS COMMERCE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ Mark V. Harris
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: Mark V. Harris
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Senior Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  1020 N.E. Loop 410
                                  San Antonio, Texas 78209
                                  Attn: Mark V. Harris
                                        Senior Vice President










                                    - 87 -
<PAGE>

                                  UNITED STATES NATIONAL BANK OF OREGON
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%
                                  By: /s/ Thomas Marks
                                     -----------------------------------------

                                     Name: Thomas Marks
                                          ------------------------------------

                                     Title: Assistant Vice President
                                           -----------------------------------

                                  555 Southwest Oak Street, Suite 400
                                  Portland, Oregon 97204
                                  Attn: Tom Marks
                                        Assistant Vice President










                                    - 88 -

<PAGE>

                                  WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.
Specified Percentage:
    7.6923076923%

                                  By:  /s/ Dana D. Cagle
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  Dana D. Cagle
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: Vice President
                                              ---------------------------- 

                                  420 Montgomery Street
                                  San Francisco, California 94104
                                  Attn:     Veronica Christian

                                  with a copy to:

                                  1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 400
                                  Dallas, Texas 75202
                                  Attn:   Dana D. Cagle
                                          Vice President

                                       -89-
<PAGE>

                                  THE FUJI BANK, LIMITED, HOUSTON AGENCY
Specified Percentage:
    4.6153846154%

                                  By:  /s/ Philip C. Lauinger
                                       ---------------------------------------
                                       Name:  Philip C. Lauinger
                                              --------------------------------
                                       Title: Vice President and Joint Manager
                                              --------------------------------

                                  1221 McKinney Street, Suite 4100
                                  Houston, Texas 77010
                                  Attn:   Greg Parten
                                          Vice President

                                       -90-
<PAGE>

                                  THE INDUSTRIAL BANK OF JAPAN, LIMITED, NEW
                                  YORK BRANCH
Specified Percentage:
    4.6153846154%

                                  By:  /s/ Kensaku Iwata
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  Kensaku Iwata
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: Senior Vice President and
                                               Deputy General Manager,
                                               Houston Office
                                              ---------------------------- 

                                  Three Allen Center, Suite 4850
                                  333 Clay Street
                                  Houston, Texas 77002
                                  Attn:    Daniel A. Davis
                                           Vice President

                                       -91-
<PAGE>


                                  THE SANWA BANK, LIMITED, DALLAS AGENCY
Specified Percentage:
    4.6153846154%

                                  By:  /s/ R. Blake Wright
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  R. Blake Wright
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: Vice President
                                              ---------------------------- 

                                  2200 Ross Avenue, Suite 4100W
                                  Dallas, Texas 75201
                                  Attn:   Blake Wright
                                          Vice President

                                       -92-
<PAGE>

                                  THE SUMITOMO BANK, LIMITED
Specified Percentage:
    4.6153846154%

                                  By:  /s/ Harumitsu Seki
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  Harumitsu Seki
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: General Manager
                                              ---------------------------- 

                                  700 Louisiana Street, Suite 1750
                                  Houston, Texas 77002
                                  Attn:     Will Rogers

                                       -93-
<PAGE>

                                  SUNTRUST BANK, ATLANTA
Specified Percentage:
    4.6153846154%

                                  By:  /s/ Jennifer Harrelson
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  Jennifer Harrelson 
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: Senior Vice President        
                                              ---------------------------- 


                                  By:  /s/ Todd C. Davis                   
                                       ----------------------------------- 
                                       Name:  Todd C. Davis   
                                              ---------------------------- 
                                       Title: Assistant Vice President    
                                              ---------------------------- 

                                  25 Park Place, 24th Floor
                                  (Mail Code 120)
                                  Atlanta, Georgia 30303
                                  Attn:    Todd C. Davis
                                           Assistant Vice President

                                       -94-
<PAGE>

                                  SCHEDULE 1

                             LIBOR LENDING OFFICES


NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A.
901 Main Street, 67th Floor
Dallas, Texas 75202


BANK OF AMERICA ILLINOIS
333 Clay Street, Suite 4550
Houston, Texas 77002


THE BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA
Atlanta Agency
600 Peachtree Street N.E., Suite 2700
Atlanta, Georgia 30308


THE FROST NATIONAL BANK
100 West Houston Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205


GUARANTY FEDERAL BANK, F.S.B.
1100 N.E. Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas 78209


SOCIETE GENERALE, SOUTHWEST AGENCY
2001 Ross Avenue, Suite 4800
Dallas, Texas 75201


TEXAS COMMERCE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
1020 N.E. Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas 78209

                                       -95-
<PAGE>

UNITED STATES NATIONAL BANK OF OREGON
111 SW Fifth Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97204


WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.
420 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, California 94104


THE FUJI BANK, LIMITED,
Houston Agency
1221 McKinney Street, Suite 4100
Houston, Texas 77010


THE INDUSTRIAL BANK OF JAPAN, LIMITED, NEW YORK BRANCH
New York Branch
245 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10167


THE SANWA BANK, LIMITED, DALLAS AGENCY
2200 Ross Avenue, Suite 4100W
Dallas, Texas 75201


THE SUMITOMO BANK, LIMITED
277 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10172


SUNTRUST BANK, ATLANTA
25 Park Place, 24th Floor
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

                                       -96-
<PAGE>

                                      EXHIBIT A

                                REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE


Dallas, Texas                       $_____________             February 7, 1997


    LA QUINTA INNS, INC., a Texas corporation (the "Borrower"), for value 
received, promises to pay to the order of ________________ ("Lender"), at the 
principal office of ___________________, in lawful money of the United States 
of America, the principal sum of _______________ DOLLARS ($_______), or such 
lesser sum as shall be due and payable from time to time hereunder, as 
hereinafter provided.  All terms used but not defined herein shall have the 
meanings set forth in the Credit Agreement described below.

    The Borrower promises to pay principal of and interest on the unpaid 
principal balance of Revolving Credit Advances under this Revolving Credit 
Note from time to time outstanding as set forth in the Credit Agreement.

    Both principal and interest are payable in lawful money of the United 
States of America to NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as Administrative Lender for 
the Lenders, at 901 Main Street, Dallas, Texas 75202, in immediately 
available funds.

    This Revolving Credit Note is issued pursuant to and evidences Revolving 
Credit Advances under the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated 
as of February 7, 1997, among the Borrower, NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as 
Administrative Lender, and the lenders parties thereto (as amended, restated, 
supplemented, renewed, extended or otherwise modified from time to time, 
"Credit Agreement"), to which reference is made for a statement of the rights 
and obligations of the Lender and the duties and obligations of the Borrower 
in relation thereto; but neither this reference to the Credit Agreement nor 
any provision thereof shall affect or impair the absolute and unconditional 
obligation of the Borrower to pay the principal sum of and interest on this 
Revolving Credit Note when due.

    The Borrower and all endorsers, sureties and guarantors of this Revolving 
Credit Note hereby severally waive demand, presentment for payment, protest, 
notice of protest, notice of acceleration, notice of intention to accelerate 
the maturity of this Revolving Credit Note, and all other notices of any 
kind, diligence in collecting, the bringing of any suit against any party and 
any notice of or defense on account of any extensions, renewals, partial 
payments or changes in any manner of or in this Revolving Credit Note or in 
any of its terms, provisions and covenants, or any releases or substitutions 
of any security, or any delay, indulgence or other act of any trustee or any 
holder hereof, whether before or after maturity.

<PAGE>

    THIS REVOLVING CREDIT NOTE, TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS, 
REPRESENTS THE FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE 
CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL 
AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES HERETO. THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS 
BETWEEN THE PARTIES.

                                  LA QUINTA INNS, INC.



                                  By:  
                                       ___________________________________
                                       Name:  William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title: Senior Vice President-Chief  
                                              Financial Officer






                                      - 2 -

<PAGE>

                                      EXHIBIT B

                                    BID RATE NOTE


U.S. $325,000,000                                      Dated:  February 7, 1997


    FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned, LA QUINTA INNS, INC., a Texas 
corporation, (the "Borrower"), HEREBY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of 
____________________ (the "Lender") the lesser of THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE 
MILLION AND NO/100 Dollars ($325,000,000) and the unpaid principal amount of 
the Bid Rate Advances (as defined in the Credit Agreement referred to below) 
made by the Lender to the Borrower pursuant to the Credit Agreement, payable 
at such times, and in such amounts, as are agreed to by the Lender and the 
Borrower pursuant to Section 2.2(i) of the Credit Agreement.

    The Borrower promises to pay interest on the unpaid principal amount of 
the Bid Rate Advances from the date made until such principal amount is paid 
in full, at such interest rates, and payable at such times, as are agreed to 
by the Lender and the Borrower pursuant to Section 2.2(i) of the Credit 
Agreement.

    Both principal and interest are payable in lawful money of the United 
States of America to NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as Administrative Lender for 
the Lender, at 901 Main Street, Dallas, Texas 75202 in immediately available 
funds.

    This Bid Rate Note is one of the Bid Rate Notes referred to in, and is 
entitled to the benefits of, the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, 
dated as of February 7, 1997, among the Borrower, the Lender and certain 
other banks parties thereto, and NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as 
Administrative Lender for the Lender and such other banks (as from time to 
time amended, modified or supplemented, the "Credit Agreement").  The Credit 
Agreement, among other things, contains provisions for acceleration of the 
maturity hereof upon the happening of certain stated events and also for 
prepayments on account of principal hereof prior to the maturity hereof upon 
the terms and conditions therein specified; but neither this reference to the 
Credit Agreement nor any provision thereof shall affect or impair the 
absolute and unconditional obligation of the Borrower to pay the principal 
sum of and interest on this Bid Rate Note when due.

    The Borrower and all endorsers, sureties and guarantors of this Bid Rate 
Note hereby severally waive demand, presentment for payment, protest, notice 
of protest, notice of acceleration, notice of intention to accelerate the 
maturity of this Bid Rate Note, and all other notices of any kind, diligence 
in collecting, the bringing of any suit against any party and any notice of 
or defense on account of any extensions, renewals, partial payments or 
changes in any manner of or in this Bid Rate Note or in any of its terms, 
provisions and covenants, or any 

<PAGE>

releases or substitutions of any security, or any delay, indulgence or other 
act of any trustee or any holder hereof, whether before or after maturity.

    THIS BID RATE NOTE, TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS, REPRESENTS THE
FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF
PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES HERETO. 
THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.

                                  LA QUINTA INNS, INC.




                                  By:  
                                       -------------------------------------
                                       William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Senior Vice President-Chief Financial
                                       Officer








                                          - 2 -


<PAGE>

                                      EXHIBIT C

                                   SWING LINE NOTE

U.S. $10,000,000.00                                    Dated:  February 7, 1997


    FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned, LA QUINTA INNS, INC., a Texas 
corporation (the "Borrower"), HEREBY PROMISES TO PAY to the order of 
NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A. (the "Swing Line Bank") for the account of its 
Lending Office (as defined in the Credit Agreement referred to below) the 
lesser of TEN MILLION AND NO/100 Dollars ($10,000,000) and the unpaid 
principal amount of the Swing Line Advances (as defined in the Credit 
Agreement referred to below) made by the Swing Line Bank to the Borrower 
pursuant to the Credit Agreement, payable at such times, and in such amounts, 
as are specified in the Credit Agreement.

    The Borrower promises to pay interest on the unpaid principal amount of 
the Swing Line Advances from the date made until such principal amount is 
paid in full, at such interest rates, and payable at such times, as are 
specified in the Credit Agreement.

    Both principal and interest are payable in lawful money of the United 
States of America to NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as Administrative Lender for 
the Swing Line Bank, at NationsBank Plaza, 901 Main Street, Dallas, Texas 
75202 in immediately available funds.

    This Swing Line Note is the Swing Line Note referred to in, and is 
entitled to the benefits of, the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, 
dated as of February 7, 1997, among La Quinta Inns, Inc., the Swing Line Bank 
and certain other banks parties thereto, and NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as 
Administrative Lender for the Swing Line Bank and such other banks (as from 
time to time amended, modified or supplemented, the "Credit Agreement").  The 
Credit Agreement, among other things, contains provisions for acceleration of 
the maturity hereof upon the happening of certain stated events and also for 
prepayments on account of principal hereof prior to the maturity hereof upon 
the terms and conditions therein specified; but neither this reference to the 
Credit Agreement nor any provision thereof shall affect or impair the 
absolute and unconditional obligation of the Borrower to pay the principal 
sum of and interest on their Swing Line Note when due.

    The Borrower and all endorsers, sureties and guarantors of this Swing 
Line Note hereby severally waive demand, presentment for payment, protest, 
notice of protest, notice of acceleration, notice of intention to accelerate 
the maturity of this Swing Line Note, and all other notices of any kind, 
diligence in collecting, the bringing of any suit against any party and any 
notice of or defense on account of any extensions, renewals, partial payments 
or changes in any manner of or in this Swing Line Note or in any of its 
terms, provisions and covenants, or any 

<PAGE>

releases or substitutions of any security, or any delay, indulgence or other 
act of any trustee or any holder hereof, whether before or after maturity.

    THIS SWING LINE NOTE, TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS, REPRESENTS THE
FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF
PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES HERETO. 
THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.

                                  LA QUINTA INNS, INC.



                                  By:  
                                       -------------------------------------
                                       William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Senior Vice President-Chief Financial
                                       Officer

<PAGE>

                                      EXHIBIT D

                                      GUARANTY


    This Guaranty, dated as of February 7, 1997 (this "GUARANTY"), is made by
the entities listed on the signature pages hereof (all such entities being
collectively called the "GUARANTORS").


                                     BACKGROUND.

    1.   La Quinta Inns, Inc., a Texas corporation ("COMPANY"), NationsBank of
Texas, N.A., as Administrative Lender ("ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER") on behalf of
NationsBank of Texas, N.A. and each other lender, and each other lender (singly,
a "LENDER" and collectively, the "LENDERS") have entered into the First Amended
and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 7, 1997 (as hereafter
amended or otherwise modified from time to time, the "CREDIT AGREEMENT").  The
capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings specified in
the Credit Agreement.

    2.   Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, Company may, subject to the terms of
the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Papers, request that Lenders make
Advances and issue, or participate in the issuance of, Letters of Credit.

    3.   It is a condition precedent to the obligation of Lenders to make such
Advances  and issue, or participate in the issuance of, Letters of Credit that
Guarantors guarantee repayment thereof upon the terms and conditions set forth
herein.

    4.   In the case of each Guarantor which is a corporation, the Board of
Directors of each such Guarantor, and in the case of each Guarantor which is a
partnership or joint venture, the Board of Directors of each corporation which
is a partner or a joint venturer of such Guarantor, have determined that the
execution, delivery, and performance of this Guaranty is necessary and
convenient to the conduct, promotion, and attainment of such Guarantor's
business and that such Guaranty may reasonably be expected to benefit, directly
or indirectly, such Guarantor.

    5.   Guarantors desire to induce Lender to make such Advances and issue, or
participate in the issuance of, Letters of Credit.


                                      AGREEMENT.

    Now, therefore, in consideration of the premises and in order to induce
Lenders to make Advances and issue, or participate in the issuance of, Letters
of Credit under the Credit 

<PAGE>

Agreement, Guarantors agree as follows:

    1.   GUARANTY.

         (a)  Each Guarantor, jointly and severally, hereby unconditionally and
    irrevocably guarantees the punctual payment of, and promises to pay, when
    due, whether at stated maturity, by mandatory prepayment, by acceleration
    or otherwise, all obligations, indebtedness and liabilities, and all
    rearrangements, renewals and extensions of all or any part thereof, of
    Company or any other Obligor now or hereafter arising from, by virtue of or
    pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Notes, any other Loan Paper, and any
    and all renewals and extensions thereof, or any part thereof, or future
    amendments thereto, whether for principal, interest (including, without
    limitation, interest, fees and other charges that would accrue or become
    owing both prior to and subsequent to and but for the commencement of any
    proceeding against or with respect to Company or any other Obligor under
    any chapter of the Bankruptcy Code of 1978, 11 U.S.C. Section 101 ET SEQ.
    whether or not a claim is allowed for the same in any such proceeding),
    premium, fees, commissions, expenses or otherwise (such obligations being
    the "OBLIGATION"), and agrees to pay any and all reasonable expenses
    (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) incurred in enforcement or
    collection of all or any part thereof, whether such obligations,
    indebtedness and liabilities are direct, indirect, fixed, contingent,
    joint, several or joint and several, and any rights under this Guaranty.

         (b)  Anything contained in this Guaranty to the contrary
    notwithstanding, the obligations of each Guarantor hereunder shall be
    limited to a maximum aggregate amount equal to the largest amount that
    would not render its obligations hereunder subject to avoidance as a
    fraudulent transfer or conveyance under Section 548 of Title 11 of the
    United States Code or any applicable provisions of comparable state law
    (collectively, the "FRAUDULENT TRANSFER LAWS"), in each case after giving
    effect to all other liabilities of Guarantor, contingent or otherwise, that
    are relevant under the Fraudulent Transfer Laws (specifically excluding,
    however, any liabilities of such Guarantor in respect of intercompany
    indebtedness to Company, other Affiliates of Company or other Obligors to
    the extent that such indebtedness would be discharged in an amount equal to
    the amount paid by such Guarantor hereunder) and after giving effect as
    assets, subject to PARAGRAPH 4(A) hereof, to the value (as determined under
    the applicable provisions of Fraudulent Transfer Laws) of any rights to
    subrogation or contribution of such Guarantor pursuant to (i) Applicable
    Law or (ii) any agreement providing for an equitable allocation among such
    Guarantor and other Obligors of obligations arising under guaranties by
    such parties.

    2.   GUARANTY ABSOLUTE.  Each Guarantor guarantees that the Obligation will
be paid strictly in accordance with the terms of the Credit Agreement, the
Notes, and the other Loan Papers, regardless of any Applicable Law, regulation
or order now or hereafter in effect in any jurisdiction affecting any of such
terms or the rights of Administrative Lender or any Lender with 

                                     - 2 -
<PAGE>

respect thereto; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, nothing contained in this Guaranty shall 
require any Guarantor to make any payment under this Guaranty in violation of 
any Applicable Law, regulation or order now or hereafter in effect.  The 
obligations and liabilities of each Guarantor hereunder are independent of 
the obligations of Company under the Credit Agreement and of the obligations 
of each other Obligor under each other Loan Paper and any Applicable Law.  
The liability of each Guarantor under this Guaranty shall be absolute and 
unconditional irrespective of:

         (a)  the taking or accepting of any other security or guaranty for any
    or all of the Obligation;

         (b)  any increase, reduction or payment in full at any time or from
    time to time of any part of the Obligation, including any increase,
    reduction or termination of the Commitment;

         (c)  any lack of validity or enforceability of the Credit Agreement,
    the Notes, or any other Loan Paper or other agreement or instrument
    relating thereto, including but not limited by the unenforceability of all
    or any part of the Obligation by reason of the fact that (i) the
    Obligation, and/or the interest paid or payable with respect thereto,
    exceeds the amount permitted by Applicable Law, (ii) the act of creating
    the Obligation, or any part thereof, is ULTRA VIRES, (iii) the officers
    creating same acted in excess of their authority, or (iv) for any other
    reason;

         (d)  any lack of corporate, partnership or other power of Company, any
    Obligor or any other Person;

         (e)  any Debtor Relief Law involving Company, any Guarantor, any
    Obligor or any other Person;

         (f)  any renewal, compromise, extension, acceleration or other change
    in the time, manner or place of payment of, or in any other term of, all or
    any of the Obligation; any adjustment, indulgence, forbearance, or
    compromise that may be granted or given by any Lender or Administrative
    Lender to Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor; or any other
    modification, amendment, or waiver of or any consent to departure from the
    Credit Agreement, the Notes, or any other Loan Paper or other agreement or
    instrument relating thereto without notification of any Guarantor (the
    right to such notification being herein specifically waived by each
    Guarantor);

         (g)  any exchange, release, sale, subordination, or non-perfection of
    any collateral or Lien thereon or any lack of validity or enforceability or
    change in priority, destruction, reduction, or loss or impairment of value
    of any collateral or Lien thereon;

                                     - 3 -
<PAGE>

         (h)  any release or amendment or waiver of or consent to departure
    from any other guaranty for all or any of the Obligation;

         (i)  the failure by any Lender or Administrative Lender to make any
    demand upon or to bring any legal, equitable, or other action against
    Company or any other Person (including without limitation any Guarantor or
    any other Obligor), or the failure or delay by any Lender or Administrative
    Lender to, or the manner in which any Lender or Administrative Lender
    shall, proceed to exhaust rights against any direct or indirect security
    for the Obligation;

         (j)  the existence of any claim, defense, set-off, or other rights
    which Company or Guarantor may have at any time against Company, any
    Lender, Administrative Lender, any Guarantor or any other Obligor, or any
    other Person, whether in connection with this Guaranty, the Loan Papers,
    the transactions contemplated thereby, or any other transaction;

         (k)  any failure of any Lender or Administrative Lender to notify any
    Guarantor of any renewal, extension, or assignment of the Obligation or any
    part thereof, or the release of any security, or of any other action taken
    or refrained from being taken by any Lender or Administrative Lender, it
    being understood that Lenders and Administrative Lender shall not be
    required to give any Guarantor any notice of any kind under any
    circumstances whatsoever with respect to or in connection with the
    Obligation;

         (l)  any payment by Company to any Lender or Administrative Lender is
    held to constitute a preference under any Debtor Relief Law or if for any
    other reason any Lender or Administrative Lender is required to refund such
    payment or pay the amount thereof to another Person; or

         (m)  any other circumstance which might otherwise constitute a defense
    available to, or a discharge of, Company, any Guarantor or any other
    Obligor, including without limitation any defense by reason of any
    disability or other defense of Company, or the cessation from any cause
    whatsoever of the liability of Company, or any claim that Guarantor's
    obligations hereunder exceed or are more burdensome than those of Company
    or any other Obligor.

This Guaranty shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may
be, if at any time any payment of any of the Obligation is rescinded or must
otherwise be returned by any Lender or any other Person upon the insolvency,
bankruptcy or reorganization of Company, any Guarantor, any other Obligor or
otherwise, all as though such payment had not been made.

    3.   WAIVER.  To the extent not prohibited by Applicable Law, each
Guarantor hereby waives:  (a) promptness, protest, diligence, presentments,
acceptance, performance, demands for performance, notices of nonperformance,
notices of protest, notices of dishonor, notices of 

                                     - 4 -
<PAGE>

acceptance of this Guaranty and notices of the existence, creation or 
incurrence of new or additional indebtedness, and any of the events described 
in SECTION 2 and of any other occurrence or matter with respect to any of the 
Obligation, this Guaranty or any of the other Loan Papers; (b) any 
requirement that Administrative Lender or any Lender protect, secure, 
perfect, or insure any Lien or security interest or any property subject 
thereto or exhaust any right or take any action against Company, any 
Guarantor, any other Obligor or any other Person or any collateral or pursue 
any other remedy in Administrative Lender's or any Lender's power whatsoever; 
(c) any right to assert against Administrative Lender or any Lender as a 
counterclaim, set-off or cross-claim, any counterclaim, set-off or claim 
which it may now or hereafter have against Administrative Lender, any Lender, 
Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor; (d) any right to seek or enforce 
any remedy or right that Administrative Lender or any Lender now has or may 
hereafter have against Company, any Guarantor, any other Obligor or any other 
Person (to the extent permitted by Applicable Law); (e) any right to 
participate in any collateral or any right benefiting Administrative Lender 
or Lenders in respect of the Obligation; and (f) any right by which it might 
be entitled to require suit on an accrued right of action in respect of any 
of the Obligation or require suit against Company, any Guarantor, any other 
Obligor or any other Person, whether arising pursuant to Section 34.02 of the 
Texas Business and Commerce Code, as amended, Section 17.001 of the Texas 
Civil Practice and Remedies Code, as amended, Rule 31 of the Texas Rules of 
Civil Procedure, as amended, or otherwise.

    4.   SUBROGATION AND SUBORDINATION.

    (a)  Notwithstanding any reference to subrogation contained herein to the
contrary, each Guarantor hereby irrevocably waives any claim or other rights
which it may have or hereafter acquire against Company or any other Obligor that
arise from the existence, payment, performance or enforcement of such
Guarantor's obligations under this Guaranty, including, without limitation, any
right of subrogation, reimbursement, exoneration, contribution, indemnification,
any right to participate in any claim or remedy of any Lender or Administrative
Lender against Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor or any collateral
which any Lender or Administrative Lender now has or hereafter acquires, whether
or not such claim, remedy or right arises in equity, or under contract, statutes
or common law, including without limitation, the right to take or receive from
Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor, directly or indirectly, in cash or
other property or by set-off or in any other manner, payment or security on
account of such claim or other rights.  If any amount shall be paid to any
Guarantor in violation of the preceding sentence and the Obligation shall not
have been paid in full, such amount shall be deemed to have been paid to such
Guarantor for the benefit of, and held in trust for the benefit of, Lenders, and
shall forthwith be paid to Administrative Lender to be credited and applied upon
the Obligation, whether matured or unmatured, in accordance with the terms of
the Credit Agreement.  Each Guarantor acknowledges that it will receive direct
and indirect benefits from the financing arrangements contemplated by the Credit
Agreement and that the waiver set forth in this PARAGRAPH 4(A) is knowingly made
in contemplation of such benefits.

                                     - 5 -
<PAGE>

    (b)  If any Guarantor becomes the holder of any indebtedness payable by
Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor, such Guarantor hereby subordinates
all indebtedness owing to it from Company, any Guarantor and each other Obligor
to all indebtedness of Company, any Guarantor and each other Obligor to Lenders
and Administrative Lender, and agrees that upon the occurrence and continuance
of a Default or an Event of Default, it shall not accept any payment on the same
until final payment in full of the obligations of Company under the Credit
Agreement, the Notes and all other Loan Papers, and shall in no circumstance
whatsoever attempt to set-off or reduce any obligations hereunder because of
such indebtedness.  If any amount shall nevertheless be paid to such Guarantor
by Company, any Guarantor or any other Obligor prior to payment in full of the
Obligation, such amount shall be held in trust for the benefit of Lenders and
Administrative Lender and shall forthwith be paid to Administrative Lender to be
credited and applied to the Obligation, whether matured or unmatured.

    5.   REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.  Each Guarantor hereby represents and
warrants that all representations and warranties as they apply to such Guarantor
only set forth in ARTICLE 4 of the Credit Agreement (each of which is hereby
incorporated by reference) are true and correct.  Furthermore, each Guarantor
represents that it is Solvent.

    6.   COVENANTS.  Each Guarantor hereby expressly assumes, confirms, and
agrees to perform, observe, and be bound by all conditions and covenants set
forth in the Credit Agreement, to the extent applicable to it, as if it were a
signatory thereto.  Each Guarantor further covenants and agrees (a) punctually
and properly to perform all of such Guarantor's covenants and duties under all
other Loan Papers; (b) from time to time promptly to furnish Administrative
Lender with any information or writings which Administrative Lender may request
concerning this Guaranty; and (c) promptly to notify Administrative Lender of
any claim, action, or proceeding affecting this Guaranty.

    7.   AMENDMENTS, ETC.  No amendment or waiver of any provision of this
Guaranty nor consent to any departure by any Guarantor therefrom shall in any
event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by such
Guarantor, Administrative Lender, and, either all Lenders or Determining
Lenders, as appropriate, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only
in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.

    8.   ADDRESSES FOR NOTICES.  Unless otherwise provided herein, all notices,
requests, consents and demands shall be in writing and shall be delivered by
hand or overnight courier service, mailed or sent by telecopy to the respective
addresses specified herein, or, as to any party, to such other addresses as may
be designated by it in written notice to all other parties.  All notices,
requests, consents and demands hereunder shall be deemed to have been given on
the date of receipt if delivered by hand or overnight courier service or sent by
telecopy, or if mailed, effective on the earlier of actual receipt or three days
after being mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid,
addressed as aforesaid.

                                     - 6 -
<PAGE>

    9.   NO WAIVER; REMEDIES.  No failure on the part of Administrative Lender
or any Lender to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right hereunder or
under any of the Loan Papers shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any
single or partial exercise of any right hereunder or under any of the Loan
Papers preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any
other right.  Neither Administrative Lender nor any Lender shall be required to
(a) prosecute collection or seek to enforce or resort to any remedies against
Company, any Guarantor, any other Obligor or any other Person, (b) join Company,
any Guarantor, any other Obligor or any other Person in any action in which
Administrative Lender or any Lender prosecutes collection or seeks to enforce or
resort to any remedies against Company, any Guarantor, any other Obligor or any
other Person liable on any of the Obligation, or (c) seek to enforce or resort
to any remedies with respect to any Liens granted to (or benefiting, directly or
indirectly) Administrative Lender or any Lender by Company, any Guarantor, any
other Obligor or any other Person.  Neither Administrative Lender nor any Lender
shall have any obligation to protect, secure or insure any of the Liens or the
properties or interests in properties subject thereto.  The remedies herein
provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by Applicable
Law.

    10.  RIGHT OF SET-OFF.  Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of 
any Event of Default, each Lender and Administrative Lender is hereby 
authorized at any time and from time to time, to the fullest extent permitted 
by Law, to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time 
or demand, provisional or final) at any time held and other indebtedness at 
any time owing by such Lender or Administrative Lender to or for the credit 
or the account of any Guarantor against any and all of the obligations of 
such Guarantor now or hereafter existing under this Guaranty, irrespective of 
whether or not such Lender or Administrative Lender shall have made any 
demand under this Guaranty. Each Lender and Administrative Lender agrees 
promptly to notify such Guarantor after any such set-off and application, 
provided that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity 
of such set-off and application or provide a defense to such Guarantor's 
obligations under this Guaranty.  The rights of each Lender and 
Administrative Lender under this SECTION 10 are in addition to other rights 
and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set-off) which 
such Lender and Administrative Lender may have.

    11.  LIENS.  To the extent not prohibited by Applicable Law, each Guarantor
agrees that Administrative Lender or any Lender, in its discretion, without
notice or demand and without affecting either the liability of such Guarantor,
Company, any other Guarantor or any other Obligor, or any security interest or
other Lien, may foreclose any deed of trust or mortgage or similar Lien covering
interests in real or personal property, and the interests in real or personal
property secured thereby, by nonjudicial sale.  Each Guarantor waives any
defense to the recovery by Administrative Lender or any Lender hereunder against
Company, such Guarantor or any collateral of any deficiency after a nonjudicial
sale and each Guarantor expressly waives any defense or benefits that may be
derived from Chapter 34 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, Section 51.003
of the Texas Property Code, or any similar statute in effect in any other
jurisdiction.  Without limiting the foregoing, each Guarantor waives, to the
extent not prohibited by Applicable Law, any defense arising out of any such
nonjudicial sale even though such sale 

                                     - 7 -
<PAGE>

operates to impair or extinguish any right of reimbursement or subrogation or 
any other right or remedy of such Guarantor against Company, any other 
Guarantor or any other Person or any Collateral or any other collateral.  
Each Guarantor agrees that such Guarantor is liable, subject to the 
limitations of SECTION 1 hereof, for any part of the Obligation remaining 
unpaid after any foreclosure.

    12.  CONTINUING GUARANTY; TRANSFER OF NOTES.  This Guaranty is an
irrevocable continuing guaranty of payment and shall (a) remain in full force
and effect until final payment in full (after the Maturity Date) of the
Obligation and all other amounts payable under this Guaranty, (b) be binding
upon each Guarantor, its successors and assigns, and (c) inure to the benefit of
and be enforceable by Lender and Administrative Lender and their successors,
transferees and assigns.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing
CLAUSE (C), to the extent permitted by the Credit Agreement, each Lender may
assign or otherwise transfer its rights under the Credit Agreement, the Notes or
any of the Loan Papers or any interest therein to any other Person, and such
other Person shall thereupon become vested with all the rights or any interest
therein, as appropriate, in respect thereof granted to such Lender herein or
otherwise.

    13.  INFORMATION.  Each Guarantor acknowledges and agrees that it shall
have the sole responsibility for obtaining from Company and each other Obligor
such information concerning Company's and each Obligor's financial condition or
business operations as such Guarantor may require, and that neither
Administrative Lender nor any Lender has any duty at any time to disclose to
Guarantor any information relating to the business operations or financial
conditions of Company or any Obligor.

    14.  GOVERNING LAW.  THIS GUARANTY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS.  WITHOUT EXCLUDING ANY OTHER
JURISDICTION, EACH GUARANTOR AGREES THAT THE STATE AND FEDERAL COURTS OF TEXAS
LOCATED IN DALLAS, TEXAS, SHALL HAVE JURISDICTION OVER PROCEEDINGS IN CONNECTION
HEREWITH.  THIS GUARANTY IS PERFORMABLE IN DALLAS COUNTY, TEXAS.

    15.  WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.  EACH GUARANTOR, ADMINISTRATIVE LENDER, AND
LENDERS HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY, IRREVOCABLY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVE, TO
THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION,
PROCEEDING OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS GUARANTY OR ANY OF THE
LOAN PAPERS OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED THEREBY.  THIS PROVISION IS A
MATERIAL INDUCEMENT TO LENDER ENTERING INTO THE CREDIT AGREEMENT.

    16.  RATABLE BENEFIT.  This Guaranty is for the ratable benefit of Lenders
and Administrative Lender, each of which shall share any proceeds of this
Guaranty pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement.

                                     - 8 -
<PAGE>

    17.  GUARANTOR INSOLVENCY.  Should any Guarantor become insolvent, fail to
pay its debts generally as they become due, voluntarily seek, consent to, or
acquiesce in the benefits of any Debtor Relief Law or become a party to or be
made the subject of any proceeding provided for by any Debtor Relief Law (other
than as a creditor or claimant) that could suspend or otherwise adversely affect
the rights of any Lender or Administrative Lender granted hereunder, then, the
obligations of such Guarantor under this Guaranty shall be, as between such
Guarantor and such Lender and Administrative Lender, a fully-matured, due, and
payable obligation of such Guarantor to such Lender and Administrative Lender
(without regard to whether Company or any other Obligor is then in default under
the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Paper or whether any part of the
Obligation is then due and owing by Company or any other Obligor to such Lender
or Administrative Lender), payable in full by such Guarantor to such Lender or
Administrative Lender upon demand, which shall be the estimated amount owing in
respect of the contingent claim created hereunder.

    18.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such
separate counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same instrument.

    19.  ENTIRE AGREEMENT.  THIS GUARANTY, TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER LOAN PAPERS,
REPRESENTS THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY
EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES
HERETO.  THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS AMONG THE PARTIES.


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                                     - 9 -


<PAGE>

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each Guarantor has caused this Guaranty to be duly
executed and delivered by its officer thereunto duly authorized as of the date
first above written.

                             LA QUINTA REALTY CORP.



                             By:  
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name:  John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LA QUINTA PLAZA, INC.



                             By:  
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name:  John F. Schmutz 
                                  Title: Vice President-Secretary
Address for all Guarantors:

112 East Pecan Street, Suite 1200
San Antonio, Texas 78205
                             LA QUINTA FINANCIAL CORPORATION



                             By:  
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name:  John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LA QUINTA INVESTMENTS, INC.



                             By:                                        
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name:  John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Vice President-Secretary


                                      - 10 -
<PAGE>

                             LQI ACQUISITION CORPORATION



                             By:                       
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name: John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Authorized Representative


                             LA QUINTA MOTOR INNS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

                             By:  La Quinta Realty Corp., its General Partner



                             By:                                   
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name: John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LQ-BATON ROUGE JOINT VENTURE

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Managing General
                                  Partner



                             By:                               
                                  --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer



                                      - 11 -

<PAGE>

                             LQM OPERATING PARTNERS, L.P.

                             By:  La Quinta Realty Corp., its General Partner



                                  By:                                        
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LQ-BIG APPLE JOINT VENTURE

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Partner



                                  By:                                        
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., its Partner



                                  By:                                 
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary




                                        - 12 -
<PAGE>

                             LQ-EAST IRVINE JOINT VENTURE

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Partner



                                  By:                                     
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., its Partner



                                  By:                                      
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LQ-INVESTMENTS I

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Managing General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                        
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., a General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                  
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary

                                      - 13 -
<PAGE>

                             LQ-INVESTMENTS II

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Managing General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                 
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., a General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                        
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary


                             LA QUINTA INNS OF LUBBOCK, INC.



                             By:                                
                                 --------------------------------------
                                 Name: John F. Schmutz
                                 Title: Secretary


                             LA QUINTA INNS OF PUERTO RICO, INC.



                             By:                                           
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name: John F. Schmutz
                                  Title: Secretary


                                  - 14 -
<PAGE>

                             LA QUINTA DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, L.P.

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Sole General
                                  Partner



                             By:                                 
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                  Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                            Financial Officer


                             LQ MOTOR INN VENTURE-AUSTIN NO. 530

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., a General Partner



                                  By:                                    
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., a General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                  
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name:  John F. Schmutz
                                       Title: Vice President-Secretary




                                     - 15 -
<PAGE>

                             LA QUINTA SAN ANTONIO SOUTH JOINT VENTURE

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., a General Partner



                                  By:                                   
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


                             By:  La Quinta Investments, Inc., a General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                                  
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: John F. Schmutz
                                       Title:    Vice President-Secretary
 
                             LA QUINTA DENVER - PEORIA STREET, LTD.

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its General Partner







                                            - 16 -
<PAGE>

                                  By:                              
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer


 
                             LQ-LNL LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

                             By:  La Quinta Inns, Inc., its Managing General
                                  Partner



                                  By:                             
                                       --------------------------------------
                                       Name: William C. Hammett, Jr.
                                       Title:    Senior Vice President-Chief
                                                 Financial Officer









                                         - 17 -
<PAGE>

                                      EXHIBIT E

                              ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE

                             Dated _______________, 199__

    Reference is made to the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated
as of February 7, 1997 (the "Credit Agreement") among La Quinta Inns, Inc., a
Texas corporation ("Borrower"), NationsBank of Texas, N.A. as Administrative
Lender ("Administrative Lender"), and the lenders parties thereto.  Terms
defined in the Credit Agreement are used herein with the same meaning.

      ___________________ ("Assignor") and ___________________ ("Assignee") 
agree as follows:

    1.   Assignor hereby sells and assigns to Assignee, and Assignee hereby 
purchases and assumes from Assignor, a __% interest in and to all of 
Assignor's rights and obligations under the Credit Agreement as of the 
Effective Date (as defined below), with respect to such percentage interest 
in Assignor's Commitment as in effect on the Effective Date, the principal 
amount of Revolving Credit Advances owing to Assignor on the Effective Date, 
and the Revolving Credit Note held by Assignor, and Assignor's participation 
in any Letters of Credit and Reimbursement Obligations outstanding on the 
Effective Date, subject to the terms and conditions of this Assignment and 
Acceptance.

    2.   Assignor (a) represents and warrants that (i) as of the date hereof 
its Commitment (without giving effect to assignments thereof which have not 
yet become effective) is $________ and, as of the date hereof, the 
outstanding principal amount of the Revolving Credit Advances owing to it 
(without giving effect to assignments thereof which have not yet become 
effective) is $________, (ii) it is the legal and beneficial owner of the 
interest being assigned by it hereunder and that such interest is free and 
clear of any adverse claim; (b) makes no representation or warranty and 
assumes no responsibility with respect to (i) any statements, warranties, or 
representations made in or in connection with the Credit Agreement or the 
execution, legality, validity, enforceability, genuineness, sufficiency, or 
value of the Credit Agreement or any other instrument or document furnished 
pursuant thereto or (ii) the financial condition of the Borrower or the 
performance or observance by the Borrower of any of its obligations under the 
Credit Agreement or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant 
thereto; and (c) attaches the Revolving Credit Note referred to in Paragraph 
1 above to exchange such Revolving Credit Note for new Revolving Credit Notes 
as follows:  a Revolving Credit Note dated ______________, 199   , in the 
principal amount of $________ payable to the order of Assignee, and a 
Revolving Credit Note dated _______________, 199__, in the principal amount 
of $________ payable to the order of Assignor.

    3.   Assignee (a) confirms that it has received a copy of the Credit
Agreement and the other Loan Papers, together with copies of the financial
statements referred to in Sections 6.1(a) and 6.1(b) of the Credit Agreement and
such other documents and information as it has deemed 

<PAGE>

appropriate to make its own credit analysis and decision to enter into this 
Assignment and Acceptance; (b) agrees that it will, independently and without 
reliance upon the Administrative Lender, Assignor, or any other Lender, and 
based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate at the 
time, continue to make its own credit decisions in taking or not taking 
action under the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Papers; (c) appoints and 
authorizes the Administrative Lender to take such action as agent on its 
behalf and to exercise such powers under the Credit Agreement, the other Loan 
Papers, and this Assignment and Acceptance as are delegated to the 
Administrative Lender by the terms thereof and hereof, together with such 
powers as are reasonably incidental thereto and hereto; (d) agrees that it 
will perform in accordance with its terms all of the obligations which by the 
terms of the Credit Agreement, the other Loan Papers, and this Assignment and 
Acceptance are required to be performed by it as a Lender; [and] (e) 
specifies the addresses set forth in Schedule I attached hereto as its 
address for the receipt of notices and as its initial LIBOR Lender Office, 
respectively[; and (f) attaches the forms prescribed by the IRS certifying 
as to Assignee's status for purposes of determining exception from United 
States withholding taxes with respect to all payments to be made to Assignee  
under the Credit Agreement, the other Loan Papers, and this Assignment and 
Acceptance or such other documents as are necessary to indicate that all such 
payments are subject to such taxes at a rate reduced by an applicable tax 
treaty].

    4.   The effective date for this Assignment and Acceptance shall be 
_____________, 199__ (the "Effective Date").

    5.   Upon such acceptance as of the Effective Date and upon the remittance
of a $3,500 processing fee to the Administrative Lender, (a) Assignee shall be a
party to the Credit Agreement and, to the extent provided in this Assignment and
Acceptance, have the rights and obligations of a Lender thereunder and
(b) Assignor shall, to the extent provided in this Assignment and Acceptance,
relinquish its rights and be released from its obligations under the Credit
Agreement.

    6.   Upon such acceptance from and after the Effective Date, whenever the
Administrative Lender shall receive a payment, or whenever the Administrative
Lender shall make an application of funds, in respect of any aggregate
outstanding principal amount of the Revolving Credit Advances or in respect of
any aggregate amount of interest accrued on the Revolving Credit Advances, or in
respect of the commitment fee (other than a payment or an application of funds
in respect of any amount due and owing to any Lender or the Administrative
Lender under Sections 2.9, 5.22, 8.3, 8.5, or 10.2 of the Credit Agreement), the
Administrative Lender shall pay over to each of the Lenders an amount equal to
(i) such Lender's Pro Rata Share (as defined below) of such aggregate amount of
principal, (ii) such Lender's Pro Rata Share of such aggregate amount of
interest, and (iii) such Lender's Pro Rata Share of such aggregate amount of the
commitment fee.

    The "Pro Rata Share" of any aggregate amount means, with respect to such
Lender, the amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying (i) such
aggregate amount and (ii) a fraction, the numerator of which is such Lender's
Commitment, or after the Revolving Credit Advances 

                                     - 2 - 
<PAGE>

have been made, the principal amount of the Revolving Credit Advances owing 
to such Lender and the denominator of which is the sum of the Commitments of 
all of the Lenders, or after the Revolving Credit Advances have been made, 
the aggregate principal amount of the Revolving Credit Advances owing to all 
of the Lenders.

    7.   In the event that, after the Administrative Lender has paid to any
Lender its Pro Rata Share of any such payment received by the Administrative
Lender or any such application made by the Administrative Lender, such payment
or application is rescinded or must otherwise be returned or must be paid over
by the Administrative Lender for any reason, such Lender shall, upon notice by
the Administrative Lender, forthwith pay back to the Administrative Lender such
Lender's Pro Rata Share of the amount so rescinded or so returned or paid over.

    8.   This Assignment and Acceptance shall be governed by and construed in 
accordance with the laws of the State of Texas and the United States of 
America. Without excluding any other jurisdiction, Assignee agrees that the 
courts of Texas will have jurisdiction over proceedings in connection 
herewith.

    9.   Assignee's Specified Percentage shall be ___%.

    10.  This Assignment and Acceptance may be executed in any number of 
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such 
separate counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same 
instrument.

                                  [NAME OF ASSIGNOR]



                                  By:                                   
                                       ---------------------------------
                                       Name:                            
                                             ---------------------------
                                       Title:                           
                                             ---------------------------


                                  [NAME OF ASSIGNOR]



                                  By:                                   
                                       ---------------------------------
                                       Name:                            
                                             ---------------------------
                                       Title:                           
                                             ---------------------------



                                       - 3 -
<PAGE>

Accepted this ___ day of ____________, 199___

NATIONSBANK OF TEXAS, N.A.,
as Administrative Lender



By: 
    ---------------------------------
    Name:
           --------------------------
    Title:                        
           --------------------------


LA QUINTA INNS, INC.



By: 
    ---------------------------------
    Name:
           --------------------------
    Title:                        
           --------------------------








                                     - 4 -
<PAGE>
 
                                      Schedule I

                                  ASSIGNEE'S ADDRESS
                                  ------------------


1.  ADDRESS FOR THE ADVANCES AND RECEIPT OF NOTICES





2.  INITIAL LIBOR LENDING OFFICE








                                          - 5 -

<PAGE>
                                      EXHIBIT F

                         [Form of Confidentiality Agreement]

                              CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

                                                                        [Date]


[Insert Name and Address
of Prospective Participant
or Assignee]

    Re:  First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 7, 
         1997, among La Quinta Inns, Inc. (the "Borrower"), the Lenders a party 
         thereto, and NationsBank of Texas, N.A., as Administrative Lender.

Dear ______________:

    As a Lender party to the above-referenced Credit Agreement (the "CREDIT 
AGREEMENT"; capitalized terms used herein shall have the same meaning given 
to them in the Credit Agreement), we have agreed with the Borrower pursuant 
to Section 10.10 of the Credit Agreement to use reasonable precautions to 
keep confidential, except as otherwise provided therein, all non-public 
information identified by the Borrower as being confidential at the time the 
same is delivered to us pursuant to the Credit Agreement.

    As provided in said Section 10.10, we are permitted to provide you, as a 
prospective [PARTICIPANT] [ASSIGNEE], with certain of such non-public 
information subject to the execution and delivery by you, prior to receiving 
such non-public information, of a Confidentiality Agreement in this form.  
Such information will not be made available to you until your execution and 
return to us of this Confidentiality Agreement.

    Accordingly, in consideration of the foregoing, you agree (on behalf of 
yourself and each of your affiliates, directors, officers, employees and 
representatives) that (A) such information will not be used by you except in 
connection with the proposed [PARTICIPATION] [ASSIGNMENT] mentioned above and 
(B) you shall use reasonable precautions, in accordance with your customary 
procedures for handling confidential information and in accordance with safe 
and sound banking practices, to keep such information confidential, provided 
that nothing herein shall limit the disclosure of any such information (i) to 
the extent required by statute, rule, regulation or judicial process, (ii) to 
your counsel or to counsel for any of the Lenders or the Administrative 
Lender, (iii) to bank examiners, auditors or accountants of any of the 
Lenders, (iv) to the Administrative Lender, or any other Lender, (v) in 
connection with any litigation to which you or any one or more of the Lenders 
are a party; provided, further, that, unless specifically prohibited by 


<PAGE>

___________, 199__
Page 2


Applicable Law or court order, you agree, prior to disclosure thereof, to 
notify the Borrower of any request for disclosure of any such non-public 
information (x) by any governmental agency or representative thereof (other 
than any such request in connection with an examination of your financial 
condition by such governmental agency) or (y) pursuant to legal process; and 
provided, finally, that in no event shall you be obligated to return any 
materials furnished to you pursuant to this Confidentiality Agreement. 

    Would you please indicate your agreement to the foregoing by signing at 
the place provided below the enclosed copy of this Confidentiality Agreement.

                                  Very truly yours,



                                  ------------------------------------------
                                  By:
                                     ---------------------------------------
                                  Title:
                                        ------------------------------------

THE FOREGOING IS AGREED TO AS
OF THE DATE OF THIS LETTER.

- -------------------------------



By:
   ----------------------------
    Name:                    
         ----------------------
    Title:                       
          ---------------------






<PAGE>

                                                                      EXHIBIT 11
                                       
                               EARNINGS PER SHARE


                                              Years Ended December 31
                                    -----------------------------------------
                                        1996           1995           1994
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Earnings before income taxes 
 and extraordinary items.........   $96,379,000    $82,994,000    $61,991,000
Income taxes.....................    35,660,000     31,620,000     24,176,000
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Earnings before extraordinary 
 items...........................    60,719,000     51,374,000     37,815,000
Extraordinary items, net of 
 income taxes....................      (524,000)      (717,000)            --
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Net earnings.....................    60,195,000     50,657,000     37,815,000
Conversion of partner's interest 
 into common stock...............            --    (46,364,000)            --
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Net earnings available to 
 shareholders....................   $60,195,000     $4,293,000    $37,815,000
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Weighted average common and 
 common equivalent shares, 
 as restated.....................    80,949,000     77,966,000     72,936,000
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------

Earnings per common and common 
 equivalent share:
 Earnings after conversion of 
  partner's interest into common
  stock and before extraordinary 
  items..........................   $       .75    $       .07    $       .52
 Extraordinary  items, net of 
  income taxes...................          (.01)          (.01)            --
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
 Net earnings available to 
  shareholders...................   $       .74    $       .06    $       .52
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
Weighted average common 
 shares-assuming full dilution, 
 as restated.....................    81,003,000     78,030,000     73,031,000
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
 Earnings after conversion of 
  partner's interest into common 
  stock and before extraordinary 
  items  change..................   $       .75    $       .07    $       .52
 Extraordinary items, net of 
  income taxes...................          (.01)          (.01)            --
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
 Net earnings available to 
  shareholders...................   $       .74    $       .06    $       .52
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------
                                    -----------    -----------    -----------


<PAGE>

                                                                     EXHIBIT 12

                                 LA QUINTA INNS, INC.

                  COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
                            (in thousands, except ratios)

<TABLE>
                                                              Years Ended December 31,
                                             -------------------------------------------------------
                                               1996         1995        1994        1993       1992
                                             -------       ------      ------      ------     ------
<S>                                         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Earnings (loss) before income taxes, 
 extraordinary items and cumulative 
 effect of accounting change (1). . . . . . $  96,379   $  82,994   $  61,991   $ 31,836   $ (7,270)

Partners' equity in earnings. . . . . . . .     1,499      10,227      11,406     12,965     15,081

Partners' equity in earnings of combined 
 unincorporated ventures that do not 
 have fixed charges . . . . . . . . . . . .      (770)     (1,854)     (1,577)    (1,652)    (1,504)

Fixed charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    48,983      42,797      40,814     32,477     34,270
Interest capitalized. . . . . . . . . . . .    (5,429)     (1,313)       (889)        --        (50)
Amortization of capitalized interest. . . .       893         803         772        799        799
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Earnings as adjusted. . . . . . . . . . . . $ 141,555   $ 133,654   $ 112,517   $ 76,425   $ 41,326
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Fixed charges:
   Interest on long-term debt . . . . . . . $  47,897   $  41,734   $  39,749   $ 31,366   $ 33,137
   Portion of rental expense allocated 
    to interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     1,086       1,063       1,065      1,111      1,133
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
       Total fixed charges. . . . . . . . . $  48,983   $  42,797   $  40,814   $ 32,477   $ 34,270
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Ratio of earnings to fixed  charges . . . .       2.9x        3.1x        2.8x       2.4x       1.2x
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
</TABLE>

(1)  The Years Ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 include a non-cash provision 
     for premature retirement of assets totaling $18,076 and $12,630, 
     respectively.


<PAGE>

                                                               EXHIBIT 21


                         SUBSIDIARIES OF LA QUINTA INNS, INC.
                                   ("THE COMPANY")
                               AS OF JANUARY 31, 1997


The Company has eight (8) active wholly-owned corporate subsidiaries which are:


1. La Quinta Financial Corporation, a Texas corporation;
2. La Quinta Realty Corp., a Texas corporation;
3. La Quinta Investments, Inc., a Delaware corporation;
4. LQI Acquisition Corporation, a Delaware corporation;
5. La Quinta Plaza, a Texas corporation;
6. La Quinta Inns de Mexico S.A. de C.V., a Mexico corporation;
7. La Quinta Inns of Lubbock, Inc., a Texas Corporation; and
8. La Quinta Inns, Inc. of Puerto Rico, Inc. a Delaware corporation.

The following are wholly-owned partnerships of the Company as of January 31, 
1997.

La Quinta Development Partners, L.P.
LQ-LNL Limited Partnership 
LQM Operating Partners, L.P. 
La Quinta Denver-Peoria Street, Ltd.
LQ-Big Apple Joint Venture 
LQ-East Irvine Joint Venture 
La Quinta Motor Inns, Limited Partnership 
LQ Investments I 
LQ Investments II
La Quinta - San Antonio South Joint Venture
LQ Motor Inn Venture - Austin No. 530 

The following are unincorporated partnerships and joint ventures (general and 
limited partnerships) of the Company as of January 31, 1997.

                                                 Percentage of
                                                 Ownership of
               Entity                             the Company
               ------                            -------------
La Quinta-Wichita, Kansas No. 532, Ltd.               50%
LQ-West Bank Joint Venture 1982                       60%


The Company is the sole general partner or managing partner of all of the 
partnerships listed above.



<PAGE>


                                                                EXHIBIT 23



                           CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS




The Board of Directors
La Quinta Inns, Inc.:

We consent to incorporation by reference in the registration statements 
(No. 33-26470, No. 2-97266, No. 2-67606, No. 33-55102, No. 33-58866 and 
No. 333-00309) of La Quinta Inns, Inc. of our report dated January 31, 
1997, except for note 16, which is as of February 26, 1997, relating to 
the combined balance sheets of La Quinta Inns, Inc. as of December 31, 
1996 and 1995, and the related combined statements of operations, 
shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the 
three-year period ended December 31, 1996.



                                       KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP

San Antonio, Texas
February 27, 1997





<PAGE>

                                   POWER OF ATTORNEY


   The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN F. SCHMUTZ, IRENE C. 
PRIMERA AND WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR., and each of them, his true and lawful 
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and 
resubstitution, for him in his name, place and stead, in any and capacities, 
to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
1996 of La Quinta Inns, Inc. and any or all amendments thereto and to file 
same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorney-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each 
and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the 
premises, as fully to all intents and purposes that they might or could do in 
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and 
agents, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be 
done by virtue hereof.

                                        /s/ THOMAS M. TAYLOR
                                        ---------------------------
                                            Thomas M. Taylor 

Dated:  February 6, 1997  






<PAGE>

                                  POWER OF ATTORNEY


   The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN F. SCHMUTZ, IRENE C. 
PRIMERA AND WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR., and each of them, his true and lawful 
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and 
resubstitution, for him in his name, place and stead, in any and capacities, 
to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
1996 of La Quinta Inns, Inc. and any or all amendments thereto and to file 
same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorney-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each 
and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the 
premises, as fully to all intents and purposes that they might or could do in 
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and 
agents, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be 
done by virtue hereof.

                                    /s/ WILLIAM C. CUNNINGHAM  
                                    ------------------------------
                                        William C. Cunningham  

Dated:  February 2, 1997 




<PAGE>

                                  POWER OF ATTORNEY 


   The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN F. SCHMUTZ, IRENE C. 
PRIMERA AND WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR., and each of them, his true and lawful 
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and 
resubstitution, for him in his name, place and stead, in any and capacities, 
to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
1996 of La Quinta Inns, Inc. and any or all amendments thereto and to file 
same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorney-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each 
and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the 
premises, as fully to all intents and purposes that they might or could do in 
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and 
agents, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be 
done by virtue hereof.

                                            /s/ WILLIAM RAZZOUK   
                                            ------------------------------
                                                William Razzouk  

Dated:  February 6, 1997   



<PAGE>

                                 POWER OF ATTORNEY 


   The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN F. SCHMUTZ, IRENE C. 
PRIMERA AND WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR., and each of them, his true and lawful 
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and 
resubstitution, for him in his name, place and stead, in any and capacities, 
to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
1996 of La Quinta Inns, Inc. and any or all amendments thereto and to file 
same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorney-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each 
and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the 
premises, as fully to all intents and purposes that they might or could do in 
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and 
agents, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be 
done by virtue hereof.

                                        /s/ PETER STERLING
                                        ----------------------------
                                            Peter Sterling 

Dated:  February 6, 1997  






<PAGE>


                                 POWER OF ATTORNEY  


   The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints JOHN F. SCHMUTZ, IRENE C. 
PRIMERA AND WILLIAM C. HAMMETT, JR., and each of them, his true and lawful 
attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and 
resubstitution, for him in his name, place and stead, in any and capacities, 
to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
1996 of La Quinta Inns, Inc. and any or all amendments thereto and to file 
same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, 
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said 
attorney-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each 
and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the 
premises, as fully to all intents and purposes that they might or could do in 
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and 
agents, or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be 
done by virtue hereof.

                                            /s/ KENNETH T. STEVENS  
                                            ------------------------------
                                                Kenneth T. Stevens  

Dated:  February 6, 1997 







<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE COMBINED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN
ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                           1,508
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   21,738
<ALLOWANCES>                                     1,901
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                37,733
<PP&E>                                       1,440,895
<DEPRECIATION>                                 292,705
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               1,199,800
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          141,971
<BONDS>                                        659,369
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                         8,427
<OTHER-SE>                                     357,149
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                 1,199,800
<SALES>                                              0
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               443,059
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  218,738
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                66,181
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   899
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              42,468
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 96,379
<INCOME-TAX>                                    35,660
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             60,719
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                  (524)
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    60,195
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .74
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .74
        

</TABLE>


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