HANCOCK HOLDING CO
S-4/A, 1994-11-30
STATE COMMERCIAL BANKS
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<PAGE>   1

   As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 2, 1994
   
                                                   Registration Number: 33-56285
    
================================================================================

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            Washington, D.C.  20549   

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

   
                              Amendment No. 1 to
    
                                    Form S-4
                          Registration Statement Under
                           The Securities Act of 1933 

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

                            Hancock Holding Company
             (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                              <C>
           MISSISSIPPI                          6022                                64-0693170
(State or other jurisdiction of     (Primary Standard Industrial     (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
incorporation or organization)       Classification Code Number)
</TABLE>
                                           
                      ONE HANCOCK PLAZA, 2510 14TH STREET
                          GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI  39501
                                 (601) 868-4000
         (Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including
            area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)

                              CHARLES A. WEBB, JR.
                      ONE HANCOCK PLAZA, 2510 14TH STREET
                          GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI  39501
                                 (601) 868-4000
           (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER,
                   INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)

                                   Copies to:

           CARL J. CHANEY, ESQ.                   ALAN JACOBS, ESQ.
        HEIDELBERG & WOODLIFF, P.A.           MCGLINCHEY STAFFORD LANG
          POST OFFICE BOX 23040            2777 STEMMONS FREEWAY, SUITE 925
        125 SOUTH CONGRESS STREET               DALLAS, TEXAS 75207
        JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39225                (214) 634-3939
              (601) 948-3800

        APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED OFFERING: As soon as
practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

        If securities being registered on this Form are to be offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with
General Instruction G, check the following box.  ( )

                        CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=======================================================================================================
Title of each class       Amount            Proposed maximum       Proposed maximum         Amount of
 of securities to          to be           offering price per     aggregate offering       registration
   be registered        registered                unit                  price **               fee
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                   <C>                           <C>               <C>                   <C>
Common Stock,
$3.33 par value. . .  774,251 shares                *                 $6,841,473.00         $2,359.15
=======================================================================================================
</TABLE>

*Not applicable.
**Estimated solely for purposes of determining the amount of the registration
fee in accordance with Rule 457(f)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933.

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

     The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or
dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration
Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of
the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become
effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.

================================================================================
           Index to Exhibits appears on sequential page number _____.
<PAGE>   2
                            HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY

  Cross-Reference Sheet Showing the Location in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement
           of Information Required by Part I of Form S-4 Pursuant to
                         Item 501(b) of Regulation S-K

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         Item                                               Prospectus/Proxy Statement Heading or Location
         ----                                               ----------------------------------------------
<S>      <C>                                                <C>
1.       Forepart of Registration Statement and             Forepart of Registration Statement; Outside Front
         Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus             Cover Page of Prospectus

2.       Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages of       Inside Front Cover Page of Prospectus; Available
         Prospectus                                         Information; Table of Contents

3.       Risk Factors, Ratio of Earnings to Fixed           Summary
         Charges and Other Information

4.       Terms of the Transaction                           Summary; General Information; Information Concerning the Merger;
                                                            Comparative Rights of Shareholders

5.       Pro Forma Financial Information                    Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements

6.       Material Contacts with the Company Being           Summary; Information Concerning the Merger
         Acquired

7.       Additional Information Required for Reoffering     Not Applicable
         by Persons and Parties Deemed to be
         Underwriters

8.       Interest of Named Experts and Counsel              Not Applicable

9.       Disclosure of Commission Position on               Not Applicable
         Indemnification for Securities Act Liabilities

10.      Information with Respect to S-3 Registrants        Not Applicable

11.      Incorporation of Certain Information by            Not Applicable
         Reference

12.      Information with Respect to S-2 or S-3             Documents Incorporated by Reference; Summary;
         Registrants                                        Certain Information Concerning HHC

13.      Incorporation of Certain Information by            Documents Incorporated by Reference
         Reference

14.      Information with Respect to Registrants Other      Not Applicable
         than S-2 or S-3 Registrants

15.      Information with Respect to S-3 Companies          Not Applicable
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   3
<TABLE>
<S>      <C>                                                <C>
16.      Information with Respect to S-2 or S-3             Not Applicable
         Companies

17.      Information with Respect to Companies Other        Summary; Selected Financial Data of the Company
         than S-2 or S-3 Companies                          and HHC; Stock Prices and Dividends of the Company; Certain Information
                                                            Concerning the Company; Index to Financial Statements

18.      Information if Proxies, Consents, or               Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders; Summary;
         Authorizations are to be Solicited                 Purpose of the Special Meeting; Solicitation, Voting and Revocation of
                                                            Proxies; Shares Entitled to Vote; Quorum; Vote Required; Information
                                                            Concerning the Merger; Certain Information Concerning the Company;
                                                            Documents Incorporated by Reference

19.      Information if Proxies, Consents, or               Not Applicable
         Authorizations are not to be Solicited or
         in an Exchange Offer
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   4
                            (THE COMPANY LETTERHEAD)

   
                               December 6, 1994
    


To Our Shareholders:

   
         You are cordially invited to attend a Special Meeting of Shareholders
of First Denham Bancshares, Inc., a Louisiana corporation (the "Company"), to
be held at the First National Bank of Denham Springs, Annex Building, 523
Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, on January 11, 1995, at 5:00 p.m., 
Central time.
    

         At this meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a
proposal to approve and adopt an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, and a
related Merger Agreement (collectively, the "Merger Agreement"), pursuant to
which (a) the Company will be merged with and into Hancock Holding Company, a
Mississippi corporation ("HHC") (the "Merger"); (b) each outstanding share of
the Company's common stock will be converted into the right to receive 17.13667
shares of HHC common stock and $88.761758 in cash; and (c) each outstanding
share of preferred stock, $22.24 par value, of the Company will be converted
into the right to receive $22.24, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, all in
accordance with the Merger Agreement.  Unless you dissent from the Merger, your
Company common stock will be converted into HHC common stock on a tax-free
basis, except to the extent you receive cash.

   
         Details of the proposed transaction are set forth in the accompanying
Prospectus/Proxy Statement, which you should read carefully.  Only those
shareholders of record at the close of business on December 2, 1994, will be
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting.
    

         Your Board of Directors unanimously recommends your approval of the
Merger Agreement and related Merger.  Among the factors considered by your
Board in recommending the Merger were the financial terms of the Merger
Agreement, the liquidity it will afford the Company's shareholders, and the
likelihood and potential adverse impact of increased competition for the
Company in its market area if the Company remains independent.  For these
reasons, your Board of Directors believes that the proposed Merger Agreement
and related Merger is in the best interests of the Company and its
shareholders, and urges that you vote "FOR" the proposed Merger by signing,
dating and returning the enclosed form of proxy promptly, whether or not you
plan to attend the Special Meeting.  The prompt return of your signed proxy,
regardless of the number of shares you hold, will assist the Company in
reducing the expense of additional proxy solicitation.  Your proxy may be
revoked at any time prior to the vote at the Special Meeting by notice to the
Secretary of the Company or by execution and delivery of a subsequently dated
proxy.  If you attend the Special Meeting you may, if you wish, revoke your
proxy and vote in person on all matters brought before the Special Meeting.

                                        Very truly yours,



                                        Robert E. Easterly
                                        President
<PAGE>   5
                         FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.
                               523 Florida Avenue
                                 P.O. Box 1559
                     Denham Springs, Louisiana  77027-1559
                                 (504) 664-6153

                   NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

   
         Notice is hereby given that a Special Meeting of Shareholders of First
Denham Bancshares, Inc., a Louisiana corporation (the "Company"), will be held
at the First National Bank of Denham Springs, Annex Building, 523 Florida
Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, on January 11, 1995, at 5:00 p.m., Central 
time:
    

         1.      To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and adopt an
Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, and a related Merger Agreement
(collectively, the "Merger Agreement"), pursuant to which (a) the Company will
be merged (the "Merger") with and into Hancock Holding Company, a Mississippi
corporation ("HHC"); (b) each outstanding share of the Company's common stock
will be converted into the right to receive 17.13667 shares of HHC common stock
and $88.761758 in cash; and (c) each outstanding share of the Company's
preferred stock will be converted into the right to receive $22.24 in cash,
plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, all in accordance with the Merger
Agreement; and

         2.      To transact such other business as may properly come before
the meeting and any adjournment thereof.

   
         Only those shareholders of record at the close of business on December
2, 1994 will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the special meeting.
    

         DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS WHO COMPLY WITH THE PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS OF
THE BUSINESS CORPORATION LAW OF LOUISIANA WILL BE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE PAYMENT
OF THE FAIR CASH VALUE OF THEIR SHARES OF COMMON STOCK IF THE MERGER IS
EFFECTED UPON APPROVAL BY LESS THAN 80 PERCENT OF THE TOTAL VOTING POWER OF THE
COMPANY.

                                        BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,



                                        Ruben R. Spillman, Sr.
                                        Secretary

Denham Springs, Louisiana
   
December 2, 1994
    

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES THAT YOU OWN.  EVEN
IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING, PLEASE DATE AND SIGN THE ENCLOSED
PROXY CARD AND RETURN IT PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE, WHICH REQUIRES NO
POSTAGE.  YOUR PROXY MAY BE REVOKED AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO THE VOTE AT THE
SPECIAL MEETING BY NOTICE TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY OR BY EXECUTION AND
DELIVERY OF A SUBSEQUENTLY DATED PROXY.  IF YOU ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING, YOU
MAY WITHDRAW YOUR PROXY AND VOTE IN PERSON.
<PAGE>   6
                PROXY STATEMENT OF FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.

                        Special Meeting of Shareholders
   
                        to be held on January 11, 1995
    
                   ________________________________________

                     PROSPECTUS OF HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY

   
                        774,251 Shares of Common Stock
    
                               ($3.33 Par Value)

   
         Hancock Holding Company, a Mississippi corporation ("HHC"), has filed
a Registration Statement on Form S-4 to register 774,251 shares of HHC's
common stock, $3.33 par value ("HHC Common Stock"), under the Securities Act of
1933 ("Securities Act") to be issued in connection with a proposed merger of
First Denham Bancshares, Inc., a Louisiana corporation (the "Company" or
"FDB"), with and into HHC (the "Merger").
    

         This document constitutes a Proxy Statement of the Company in
connection with the transactions described herein and a Prospectus of HHC with
respect to the shares of HHC Common Stock to be issued if the Merger is
consummated.

         NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT IN CONNECTION
WITH THE OFFERING DESCRIBED HEREIN AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR
REPRESENTATION SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY HHC OR
THE COMPANY.  THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO
SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO PURCHASE NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF
THE SECURITIES OFFERED BY THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT IN ANY JURISDICTION
IN WHICH, OR TO ANY PERSON TO WHOM, IT WOULD BE UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH OFFER,
SOLICITATION, OR SALE.  NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT
NOR ANY OFFER OR SALE MADE HEREUNDER NOR ANY DISTRIBUTION OF THE SECURITIES TO
WHICH THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT RELATES SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES,
IMPLY THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF HHC OR THE COMPANY SINCE
THE DATE HEREOF.             
                   ________________________________________
                                       
         THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ("SEC") OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION
NOR HAS THE SEC OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT.  ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
                   ________________________________________

         THE SECURITIES OFFERED HEREBY ARE NOT DEPOSITS, SAVINGS ACCOUNTS OR
OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF A DEPOSITORY INSTITUTION AND ARE NOT INSURED BY THE
FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY OR
INSTRUMENTALITY.

   
         The date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement is December 2, 1994.
    
<PAGE>   7
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION

         HHC is subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities and
Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"), and in accordance therewith files
reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.  Copies of such
reports, proxy statements and other information can be obtained, at prescribed
rates, from the SEC by addressing written requests for such copies to the
Public Reference Section of the SEC at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Judiciary Plaza,
Washington, D.C.  20549.  In addition, such reports, proxy statements and other
information can be inspected at the public reference facilities referred to
above and at the regional offices of the SEC at 7 World Trade Center, Suite
1300, New York, New York  10048 and Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West
Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois  60661.

         This Prospectus/Proxy Statement constitutes part of the Registration
Statement on Form S-4 of HHC (including any exhibits and amendments thereto,
the "Registration Statement") filed with the SEC under the Securities Act
relating to the shares of HHC common stock offered hereby.  This
Prospectus/Proxy Statement does not include all of the information and
undertakings in the Registration Statement and exhibits thereto.  For further
information about HHC and the shares of common stock offered hereby, reference
is made to the Registration Statement and exhibits thereto.  Statements
contained in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement as to the contents of any contract
or other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and in each
instance reference is made to a copy of such contract or other document filed
as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, each such statement being
qualified in all respects by such reference.  The Registration Statement may be
inspected and copied, at prescribed rates, at the SEC's public reference
facilities at the addresses set forth above.

   
         THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT INCORPORATES DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
WHICH ARE NOT PRESENTED HEREIN OR DELIVERED HEREWITH.  THESE DOCUMENTS ARE
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST, WITHOUT CHARGE FROM CHARLES A. WEBB, JR., CORPORATE
SECRETARY, HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY, ONE HANCOCK PLAZA, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI
39501 (601) 868-4000.  IN ORDER TO ENSURE TIMELY DELIVERY OF THE DOCUMENTS, ANY
REQUEST SHOULD BE MADE BY JANUARY 4, 1995.  SEE "DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY
REFERENCE."
    

                      DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

         The following documents previously filed with the SEC by HHC pursuant
to the Exchange Act are hereby incorporated by reference:

         1.      HHC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                 December 31, 1993.

         2.      The Proxy Statement of HHC for its Annual Meeting of
                 Shareholders held on February 24, 1994.

         3.      HHC's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
                 March 31, 1994.

         4.      HHC's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June
                 30, 1994.

         5.      HHC's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
                 September 30, 1994.

         6.      All other reports filed by HHC pursuant to Section 13(a) or
                 15(d) of the Exchange Act, since December 31, 1993.

         All documents filed by HHC pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or
15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and
prior to final adjournment of the Special Meeting, shall be deemed to be
incorporated by reference into this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and to be a part
hereof from the date of filing of such documents.  Any statement contained in
any document incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein
shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for purposes of this
Prospectus/Proxy Statement to the extent that a statement contained herein or
in any subsequently filed document which also is, or is deemed to be
incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such statement.  Any
statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed to constitute a part of
this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, except as so modified or superseded.  The
audited financial statements of HHC incorporated herein by reference should
only be read in conjunction with the discussion of consummated and pending
acquisitions set forth under the caption "CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING HHC."





                                       ii
<PAGE>   8
         The consolidated financial statements HHC for the years ended December
31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 incorporated herein by reference from HHC's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1993 have not been
restated to reflect the acquisition of First State Bank and Trust Company of
East Baton Rouge Parish, Baker, Louisiana ("First State Bank") in April 1994
because First State Bank was not deemed to be a significant subsidiary.





                                      iii
<PAGE>   9
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                  <C>
SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
         THE COMPANIES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
         BANK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
         THE SPECIAL MEETING  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
         PURPOSE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
         VOTE REQUIRED  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
         RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
         BASIS FOR THE TERMS OF THE MERGER  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
         OPINION OF NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   3
         CONVERSION OF FDB STOCK  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   3
         EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   3
         REGULATORY APPROVALS AND OTHER CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   4
         WAIVER, AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   4
         INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   5
         EMPLOYEE BENEFITS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   5
         MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6
         DISSENTERS' RIGHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6
         SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR THE COMPANY AND HHC  . . . . . . . . . . .   6
         COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA (UNAUDITED) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6
         RECENT STOCK PRICES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6
         EFFECT OF THE MERGER ON RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   7
         RESALES OF HHC COMMON STOCK BY AFFILIATES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
         ACCOUNTING TREATMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
                                                                                              
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
         INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
         PURPOSE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
         SOLICITATION, VOTING AND REVOCATION OF PROXIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8
         SHARES ENTITLED TO VOTE, QUORUM, AND VOTE REQUIRED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9
                                                                                              
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9
         GENERAL  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9
         BACKGROUND OF AND REASONS FOR MERGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  10
         OPINION OF NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
         CONVERSION OF FDB STOCK  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
         EFFECTIVE DATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15
         EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15
         REGULATORY APPROVALS AND OTHER CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16
         CONDUCT OF BUSINESS PRIOR TO THE EFFECTIVE DATE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  18
         WAIVER, AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  18
         INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  19
         EMPLOYEE BENEFITS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
         EXPENSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
         STATUS UNDER FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS; CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON RESALES OF SECURITIES  . . .  20
         ACCOUNTING TREATMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
                                                                                              
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
                                                                                              
DISSENTERS' RIGHTS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  22
                                                                                              
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  24
                                                                                              
CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE COMPANY  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
</TABLE>





                                       iv
<PAGE>   10
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                 <C>
         PRINCIPAL BUSINESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
         COMPETITION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
         SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS AND CUSTOMERS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
         EMPLOYEES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
         PROPERTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
         LEGAL PROCEEDINGS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
         STOCK PRICES AND DIVIDENDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
         SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS AND MANAGEMENT  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
                                                                                  
FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF             
                  FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
         FOR THE NINE MONTH PERIODS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1994 AND 1993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
         FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  34
                                                                                  
CERTAIN STATISTICAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39
                                                                                  
MANAGEMENT OF THE COMPANY AND BANK  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
         BOARD OF DIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
         EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
         EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF BANK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
         EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  50
         COMPENSATION PURSUANT TO PLANS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  50
         TRANSACTIONS WITH MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
                                                                                  
CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING HHC  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
         GENERAL  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
         MERGER AND ACQUISITION HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
         TRANSFER AGENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
         INDEMNIFICATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
         CHANGES IN CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
         ADDITIONAL INFORMATION   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
                                                                                  
COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
         DIRECTORS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
         AMENDMENT OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
         AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
         CUMULATIVE VOTING  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
         PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
         REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
                                                                                  
LEGAL MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
                                                                                  
EXPERTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
                                                                                  
OTHER MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
                                                                                  
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1
                                                                                  
APPENDIX A -- AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
                                                                                  
APPENDIX B -- NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION FAIRNESS OPINION   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
                                                                                  
APPENDIX C -- EXCERPTS FROM Section 131 OF THE LOUISIANA BUSINESS CORPORATION LAW . . . . . . . . . C-1
</TABLE>





                                       v
<PAGE>   11

                                    SUMMARY

         The following is a brief summary of certain information contained
elsewhere in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.  The summary is necessarily
incomplete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to detailed
information contained elsewhere herein, the appendices hereto and the documents
incorporated herein by reference.  Shareholders are urged to read carefully all
such material.

THE COMPANIES

         Hancock Holding Company.  HHC is a bank holding company chartered,
organized and existing under and pursuant to the laws of the State of
Mississippi with its principal executive office located at One Hancock Plaza,
Gulfport, Mississippi  39501.  The telephone number of HHC's principal
executive office is (601) 868-4000.  HHC owns all of the issued and outstanding
common stock of Hancock Bank of Louisiana ("Hancock Bank"), a state bank
chartered, organized and existing under and pursuant to the laws of the State
of Louisiana and maintaining its principal place of business in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana.  HHC also owns all of the issued and outstanding common stock of
Hancock Bank ("Hancock Bank MS"), a state bank chartered, organized and
existing under and pursuant to the laws of the State of Mississippi and
maintaining its principal place of business in Gulfport, Mississippi.  HHC was
organized on April 6, 1984, for the purpose of becoming a bank holding company
under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, (the "BHC Act") and
acquiring all the stock of Hancock Bank MS.  At September 30, 1994, HHC had
total consolidated assets of approximately $2.0 billion and shareholders equity
of approximately $166.3 million.  Of HHC's $2.0 billion in assets as of
September 30, 1994, approximately $0.6 billion were in Louisiana and
approximately $1.4 billion were in Mississippi.

         First Denham Bancshares, Inc.  FDB is a Louisiana corporation
organized on October 8, 1979 for the purpose of becoming a bank holding company
under the BHC Act and acquiring all of the stock of First National Bank of
Denham Springs ("Bank").  At September 30, 1994, the Company had total
consolidated assets of approximately $109.3 million and shareholders' equity of
approximately $10.9 million.  The Company's principal executive office is
located at 523 Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, and its telephone
number is (504) 665-6153.  See "CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE COMPANY."

BANK

         Bank, a nationally chartered bank organized on May 18, 1964, is a
wholly-owned subsidiary of FDB.  Bank provides traditional consumer and
commercial deposit and loan services to the individuals, families and
businesses in Livingston Parish, Louisiana.  Bank's services are delivered
through a network of seven full service locations, including a main office in
Denham Springs and six branches.  In addition to traditional bank services,
Bank offers mortgage loans, VISA/Mastercard and trust services.  At September
30, 1994, Bank had total assets of approximately $109.2 million and total
deposits of approximately $98.7 million.  Bank's principal executive office is
located at 523 Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana and its telephone
number is (504) 665-6153.  See "CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE COMPANY."

THE SPECIAL MEETING

   
         A special meeting of shareholders of the Company will be held at the
offices of the First National Bank of Denham Springs Annex Building, 523
Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, on January 11, 1995, at 5:00 p.m., 
Central time (the "Special Meeting").  Only holders of record of the common 
stock, $10.00 par value, of the Company ("FDB Common Stock") on December 2, 
1994 (the "Record Date") are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special 
Meeting.  On the Record Date, there were 45,181 shares of FDB Common Stock 
outstanding.
    





                                       1
<PAGE>   12
PURPOSE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING

         The purpose of the Special Meeting is to consider and vote upon a
proposal to approve and adopt an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, and a
related Merger Agreement (collectively, the "Merger Agreement"), pursuant to
which (a) the Company will be merged with and into HHC; (b) each outstanding
share of FDB Common Stock will be converted into the right to receive 17.13667
shares of HHC common stock, $3.33 par value ("HHC Common Stock") and $88.761758
in cash; and (c) each outstanding share of the preferred stock, $22.24 par
value, of the Company ("FDB Preferred Stock") will be converted into the right
to receive $22.24 in cash, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, all in
accordance with the Merger Agreement.  See "GENERAL INFORMATION -- Purpose of
the Special Meeting."

VOTE REQUIRED

         Approval of the Merger Agreement will require the affirmative vote of
the holders of at least two-thirds of the total voting power of the Company
present, in person or by proxy, at the Special Meeting, with each shareholder
of FDB Common Stock entitled to one vote for each share owned by him.  As of
the Record Date, directors and executive officers of the Company and their
affiliates were the beneficial owners of approximately 46.45 percent of the
outstanding FDB Common Stock entitled to vote at the Special Meeting.  As a
condition to consummation of the Merger, each director and certain shareholders
of the Company have executed agreements ("Joinder Agreements") with HHC, which,
among other things, obligates each such director or shareholder to vote his
shares of FDB Common Stock in favor of the approval and adoption of the Merger
Agreement.  As of the Record Date, the 12 persons who have executed Joinder
Agreements beneficially owned an aggregate of 69.62 percent of the outstanding
FDB Common Stock.  Under Mississippi law, shareholders of HHC are not required
to approve the Merger Agreement.  See "GENERAL INFORMATION -- Shares Entitled
to Vote, Quorum, and Vote Required."

RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS

         The Board of Directors of the Company believes that the Merger
Agreement and related Merger are in the best interests of the shareholders and
recommends that the shareholders vote "FOR" the approval and adoption of the
Merger Agreement and related Merger.  The Board of Directors has received from
National Capital Corporation ("NCC") an opinion that the consideration to be
received by the shareholders of the Company pursuant to the Merger, when taken
as a whole, is fair to the Company and its shareholders from a financial point
of view.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Opinion of National Capital
Corporation." The Company's Board of Directors believes that the terms of the
Merger Agreement will provide significant value to all shareholders of the
Company and will enable them to participate in opportunities for growth that
the Merger makes possible.  In recommending the Merger Agreement to the
shareholders, the Company's Board of Directors considered, among other factors,
the financial terms of the Merger Agreement, the liquidity it will afford the
Company's shareholders, and the likelihood and potential adverse impact of
increased competition for the Company in its market area if the Company remains
independent.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Background of and
Reasons for the Merger."

BASIS FOR THE TERMS OF THE MERGER

         A number of factors, in addition to those stated above, were
considered by the Board of Directors of the Company in approving the terms of
the Merger Agreement, including, without limitation, information concerning the
business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects of the
Company, HHC, and Bank; the ability of the combined entity to compete in the
relevant banking markets; the proposed treatment of the FDB Common Stock and
FDB Preferred Stock in the Merger; the market price of HHC Common Stock; the
absence of an active trading market for the Company's shares; the federal tax
consequences of the Merger Agreement to the Company's shareholders; the
financial terms of other business combinations in the banking





                                       2
<PAGE>   13
industry; and certain non-monetary factors.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE
MERGER -- Background of and Reasons for the Merger."

OPINION OF NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION

         NCC, the Company's financial advisor, has rendered its opinion that
the consideration to be received by the shareholders of the Company pursuant to
the Merger Agreement, when taken as a whole, is fair to the Company and its
shareholders from a financial point of view.  The opinion of NCC is attached
hereto as Appendix B, and should be read in its entirety with respect to the
assumptions made therein and other matters considered.  See "INFORMATION
CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Opinion of National Capital Corporation" for further
information regarding, among other things, the selection of NCC and its
compensation arrangement in connection with the Merger Agreement.

CONVERSION OF FDB STOCK

         On the Effective Date, as defined in "SUMMARY - Regulatory Approvals
and Other Conditions to the Merger," each share of HHC Common Stock issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date will remain outstanding and
will continue to represent one share of HHC Common Stock, $3.33 par value.
Each share of FDB Common Stock, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Date will be converted into the right to receive 17.13667 shares of
HHC Common Stock and $88.761758 in cash (collectively, the "Exchange Ratio").
Also on the Effective Date, each share of FDB Preferred Stock, issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date (and not redeemed pursuant
to Section 5.1(e) of the Merger Agreement), will be converted into the right to
receive $22.24 in cash, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon (the
"Preferred Exchange Ratio").

         As a result of the Merger, all shares of FDB Common Stock and all
shares of FDB Preferred Stock will be cancelled and each holder of a
certificate (a "Certificate") representing any share(s) of FDB Common Stock or
any share(s) of FDB Preferred Stock will thereafter cease to have any rights
with respect to such shares, except the right to receive, without interest, the
HHC Common Stock and/or the cash as described above, and cash for fractional
shares of HHC Common Stock upon the surrender of such Certificate.  No
fractional shares of HHC Common Stock will be issued in connection with the
Merger.  In lieu of the issuance of any fractional share of HHC Common Stock,
cash will be paid to holders in respect of any fractional share of HHC Common
Stock that would otherwise be issuable, in an amount equal to the product of
such fractional interest and $28.52.

         Each share of FDB Common Stock and FDB Preferred Stock issued and held
in the Company's treasury at the Effective Date will, by virtue of the Merger,
cease to be outstanding and will be cancelled without payment of any
consideration therefor.

EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES

         HHC will deposit with Hancock Bank MS Trust Department, as exchange
agent (the "Exchange Agent"), certificates representing the shares of HHC
Common Stock and cash to be issued and paid, respectively, pursuant to the
Merger Agreement in exchange for outstanding shares of FDB Common Stock and FDB
Preferred Stock.  HHC will cause the Exchange Agent to mail to each holder of
FDB Common Stock and Preferred Stock a letter of transmittal which will specify
terms of the delivery of the stock certificates to the Exchange Agent along
with instructions for effecting the surrender of the certificates in exchange
for certificates representing shares of HHC Common Stock and/or cash, and cash
in lieu of fractional shares.

         No dividends on HHC Common Stock will be paid with respect to any
shares of FDB Common Stock represented by a Certificate until such Certificate
is surrendered for exchange.





                                       3
<PAGE>   14
         On or after the Effective Date, there will be no transfers on the
stock transfer books of the Company of the shares of FDB Common Stock or FDB
Preferred Stock which were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date.

REGULATORY APPROVALS AND OTHER CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER

         The Merger is subject to approval by the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System ("FRB").  There can be no assurance whether such
approval will be given, or will be given without unacceptable conditions and,
if given, the timing of such approval.  In addition to approval by the FRB and
the Company's shareholders, consummation of the Merger is subject to a number
of other conditions, including, among others, (i) the Registration Statement
must have been filed with and declared effective by the SEC and shall not be
the subject of any stop order or proceedings seeking a stop order; (ii) no
action or proceeding must have been threatened or instituted before a court or
other governmental body to restrain or prohibit the transactions contemplated
by the Merger Agreement or to obtain damages or other relief in connection with
the execution of the Merger Agreement or the consummation of the transactions
contemplated thereby; and (iii) no governmental agency must have given notice
to any party to the Merger Agreement to the effect that consummation of the
transactions contemplated thereby would constitute a violation of any law or
that it intends to commence proceedings to restrain consummation of the Merger.
See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Regulatory Approvals and Other
Conditions to the Merger."

         The Merger will become effective on the date the Secretary of State of
the State of Louisiana issues a certificate of merger relating to the Merger
(the "Effective Date").

WAIVER, AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

         The Company and HHC may waive their respective rights, power or
privileges under the Merger Agreement, subject to certain conditions specified
in the Merger Agreement.  The Merger Agreement cannot be amended or modified
except pursuant to a written agreement subscribed by duly authorized
representatives of the Company and HHC.  The Merger Agreement cannot be
assigned without the express written consent of both HHC and the Company.

         The Merger Agreement may be terminated or renegotiated in good faith
either before or after approval by the Company's shareholders (i) at any time
on or prior to the Effective Date, by the mutual consent in writing of HHC and
the Company; (ii) by HHC or by the Company if the Merger has not become
effective on or before March 31, 1995, unless the absence of such occurrence is
due to the failure of the party seeking to terminate the Merger Agreement to
perform each of its obligations required thereby to be performed on or prior to
the Effective Date; (iii) by HHC or the Company in the event of a breach by the
other party (a) of any covenant or agreement contained in the Merger Agreement
or (b) of any representation or warranty in the Merger Agreement under certain
specified circumstances; (iv) by HHC or the Company at any time after the FRB
or SEC has denied any application for any approval or clearance required to be
obtained as a condition to the consummation of the Merger and the time period
for all appeals or requests for reconsideration has run; (v) by the Company or
HHC if the Merger Agreement and the Merger are not approved by the required
vote of the Company's shareholders; and (vi) by the Company if both (a) the
quotient of the average closing price of HHC Common Stock for the five trading
days immediately preceding the Closing Date, as defined in "INFORMATION
CONCERNING THE MERGER - Effective Date," divided by the closing price of such
stock on the day immediately preceding the date of the Merger Agreement, as
reported in The Wall Street Journal, (the "Acquiror Quotient") is less than 0.8
and (b) the quotient of the average closing value of the Standard & Poors
Regional Bank Index for the five trading days preceding the Closing Date
divided by the value of the Standard & Poors Regional Bank Index for the day
immediately preceding the date of the Merger Agreement (the "S&P Quotient")
exceeds the Acquiror Quotient by more than 0.10.





                                       4
<PAGE>   15
         Except under certain circumstances specified in the Merger Agreement,
upon termination, there will be no liability on the part of either party or
their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or shareholders.

INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER

         In considering the Merger, holders of FDB Common Stock should be aware
that the Company's directors and officers have an interest in the Merger, as
described below.

         HHC has agreed that, following the Effective Date and subject to
certain conditions, it will indemnify each person who has served as a director
or officer (including the Estate of R. Dawes Easterly) of the Company or Bank
against all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and judgments (and related
expenses, including, but not limited to, attorney's fees and amounts paid in
investigating, defending, or settling any action) based upon or arising from
such person's service in such capacity, to the same extent as he would have
been indemnified under the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of HHC in
effect on August 20, 1994.  The aggregate amount of indemnification to which
such persons are entitled pursuant to the Merger Agreement is $4 million.  See
"INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Interests of Certain Persons in the
Merger."

         The Merger Agreement also provides for indemnification of the
Company's consolidated group's officers, directors and controlling persons from
and against liability arising under the Securities Act or otherwise if such
liability arises out of or is based on an untrue statement or omission of a
material fact required to be stated in the Registration Statement, of which
this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part, or in any state securities
application, or necessary to make the statements made in any of the foregoing
documents not misleading.  This indemnification does not apply to statements
made in reliance on information furnished to HHC by the Company, Bank, or any
officer, director, or controlling person of the Company or Bank, for use in the
Registration Statement, of which this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part,
or in any such state application.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER --
Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger."

         The Merger Agreement also provides that the Board of Directors of HHC
shall cause a designee or designees of the Company to be appointed to the Board
of Directors of both Hancock Bank and Hancock Bank MS upon the Effective Date.
The Board of Directors of HHC shall nominate such designee or designees of the
Company for election and/or reelection to the Board of Directors of the
respective bank for not less than each of the next five years succeeding the
Effective Date.  The Board of Directors of the Company has designated Robert E.
Easterly to be the Company's designee to the Board of Directors of Hancock Bank
MS and Bruce R. Easterly to be the Company's designee to the Board of Directors
of Hancock Bank.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -- Interests of
Certain Persons in the Merger."

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

         From and after the Effective Date of the Merger, HHC may cause the
Bank to offer to all persons who are employees of the Bank immediately prior to
the Effective Date and who become or remain employees of the Bank immediately
following the Effective Date, similar employee benefits as are offered by HHC
or Hancock Bank to employees of Hancock Bank, including benefits under Hancock
Bank MS's Pension Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan, Cafeteria Plan, and
vacation and salary continuation plans or policies.  There will be no waiting
period for coverage under Hancock Bank MS's Medical Benefit Plan, Dental
Reimbursement Plan, Cafeteria Plan, Group Life Insurance Plan, Long Term
Disability Plan and HHC Stock Purchase Plan and no employee who is an active
employee of the Bank on the Effective Date will be denied benefits under such
plans for a pre-existing condition.  Full credit will be given for prior
service by such employees with the Bank for eligibility and vesting purposes
under all of Hancock Bank's benefit plans and policies, except that credit for
prior service will not be given for eligibility, vesting or benefit accrual
purposes under Hancock Bank MS's Pension Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan and
Medical Benefit Plan.  HHC has agreed that the Company and/or the Bank may
amend its 401(k) Plan to provide that all participants in such plan who are
employed on August 20, 1994 will be fully vested in their accounts under such
plan as of the Effective Date.





                                       5
<PAGE>   16
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

         The Merger will qualify as a tax-free reorganization under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and each shareholder of
the Company who receives HHC Common Stock in the Merger will not recognize gain
or loss, except with respect to the receipt of cash (i) as part or all of the
consideration received by the shareholder for his FDB Common Stock or FDB
Preferred Stock, (ii) in lieu of fractional shares of HHC Common Stock, or
(iii) pursuant to the exercise of dissenters' rights.  See "MATERIAL FEDERAL
INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER."

DISSENTERS' RIGHTS

         By complying with the specific procedures required by statute and
described herein, unless the Merger Agreement is approved by the holders of at
least 80 percent of the total voting power of the Company,  dissenting
shareholders of the Company may be entitled to be paid the fair value of their
shares, if the Merger is consummated, in lieu of the consideration to be
received in the Merger by the non-dissenting shareholders of the Company.  See
"DISSENTERS' RIGHTS."

SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR THE COMPANY AND HHC

     The following selected consolidated financial information of the Company
and HHC should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements of the Company and HHC and the notes thereto, included elsewhere, or
incorporated by reference herein.  The selected consolidated financial
information for HHC for all periods indicated has been restated to give effect
to the merger of First State Bank in April 1994 under the pooling-of-interests
method of accounting.

     The following selected unaudited pro forma financial information is
presented assuming the proposed merger of Washington Bancorp, Inc.,
Franklinton,  Louisiana ("Washington") will be accounted for as a
pooling-of-interests and the  Merger of the Company will be accounted for as a
purchase transaction.  The  unaudited pro forma financial information assumes
the mergers of Washington and the Company were consumated on January 1, 1989
and January 1, 1993, respectively, and, subject to the purchase adjustments for
the Company, reflects the combination of the historical consolidated financial
statements of the respective companies commencing as of each such date.  If the
merger of Washington is not consumated, the unaudited pro forma financial
information set forth below will not change materially.  The unaudited pro
forma information does not purport to represent what HHC's, Washington's and
the Company's combined results of of operations actually would have been if the
respective mergers had occurred as of the dates indicated or will be for any
future period.  The selected unaudited pro forma financial information should
be read in conjunction with the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial
Statements and notes thereto, included elsewhere herein.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Amounts in thousands)
                                                NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                 SEPTEMBER 30,                           YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,                 
                                            -------------------------  -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                1994         1993         1993        1992        1991        1990        1989    
                                            ------------- -----------  ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
                                                    (Unaudited)
<S>                                           <C>         <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC. (HISTORICAL)
  Income Statement Data:
    Net interest income                           $5,638      $5,166       $7,016      $6,262      $4,916      $4,076      $3,982
    Provision for loan losses                        156         197          302         520         685         673         916
    Net income (loss)                              1,990       1,907        2,445       1,721         735         452        (815)
  Balance Sheet Data:
    Total assets (period end)                   $109,304    $100,328     $103,596     $97,666     $87,550     $81,798     $77,567
    Stockholder's equity (period end)             10,945       9,909        9,441       8,334       6,732       6,007       5,065
  Selected Ratios:
    Return on Assets                                2.49%       2.57%        2.43%       1.86%       0.87%       0.57%      (1.05%)
    Return on Equity                               26.03       27.87        27.51       22.85       11.54        8.16      (14.66)
    Equity to Assets                               10.01        9.88         9.11        8.53        7.69        7.34        6.53

HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY (HISTORICAL)
  Income Statement Data:
    Net interest income                          $60,094     $61,371      $81,140     $77,641     $58,862     $41,857     $32,866
    Provision for loan losses                      1,203       3,213        4,482       7,768       4,793       3,023       3,458
    Net income                                    16,149      18,203       23,367      20,238      12,911       8,309       7,194
  Balance Sheet Data:
    Total assets (period end)                 $1,974,186  $1,858,645   $1,903,153  $1,812,203  $1,628,708  $1,483,748  $1,057,483
    Stockholder's equity (period end)            166,254     153,097      155,375     138,814     123,803      90,039      85,320
  Selected Ratios:
    Return on Assets                                1.11%       1.36%        1.26%       1.18%       0.83%       0.65%       0.72%
    Return on Equity                               13.39       16.63        15.89       15.41       12.08        9.48        8.61
    Equity to Assets                                8.42        8.24         8.16        7.66        7.60        6.07        8.07







HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY (PRO FORMA)
(Unaudited)
  Income Statement Data:
    Net interest income                          $68,632     $69,582      $92,135     $81,900     $62,772     $45,716     $36,789
    Provision for loan losses                      1,479       3,560        4,934       7,978       5,003       3,293       3,923
    Net income                                    18,573      20,611       26,648      21,410      13,883       9,203       7,757
  Balance Sheet Data:
    Total assets (period end)                 $2,175,483  $2,052,250   $2,097,290  $1,896,043  $1,716,472  $1,575,787  $1,145,407
    Stockholder's equity (period end)            196,528     182,700      184,723     148,831     132,730      97,993      92,381
  Selected Ratios:
    Return on Assets                                1.16%       1.39%        1.33%       1.19%       0.84%       0.64%       0.68%
    Return on Equity                               13.16       16.58        15.98       15.21       12.03        9.67        8.39
    Equity to Assets                                9.03        8.90         8.81        7.85        7.73        6.22        8.07
</TABLE>

COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA (UNAUDITED)

     The following table sets forth certain net income, cash dividend and book
value per share information for the Company and HHC on a historical, unaudited
pro forma combined and unaudited pro forma equivalent basis.  The unaudited pro
forma information assumes the proposed merger of Washington will be accounted
for as a pooling-of-interests, and consumated as of January 1, 1989 , and the
Merger of the Company will be accounted for as a purchase transaction and
consumated as of January 1, 1993.  The unaudited pro forma equivalent
information does not give effect to the $4 million in cash ($88.761758 per
share) to be paid to holders of FDB Common Stock in connection with the Merger
of the Company.  The selected unaudited pro forma comparative per share
information should be read in conjunction with the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Financial Statements and the notes thereto, included elsewhere herein.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 HISTORICAL            PRO FORMA             FDB
                             --------------------    COMBINED WITH       PRO FORMA
                              HHC (1)    FDB (2)   WASHINGTON & FDB    EQUIVALENT (3)
                             ---------  ---------  ----------------    --------------
<S>                            <C>      <C>             <C>             <C>
PER COMMON SHARE:

NET INCOME
    For the nine months
    ended September 30,
        1994                    $2.14     $43.62         $2.09           $35.82
        1993                    $2.41     $41.47         $2.31           $39.59

    For the year ended
    December 31, 1993           $3.09     $52.88         $3.01           $51.58

CASH DIVIDENDS
    For the nine months
    ended September 30,
        1994                    $0.69      $6.00         $0.69           $11.82
        1993                    $0.51      $7.50         $0.51            $8.74

    For the year ended
    December 31, 1993           $0.90     $27.50         $0.90           $15.42

BOOK VALUE
    September 30,
        1994                   $22.02    $232.75        $22.26          $381.46
        1993                   $20.28    $209.82        $20.69          $354.56

    December 31, 1993          $20.58    $198.01        $20.92          $358.50
</TABLE>

NOTES TO COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA
(1)  HHC historical per share information has been restated to reflect the
     First State Bank merger and assumes the First State Bank merger was
     consummated January 1, 1989 and was accounted for as a 
     pooling-of-interests.
(2)  For FDB Common Stock only.
(3)  Pro Forma equivalent amounts are calculated by multiplying the combined
     pro forma amount by 17.13667, the number of shares of HHC Common Stock
     that each holder of FDB Common Stock will receive for each share of his
     FDB Common Stock upon consummation of the Merger. It does not take into
     consideration the cash to be received by holders of FDB Common Stock.

RECENT STOCK PRICES

         There is no established public trading market for the FDB Common Stock
or FDB Preferred Stock.  FDB Common Stock and FDB Preferred Stock are not
traded on any exchange and are not quoted on an automated system of a
registered securities association.  Since January 1, 1992, the Company paid
cash dividends on FDB Common Stock in the amount of $35.50 per share and on FDB
Preferred Stock in the amount of $6.00 per share.  See "CERTAIN INFORMATION
CONCERNING THE COMPANY -- Stock Prices and Dividends."

         HHC Common Stock is traded in the over-the-counter market and quoted
on the NASDAQ National Market System under the symbol "HBHC."  The following
table sets forth the per share high and low sale prices





                                       6
<PAGE>   17
of HHC Common Stock as reported on the NASDAQ National Market System for the
periods indicated.  These prices do not reflect retail mark-ups, mark-downs or
commissions.  The following table also gives the amount of cash dividends paid
on HHC Common Stock for the periods indicated.

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 HIGH BID                    LOW BID                      CASH
                                  OR LAST                    OR LAST                 DIVIDENDS
                               SALE PRICE                 SALE PRICE                      PAID
                               ----------                 ----------                      ----
<S>                                <C>                        <C>                       <C>
1992

1st Quarter                        $22.75                     $19.75                    $0.15
2nd Quarter                        $25.00                     $20.50                    $0.15
3rd Quarter                        $27.75                     $24.75                    $0.15
4th Quarter                        $30.75                     $24.75                    $0.23


1993

1st Quarter                        $28.75                     $28.25                    $0.17
2nd Quarter                        $35.00                     $30.50                    $0.17
3rd Quarter                        $32.75                     $28.75                    $0.17
4th Quarter                        $34.50                     $32.00                    $0.39


1994

1st Quarter                        $33.00                     $28.50                    $0.23
2nd Quarter                        $29.75                     $26.25                    $0.23
3rd Quarter                        $30.00                     $28.00                    $0.23
4th Quarter (Through 11/28, 1994)  $30.00                     $28.50                    $0.23*
</TABLE>
    

   
* Payable December 15, 1994.
    

   
         The parties entered into the Merger Agreement on Saturday, August 20,
1994, and announced the proposed merger on Monday, August 22, 1994.  On Friday,
August 19, 1994, the closing sales price of HHC Common Stock was $29.50.  On
November 25, 1994, the closing sales price of HHC Common Stock was $29.00.  On 
September 30, 1994, HHC's 7,557,924 outstanding shares of common stock were 
owned by 2,841 shareholders of record.
    

         As a bank holding company, HHC depends on dividend payments from its
subsidiary banks, Hancock Bank and Hancock Bank MS, in order to meet its
obligations and to pay dividends.  The payment of dividends from the banks to
HHC is regulated and restricted by the bank's primary regulators.  Information
about restrictions on the ability of HHC to pay dividends is contained in Item
1 of HHC's 1993 Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption "Federal
Regulation," which information is incorporated herein by reference.

EFFECT OF THE MERGER ON RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS

         Certain differences exist in the rights of holders of HHC Common Stock
and holders of FDB Common Stock.  These differences relate primarily to the
number, term and removal of directors; changes in control of HHC;
indemnification of directors, officers and employees of HHC; and amendment of
the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of HHC and the Company.  See "CERTAIN
INFORMATION CONCERNING HHC" and "COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS."





                                       7
<PAGE>   18
RESALES OF HHC COMMON STOCK BY AFFILIATES

         The HHC Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger has
been registered under the Securities Act and will be freely transferable,
except that certain resale restrictions apply to the sale or transfer of HHC
Common Stock issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement to directors, officers,
and other affiliates of the Company.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER -
Status Under Federal Securities Laws; Certain Restrictions on Resales of
Securities."

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

         The Merger will be accounted for as a "purchase" transaction under
general accepted accounting principles.  Accordingly, the earnings of the
Company will be combined with the earnings of HHC only from and after the
Effective Date of the Merger and any goodwill or other intangible assets
recorded in the transaction will be amortized through charges to income in
future periods.  See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER - Accounting
Treatment."

                              GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION

   
         This Prospectus/Proxy Statement is being furnished on or about
December 6, 1994 to the shareholders of the Company in connection with the
solicitation of proxies on behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company for
use at the Special Meeting to be held at the First National Bank of Denham
Springs, Annex Building, 523 Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, on
January 11, 1995, at 5:00 p.m., Central time, and at any adjournment thereof. 
A Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders is attached hereto and a proxy card
relating to the Special Meeting accompanies this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.
    
        
PURPOSE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING

         The purpose of the Special Meeting is to consider and vote upon a
proposal to approve and adopt the Merger Agreement and related Merger, pursuant
to which (a) the Company will be merged with and into HHC; (b) each outstanding
share of FDB Common Stock will be converted into the right to receive 17.13667
shares of HHC Common Stock and $88.761758 in cash; and (c) each outstanding
share of FDB Preferred Stock will be converted into the right to receive $22.24
in cash, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends, all in accordance with the
Merger Agreement.

SOLICITATION, VOTING AND REVOCATION OF PROXIES

         When a proxy in the form accompanying this Prospectus/Proxy Statement
is properly executed and returned, the shares voted thereby will be voted in
accordance with the instructions marked thereon.  ALL EXECUTED BUT UNMARKED
PROXIES THAT ARE RETURNED WILL BE VOTED "FOR" THE PROPOSAL TO APPROVE THE
MERGER AGREEMENT AND THE MERGER.

         No matters are expected to be considered at the Special Meeting other
than the proposal to approve the Merger Agreement and related Merger, but if
any other matters should properly come before the Special Meeting, it is
intended that proxies in the form accompanying this Prospectus/Proxy Statement
will be voted on all such matters in the discretion of the person(s) voting
such proxies.

         Any proxy may be revoked at any time before it is voted.  A
shareholder may revoke a proxy (i) by submitting a subsequently dated proxy,
(ii) by giving written notice of such revocation to the Secretary of the
Company, provided that such notice is received by the Secretary at the
principal offices of the Company prior to the Special Meeting, or (iii) upon
request, if such shareholder is present at the Special Meeting and advises the
inspector of election that he is revoking his proxy.  Mere attendance at the
Special Meeting will not of itself





                                       8
<PAGE>   19
revoke a previously submitted proxy.  Revocation of a proxy will not affect a
vote on any matter taken prior to receipt of notice of such revocation.

   
         The cost of soliciting proxies, including any and all professional
fees paid to attorneys and accountants in connection with the preparation and
filing with the SEC of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement and other proxy
materials, and the cost of mailing these proxy materials, will be borne by the
Company. The cost of printing these proxy materials will be borne by HHC. In
addition to the use of the mails, proxies may be solicited personally, by
telephone, telecopier, or telegram by directors, officers and employees of the
Company or Bank.  Such officers, directors, and employees will not receive any
additional fees, compensation, or other remuneration for soliciting proxies in
connection with the Special Meeting.
    
        
SHARES ENTITLED TO VOTE, QUORUM, AND VOTE REQUIRED

   
         The Board of Directors of the Company has fixed the close of business
on December 2, 1994, as the record date for the determination of shareholders
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting.  As of the Record
Date, there were 45,181 shares of FDB Common Stock outstanding. Each share of
FDB Common Stock is entitled to one vote on all matters to come before the
Special Meeting.  Pursuant to Article 4(f) of the Company's Articles of
Incorporation, the holders of FDB Preferred Stock are not entitled to vote on
the Merger Agreement and the Merger.
    
        
         With respect to all matters to come before the Special Meeting, the
presence at the Special Meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a
majority of the outstanding shares of FDB Common Stock will constitute a
quorum.

         Approval of the Merger Agreement and related Merger will require the
affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the total voting
power of the Company present, in person or by proxy, at the Special Meeting.
As of the Record Date, directors and executive officers of the Company and
their affiliates were the beneficial owners of approximately 46.45 percent of
the outstanding FDB Common Stock entitled to vote at the Special Meeting.  As a
condition to consummation of the Merger, each director and certain shareholders
of the Company have executed Joinder Agreements with HHC, which, among other
things, obligates each such director or shareholder to vote his shares of FDB
Common Stock in favor of the approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement and
related Merger.  As of the Record Date, the 12 persons who have executed
Joinder Agreements beneficially owned an aggregate of 69.62 percent of the
outstanding FDB Common Stock.  Under Mississippi law, shareholders of HHC are
not required to approve the Merger Agreement and related Merger.

                       INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MERGER

GENERAL

         The transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement are to be
effected in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, a
copy of which is attached hereto as Appendix A and incorporated herein. The
following description of the Merger Agreement does not purport to be complete
and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger Agreement.

         The ultimate result of the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement will be that the business and properties of the Company will become
the business and properties of HHC, the holders of FDB Common Stock will become
shareholders of HHC (except for dissenting shareholders who will receive cash
in exchange for their shares of FDB Common Stock) and the holders of FDB
Preferred Stock will receive cash in exchange for their shares of FDB Preferred
Stock.





                                       9
<PAGE>   20
BACKGROUND OF AND REASONS FOR MERGER

         Background.  The Board of Directors of the Company engaged American
Planning Corporation ("APC"), an affiliate of NCC, to provide three seminars to
the Board of Directors on buying, selling and merging banks and valuing the
Company and Bank.  In June of 1994, the Company's Board of Directors received
an offer to merge the Company with a bank holding company other than HHC.
Pursuant to this offer, the shareholders of the Company would have received an
aggregate of approximately $19 million in cash and securities of the proposed
acquiror in exchange for their shares of the Company.  The Board of Directors
of the Company rejected the offer as inadequate.  On July 11, 1994, HHC sent a
proposed letter of intent to the Company in which a merger of the Company and
HHC was proposed.  On August 15, 1994, the Company and HHC executed a letter of
intent regarding the proposed merger of the Company with and into HHC.  After
further negotiations with HHC regarding the terms of a proposed business
combination of the companies, a definitive Agreement and Plan of Reorganization
between HHC and the Company was approved by the Company's Board of Directors on
August 20, 1994.  Based upon the average price of HHC Common Stock for the
twenty trading days immediately preceding July 31, 1994, i.e., $28.52, the
shareholders of the Company are to receive an aggregate of approximately $26
million in cash and HHC Common Stock in consideration of the Merger.

         Reasons for the Merger.  In reaching its decision that the Merger is
in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders, the Company's Board
of Directors consulted with its financial and other advisors, as well as with
the Company's management, and considered a number of factors including, among
others, the following:

         (i)     The financial condition and results of operations of, and
                 prospects for, each of the Company and HHC;

         (ii)    The market for Bank's services and the competitive pressures
                 existing in Bank's market area;

         (iii)   The amount and type of consideration to be received by the
                 Company's shareholders pursuant to the Merger Agreement;

         (iv)    The market for HHC Common Stock to be received in the Merger
                 and the trading volume in HHC shares;

         (v)     Recent changes in the bank regulatory environment and
                 additional competitive pressures facing the Company and the
                 Bank from other financial institutions with greater financial
                 resources capable of offering a broad array of financial
                 services;

         (vi)    The Merger is expected to qualify as a tax-free reorganization
                 so that neither the Company nor its shareholders (except to
                 the extent that cash is received in respect of their shares)
                 will recognize any gain in the transaction (See "MATERIAL
                 FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER"); and

         (vii)   The oral opinion received from NCC that the consideration to
                 be received by the shareholders of the Company pursuant to the
                 Merger Agreement, when taken as a whole, is fair to the
                 Company and its shareholders from a financial point of view,
                 and the ability to terminate the Merger if the oral opinion
                 was not confirmed by a written opinion by NCC within ten days
                 prior to the mailing of the Prospectus/Proxy Statement to the
                 shareholders of the Company.  (See "INFORMATION CONCERNING THE
                 MERGER -- Opinion of National Capital Corporation").

         The Company's Board of Directors did not assign any specific or
relative weight to the foregoing factors in its considerations.  The Company's
Board of Directors believes that the Merger Agreement will provide





                                       10
<PAGE>   21
significant value to all the Company's shareholders and will enable them to
participate in opportunities for growth that the Company's Board of Directors
believes the Merger makes possible.

         BASED ON THE FOREGOING, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY HAS
APPROVED THE MERGER AGREEMENT AND RELATED MERGER, BELIEVES THAT THE MERGER IS
IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE COMPANY'S SHAREHOLDERS, AND RECOMMENDS THAT ALL
HOLDERS OF FDB COMMON STOCK VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT AND
RELATED MERGER.

OPINION OF NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION

         General.  Pursuant to an engagement letter, dated March 28, 1994 (the
"Engagement Letter"), the Company engaged NCC to act as its financial advisor
in connection with its evaluation of potential offers to buy the Company and
other issues specified in the Engagement Letter.  NCC has experience in
investment analysis and the valuation of bank and bank holding company
securities in connection with acquisitions and mergers, and valuations for
various other purposes.  The Company selected NCC as its financial advisor on
the basis of its experience and expertise in merger and acquisition
transactions and the long-standing relationship it and its affiliates have had
with the Company.

         In a series of oral presentations to the Board of Directors of the
Company, NCC developed the range of fair value of the Company and Bank.
Several valuation methodologies were utilized and presented, including (i)
present value of earnings and dividends method over a range of discount rates
and earnings scenarios including the Bank's current five year strategic plan,
and (ii) market valuation method based on similar transactions occurring in the
marketplace immediately prior to final negotiations.  Market valuations were
based on the earnings performance of the Company for 1993 and earnings
projected for 1994.  The market valuation was based on both a multiple of
earnings and a multiple of book value.

         Principals of NCC were present and actively advised the Board during
negotiations leading to the execution of the Merger Agreement.  NCC delivered
its oral opinion that the proposed transaction is fair, from a financial point
of view, to the Company and its shareholders at the meeting when the Board
resolved to enter into the Merger Agreement with HHC.

         Subsequent to the execution of the Merger Agreement and prior to the
filing of the Registration Statement, NCC delivered its formal written opinion
that the consideration to be received by the shareholders of the Company
pursuant to the Merger Agreement, when taken as a whole, is fair to the Company
and its shareholders from a financial point of view, as of the date thereof.
No limitations were imposed by the Company on NCC with respect to the
investigations made or the procedures followed in rendering its opinion.  The
full text of NCC's written opinion to the Company's Board of Directors, which
sets forth the assumptions made, matters considered, and limitations of the
review by NCC, is attached hereto as Appendix B and is incorporated herein by
reference and should be read carefully and in its entirety in connection with
this Prospectus/Proxy Statement.  The following summary of NCC's opinion is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the opinion.  NCC's
opinion is addressed to the Company's Board of Directors only and does not
constitute a recommendation to any shareholder of the Company as to how such
shareholder should vote at the Special Meeting.  The analysis performed by NCC
did take into account the April 1994 acquisition by HHC of First State Bank but
did not take into account the proposed acquisition by HHC of Washington. See 
"CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING HHC - Merger and Acquisition History.

         In connection with its written opinion, NCC, among other things:  (i)
met with officers of HHC and the Company to discuss their businesses, reserves,
earnings, properties and prospects; (ii) reviewed certain publicly available
financial and other data with respect to HHC and certain financial and other
data with respect to the Company, including the consolidated financial
statements for recent years and interim periods to June 30, 1994,





                                       11
<PAGE>   22
and certain other relevant financial and operating data relating to the Company
and HHC made available to NCC from published sources and from the internal
records of the Company and HHC; (iii) reviewed the Merger Agreement; (iv)
reviewed certain historical market prices and trading volumes of HHC Common
Stock; (v) analyzed market volatility studies of HHC Common Stock; and (vi)
performed such other analyses and examinations as NCC deemed appropriate.

         In connection with its review, NCC did not independently verify any of
the foregoing information and relied on such information and assumed such
information was complete and accurate in all material respects.  With respect
to the financial forecasts for the Company provided to NCC by the Company's
management, NCC assumed for purposes of its opinion that such forecasts were
reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best available estimates and
judgments of the Company's management at the time of preparation as to the
projected financial performance of the Company and provided a reasonable basis
upon which NCC could form its opinion.  NCC also assumed that there were no
material changes in the Company's or HHC's assets, financial condition, results
of operations, business or prospects since the respective dates of the last
financial statements made available to NCC.  NCC is not an expert in the
evaluation of loan portfolios for purposes of assessing the adequacy of the
allowance for losses with respect thereto and assumed for purposes of its
opinion that such allowances for each of the Company and HHC are in the
aggregate adequate to cover such losses.  In addition, NCC did not review any
individual credit files, did not make an independent evaluation, appraisal or
physical inspection of the assets or individual properties of the Company or
HHC and was not furnished with any such appraisals.  Further, NCC's opinion was
based on economic, monetary and market conditions existing as of the date of
the Merger Agreement and on the assumption that the Merger Agreement will be
consummated in accordance with its terms, without any amendment thereto and
without waiver by the Company of any of the conditions to its obligations
thereunder.

         Analysis of Selected Bank Merger Transactions.  Set forth below is a
brief summary of the analysis performed by NCC in connection with its opinion.

         NCC reviewed the consideration paid in recently announced transactions
whereby certain banks were acquired.  Specifically, NCC reviewed transactions
involving acquisitions of banks in the United States announced since January 1,
1993 (the "National Acquisitions") and acquisitions of selected Louisiana banks
announced since January 1, 1993 (the "Louisiana Acquisitions").  NCC compiled
figures illustrating, among other things, the percentages or ratio of the
premium (i.e., purchase price in excess of book value) to core deposits,
purchase price to deposits, purchase price to book value and purchase price to
last twelve-months ("LTM") earnings.

         The figures for banks acquired or to be acquired in the National
Acquisitions and the Louisiana Acquisitions produced:  (i) median return on
average equity of 12.54 percent and 16.12 percent, respectively, and (ii)
median return on average assets of 1.08 percent and 1.58 percent, respectively.
In comparison, NCC determined that for the year ended December 31, 1993 and the
six months ended June 30, 1994, Bank's return on average equity was 25.93
percent and 26.40 percent, respectively, and its return on average assets was
2.34 percent and 2.27 percent, respectively.

         The figures for the National Acquisitions and the Louisiana
Acquisitions produced:  (i) median percentage of premium (purchase price in
excess of book value) to core deposits of 6.81 percent and 9.56, respectively;
(ii) median purchase price to deposits of 16.50 percent and 20.87 percent,
respectively; (iii) median ratio of purchase price to book value of 1.60 times
and 1.52 times, respectively; and (iv) median ratio of purchase price to LTM
earnings of 13.13 times and 12.55 times, respectively.  In comparison, assuming
the consideration to be paid in the Merger for each share of FDB Common Stock
equals that number of shares of HHC Common Stock and cash with a combined value
of $577.50, NCC determined that the consideration to be received by the holders
of FDB Common Stock in the Merger represented a percentage of premium to core
deposits of 16.28 percent, a percentage of purchase price to deposits of 26.51
percent, a ratio of purchase price to book value of 2.59 times and a ratio of
purchase price to earnings for the twelve months ended June 30, 1994 of 10.65
times.





                                       12
<PAGE>   23
         No other company or transaction used in the above analyses as a
comparison is identical to the Company or the Merger.  Accordingly, an analysis
of the results of the foregoing is not mathematical; rather, it involves
complex considerations and judgments concerning the differences in financial
and operating characteristics of the companies and other factors that could
affect the public trading value of the companies to which the Company and the
Merger are being compared.

         Contribution Analysis.  NCC analyzed the contribution of each of the
Company and HHC to, among other things, common equity and net income of the pro
forma combined companies for the years ended December 31, 1993, and for the
six-month period ended June 30, 1994.  This analysis showed, among other
things, that based on pro forma combined balance sheets and income statements
for the Company and HHC as of December 31, 1993 and June 30, 1994, the Company
would have contributed 5.48 percent and 5.85 percent, respectively, of the pro
forma common equity, and for the year ended December 31, 1993 and the six
months ended June 30, 1994, the Company would have contributed 9.95 percent and
11.36 percent, respectively, of the pro forma net income of the combined
companies.  Based on the number of shares of HHC Common Stock to be received in
the Merger, the Company's shareholders would own approximately 9.29 percent of
the combined companies based on common shares outstanding at June 30, 1994.

         Dilution Analysis.  Using estimates of future earnings prepared by the
Company management and analysts' estimates for HHC, NCC compared the calendar
year 1994 estimated earnings per share of the FDB Common Stock and HHC Common
Stock to the calendar year 1994 estimated earnings per share of the common
stock of the pro forma combined companies.  Based on such analysis and assuming
the consideration to be paid in the Merger for each share of the FDB Common
Stock equals that number of shares of HHC common stock and cash with a combined
value of $577.50, the proposed transaction would be neutral to HHC's earnings
per share in 1994, prior to projected revenue enhancements and costs savings,
and neutral to the Company's earnings per share.

         The summary set forth above does not purport to be a complete
description of the analyses performed by NCC.  The preparation of a fairness
opinion necessarily is not susceptible to partial analysis or summary
description.  NCC believes that its analyses and the summary set forth above
must be considered as a whole and that selecting a portion of its analyses and
factors would create an incomplete view of the process underlying the analyses
set forth in its presentation to the Company's Board of Directors.  In
addition, NCC may have given certain analyses more or less weight than other
analyses, and may have deemed various assumptions more or less probable than
other assumptions, so that the ranges of valuations resulting from any
particular analysis described above should not be taken to be NCC's view of the
actual value of the Company or the combined companies.  The fact that any
specific analysis has been referred to in the summary above is not meant to
indicate that such analysis was given greater weight than any other analysis.

         In performing its analysis, NCC made numerous assumptions with respect
to industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of the Company or HHC.  The
analyses performed by NCC are not necessarily indicative of actual values or
actual future results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than
suggested by such analyses.  Such analyses were prepared solely as part of
NCC's analysis of the fairness of the consideration to be received by the
Company's shareholders in the Merger.  The analyses do not purport to be
appraisals or to reflect the prices at which a company might actually be sold
or the prices at which any securities may trade at the present time or any time
in the future.  NCC used in its analyses various projections of future
performances prepared by the management of the Company.  The projections are
based on numerous variables and assumptions which are inherently unpredictable
and must be considered not certain of occurrence as projected.  Accordingly,
actual results could vary significantly from those set forth in such
projections.





                                       13
<PAGE>   24
         As described above, NCC's opinion and presentation to the Company's
Board of Directors were among the many factors taken into consideration by the
Board in making its determination to approve the Merger Agreement.

         According to the terms of the Engagement Letter, the Company has
agreed to pay NCC $12,500 for its fairness opinion.   The Company has also
agreed to reimburse NCC for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.  The Company
has also agreed to indemnify NCC, its affiliates, and their respective
partners, directors, officers, agents, consultants, employees and controlling
persons against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the federal
securities laws.  The Bank has paid NCC $20,950 in advisory fees in connection
with investment banking advice and counsel.  Neither HHC nor the Company has
paid NCC any other fees during the last two years.

         An affiliate of NCC, APC, or its corporate predecessor, have been
continuously engaged by Bank since 1978.  APC provided profit planning and
strategic planning services to Bank.  The standard fee paid by Bank for such
services was $1,500 per month.  The fees received from Bank by APC did not
exceed $50,000 in the aggregate in any particular year.  APC has performed no
services for HHC and has not received any fees from HHC.

CONVERSION OF FDB STOCK

         The Merger Agreement between HHC and the Company provides as follows:

                 (i)      On the Effective Date, each share of HHC Common Stock
                          issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
                          Effective Date will remain outstanding and will
                          continue to represent one share of Common Stock,
                          $3.33 par value, of HHC.

                 (ii)     On the Effective Date, each share of FDB Common Stock
                          issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
                          Effective Date will, by virtue of the Merger and
                          without any action on the part of the holder thereof,
                          be converted into the right to receive 17.13667
                          shares of HHC Common Stock and $88.761758 in cash.

                 (iii)    On the Effective Date, each share of FDB Preferred
                          Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
                          Effective Date (and not redeemed pursuant to Section
                          5.1(e) of the Merger Agreement) will by virtue of the
                          Merger and without any action on the part of the
                          holder thereof, be converted into the right to
                          receive $22.24 in cash, plus all accrued and unpaid
                          dividends thereon.

                 (iv)     As a result of the Merger and without any action on
                          the part of the holder thereof, all shares of FDB
                          Common Stock and all shares of FDB Preferred Stock
                          will cease to be outstanding and will be cancelled
                          and retired and will cease to exist, and each holder
                          of a Certificate representing any shares of FDB
                          Common Stock or any shares of FDB Preferred Stock
                          will thereafter cease to have any rights with respect
                          to such shares of FDB Common Stock or FDB Preferred
                          Stock, except the right to receive, without interest,
                          the HHC Common Stock and/or cash in accordance with
                          Sections 3.1(b) and 3.1(c) of the Merger Agreement,
                          and cash in lieu of fractional shares of HHC Common
                          Stock in accordance with Section 3.2(e) of the Merger
                          Agreement upon the surrender of such Certificate.

                 (v)      Each share of FDB Common Stock and FDB Preferred
                          Stock issued and held in the Company's treasury at
                          the Effective Date will, by virtue of the Merger,
                          cease to be outstanding and will be cancelled and
                          retired without payment of any consideration
                          therefor.





                                       14
<PAGE>   25
         No fractional shares of HHC Common Stock will be issued pursuant to
the Merger Agreement.  In lieu of the issuance of any fractional share of HHC
Common Stock, cash will be paid to holders in respect of any fractional share
of HHC Common Stock that would otherwise be issuable, in an amount equal to the
product of such fractional interest and $28.52.


EFFECTIVE DATE

         The closing (the "Closing") of the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement will take place at Hancock Bank's office at 3854 American Way
in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on a date that is mutually agreed to by HHC and the
Company ("Closing Date") that is within thirty (30) days following the later of
the date of receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals relating to the
transactions contemplated herein, the expiration of all applicable statutory
and regulatory waiting periods relative thereto, or the date the Registration
Statement filed with the SEC is declared effective, or such later date as may
be agreed to by the Company and HHC.  Immediately upon consummation of the
Closing, or on such other later date as the parties may agree, the Merger
Agreement will be certified, executed, acknowledged and delivered to the
Secretary of State of the State of Louisiana for filing pursuant to and in
accordance with the provisions of Section 12:112 of the Louisiana Business
Corporation Law ("LBCL").  The Merger will become effective as of the date and
time of issuance by the Secretary of State of the State of Louisiana of a
certificate of merger relating to the Merger.

EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES

         As of the Effective Date, HHC will deposit or cause to be deposited
with the Exchange Agent for the benefit of the holders of shares of FDB Common
Stock and FDB Preferred Stock, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, certificates
representing the shares of HHC Common Stock and cash (such certificates for
shares of HHC Common Stock and cash being hereinafter referred to as the
"Exchange Fund") to be issued and paid pursuant to the Merger Agreement in
exchange for outstanding shares of FDB Common Stock and FDB Preferred Stock.

         Promptly after the Effective Date, HHC will cause the Exchange Agent
to mail to each holder of record of a Certificate(s) of FDB Common Stock and
Preferred Stock (other than those representing shares with respect to which the
holder thereof has perfected dissenters' rights under the LBCL and has not
subsequently lost, withdrawn or forfeited such rights):

         (i)     A letter of transmittal which will specify that delivery shall
                 be effected, and the risk of loss and title to the
                 Certificates shall pass, only upon delivery of the
                 Certificates to the Exchange Agent and will be in such form
                 and have such other provisions as HHC may reasonably specify;
                 and

         (ii)    Instructions for use in effecting the surrender of the
                 Certificates in exchange for Certificates representing shares
                 of HHC Common Stock and/or cash, and cash in lieu of
                 fractional shares.

         Upon surrender of a Certificate for cancellation to the Exchange Agent
together with such letter of transmittal, duly executed and completed in
accordance with the instructions thereto, the holder of such Certificate will
be entitled to receive in exchange therefor (i) a certificate representing that
number of whole shares of HHC Common Stock and (ii) a check representing the
amount of cash and cash in lieu of fractional shares, if any, which such holder
has the right to receive in respect of the Certificates surrendered, after
giving effect to any required withholding tax, and the Certificates so
surrendered shall then be cancelled.  No interest will be paid or accrued on
the value of any HHC Common Stock or cash payable to holders of Certificates.
In the event of a transfer of ownership of FDB Common Stock or FDB Preferred
Stock which is not registered in the transfer records of the Company, a
certificate representing the proper number of shares of HHC Common Stock,
together with a check for the cash component of the Exchange Ratio or Preferred
Exchange Ratio and cash to be paid in lieu of fractional shares, if any, may be
issued to such a transferee if the Certificate





                                       15
<PAGE>   26
representing such FDB Common Stock or FDB Preferred Stock is presented to the
Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required to evidence and effect
such transfer and to evidence that any applicable stock transfer taxes have
been paid.

         No dividends on HHC Common Stock will be paid with respect to any
shares of FDB Common Stock represented by a certificate until such certificate
is surrendered for exchange as described above.  Subject to the effect of
applicable laws, following surrender of any such Certificate, there will be
paid to the holder of the certificates representing whole shares of HHC Common
Stock issued in exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such
surrender, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date
after the Effective Date theretofore payable with respect to such whole shares
of HHC Common Stock and not paid, less the amount of any withholding taxes
which may be required thereon, and (ii) at the appropriate payment date, the
amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the
Effective Date but prior to surrender and a payment date subsequent to
surrender payable with respect to such whole shares of HHC Common Stock, less
the amount of any withholding taxes which may be required thereon.

         On or after the Effective Date, there will be no transfers on the
stock transfer books of the Company of the shares of FDB Common Stock or FDB
Preferred Stock which were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date.
If, after the Effective Date, Certificates are presented to HHC, they will be
cancelled and exchanged for certificates for shares of HHC Common Stock and/or
cash, as appropriate, and cash in lieu of fractional shares, if any,
deliverable in respect thereof pursuant to the Merger Agreement.  Certificates
surrendered for exchange by any person constituting an "affiliate" of the
Company for purposes of Rule 145(c) under the Securities Act will not be
exchanged until HHC has received a written agreement from such person as
provided in the Merger Agreement.

         No fractional shares of HHC Common Stock will be issued pursuant to
the Merger Agreement.  In lieu of the issuance of any fractional share of HHC
Common Stock, cash payments will be paid to holders in respect of any
fractional share of HHC Common Stock that would otherwise be issuable, in an
amount equal to the product of such fractional interest and $28.52.

         In the event that any Certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed,
upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming such
Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and, if required by HHC, the
posting by such person of a bond in such reasonable amount as HHC may direct as
indemnity against any claim that may be made against it with respect to such
Certificate, the Exchange Agent will issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or
destroyed Certificate the shares of HHC Common Stock and/or cash, as
appropriate, and cash in lieu of fractional shares, if any, and unpaid
dividends and distributions on shares of HHC Common Stock as provided in the
Merger Agreement, deliverable in respect thereof pursuant to the Merger
Agreement.

         In the event that, subsequent to the date of the Merger Agreement but
prior to the Effective Date, the Company or HHC changes the number of shares of
FDB Common Stock, FDB Preferred Stock or HHC Common Stock, respectively, issued
and outstanding as a result of a stock split, reverse stock split, stock
dividend, recapitalization or other similar transaction, the Exchange Ratio
and/or the Preferred Exchange Ratio, as the case may be, will be appropriately
adjusted.

REGULATORY APPROVALS AND OTHER CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER

   
         The Merger is subject to approval by the FRB.  On or about October 17,
1994, HHC filed with the FRB an application seeking approval to merge the
Company with and into HHC.  HHC received a letter dated November 1, 1994, from 
the FRB requesting certain information in connection with the application.  On
or about November 10, 1994, HHC filed with the FRB a response providing such
additional information, and the FRB accepted the application for filing on
November 18, 1994.  It is anticipated that the application will be approved on 
or around December 18, 1994.  The Merger cannot be consummated for thirty (30)
days after approval thereof
    
        




                                       16
<PAGE>   27
by the FRB, and during such period, the Justice Department may challenge the
Merger of the Company into HHC on antitrust grounds.

         There can be no assurance that any applicable regulatory authority
will approve or take other required action with respect to the Merger or as to
the date of such regulatory approval or other action.  HHC and the Company are
not aware of any governmental approvals or actions that are required in order
to consummate the Merger except as described herein.  Should such other
approval or action be required, it is contemplated that HHC and the Company
would seek such approval or action.  There can be no assurance as to whether or
when any such other approval or action, if required, could be obtained.

         In addition to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, the
expiration of all required notice and waiting periods following the granting of
such approvals, and the approval of the Merger Agreement by the requisite vote
of the shareholders of the Company, consummation of the Merger is subject to
the satisfaction of certain other conditions on or before the Effective Date of
the Merger.  Generally, such additional conditions include, among others, the
following:  (i) the Registration Statement must have been filed with and
declared effective by the SEC and shall not be the subject of any stop order or
proceedings seeking a stop order; (ii) no action or proceeding must have been
threatened or instituted before a court or other governmental body to restrain
or prohibit the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or to obtain
damages or other relief in connection with the execution of the Merger
Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby; and
(iii) no governmental agency must have given notice to any party to the Merger
Agreement to the effect that consummation of the transactions contemplated
thereby would constitute a violation of any law or that it intends to commence
proceedings to restrain consummation of the Merger.

         The obligation of the Company to effect the Merger is subject to the
following additional conditions, among others, (i) each of the representations
and warranties of HHC in the Merger Agreement shall be true and correct in all
material respects on and as of the Closing Date of the Merger and HHC and each
of its subsidiaries shall have in all material respects performed all
obligations and complied with all covenants required by the Merger Agreement to
be performed or complied with at, or prior to, the Closing; (ii) there shall
not have occurred any material adverse change in the financial condition,
results of operations or business of HHC and its subsidiaries taken as a whole;
(iii) the Company shall have received from Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A., special
counsel to HHC, an opinion of counsel satisfactory to the Company and its
counsel (iv) no adverse regulatory action shall be pending or threatened
against any member of HHC's consolidated group if such action would or could
impose any material liability on or interfere with the conduct of the business
of HHC's consolidated group following the Merger; (v) the Company shall have
received from McGlinchey Stafford Lang, A Law Corporation, an opinion of
counsel as to certain tax aspects of the transactions contemplated by the
Merger Agreement; and (vi) the Company shall have received a letter from its
financial advisor, dated on or within ten days prior to the date of the mailing
of the Prospectus/Proxy Statement to its shareholders confirming such financial
advisor's prior oral opinion to the Board of Directors of the Company to the
effect that the consideration to be paid in the Merger is fair to it and its
shareholders from a financial point of view.

         The obligation of HHC to effect the Merger is subject to the following
additional conditions, among others, (i) each of the representations and
warranties of the Company contained in the Merger Agreement shall be true and
correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing Date; (ii) there
shall not have occurred any material adverse change from June 30, 1994 to the
date of the Closing in the financial condition, results of operations or
business of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole; (iii) the
Company shall have redeemed, or at least provided notice of redemption, with
respect to all shares of FDB Preferred Stock legally available for redemption,
at a redemption price not greater than the par value of each such share, plus
accrued and unpaid dividends, prior to the Closing; (iv) all amounts
outstanding under three promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $558,742
between the Company and Bank shall have been paid in full prior to Closing; and
(v) HHC shall have received from McGlinchey Stafford Lang, A Law Corporation,
special counsel to the Company, an opinion of counsel satisfactory to HHC and
its counsel.





                                       17
<PAGE>   28
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS PRIOR TO THE EFFECTIVE DATE

         Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, between the date thereof and the
Effective Date, the Company will, and will cause the Bank to use its best
efforts to preserve its existing business and to keep its business organization
intact, including its present relationships with its employees and customers
and others having business relations with it.  Furthermore, the Company has
agreed to operate its business solely in the ordinary course and to comply with
all applicable laws, regulations and rules and has agreed to cause the Bank to
operate its business solely in the ordinary course and comply with all
applicable laws, rules and regulations.  Without the prior written consent of
HHC, the Company has agreed not, and will not cause the Bank, to:  (i) amend or
otherwise change their respective Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; (ii)
issue or sell, or authorize for issuance or sale, any additional shares of any
class of capital stock of the Company or Bank; (iii) issue, grant or enter into
any subscription, option, warrant, right, convertible security, or other
agreement or commitment of any character obligating the Company or Bank to
issue securities; (iv) except for intercompany dividends between Bank and the
Company necessary to effect the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement, declare, set aside, make or pay any dividend or other distribution
with respect to its capital stock, provided, however, that the Company may, to
the extent lawfully permitted, declare and pay dividends on FDB Preferred Stock
in accordance with the terms of the Company's Articles of Incorporation and,
provided, further, however, that in the event the Merger has not become
effective on or before March 5, 1995, the Company may declare and pay its
normal and customary quarterly dividend on FDB Common Stock; (v) redeem,
purchase, or otherwise acquire, directly or indirectly, any of its capital
stock except for outstanding shares of FDB Preferred Stock which are to be
redeemed in accordance with the terms of the Company's Articles of
Incorporation at a redemption price not greater than the par value of each such
share, plus accrued and unpaid dividends; (vi) authorize any capital
expenditure(s) which, individually or in the aggregate, exceeds $250,000; (vii)
extend any new, or renew any existing loan, credit, lease, or other type of
financing which individually exceeds $750,000 except for the outstanding debt
of the Company to Bank which must be retired in full prior to Closing; (viii)
except in the ordinary course of business, sell, pledge, dispose of, or
encumber any assets of the Company or Bank; (ix) impose or suffer the
imposition of any material lien, charge or encumbrance on any share of stock of
Bank held by the Company, or permit any such lien to exist; (x) acquire any
corporation, partnership, or other business organization or division thereof or
enter into any contract to make such acquisition; (xi) other than in normal and
customary banking transactions, incur any indebtedness for borrowed money,
issue any debt securities, or enter into or modify any contract, agreement,
commitment or arrangement with respect thereto; (xii) enter into, extend, or
renew any lease for office or other space; (xiii) except as may be required by
law, enter into, adopt, or amend any bonus, profit sharing, compensation, stock
option, pension, retirement, deferred compensation, employment, or other
employee benefit plan, agreement, trust, fund, or arrangement for the benefit
or welfare of any officer, employee, or representative of the Company or Bank;
or (xiv) grant any increase in compensation to any director, officer, or
employee or representative of the Company or Bank except in the ordinary course
of business consistent with past practices.

WAIVER, AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION

         The Company and HHC may waive their respective rights, powers or
privileges under the Merger Agreement, provided, however, that any such waiver
is in writing.  The Merger Agreement may be amended or modified only upon
written agreement subscribed by both the Company and HHC.

         The Merger Agreement may be terminated or renegotiated in good faith
either before or after approval of the Merger Agreement by the Company's
shareholders upon the occurrence of certain events, including, among others,
the following:  (i) at any time on or prior to the Effective Date, by the
mutual consent in writing of the Company and HHC; (ii) by either HHC or the
Company, in writing, if the Merger has not become effective on or before March
31, 1995, unless such expiration date has been mutually extended or unless the
absence of such effectiveness is due to the failure of the party seeking to
terminate the Merger Agreement to perform each of its obligations required by
the Merger Agreement to be performed on or prior to the Effective Date; (iii)
by either party to the Merger Agreement in the event of a breach by the other
party (a) of any





                                       18
<PAGE>   29
covenant or agreement contained therein or (b) of any representation or
warranty therein, if the facts constituting such breach reflect a material
adverse change in the financial condition, results of operations or business
taken as a whole, of the breaching party, which in either case cannot be or is
not cured within thirty days after written notice of such breach is given to
the party committing such breach, or in the event of a breach of a warranty or
covenant, such breach results in a material increase in the cost of the
non-breaching party's performance of the Merger Agreement; (iv) by HHC or the
Company at any time after the FRB or SEC has denied any application for any
approval or clearance required to be obtained as a condition to the
consummation of the Merger and the time period for all appeals or requests for
reconsideration has run; (v) by the Company or HHC if the Merger Agreement and
the Merger are not approved by the required vote of the Company's shareholders;
(vi) by the Company if both (1) the Acquiror Quotient is less than 0.8 and (2)
the S&P Quotient exceeds the Acquiror Quotient by more than 0.10.

         Except under certain circumstances specified in the Merger Agreement,
upon termination of the Merger Agreement, no liability will result on the part
of either party or their respective directors, officers, employees, agents, or
shareholders unless there has been an intentional breach of the Merger
Agreement prior to the date of termination.

INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER

         In considering the Merger Agreement and Merger, holders of FDB Common
Stock should be aware that the Company's directors and officers have an
interest in the Merger, as described below.

         Indemnification of the Company and Bank Directors and Officers.  HHC
has agreed that, from and after the Effective Date and subject to certain
limitations it will indemnify each person who has served as a director or
officer (including the Estate of R.  Dawes Easterly) of the Company or Bank
against all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and judgments (and related
expenses, including, but not limited to, attorney's fees and amounts paid in
investigating, defending, or settling any action) based upon or arising from
such persons's service in such capacity, to the same extent as he would have
been indemnified under the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of HHC in
effect on August 20, 1994, except that the Merger Agreement limits HHC's
aggregate liability for such indemnification to $4 million.

         Indemnification for Liabilities under the Securities Act.  The Merger
Agreement also provides for indemnification of the Company's consolidated
group's respective officers, directors and controlling persons from and against
losses, claims, damages, liabilities, or judgments arising under the Securities
Act or state securities or blue sky laws or otherwise if such losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or judgments arise out of or are based on an untrue
statement or alleged untrue statement, omission of a material fact, or alleged
omission of a material fact required to be stated in the Registration
Statement, of which this Prospectus/Proxy Statement forms a part, or in any
amendment or supplement thereto, or in any state application for qualification,
permit, exemption or registration as a broker/dealer, or in any amendment or
supplement thereto, or necessary to make the statements made in any of the
foregoing not misleading.  This indemnification does not apply to statements
made in reliance on information furnished to HHC by the Company, Bank, or any
officer, director, or controlling person of the Company or Bank, for use in the
Registration Statement, or in any such state application.

         Appointment to Board of Directors of Hancock Bank.  The Merger
Agreement also provides that the Board of Directors of HHC shall cause a
designee or designees of the Company to be appointed to the Board of Directors
of both Hancock Bank and Hancock Bank MS upon the Effective Date.  The Board of
Directors of HHC shall nominate such designee or designees of the Company for
election and/or reelection to the Board of Directors of the respective bank for
not less than each of the next five years succeeding the Effective Date.  The
Board of Directors of the Company has designated Robert E. Easterly to be the
Company's designee to the Board of Directors of Hancock Bank MS and Bruce R.
Easterly to be the Company's designee to the Board of Directors of Hancock
Bank.





                                       19
<PAGE>   30
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

         From and after the Effective Date, HHC may cause the Bank to offer to
all persons who are employees of the Bank immediately prior to the Effective
Date and who become or remain employees of the Bank immediately following the
Effective Date, similar employee benefits as are offered by HHC or Hancock Bank
to similarly situated employees of Hancock Bank, including benefits under
Hancock Bank MS's Pension Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k), Cafeteria Plan, vacation
and salary continuation plans or policies.  There will be no waiting period for
coverage under Hancock Bank MS's Medical Benefit Plan, Dental Reimbursement
Plan, Cafeteria Plan, Group Life Insurance Plan, Long Term Disability Plan and
HHC Stock Purchase Plan and no employee who is an active employee of the Bank
on the Effective Date will be denied benefits under such plans for a
pre-existing condition.  Full credit will be given for prior service by such
employee with the Bank for eligibility and vesting purposes under all of
Hancock Bank MS's benefit plans and policies, except that credit for prior
service will not be given for eligibility, vesting or benefit accrual purposes
under Hancock Bank MS's Pension Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan and Medical
Benefit Plan.  HHC has agreed that the Company and/or the Bank may amend its
401(k) Plan to provide that all participants in such plan who are employed on
August 20, 1994 will be fully vested in their accounts in such plan as of the
Effective Date.

EXPENSES

         HHC and the Company have each agreed to pay their respective costs,
fees and expenses incurred in connection with or incidental to the Merger
Agreement, including without limitation any fees and disbursements to their
respective accountants and counsel.  HHC is responsible for preparing the
applications, regulatory filings and Registration Statement necessary to obtain
approval of the Merger and the issuance of the HHC Common Stock.  The Company
is responsible for the cost of its accountants and legal counsel and will bear
all costs related to conducting its shareholders' meeting and obtaining
shareholder approval of the Merger Agreement and the Merger.

STATUS UNDER FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS; CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON RESALES OF
SECURITIES

         The shares of HHC Common Stock to be issued pursuant to the Merger
Agreement have been registered under the Securities Act thereby allowing such
shares to be sold without restriction by shareholders of the Company who are
not deemed to be "affiliates" (as that term is defined in the rules under the
Securities Act) of the Company and who do not become affiliates of HHC.  The
shares of HHC Common Stock to be issued to affiliates of the Company may be
resold only pursuant to an effective registration statement, pursuant to Rule
145 under the Securities Act (which, among other things, permits the resale of
securities subject to certain volume limitations) or in transactions otherwise
exempt from registration under the Securities Act.  HHC is not obligated and
does not intend to register shares of HHC Common Stock under the Securities Act
for resale by shareholders who are affiliates.

         Prior to the Effective Date of the Merger, each such person deemed an
affiliate of the Company will deliver to HHC a letter agreement pertaining to
the limitations on the transferability of such affiliate's shares of HHC Common
Stock acquired in the Merger, and therein represent and warrant, among other
things, that he or she will not sell, pledge, transfer, or otherwise dispose of
such shares of HHC Common Stock in violation of the Securities Act or the rule
and regulations thereunder.

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

         The Merger will be accounted for as a "purchase" transaction under
general accepted accounting principles.  Accordingly, the earnings of the
Company will be combined with the earnings of HHC from and after the Effective
Date of the Merger and any goodwill or other intangibles recorded in the
transaction will be amortized through charges to income in future periods.





                                       20
<PAGE>   31
             MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER

         Set forth below is a discussion of material federal income tax
consequences of the Merger.  The discussion is intended only as a summary and
does not purport to be a complete analysis of all potential tax effects
relevant to a decision whether to vote for the approval of the Merger Agreement
and related Merger.  The discussion is based on current provisions of the Code,
regulations thereunder, and applicable judicial and administrative
interpretations on the date hereof, any of which is subject to change at any
time.

         HHC and the Company expect the Merger to be a tax-free reorganization
for federal income tax purposes so that no gain or loss will be recognized by
the Company's shareholders, except to the extent of cash consideration received
by shareholders in exchange for FDB Common Stock, FDB Preferred Stock,
fractional shares, or payments received by shareholders upon exercise of their
statutory dissenters' rights.

         Consummation of the Merger is conditioned upon receipt by the Company
of an opinion from McGlinchey Stafford Lang, A Law Corporation, to the
following effects, among others:

         (i)     The Merger will constitute a reorganization under Section 368
                 of the Code and each of HHC and the Company will be a "party
                 to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of
                 the Code.

         (ii)    No material gain or loss will be recognized by HHC or the
                 Company as a result of the Merger.

   
         (iii)   No gain or loss will be recognized by a shareholder of the
                 Company who receives solely HHC Common Stock in exchange for
                 his FDB Common Stock.  However, because both HHC Common Stock
                 and other consideration will be transferred in exchange for
                 shares of FDB Common Stock, then, in general, such a
                 shareholder will be required to recognize gain, subject to the
                 provisions and limitations of Section 302 of the Code. The 
                 amount of gain recognized will not exceed the amount of cash 
                 received in the exchange.
    

         (iv)    Cash received in the Merger by a shareholder of the Company in
                 lieu of a fractional share interest in HHC Common Stock will
                 be treated under Section 302 of the Code as having been
                 received by shareholder in exchange for such fractional share,
                 and the shareholder generally will recognize gain or loss in
                 such exchange equal to the difference between the cash
                 received and the shareholder's basis allocable to the
                 fractional share.  If a fractional share of HHC Common Stock
                 would constitute a capital asset in the hands of the
                 shareholder, any resulting gain or loss will be characterized
                 as capital gain or loss in accordance with the provisions and
                 limitations of Subchapter P of Chapter 1 of the Code.

         (v)     A shareholder of the Company who perfects his statutory
                 dissenters' rights and who receives solely cash in exchange
                 for his FDB Common Stock will be treated as having received
                 such cash payment as a distribution in redemption of his
                 shares of FDB stock, subject to the provisions and limitations
                 of Sections 302 and 306 of the Code.  After such distribution,
                 if the former shareholder does not actually or constructively 
                 own any FDB stock and if such stock is not treated as "Section
                 306 stock," the redemption will constitute a complete
                 termination of interest and be treated as a distribution in
                 full payment in exchange for the FDB stock so redeemed.

         (vi)    A shareholder of the Company who owns FDB Preferred Stock and
                 who receives solely cash in exchange for his FDB Preferred
                 Stock will be treated as having received such cash payment as
                 a distribution in redemption of his shares of FDB Preferred
                 Stock, subject to the provisions and limitations of Section
                 302 of the Code.  After such distribution, if the former
                 shareholder does not actually or constructively own any FDB
                 stock, the redemption will constitute a complete termination
                 of interest and be treated as a distribution in full payment
                 in exchange for the FDB stock so redeemed.





                                       21
<PAGE>   32
         In connection with the foregoing opinion, counsel will make such
factual assumptions as are customary in similar tax opinions, and such factual
assumptions may be confirmed by certificates signed by appropriate officers of
HHC and the Company.  The foregoing opinion cannot be relied upon if any such
factual assumptions is, or later becomes, inaccurate.  No ruling from the
Internal Revenue Service concerning the tax consequences of the Merger has been
requested, and the opinion will not be binding upon the Internal Revenue
Service or the courts.  If the Merger is consummated, and it is later
determined that the Merger did not qualify as a tax-free reorganization under
the Code, shareholders of the Company will, in general, recognize taxable gain 
or loss in the Merger equal to the difference between the fair market value of 
the consideration received in the Merger and their basis in their FDB Common 
Stock or FDB Preferred Stock, as the case may be.

         THE FOREGOING ANALYSIS OF FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES IS INCLUDED
HEREIN FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR
CAREFUL TAX PLANNING.  SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR
TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE MERGER AND OF
OWNERSHIP OF HHC COMMON STOCK, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF STATE
AND LOCAL INCOME AND OTHER TAX LAWS.

                               DISSENTERS' RIGHTS

         IF A SHAREHOLDER OF FDB COMMON STOCK WHO OBJECTS TO THE MERGER AND
DESIRES TO PERFECT DISSENTERS' RIGHTS IS NOT TIMELY IN TAKING ANY OF THE
FOLLOWING STEPS, THE SHAREHOLDER WILL LOSE THE RIGHT TO DISSENT FROM THE MERGER
AND THE SHARES OWNED BY SUCH SHAREHOLDER WILL BE CONVERTED AS OF THE EFFECTIVE
TIME OF THE MERGER INTO THE RIGHT TO HHC COMMON STOCK AND CASH IN ACCORDANCE
WITH THE TERMS OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.

         Unless the Merger is approved by the holders of at least 80 percent of
the total voting power of the Company, Section 131 of the LBCL allows a
shareholder of FDB Common Stock who objects to the Merger and who complies with
the provisions of that section to dissent from the Merger and to be paid the
fair cash value of his shares of FDB Common Stock, as of the day before the
Special Meeting, as determined by agreement between the shareholder and HHC, as
successor to the Company, or by the state district court for the Parish of
Livingston if the shareholder and HHC are unable to agree upon the fair cash
value of such shares.

         To exercise the right of dissent, a shareholder must (i) file with the
Company a written objection to the Merger prior to or at the Special Meeting,
and (ii) vote his shares against the Merger at the Special Meeting.  Neither a
vote against the Merger nor a specification in a proxy to vote against the
Merger will constitute the necessary written objection to the Merger.
Moreover, by voting in favor of the Merger, by abstaining from voting on the
Merger, or by returning the enclosed proxy without instructing the proxy holder
to vote against the Merger, a shareholder waives his rights under Section 131
of the LBCL.

         If the Merger is approved by less than 80 percent of the total voting
power of the Company, then promptly after the Effective Date of the Merger,
written notice of consummation of the Merger will be given by registered mail
to each shareholder who filed a written objection and voted against the Merger.
Within twenty days of the mailing of such notice, the shareholder must file
with HHC, as successor to the Company, a written demand for payment of the fair
cash value of his shares as of the day before the Special Meeting and must
state the amount demanded and a post office address to which HHC may reply.
The shareholder also must deposit the Certificate(s) formerly representing his
shares of FDB Common Stock in escrow with a bank or trust company located in
Livingston Parish, Louisiana.  With the above-mentioned demand, the shareholder
must also deliver to HHC the written acknowledgement of such bank or trust
company that it holds the Certificate(s), duly endorsed and transferred to HHC,
on the sole condition that the Certificate(s) will be delivered to HHC upon
payment of the value of the shares in accordance with Section 131.





                                       22
<PAGE>   33
         Unless the shareholder objects to and votes against the Merger,
demands payment, deposits his Certificate(s) and delivers the required
acknowledgement in accordance with the above mentioned procedures and within
the time periods set forth above, the shareholder will conclusively be presumed
to have acquiesced to the Merger and will forfeit any right to seek payment
pursuant to Section 131.

         If HHC does not agree with the fair value demanded by the shareholder,
or does not agree that payment is due, it will notify the shareholder within
twenty days after receipt of the shareholder's demand and acknowledgement, and
state in such notice the value it is willing to pay for the shares or its
belief that no payment is due.  If the shareholder does not agree to accept the
amount offered by HHC, he must, within 60 days after receipt of such notice,
file suit against HHC in the state district court for the Parish of Livingston
for a judicial determination of the fair cash value of the shares.  Any
shareholder entitled to file such suit, within such 60-day period but not
thereafter, may intervene as a plaintiff in any suit filed against HHC by any
other former shareholder of the Company for a judicial determination of the
fair cash value of such other shareholder's shares.  If a shareholder fails to
bring or to intervene in such a suit within the applicable 60-day period, he
will be deemed to have consented to accept HHC's statement that no payment is
due or, if HHC does not contend that no payment is due, to accept the amount
specified by HHC in its notice of disagreement.

         If, upon filing of any such suit or intervention, HHC deposits with
the court the amount, if any, that it specified in its notice of disagreement,
and if in that notice HHC offered to pay such amount to the shareholder on
demand, then the costs (not including legal fees) of the suit or intervention
will be taxed against the shareholder if the amount finally awarded to him,
exclusive of interest or costs, is equal to or less than the amount so
deposited; otherwise, the costs (not including legal fees) will be taxed
against HHC.

         Upon filing a demand for the value of his shares, a shareholder ceases
to have any rights as a shareholder except the rights created by Section 131.
The shareholder's demand may be withdrawn voluntarily at any time before HHC
gives its notice of disagreement.  Withdrawal of a demand thereafter requires
the written consent of HHC.  If withdrawn, or if the shareholder otherwise
loses his dissenters' rights under Section 131, he will be restored to his
rights as a shareholder as of the time of filing his demand for fair cash
value.

         THE FOREGOING SUMMARY OF DISSENTERS' RIGHTS UNDER THE LBCL IS
NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SECTION
131 OF THE LBCL, WHICH IS SET FORTH IN ITS ENTIRETY IN THIS PROSPECTUS/PROXY
STATEMENT AS APPENDIX C.





                                       33
<PAGE>   34
               UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

         The following unaudited pro forma combined financial statements are
presented assuming the merger of Washington will be accounted for as a
pooling-of-interests and the Merger of the Company will be accounted for as a
purchase transaction, and, subject to the purchase adjustments noted below
regarding the Company, reflect the combination of the historical consolidated
financial statements of the respective companies for the following periods.
The unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet assumes the mergers were
consummated on September 30, 1994.  The unaudited pro forma combined statements
of income assume the merger of Washington and the merger of the Company were
consummated on January 1, 1991, and January 1, 1993, respectively.  The
unaudited pro forma combined financial statements give effect to the merger of
First State Bank in April, 1994 under the pooling-of-interests method of
accounting for all periods and (i) the issuance of approximately 537,000 shares
of HHC Common Stock in connection with the merger of Washington, (ii) the
issuance of approximately 774,000 shares of HHC Common Stock and the payment of
approximately $4 million in cash in connection with Merger of the Company, and
(iii) the redemption of all the FDB Preferred Stock, as of the assumed dates of
the respective mergers.  If the merger of Washington is not consummated, the
unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet and the unaudited pro forma combined
statements of income of HHC set forth below will not change materially.

         The unaudited pro forma information does not purport to represent what
HHC's, Washington's and the Company's combined results of operations actually
would have been if the respective mergers had occurred as of the dates
indicated or will be for any future period.  The unaudited pro forma combined
financial statements should be read in conjunction with the historical
financial statements and notes thereto of the Company and HHC contained
elsewhere or incorporated by reference herein.


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
SEPTEMBER 30, 1994

(Amounts in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     WASHINGTON                           
                                                          HHC                    PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS                    
                                                       (RESTATED)   WASHINGTON    DEBITS       CREDITS          FDB       
                                                       ----------   ----------    ------       -------          ---
<S>                                                    <C>             <C>      <C>            <C>           <C>          
ASSETS                                                                                                                    
    Cash and due from banks                            $  113,205      $ 5,791                 $ 3,195 (A)   $  8,167     
    Interest-bearing time deposits in domestic banks        1,375          200                                      0     
    Federal funds sold and securities purchased                                                                           
        under agreements to resell                         33,750       29,275                                  2,975     
    Securities available-for-sale                          20,737            0                                 22,059     
    Securities held-to-maturity                           875,260        6,726                                      0     
    Loans, net of unearned income                         873,651       45,855                                 71,485     
        Reserve for possible loan losses                  (14,055)      (1,151)                                (1,124)    
                                                       ----------      -------                               --------
            Loans, net                                    859,596       44,704                                 70,361     
    Bank premises and equipment                            34,906          752                                  3,910     
    Other real estate                                         674          259                                    474     
    Other Assets                                           34,683          560                                  1,358     
                                                       ----------      -------                               --------
            TOTAL ASSETS                               $1,974,186      $88,267                               $109,304     
                                                       ==========      =======                               ========
                                                                                                                          
LIABILITIES                                                                                                               
    Deposits:                                                                                                             
        Demand, noninterest-bearing                       373,165      $18,253   $ 3,195 (A)                 $ 30,017     
        Interest-bearing                                1,378,412       57,430                                 67,958     
                                                       ----------      -------                               --------
            Total Deposits                              1,751,577       75,683                                 97,975     
    Federal funds purchased and securities sold                                                                           
        under agreements to repurchase                     44,353            0                                      0     
    Other liabilities and borrowings                        7,702          308                                    384     
    Capital notes                                             480            0                                      0     
    Long-term bonds and notes                               3,820            0                                      0     
                                                       ----------      -------                               --------
            TOTAL LIABILITIES                           1,807,932       75,991                                 98,359     
                                                                                                                          
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                                                                                      
    Preferred Stock                                                                                               429     
    Common Stock                                           25,658          808       808 (B)     1,800 (B)        480     
    Capital Surplus                                        95,131          145       145 (B)    10,476 (B)      1,814     
    Undivided Profits                                      45,465       11,323    11,323 (B)                    8,796     
    Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities                                                                         (241)    
     Treasury Stock                                                                                              (333)    
                                                       ----------      -------                               --------
             TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                   166,254       12,276                                 10,945     
                                                       ----------      -------   -------       -------       --------
             TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY              $1,974,186      $88,267   $15,471       $15,471       $109,304     
                                                       ==========      =======   =======       =======       ========

</TABLE>

<TABLE>                                             
<CAPTION>                                           
                                                                                 FDB                            
                                                                        PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS           PRO FORMA  
                                                                        DEBITS        CREDITS              HHC    
                                                                        ------        -------           ---------
<S>                                                                    <C>            <C>              <C>        
ASSETS                                                                                                            
    Cash and due from banks                                                           $ 4,501 (C,D,F)  $  119,467 
    Interest-bearing time deposits in domestic banks                                                        1,575 
    Federal funds sold and securities purchased                                                                   
        under agreements to resell                                                        300 (E)          65,700 
    Securities available-for-sale                                                                          42,796 
    Securities held-to-maturity                                                                           881,986 
    Loans, net of unearned income                                                                         990,991 
        Reserve for possible loan losses                                                                  (16,330)
                                                                                                       ----------
            Loans, net                                                                                    974,661 
    Bank premises and equipment                                            850 (G)                         40,418 
    Other real estate                                                                                       1,407 
    Other Assets                                                        10,872 (D,H)                       47,473 
                                                                                                       ----------
            TOTAL ASSETS                                                                               $2,175,483 
                                                                                                       ==========
                                                                                                                  
LIABILITIES                                                                                                       
    Deposits:                                                                                                     
        Demand, noninterest-bearing                                    $    72 (C)                     $  418,168 
        Interest-bearing                                                                                1,503,800 
                                                                                                       ----------
            Total Deposits                                                                              1,921,968 
    Federal funds purchased and securities sold                                                                   
        under agreements to repurchase                                     300 (E)                         44,053 
    Other liabilities and borrowings                                                      240 (H)           8,634 
    Capital notes                                                                                             480 
    Long-term bonds and notes                                                                               3,820 
                                                                                                       ----------
            TOTAL LIABILITIES                                                                           1,978,955 
                                                                                                                  
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                                                                              
    Preferred Stock                                                        429 (F)                              0 
    Common Stock                                                                        2,090 (D)          30,028 
    Capital Surplus                                                                    13,614 (D)         121,035 
    Undivided Profits                                                    8,796 (D)                         45,465 
    Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities                                                  241 (D)               0 
     Treasury Stock                                                                       333 (D)               0 
                                                                                                       ----------
             TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                                                   196,528
                                                                       -------        -------          ----------
             TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY                              $21,319        $21,319          $2,175,483 
                                                                       =======        =======          ==========
</TABLE>                                            
                                                    
NOTES
(A)  To eliminate the cash and due from/to account between HHC and Washington.
(B)  To record the issuance of approximately 537,000 shares of HHC stock in
     exchange for 80,844 shares of Washington common stock in a transaction
     accounted for using the pooling-of-interests method.
(C)  To eliminate the cash and due from/to account between HHC and FDB.
(D)  To record the issuance of approximately 774,000 shares of HHC Common Stock
     and approximately $4,000,000 in cash in connection with the acquisition of
     the Company under the purchase method of accounting.
(E)  To eliminate intercompany purchase/sale of federal funds between HHC and
     FDB.
(F)  To record the redemption of preferred stock of FDB for cash.
(G)  To record estimated market value adjustment to bank premises and equipment
     of FDB.
(H)  To record deferred taxes associated with market adjustments to FDB's
     securities and bank premises and equipment.





                                      24
<PAGE>   35
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1994

(Amounts in thousands except per share data)                
<TABLE>                                                     
<CAPTION>                                                   
                                                                                                     WASHINGTON            
                                                                            HHC                 PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS      
                                                                        (RESTATED)   WASHINGTON   DEBITS    CREDITS    FDB
                                                                        ----------   ----------   ------    -------    ---
<S>                                                                       <C>          <C>         <C>       <C>     <C>  
INTEREST INCOME                                                                                                                 
    Interest and fees on Loans                                            $57,891      $3,267                        $5,967     
    Interest on securities:                                                                                                     
        U.S. government securities and obligations                                                                              
                of U.S. government agencies                                30,361         204                           898     
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions                     2,163          39                            16     
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities                                                                               
                purchased under agreements to resell                        2,059         789                           177     
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                            3,264           0                             0     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
                    TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                  95,738       4,299                         7,058     
INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                                
    Interest on deposits                                                   34,393       1,189                         1,420     
    Interest on federal funds purchased and                                                                                     
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase                        994           0                             0     
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                                        257           0                             0     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
                    TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                 35,644       1,189                         1,420     
NET INTEREST INCOME                                                        60,094       3,110                         5,638     
    Provision for possible loan losses                                      1,203         120                           156     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR                                                                                         
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                          58,891       2,990                         5,482     
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                             
    Service charges on deposits                                             8,627         626                         1,616     
    Trust fees                                                              1,767           0                             0     
    Other charges, fees and operating income                                4,591         120                           388     
    Securities gains, net                                                      97          50                             0     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
                    TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                               15,082         796                         2,004     
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                             
    Salaries and employee benefits                                         25,429       1,282                         1,956     
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                                    7,638         279                           257     
    Other operating expenses                                               17,322         819                         2,240     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
                    TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                              50,389       2,380                         4,453     
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                               23,584       1,406                         3,033     
    Income tax expense                                                      7,435         478                         1,043     
                                                                          -------      ------                        ------     
NET EARNINGS                                                              $16,149      $  928                        $1,990     
                                                                          =======      ======                        ======     
                                                                                                                                
EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                          $2.14                                               
AVERAGE SHARES                                                              7,555                                               
</TABLE>

<TABLE>                                                 
<CAPTION>                                               
                                                                                          FDB                               
                                                                                 PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS             PRO FORMA
                                                                               DEBITS            CREDITS              HHC   
                                                                               ------            -------           ---------
<S>                                                                            <C>                <C>             <C>    
INTEREST INCOME
    Interest and fees on Loans                                                                                    $ 67,125 
    Interest on securities:                                                                                                
        U.S. government securities and obligations                                                                         
                of U.S. government agencies                                                                         31,463 
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions                                                              2,218 
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities                                                                          
                purchased under agreements to resell                                                                 3,025 
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                                                                     3,264 
                                                                                                                  --------
                    TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                                                          107,095 
INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                           
    Interest on deposits                                                                                            37,002 
    Interest on federal funds purchased and                                                                                
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase                                                                 994 
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                                          210 (K)                                467 
                                                                                                                  --------
                    TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                          38,463 
NET INTEREST INCOME                                                                                                 68,632 
    Provision for possible loan losses                                                                               1,479 
                                                                                                                  --------
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR                                                                                    
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                                                                   67,153 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                        
    Service charges on deposits                                                                                     10,869 
    Trust fees                                                                                                       1,767 
    Other charges, fees and operating income                                                                         5,099 
    Securities gains, net                                                                                              147 
                                                                                                                  --------
                    TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                                                                        17,882 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                        
    Salaries and employee benefits                                                                                  28,667 
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                                                                             8,174
    Other operating expenses                                                    550 (L)                             20,931
                                                                                                                  --------
                    TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                       57,772
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                                                                        27,263
    Income tax expense                                                                             266 (M)           8,690
                                                                               ----               ----            --------
NET EARNINGS                                                                   $760               $266            $ 18,573
                                                                               ====               ====            ========
                                                                                         
EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                                                                   $2.09
AVERAGE SHARES                                                                                                       8,866
</TABLE>
     
NOTES
(K)  To record imputed interest of 7.00% on the $4,000,000 cash portion of the
     purchase price.
(L)  To record amortization of intangible assets over 15 years using a straight
     line basis.
(M)  To record the tax effect of pro forma adjustments.





                                      25
<PAGE>   36
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993


(Amounts in thousands except per share data)
<TABLE>                                                         
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                          WASHINGTON              
                                                                                HHC                  PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS        
                                                                             (RESTATED)   WASHINGTON   DEBITS    CREDITS     FDB  
                                                                             ----------   ----------   ------    -------     ---
<S>                                                                            <C>           <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>  
INTEREST INCOME                                                                                                                   
    Interest and fees on Loans                                                 $ 75,515      $4,743      $3 (J)            $7,460 
    Interest on securities:                                                                                                       
        U.S. government securities and obligations                                                                                
                of U.S. government agencies                                      40,930         805                         1,261 
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions                           3,359          20                            21 
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities                                                                                 
                purchased under agreements to resell                              3,245         358                           186 
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                                  4,800          20                             0 
                                                                               --------      ------                        ------
                           TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                127,849       5,946                         8,928 
INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                                  
    Interest on deposits                                                         45,264       1,671                         1,912 
    Interest on federal funds purchased and                                                                                       
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase                            1,021           0                             0 
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                                              424          16                 3 (J)       0 
                                                                               --------      ------                        ------
                           TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                46,709       1,687                         1,912 
NET INTEREST INCOME                                                              81,140       4,259                         7,016 
    Provision for possible loan losses                                            4,482         150                           302 
                                                                               --------      ------                        ------
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR                                                                                           
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                                76,658       4,109                         6,714 
NONINTEREST INCOME                                                                                                                
    Service charges on deposits                                                  11,085         821                         2,120 
    Trust fees                                                                    2,643           0                             0 
    Other charges, fees and operating income                                      6,509         228                           601 
    Securities gains, net                                                           783           0                             0 
                                                                               --------      ------                        ------
                           TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                              21,020       1,049                         2,721 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                                                               
    Salaries and employee benefits                                               32,018       1,589                         2,638 
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                                          9,923         320                           301 
    Other operating expenses                                                     22,171       1,426                         2,797 
                                                                               --------      ------                        ------
                           TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                             64,112       3,335                         5,736 
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                                     33,566       1,823                         3,699 
    Income tax expense                                                           10,199         630                         1,254 
    Cumulative effect of an accounting change                                         0         301                             0 
                                                                               --------      ------      --        --      ------
NET EARNINGS                                                                   $ 23,367      $1,494      $3        $3      $2,445 
                                                                               ========      ======      ==        ==      ======

EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                                $3.09                                           
AVERAGE SHARES                                                                    7,550                                           
</TABLE>

<TABLE>                                                         
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          FDB                               
                                                                                 PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS             PRO FORMA
                                                                               DEBITS            CREDITS              HHC   
                                                                               ------            -------           ---------
<S>                                                                            <C>                <C>               <C>    
INTEREST INCOME                                                                  
    Interest and fees on Loans                                                                                      $ 87,715
    Interest on securities:                                                      
        U.S. government securities and obligations                               
                of U.S. government agencies                                                                           42,996
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions                                                                3,400
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities                                
                purchased under agreements to resell                                                                   3,789
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                                                                       4,820
                                                                                                                    --------
                           TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                                                     142,720
INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                 
    Interest on deposits                                                                                              48,847
    Interest on federal funds purchased and                                      
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase                                                                 1,021
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                                            280 (K)                                717
                                                                                                                    --------
                           TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                                                     50,585
NET INTEREST INCOME                                                                                                   92,135
    Provision for possible loan losses                                                                                 4,934
                                                                                                                    --------
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR                                          
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                                                                     87,201
NONINTEREST INCOME                                                               
    Service charges on deposits                                                                                       14,026
    Trust fees                                                                                                         2,643
    Other charges, fees and operating income                                                                           7,338
    Securities gains, net                                                                                                783
                                                                                                                    --------
                           TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                                                                   24,790
NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                              
    Salaries and employee benefits                                                                                    36,245
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                                                                              10,544
    Other operating expenses                                                      732 (L)                             27,126
                                                                                                                    --------
                           TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                                                  73,915
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                                                                          38,076
    Income tax expense                                                                             354 (M)            11,729
    Cumulative effect of an accounting change                                                                            301
                                                                               ------             ----              --------
NET EARNINGS                                                                   $1,012             $354              $ 26,648     
                                                                               ======             ====              ========

EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                                                                     $3.01
AVERAGE SHARES                                                                                                         8,861
</TABLE>                                                                  
                                                                          
NOTES
(J)  To eliminate intercompany interest income/expense on a loan balance
     between HHC and Washington.
(K)  To record imputed interest of 7.00% on the $4,000,000 cash portion of the
     purchase price.
(L)  To record amortization of intangible assets over 15 years using a straight
     line basis.
(M)  To record the tax effect of pro forma adjustments.




                                      26

<PAGE>   37
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1992

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Amounts in thousands except per share data)                                                  WASHINGTON
                                                                 HHC                     PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS        PRO FORMA
                                                              (RESTATED)    WASHINGTON    DEBITS       CREDITS           HHC   
                                                              ----------    ----------    ------       -------        ---------
<S>                                                            <C>             <C>          <C>           <C>         <C>
INTEREST INCOME
    Interest and fees on Loans                                 $ 75,408        $5,108       $22 (J)                   $ 80,494
    Interest on securities:
        U.S. government securities and obligations
                of U.S. government agencies                      43,733           849                                   44,582
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions           4,346             1                                    4,347
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities
                purchased under agreements to resell              3,424           772                                    4,196
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                  4,928            40                                    4,968 
                                                               --------        ------                                 --------  
           TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                131,839         6,770                                  138,587
INTEREST EXPENSE
    Interest on deposits                                         52,223         2,426                                   54,649
    Interest on federal funds purchased and
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase            1,408             0                                    1,408
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                              567            85                      22 (J)          630 
                                                               --------        ------                                 --------  
           TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                54,198         2,511                                   56,687
NET INTEREST INCOME                                              77,641         4,259                                   81,900
    Provision for possible loan losses                            7,768           210                                    7,978 
                                                               --------        ------                                 --------  
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                69,873         4,049                                   73,922
NONINTEREST INCOME
    Service charges on deposits                                  11,337           739                                   12,076
    Trust fees                                                    2,279             0                                    2,279
    Other charges, fees and operating income                      5,890           258                                    6,148
    Securities gains, net                                           634             0                                      634 
                                                               --------        ------                                 --------  
           TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                              20,140           997                                   21,137
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
    Salaries and employee benefits                               29,891         1,525                                   31,416
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                         10,522           343                                   10,865
    Other operating expenses                                     22,335         1,312                                   23,647 
                                                               --------        ------                                 --------  
           TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                             62,748         3,180                                   65,928
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                     27,265         1,866                                   29,131
    Income tax expense                                            7,027           694                                    7,721 
                                                               --------        ------       ---           ---         --------
NET EARNINGS                                                   $ 20,238        $1,172       $22           $22         $ 21,410 
                                                               ========        ======       ===           ===         ========

EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                $2.68                                                  $2.65
AVERAGE SHARES                                                    7,550                                                  8,087
</TABLE>

NOTES
(J)  To eliminate the intercompany interest income/expense on a loan balance
     between HHC and Washington.




                                      27

<PAGE>   38
   
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
    
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1991


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Amounts in thousands except per share data)                                                   WASHINGTON
                                                                 HHC                      PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS       PRO FORMA
                                                              (RESTATED)    WASHINGTON     DEBITS       CREDITS          HHC   
                                                              ----------    ----------     ------       -------       ---------
<S>                                                            <C>             <C>          <C>           <C>         <C>
INTEREST INCOME
    Interest and fees on Loans                                 $ 78,907        $5,713       $54 (J)                   $ 84,566
    Interest on securities:
        U.S. government securities and obligations
                of U.S. government agencies                      38,023         1,072                                   39,095
        Obligations of state and political subdivisions           5,069            27                                    5,096
    Interest on federal funds sold and securities
                purchased under agreements to resell              6,264         1,066                                    7,330
    Interest on time deposits and other interest                  2,270            74                                    2,344 
                                                               --------        ------                                 -------- 
           TOTAL INTEREST INCOME                                130,533         7,952                                  138,431
INTEREST EXPENSE
    Interest on deposits                                         66,164         3,895                                   70,059
    Interest on federal funds purchased and
        securities sold under agreements to repurchase            3,367             0                                    3,367
    Interest on bonds, notes and other                            2,140           147                      54 (J)        2,233 
                                                               --------        ------                                 -------- 
           TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE                                71,671         4,042                                   75,659
NET INTEREST INCOME                                              58,862         3,910                                   62,772
    Provision for possible loan losses                            4,793           210                                    5,003 
                                                               --------        ------                                 -------- 
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR
             POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES                                54,069         3,700                                   57,769
NONINTEREST INCOME
    Service charges on deposits                                   9,482           725                                   10,207
    Trust fees                                                    2,592             0                                    2,592
    Other service charges and fees                                7,323           223                                    7,546
    Securities gains, net                                           812             0                                      812 
                                                               --------        ------                                 -------- 
           TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME                              20,209           948                                   21,157
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
    Salaries and employee benefits                               27,096         1,516                                   28,612
    Occupancy and equipment expense, net                          9,792           336                                   10,128
    Other operating expenses                                     20,357         1,370                                   21,727 
                                                               --------        ------                                 -------- 
           TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSE                             57,245         3,222                                   60,467
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAXES                                     17,033         1,426                                   18,459
    Income tax expense                                            4,122           454                                    4,576 
                                                               --------        ------       ---           ---         -------- 
NET EARNINGS                                                   $ 12,911        $  972       $54           $54         $ 13,883 
                                                               ========        ======       ===           ===         ========

EARNINGS PER SHARE                                                $2.11                                                  $2.09
AVERAGE SHARES                                                    6,122                                                  6,659
</TABLE>

NOTES
(J)  To eliminate the intercompany interest income/expense on a loan balance
     between HHC and Washington.


                   CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE COMPANY

PRINCIPAL BUSINESS

         First Denham Bancshares, Inc.  The Company was organized on October 2,
1979, as a business corporation under the laws of the State of Louisiana to
acquire Bank and to engage in activities related to the operation of a bank
holding company.  On April 7, 1980, the Company acquired 90.67 percent of the
capital stock of Bank and became a one-bank holding company subject to
regulation under the BHC Act.  In 1983, the Company formed New First National
Bank of Denham Springs, an interim national banking association, for the





                                       28

<PAGE>   39
purpose of acquiring 100 percent of the capital stock of Bank through a merger
of Bank and New First National Bank of Denham Springs.  In 1984, the merger was
consummated and the Company acquired 100 percent of the capital stock of Bank.
At September 30, 1994, the Company had total consolidated assets of
approximately $109.3 million and shareholders equity of approximately $10.9
million.  The Company's principal executive offices are located at 523 Florida
Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana 70727 and its telephone number is (504)
665-6153.

         First National Bank of Denham Springs.  Bank provides traditional
consumer and commercial deposit and loan services to the individuals, families
and businesses in Livingston Parish, Louisiana.  These services are delivered
through a network of seven full service locations, including a main office in
Denham Springs and six branches located in Albany, Denham Springs, French
Settlement, Springfield, Walker and Watson.  In addition to traditional bank
services, Bank offers mortgage loans, VISA/Mastercard, and trust services.
Bank's deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  At
September 30, 1994, Bank had total deposits of approximately $98.7 million and
total assets of approximately $109.2 million.  Bank's principal executive
office is located at 523 Florida Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana 70727 and
its telephone number is (504) 665-6153.

COMPETITION

         Bank's primary market area, Livingston Parish, has a current
population of approximately 75,000.

         Competition among banks for loan customers is generally governed by
such factors as loan terms, including interest charges, restrictions on
borrowers and compensating balances, and other services offered by such banks.
Bank competes with numerous other commercial banks, savings and loan
associations and credit unions for customer deposits, as well as with a broad
range of financial institutions in consumer and commercial lending activities.
In addition to thrift institutions, other businesses in the financial services
industry compete with Bank for retail and commercial deposit funds and for
retail and commercial loan business.  Competition for loans and deposits is
intense among the financial institutions in Bank's primary market area,
including those located in the surrounding parishes.

         Currently, all national banks domiciled in Louisiana are permitted to
establish branches on a statewide basis because state law permits state banks
to establish statewide branches.  Louisiana's banking law also permits bank
holding companies domiciled in any other state to acquire Louisiana banks and
bank holding companies, if the state in which the bank holding company is
domiciled grants reciprocal rights to Louisiana banks and bank holding
companies.  Recent federal banking legislation will allow bank holding
companies domiciled in any state to acquire banks and bank holding companies in
any other state after September 29, 1995, one year after  the law became
effective.  Further, unless state legislatures elect otherwise, under the new
law, banks will be allowed to establish interstate branches beginning June 1,
1997.

         At present, several bank holding companies with greater resources than
those of the Company have acquired banks or established branches in the Bank's
market area and are continuing to do so.  The size of these institutions allows
certain economies of scale that permit their operation on a narrower profit
margin than would be appropriate for Bank.  Bank has also experienced some
competitive pressure on interest rates that it is able to charge on its new
loans.

SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS AND CUSTOMERS

         Bank deposits represent a cross-section of the area's economy and
there is no material concentration of deposits from any single customer or
group of customers.  No significant portion of Bank's loans is concentrated
within a single industry or group of related industries.  Historically, the
business of Bank has not been seasonal in nature and management of Bank does
not anticipate any seasonal trends in the future.  Bank does not rely on
foreign sources of funds or income.





                                      29
<PAGE>   40
EMPLOYEES

         As of the date of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, the Company and
Bank have, in the aggregate, approximately 90 full-time employees and 21
part-time employees.  None of such employees are represented by labor unions.
Management of the Company considers its relationship with its employees to be
good.

PROPERTY

         The executive office of the Company and Bank, located at 523 Florida
Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana 70727, is owned by Bank and is not subject to
a mortgage.  In addition, Bank has six branch offices in Livingston Parish,
Louisiana, one of which is located on leased premises under a ground lease that
expires on December 31, 1995.  Bank has the option to renew this lease for one
twenty-year period.  The remaining five branch offices, and the premises on
which they are located, are owned by Bank and are not subject to mortgages.  In
addition, the Company owns certain real estate and improvements adjacent to its
executive offices.  Bank holds a twelve-year mortgage on such property, which
bears interest at a rate of 1.25 percent above the New York prime rate and
matures March 15, 2005.  At October 17, 1994, the outstanding principal balance
of the mortgage was $459,164.  Bank leases approximately 51 percent of this
adjacent property from the Company for various accounting, training and
administrative functions.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         The Company and Bank normally are parties to and have pending routine
litigation arising from their regular business activities of furnishing
financial services, including providing credit and collecting secured and
unsecured indebtedness.  In some instances, such litigation involves claims or
counterclaims against the Company and Bank, or either of them.  As of October
31, 1994, the Company and Bank did not have any litigation pending other than
ordinary routine litigation incidental to their business that was not material
in amount in respect of the Company's assets on a consolidated basis.

         In 1988, Bank formed First Advantage Insurance, Inc. ("First
Advantage"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, and received approval from the Office
of the Comptroller of the Currency ("OCC") in a letter, dated March 21, 1991,
to act as an agent for insurance purposes under 12 U.S.C. 92.  The Louisiana
State Commissioner of Insurance initially granted and then revoked First
Advantage's license prior to commencement of operations.  The action to revoke
First Advantage's license was prompted by a complaint filed by the Independent
Insurance Agents Association of Louisiana questioning Bank's authority to act
as an insurance agent.  First Advantage is currently appealing the revocation
of its license.

STOCK PRICES AND DIVIDENDS

         Market Prices.  There is no established public trading market for FDB
Common Stock or FDB Preferred Stock.  These securities are not traded on any
exchange and are not quoted on any automated system of a registered securities
association.

         As of the Record Date, there were 240 shareholders of record of FDB
Common Stock and 162 shareholders of record of FDB Preferred Stock.

         Cash Dividends.  Since January 1, 1992, the Company has paid annual
cash dividends on FDB Common Stock in the amount of $35.50 per share and on FDB
Preferred Stock in the amount of $6.00 per share.

         The National Bank Act requires approval of the OCC for the payment of
any dividend by Bank if the total of all dividends, including any proposed
dividend, declared by the Board of Directors of Bank in any calendar year
exceeds the sum of the net profits and retained net profits, as defined by the
OCC, for the current





                                       30
<PAGE>   41
year plus the preceding two years, less any required transfers to surplus.
Federal bank regulatory authorities also have the power under the Financial
Institutions Supervisory Act to prohibit a bank from engaging in an unsafe or
unsound practice.  The payment of a dividend by a bank could, depending on the
financial condition of the bank and other factors, be deemed an unsafe or
unsound practice.  The ability of the Company to pay dividends to its
shareholders in the future is dependent upon the ability of Bank to pay
dividends to it.

         Under the Merger Agreement, the Company is prohibited from declaring
or paying any dividends on FDB Common Stock unless the Merger Agreement is
terminated.  However, if the Merger is not consummated by March 5, 1995, the
Company may pay a regular quarterly dividend on FDB Common Stock.  The Merger
Agreement does not prohibit the regular semi-annual dividend on FDB Preferred
Stock.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS AND MANAGEMENT

         The following table sets forth, as of the Record Date, certain
information with respect to the beneficial ownership (as defined in Rule 13d-3
under the Exchange Act) direct or indirect, of (i) each person who is the
beneficial owner of more than five percent of any class of the outstanding
voting securities of the Company; (ii) each director of the Company, and each
executive officer of the Company and Bank, and (iii) all directors of the
Company and executive officers of the Company and Bank as a group.  Unless
otherwise indicated, all shares indicated as beneficially owned are held with
sole voting and investment power.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Name and Address                                                Amount and Nature of             Percent
 of Beneficial Owner                       Class of Stock        Beneficial Ownership             of Class
 ----------------------------------------- --------------------  ----------------------------     --------
 <S>                                       <C>                             <C>                     <C>
 ESTATE OF R. DAWES EASTERLY(1)            Common                          10,470                  23.17%
                                           Preferred                         ---                     *
 RUBEN R. SPILLMAN, SR.                    Common                           6,870(2)               15.21%
                                           Preferred                        1,039                   5.39%
 OSCAR P. WALDREP, JR., DDS                Common                           5,872(3)               13.00%
                                           Preferred                        2,505                  12.99%
 WILLIAM R. AND CAROLYN POWERS             Common                           4,188(4)                9.27%
                                           Preferred                        3,210                  16.64%
</TABLE>

__________________________________

     * Indicates less than one percent.

     (1) Beverly Bridgers Easterly is the executrix of the estate and holds the
power to vote these shares.  The estate's address is: c/o Beverly Bridgers
Easterly, Post Office Box 112, 37662 LA Hwy. 16, Denham Springs, LA 70726-0112.

     (2) Includes 117 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by Mr. Spillman's
spouse.  Mr. Spillman disclaims any beneficial interest in such shares.  Mr.
Spillman's address is P.O. Box 636, 7204 Magnolia Beach Road, Denham Springs,
LA 70727-0636.

     (3) Includes 416 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by Dr. Waldrep's spouse.
Dr. Waldrep disclaims any beneficial interest in such shares.  Dr. Waldrep's
address is P.O. Box 549, 8276 S. River Road, Denham Springs, LA 70727-0549.

     (4) Includes 2,010 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by William R. and
Carolyn P. Powers as joint tenants with rights of survivorship, 1,139 shares
owned by William R. Powers, and 1,039 shares owned by Carolyn Powers.  Mr.
Powers disclaims any beneficial interest in such shares owned by Mrs. Powers. 
Mr. and Mrs. Powers' address is 7734 Laie Place, Diamondhead, MS 39524-3724.





                                       31
<PAGE>   42
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Name and Address                                                Amount and Nature of             Percent
 of Beneficial Owner                       Class of Stock        Beneficial Ownership             of Class
 ----------------------------------------- --------------------  ----------------------------     --------
 <S>                                       <C>                              <C>                    <C>
 ROBERT E. EASTERLY                        Common                           1,057                   2.34%
                                           Preferred                         ---                      *
 THOMAS L. SULLIVAN, SR.                   Common                           1,815(5)                4.02%
                                           Preferred                           20(6)                  *
 BRUCE R. EASTERLY                         Common                           1,534                   3.40%
                                           Preferred                         ---                      *
 HUEY O. TAYLOR                            Common                             430(7)                  *
                                           Preferred                          330                   1.71%
 WILLIE E. WILD, JR.                       Common                             309                     *
                                           Preferred                        1,209                   6.27%
 GEORGE CLIFTON MERCIER                    Common                             472(8)                  *
                                           Preferred                          246                   1.28%
 STEVEN D. BARNETT                         Common                             174                     *
                                           Preferred                           50                     *
 ROBERT A. SEALS, JR.                      Common                              63                     *
                                           Preferred                         ---                      *
 ALL DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE               Common                          20,986                  46.45%
 OFFICERS AS A GROUP (11 PERSONS           Preferred                        8,609                  44.64%
 INCLUDING THOSE LISTED ABOVE)   
</TABLE>

__________________________________

     (5) Includes 20 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by Thomas L. and Marie L.
Sullivan.
     
     (6) Shares are owned by Thomas L. and Marie L. Sullivan.

     (7) Includes 100 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by Huey or Amy Taylor.

     (8) Includes 226 shares of FDB Common Stock owned by Mr. Mercier's spouse.
Mr. Mercier disclaims any beneficial interest in such shares.





                                       32
<PAGE>   43
     FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


FOR THE NINE MONTH PERIODS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1994 AND 1993

         The following is management's discussion and analysis of the
significant changes in the Company's financial condition and results of
operations for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993.  This
information should be read in conjunction with the Company's interim financial
statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein.  The Company is
unaware of any trends, uncertainties or events which would or could have a
material impact on future operating results, liquidity, or capital.

OVERVIEW

         Net Income for the nine month period ended September 30, 1994, as
compared to the respective period of 1993, increased $83,098.  The Company's
increased income has benefitted from a continued favorable net interest margin
and a decreased loan loss provision.

INTEREST INCOME

         Interest Income for the nine month period ended September 30, 1994 was
$7,058,682, an increase of $445,650 over the same period in 1993.  The primary
factors that affect interest income are the changes in volume and mix of
earning assets and changes in market interest rates.

         Net loans for the nine month period ended September 30, 1994, as
compared to the respective period in 1993, increased $4,779,757 to $71,484,501.
Loan income increased $474,204 or 8.6% to $5,967,437 for the nine months ended
September 30, 1994 from $5,493,233 for the nine months ended September 30,
1993.

         Securities and other interest bearing assets (excluding loans) as of
September 30, 1994 increased $827,919 or 3.4% compared to the similar time
period in 1993.  Interest income on these assets decreased $28,554 or 2.5%, in
the first nine months of 1994.

INTEREST EXPENSE

         Interest Expense for the nine months ended September 30, 1994
decreased $26,986, or 1.9%, compared to the same period in 1993, despite a
$616,000 increase in interest bearing deposits since the end of 1993.  The
subsidiary deposit liabilities are short-term and, therefore, reflect money
market rate changes in a short time span.

PROVISION FOR LOSSES

         In the first nine months of 1994, the Company expensed $156,000 for
potential loan losses; however, in the similar 1993 period $197,000 was
expensed.  The Company's continued loan quality improvement has allowed for the
reduced 1994 expense.

OTHER INCOME

         Total Other Income for the time period under consideration decreased
$13,016.  Service Charges on Deposit Accounts increased $42,779 to $1,616,417
for the nine months ended September 30, 1994.





                                       33
<PAGE>   44
OTHER EXPENSES

         Total Other Expenses increased $331,526 to $4,453,882 in 1994.
Components of 1994 Other Expenses which have increased include:  employee
benefits (insurance, salaries and retirement), up 5.5%; occupancy expense, up
6.4%; net other real estate expense, up 10.4%; and general operating expenses
(postage, telephone, data processing, printing, supplies, etc.), up 10.6%.

INCOME TAXES

         Amounts expensed in the 1994 and 1993 periods are $1,042,806 and
$956,810, respectively, reflecting the maximum corporate rate applicable on
ordinary income.

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993

         The following is management's discussion and analysis of the
significant changes in the Company's financial condition and results of
operations for the year ended December 31, 1993.  This information should be
read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial
statements for the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992, and the notes
thereto, included elsewhere herein.

OVERVIEW

         The Company's net income for 1993 was $2,445,499 compared to
$1,720,741 for 1992, an increase of 42.1%.  The increase in net income for 1993
was mainly attributable to an improved net interest margin, increased loan
demand, a smaller provision for loan losses, and improved net noninterest
margin.  The Company benefitted from recent improvements in the regional and
local economies.

         Return on average assets was 2.38% and return on average equity was
25.75% for 1993, compared to 1.83% and 22.79% respectively, for 1992.

NET INTEREST INCOME

         Net interest income for 1993 was $7,017,423 compared to $6,262,039 in
1992.  The primary factors that affect net interest income are the changes in
volume and mix of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, along with
changes in market interest rates.  Interest rates declined significantly in
1993 and 1992.  Total interest income for 1993 was $8,929,722 as compared to
$8,550,448 for 1992, a $379,274 increase.  Loan balances increased from
$61,815,660 on December 31, 1992 to $68,183,811 on December 31, 1993.  The
increase in loan balances was offset by declining interest rates to account for
the change in interest income on loans.  Interest expense on deposits was
$1,912,299 in 1993, a decline of $376,110 from 1992.  Interest-bearing
deposits increased to $67,341,120, or 6.5%, in 1993, but this was offset by the
decline in interest rates to account for the change in interest expense on
deposits.

         The Company's Net Interest Spread and Margin are shown below.  Net
Interest Spread is the difference between the yield on earning assets and the
cost of funding.  Net Interest Margin is net interest income as a percent of
average earning assets.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1993    1992
                                           ----    ----
                 <S>                       <C>     <C>
                 Net Interest Spread       6.82%   6.54%
                 Net Interest Margin       7.62%   7.44%
</TABLE>





                                       34
<PAGE>   45
INTEREST EARNING ASSETS

         Earning assets averaged $92,282,000 for 1993, an increase of
$7,967,000, or 9.4%, compared to the 1992 average of $84,315,000.  The 1992
average represented an increase of $8,279,000, or 10.9% from the 1991 average
of $76,036,000.  For 1993 net loans averaged $64,777,000, a $6,355,000
increase, or 10.9% over the balance reported in 1992.  The average loan
balances in 1992 increased $6,180,000, or 11.8% compared to the average balance
in 1991.

         Investment securities averaged $20,883,000 for 1993 and $21,560,000
for 1992.  The investment securities average for 1993 decreased $677,000, or
3.1% from the 1992 average.  Funds are invested primarily in Securities of
Other U. S. Government Agencies and Mortgage-Backed Securities.

         The Company's investment portfolio had net unrealized gain of
$361,535, or 1.7%, as of December 31, 1993, as compared to an unrealized gain
of $553,488, or 2.7%, as of December 31, 1992.  These figures represent a fair
value at a point in time, and can change depending on current market rates.
The Company's strategy is to maintain the quality of the investment portfolio,
while obtaining the most favorable interest rates.

INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES

         Interest-bearing liabilities in 1993 averaged $66,617,000, an increase
of $3,245,000, or 5.1%, as compared to the 1992 average.  Interest-bearing
liabilities in 1992 averaged $63,372,000, an increase of $2,289,000, or 3.7%,
as compared to the 1991 level.

         Savings and NOW accounts averaged $29,774,000, an increase of
$3,225,000, or 12.1%, as compared to the 1992 average.  Insured money market
accounts and certificates of deposit increased $47,000, or .1% from the 1992
average.  The majority of the growth in average deposits for the past two years
has been in individual savings accounts.  These deposits are trade area
deposits which have core deposit characteristics.

INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY

         The Company's interest rate sensitivity is modeled in the GAP Analysis
Table set forth below.  The table depicts a management measurement of the
balance sheet interest rate sensitivity GAP at December 31, 1993.  Interest
rate sensitivity results from the timing differences at which assets and
liabilities may be repriced as market rates change.  The Company also utilizes
other measurement techniques to analyze interest rate sensitivity.  The table
indicates the Company is positioned, at December 31, 1993, at a positive
Cumulative Gap of $17,224 at the 365 day range.  In a rising interest rate
situation within the 365 day range, the Company would theoretically reprice
more assets than liabilities; therefore, increasing net interest income.





                                       35
<PAGE>   46
                               GAP ANALYSIS TABLE
                                (in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     0-180          180-365           1-3             3+           NON INTEREST
                                      DAYS           DAYS            YEARS           YEARS           BEARING           TOTAL
                                     ------         -------         -------         -------        ------------        -----
 <S>                                 <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>                 <C>           <C>
 Assets:
   Federal Funds
    Sold                             $ 4,825         $   -           $   -          $   -               $   -         $  4,825
 Securities                            9,439           1,910           5,504          4,260                 -           21,113
 Loans                                32,785           7,806          17,297         10,296                 -           68,184
 Other Assets                            -               -               -              -                 9,474          9,474
                                     -------         -------         -------        -------             -------       -------- 
   Total Assets                      $47,049         $ 9,716         $22,801        $14,556             $ 9,474       $103,596

 Liabilities:
   Money Market                      $ 5,222         $ 3,046         $ 2,256        $   -               $   -         $ 10,524
   Savings & NOW                       4,849           4,850          11,316         11,316                 -           32,331
   Certificates                       19,466           2,108           2,402            510                 -           24,486
   Other Liabilities                                                                                       
    and Capital                          -               -               -              -                36,255         36,255
                                     -------         -------         -------        -------             -------       -------- 

      Total Liabilities
       and Capital                   $29,537         $10,004         $15,974        $11,826             $36,255       $103,596
                                     -------         -------         -------        -------                                   

 Periodic Gap                        $17,512         $  (288)        $ 6,827        $ 2,730
                                     =======         =======         =======        =======

 Cumulative Gap                      $17,512         $17,224         $24,051        $26,781
                                     =======         =======         =======        =======
</TABLE>





                                       
<PAGE>   47


ALLOWANCE AND PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES

         The allowance totaled $1,070,802 at the end of 1993 as compared to
$1,018,992 for 1992.  The balance in the allowance reflects management's
continued evaluation of the potential risk of the loans in the current
portfolio.  The current provisions from income were $302,000 and $520,000 for
the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992.  Management made provisions in
those periods based on the review of the quality of the loans at year end.  The
allowance as a percentage of loans outstanding was 1.57% at year end 1993 and
1.65% at year end 1992.  Management believes that the allowance is adequate to
absorb potential losses in the loan portfolio.

         The Company's net charge offs were $250,190 and $380,141 for 1993 and
1992.  The ratio of net charge offs to average loans outstanding at year end
1993 and 1992 was .39% and .65%, respectively.

NON-PERFORMING ASSETS

         The Company's non-performing assets, including non-accrual loans,
restructured loans and foreclosed assets, totalled $2,928,258 at December 31,
1993, reflecting a decrease of over $3,000,000.  Restructured loans and other
real estate owned declined approximately $870,000 and $1,640,000, respectively,
as reflected in the table below, as a result of improvements in the local
economy.

         The following table represents non-performing assets at year end:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1993         1992   
                                                         ----------   ----------
         <S>                                             <C>          <C>
         Loans Past Due 90 Days
           or More                                       $  118,929   $  284,260
         Non-Accrual Loans                                1,431,900    1,914,600
         Restructured Loans                                 926,000    1,796,000
         Other Real Estate (at lower of
               cost or market value)                        451,429    2,091,482
                                                         ----------   ----------
                                                         $2,928,258   $6,086,342
                                                         ==========   ==========
</TABLE>

OTHER INCOME

         Other income for 1993 was $2,720,638, an increase of $289,495 over the
prior year results of $2,431,143.  Exclusive of securities transactions, other
income increased $297,782.

         Service charges on deposit accounts were $2,120,097 for 1993, an
increase of 6.0% over 1992.  Service charges on deposit accounts were
$2,000,298 in 1992.  The primary reason for the increase in 1993 is the
increase in number of deposit accounts.

         Other operating income for 1993 was $600,541 compared to the 1992
total of $422,558.  Included in other operating income are fees from insurance
commissions, bankcard services, safe deposit box rentals and other operating
fees.

OTHER EXPENSES

         Other expenses totaled $5,736,721 in 1993, a 2.7% increase over the
1992 total of $5,587,797.  Salaries and employee benefits increased $157,473,
or 6.3%, to $2,638,211 for 1993 when compared to $2,480,738 for 1992.  Net
occupancy expense was $301,424 for 1993, versus $324,750 for 1992.  Other
operating expenses totaled $2,583,447 for 1993 compared to $2,401,621 for 1992,
an increase of $181,826, or 7.6%.





                                       37
<PAGE>   48
         Net other real estate expense was $213,639 for 1993.  This is a
decrease in expense from 1992 of $167,049.  Net other real estate and
repossession expense is the operating expense of other real estate and
repossessed assets less the income generated by other real estate and the net
gains from the sales of other real estate and repossessed assets.

INCOME TAXES

         Income taxes for 1993 were $1,253,841, and $864,644 for 1992,
producing an effective tax rate of 34%.  The Company expects to be taxable at a
34% rate in 1994.

         The Company adopted FASB Statement No. 109, "Accounting for Income
Taxes," effective January 1, 1993.  The effect of the adjustment to the balance
sheet to adopt Statement 109 was not material.

OFF-BALANCE-SHEET ACTIVITIES

         In the normal course of business the Company enters into agreements
which, for accounting purposes, are not recorded in the financial statements.
These loan commitments and lines of credit are commitments to customers to
extend credit at specified rates, duration and purpose.  The commitments adhere
to normal lending policy and credit reviews.  Available loan commitments at
December 31, 1993 were $9,885,074, and $7,788,779 at December 31, 1992.  The
Bank has letters of credit of $411,729 issued at December 31, 1993.
Additionally, the Bank has deposit customers who have credit lines available to
them through their deposit accounts.  At December 31, 1993 the available
portion of these credit lines was $1,226,171.  These credit lines are
immediately cancelable by the Bank.  The credit lines provide a source of
income to the Bank through service fees charged and interest earned on balances
outstanding.  The credit lines are reviewed regularly and do not pose a
material credit risk to the Bank.

         The Bank began issuing credit cards during 1989.  As of December 31,
1993, the aggregate credit available is $1,503,720.  Applicants are reviewed
through normal lending policies and credit reviews.

REGULATORY MATTERS

         The Bank's records were examined by a regulatory agency in January,
1994.  Management is not aware of any current recommendations by these
authorities which would have a material impact on capital, asset quality,
management, earnings or liquidity of the Company.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

         The Company made capital improvements to several offices during 1993.
During 1993, the Company purchased $1,048,276 of bank premises and equipment.
Included in these improvements is the Company's new Annex office which is
expected to enhance the Company's ability to service its customer base.





                                       38
<PAGE>   49
CAPITAL

         The following table summarizes specific capital ratios of the Company
at December 31, 1993 and 1992.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     MINIMUM
                                                                    REGULATORY
                                        1993           1992         GUIDELINES  
                                      --------       --------      ------------
         <S>                           <C>            <C>          <C>
         Risk-Based Capital Ratios:

             Tier 1 Capital            13.41%         13.64%               4.0%

             Total Capital             14.67%         14.90%               8.0%

         Leverage Ratio                 8.71%          8.93%       4.00 - 5.00%
</TABLE>

         As shown in the table, the Company's Risk-Based Capital ratios
significantly exceed the minimum regulatory guidelines.  Earnings is the main
source of capital for the Company.  The net increase in Stockholders' Equity
during 1993 was $1,107,659, or an increase of 13.3% over 1992.  This net
increase was the result of net income from the operations of $2,445,499, less
the payment of cash dividends of $1,283,533.  The Company paid cash dividends
of $2.00 per share on Preferred Stock and $27.50 per share on Common Stock
during 1993.  In 1992, the cash dividends were $2.00 per share on both
Preferred and Common Stock.

LIQUIDITY

         Liquidity management is the process of ensuring that the Company's
assets and liabilities are appropriately structured.  The Company's short-term
and long-term liquidity is provided by two sources:  core deposits and an
adequate level of assets readily convertible to cash.  Management continually
monitors the balance sheet to insure its ability to meet current and future
depositor requirements and loan funding commitments.  The Company has not
experienced and does not anticipate difficulty in meeting its funding
obligations.

                        CERTAIN STATISTICAL INFORMATION

         The following tables present historical statistical information
concerning the Company's consolidated balance sheet items, investment
securities, loan portfolio, loan loss experience, deposits and return on equity
and assets for the periods indicated, and do not purport to be indicative of
results that may be obtained in the future.

I.  DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY; INTEREST
RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL

   
         Average Balances and Interest Rate Analysis.  The following table
sets forth the average amounts outstanding for each category of 
interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the average interest
rates earned and paid thereon, the net interest spread and the net interest
income as a percentage of total earning assets as of the years ended December
31, 1993, 1992 and 1991.
    





                                       39
<PAGE>   50

               AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS AND INTEREST RATE ANALYSIS
                                 (in thousands)


<TABLE>                               
<CAPTION>                             
                                                     1993                                              1992                     
                                      ----------------------------------                ----------------------------------      
                                                   Interest      Average                             Interest      Average      
                                       Average      Income       Yield/                  Average      Income       Yield/       
         ASSETS                        Balance     Expense        Rate                   Balance     Expense        Rate        
                                      ---------   ---------      -------               ----------   ---------      -------      
<S>                                    <C>        <C>            <C>                     <C>        <C>            <C>          
Federal Funds Sold                     $  6,622   $   187         2.82%                  $ 4,084    $   145         3.55%       
Securities:                                                                                                                     
  Taxable                                20,404     1,261         6.18                    21,016      1,619         7.70        
  Non-Taxable(1)                            479        32         6.68                       544         37         6.80        
Loans-Net(2)(3)                          64,777     7,461        11.52                    58,422      6,750        11.55        
Other                                       -         -            .                         249         11         4.42        
  Total Earning Assets                   92,282   $ 8,941         9.69%                  $84,315    $ 8,562        10.15%       
                                                  -------        -----                   -------    -------        -----        
                                                                                                                                
Allowance for Loan Losses               (1,053)                                             (991)                               
Non-earning Assets                       11,318                                           10,845                                
                                       --------                                          -------                                
  Total Assets                         $102,547                                          $94,169                                
                                       --------                                          -------                                
                                                                                                                                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                
Savings and NOW Accounts               $ 29,774   $   692         2.32%                  $26,549    $   784         2.95%       
Insured Money Market Accounts            10,735       302         2.81                     9,619        334         3.47        
Certificates of Deposit                  26,108       919         3.52                    27,177      1,169         4.30        
Other                                       -         -            .                          27          1         3.70        
                                       --------   -------        -----                   -------    -------        -----        
  Total Interest Bearing                                                                                                        
    Liabilities                        $ 66,617   $ 1,913         2.87%                  $63,372    $ 2,288         3.61%       
                                                  -------        -----                   -------    -------        -----        
                                                                                                                                
Demand Deposits                          25,593                                           21,814                                
Other Liabilities                           842                                            1,430                                
Stockholders' Equity                      9,495                                            7,553                                
                                       --------                                          -------                                
  Total Liabilities and                                                                                                         
    Stockholders' Equity               $102,547                                          $94,169                                
                                       --------                                          -------                                
                                                                                                                                
Net Interest Income - Tax Equivalent                                                                                            
  Basis(1)                                        $ 7,028                                           $ 6,274                     
Tax Equivalent Adjustment(1)                          (11)                                              (12)                    
                                                  -------                                           -------                     
Net Interest Income                               $ 7,017                                           $ 6,262                     
                                                  -------                                           -------                     
                                                                                                                                
Net Interest Income - Spread(1)                                   6.82%                                             6.54%       
                                                                 -----                                             -----        
                                                                                                                                
Net Interest Income(1) as a % of                                                                                                
  Total Earning Assets                                            7.62%                                             7.44%       
                                                                 -----                                             -----        
</TABLE>

<TABLE>                               
<CAPTION>                             
                                                     1991                   
                                      ----------------------------------    
                                                   Interest      Average    
                                       Average      Income       Yield/     
         ASSETS                        Balance     Expense        Rate      
                                      ---------   ---------      -------    
<S>                                    <C>        <C>            <C>        
Federal Funds Sold                     $ 3,492    $   192         5.50%             
Securities:                                                                 
  Taxable                               19,707      1,722         8.74          
  Non-Taxable(1)                           570         62        10.88          
Loans-Net(2)(3)                         52,242      6,401        12.25          
Other                                       25          2         8.00         
  Total Earning Assets                 $76,036    $ 8,379        11.02%     
                                                  -------        -----                  
                                                                            
Allowance for Loan Losses                 (809)                             
Non-earning Assets                      11,637                              
                                       -------                              
  Total Assets                         $86,864                              
                                       -------                              
                                                                            
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                        
                                                                            
Savings and NOW Accounts               $19,687    $   946         4.81%    
Insured Money Market Accounts            8,840        434         4.91     
Certificates of Deposit                 32,551      2,061         6.33     
Other                                        5        -            .         
                                       -------    -------        -----
  Total Interest Bearing                                                    
    Liabilities                        $61,083    $ 3,441         5.63%    
                                       -------    -------        -----    
                                                                            
Demand Deposits                         17,526                              
Other Liabilities                        1,703                              
Stockholders' Equity                     6,552                              
                                       -------                              
  Total Liabilities and                                                     
    Stockholders' Equity               $86,864                              
                                       -------                              
                                                                            
Net Interest Income - Tax Equivalent                                        
  Basis(1)                                        $ 4,938                  
Tax Equivalent Adjustment(1)                          (22)                 
                                                  -------                  
Net Interest Income                               $ 4,916                  
                                                  -------                  
                                                                            
Net Interest Income - Spread(1)                                   5.39%    
                                                                 -----     
                                                                            
Net Interest Income(1) as a % of                                            
  Total Earning Assets                                            6.49%    
                                                                 -----     
</TABLE>                              
_______________________________

(1) Tax Equivalent Basis - Based on 34% Tax Rate in 1993, 1992 and 1991.
(2) Balances include non-performing loans.
(3) Interest income includes loan fees of $394,466, $329,655 and $253,101 for
    1993, 1992 and 1991, respectively.





                                       40
<PAGE>   51
         Interest Differential.  The following table sets forth information as
to the impact of changes in average rates and average balances on
interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.  The variances
attributable to simultaneous balance and rate changes have been allocated
equally to volume and rate.

                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                             INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL
                                 (in thousands)

                 for the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 1993 OVER 1992                                       1992 OVER 1991           
                                   ----------------------------------------             ---------------------------------------
                                      Change                       Total                   Change                       Total
                                   Attributable To                Increase              Attributable To               Increase
                                      Volume       Rate          (Decrease)                Volume        Rate        (Decrease)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>        <C>              <C>                     <C>         <C>             <C>
Interest Earning Assets:           
  Federal Funds Sold                  $   81     $   (39)          $   42                  $  27      $    (74)       $    (47)
  Securities:                      
    Taxable                              (43)       (315)            (358)                   108          (211)           (103)
    Non-Taxable(1)                        (4)         (1)              (5)                    (2)          (23)            (25)
  Loans                                  731         (20)             711                    736          (387)            349
  Other                                   (6)         (5)             (11)                    14            (5)              9 
                                      ------     -------          -------                  -----       -------         -------  
      Total Interest Income           $  759     $  (380)         $   379                  $ 883       $  (700)        $   183 
                                      ------     -------          -------                  -----       -------         -------  
                                   
Interest Bearing Liabilities:      
  Savings and NOW Accounts            $   85     $  (177)         $   (92)                 $ 267       $  (429)        $  (162)
  Insured Money Market Accounts           35         (67)             (32)                    33          (133)           (100)
  Certificates of Deposit                (42)       (208)            (250)                  (286)         (606)           (892)
  Other                                   (1)         -                (1)                    -              1               1 
                                      ------     -------          -------                  -----       -------         -------  
      Total Interest Expense          $   77     $  (452)         $  (375)                 $  14       $(1,167)        $(1,153)
                                      ------     -------          -------                  -----       -------         -------  
                                   
Increase in Interest Differential     $  682     $    72          $   754                 $  869       $   467         $ 1,336 
                                      ------     -------          -------                  -----       -------         -------  
</TABLE>                           
____________________________

(1) Tax Equivalent Basis - Based on 34% Tax Rate in 1993, 1992 and 1991.
Note: The change in interest due to both volume and rate changes has been
allocated equally between volume and rate.





                                       41
<PAGE>   52
II.  INVESTMENT SECURITIES

       The following table sets forth the amortized cost, gross unrealized
gains and losses, fair value and weighted average yields of the Company's
investment securities as of December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      1993                      
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 GROSS               GROSS                                  
                                          AMORTIZED           UNREALIZED           UNREALIZED         FAIR                  
                                             COST                GAINS               LOSSES           VALUE           YIELD*
                                          ---------           ----------           ----------        -------          ------
                                                                                (in thousands)                              
<S>                                         <C>                 <C>                  <C>              <C>             <C>   
U.S. Treasury
 Securities:
  One Year or Less                          $   504             $     7              $  -             $   511         1.11%
                                                                                                                           
  Over 1 through
   5 Years                                    2,015                   2                   (3)           2,014         3.28
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----

                                            $ 2,519             $     9              $    (3)         $ 2,525         4.39%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====

Securities of Other
 U.S. Government
  Agencies:
   Over 1 through
    5 Years                                 $ 8,661             $    34              $   (11)         $ 8,684         4.08%

   Over 5 through
    10 Years                                    500                  14                 -                 514          .34
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----

                                            $ 9,161             $    48              $   (11)         $ 9,198         4.42%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====

Mortgage-Backed
 Securities:
  Over 1 through
   5 Years                                  $ 2,058             $    43              $   (10)         $ 2,091         1.58%

  Over 5 through
   10 Years                                   2,341                 135                 -               2,476         2.31

  Over 10 Years                               4,511                 158                   (6)           4,663         3.43
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----

                                            $ 8,910             $   336              $   (16)         $ 9,230         7.32%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====

Other Securities:
 One Year or Less                           $   523             $  -                 $  -             $   523         4.46%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====
</TABLE>


   *Weighted Average Yield.

                                  (CONTINUED)





                                       42
<PAGE>   53
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     1992                      
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 GROSS               GROSS                                  
                                          AMORTIZED           UNREALIZED           UNREALIZED         FAIR                  
                                             COST                GAINS               LOSSES           VALUE           YIELD*
                                          ---------           ----------           ----------        -------          ------
                                                                                (in thousands)                              
<S>                                         <C>                 <C>                  <C>              <C>             <C>   
U.S. Treasury
 Securities:
  Over 1 through
   5 Years                                  $   510             $     8              $  -             $   518         5.56%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====  

Securities of Other
 U.S. Government
 Agencies:
  One Year or Less                          $   499             $    20              $  -             $   519          .50%

  Over 1 through
   5 Years                                    5,165                  34                 -               5,199         2.29

  Over 5 through
   10 Years                                   2,750                  17                 -               2,767         1.75
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----  

                                            $ 8,414             $    71              $  -             $ 8,485         4.54%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====  

Mortgage-Backed
 Securities:
  Over 1 through
   5 Years                                  $ 1,998             $    89              $  -             $ 2,087         2.01%

  Over 5 through
   10 Years                                   3,274                 185                 -               3,459         3.39

  Over 10 Years                               3,376                 190                 -               3,566         3.50
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----  

                                            $ 8,648             $   464              $  -             $ 9,112         8.90%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====  
Collateralized
 Mortgage
 Obligations:
  Over 5 through
   10 Years                                 $ 1,887             $     6              $  -             $ 1,893         4.92%

  Over 10 Years                                 497                   4                 -                 501         1.22
                                            -------             -------              -------          -------         ----  

                                            $ 2,384             $    10              $  -             $ 2,394         6.14%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====  

Other Securities:
 One Year or Less                           $   503             $  -                 $  -             $   503         3.58%
                                            =======             =======              =======          =======         ====  
</TABLE>


   *Weighted Average Yield.





                                       43
<PAGE>   54
III.  LOAN PORTFOLIO

         Types of Loans.  The following table sets forth the composition of the
Company's loan portfolio (all domestic) as of December 31, 1993 and 1992.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   1993                                 1992  
                                                                 --------                             --------
                                                           (in thousands)                       (in thousands)
 <S>                                                             <C>                                  <C>
 Real Estate Loans - Construction                                $  6,463                             $  2,860
 Real Estate Loans - Mortgage                                    $ 32,626                               31,073
 Loans to Farmers                                                     499                                  -
 Commercial and Industrial Loans                                    9,959                                9,650
 Loans to Individuals                                              18,454                               18,070
 All Other Loans                                                      184                                  166
                                                                 --------                             --------
      Total Loans                                                $ 68,185                             $ 61,819
 Unearned Income                                                       (1)                                  (4)
 Allowance for Loan Losses                                         (1,071)                              (1,019)
                                                                 --------                             --------
                                                                 $ 67,113                             $ 60,796
                                                                 ========                             ========
</TABLE>

         Maturities and Sensitivity to Changes in Interest Rates.  The
following table sets forth the amount of total loans outstanding (excluding
consumer/installment loans) as of December 31, 1993 and 1992, which are based
on remaining scheduled principal repayments due in one year or less, after one
year through five years, and after five years:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INTEREST RATE                 MATURITY                                      1993                        1992  
- -------------                 --------                                    --------                    --------
                                                                    (in thousands)              (in thousands)
 <S>                        <C>                                           <C>                         <C>
 Various                    1 Year or Less                                $ 15,841                    $ 18,247
 Fixed                      1 Year or Less                                  19,795                      16,006
 Fixed                      Over 1 Through 5 Years                          24,200                      18,875
 Fixed                      Over 5 Years                                     6,918                       6,776
 Nonaccrual                 Various                                          1,431                       1,915
                                                                          --------                    --------
                                                                          $ 68,185                    $ 61,819
                                                                          ========                    ========
</TABLE>

Note:    The information necessary for a breakdown of maturity of the various
         types of loans is not readily available.  The Corporation has no
         foreign loans.

         Risk Elements.  The following table sets forth loans accounted for on
a non-accrual basis, accruing loans which are contractually past due 90 days or
more as to principal or interest payments and loans whose terms have been
renegotiated to provide a reduction or deferral of interest or principal due to
deterioration of the financial position of the borrower as of December 31, 1993
and 1992:





                                       44
<PAGE>   55
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                       1993             1992  
                                                                                     --------         --------
                                                                               (in thousands)   (in thousands)
 <S>                                                                                 <C>              <C>
 Loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis                                          $  1,431         $  1,915
                                                                                              
 Loans contractually past due ninety days or more as to principal or                      119              284
 interest payments

 Loans whose terms have been renegotiated to provide a reduction or deferral
 of interest or principal due to a deterioration in the financial position
 of the borrower.
                                                                                          926            1,796
                                                                                     --------         --------
                                                                                     $  2,476         $  3,995
                                                                                     --------         --------
</TABLE>

IV.  SUMMARY OF LOAN LOSS EXPERIENCE

         The following table summarizes the allowance for loan losses for the
years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                Year Ended December 31
                                                ----------------------
                                                   1993        1992   
                                                ----------  ----------
                                                    (in thousands)
<S>                                             <C>         <C>
Amount of Loans Outstanding at End of
  Period                                        $  68,184   $  61,815
                                                =========   =========


Daily Average Amount of Loans                   $  64,777   $  58,422
                                                =========   =========                      

Balance of Allowance for Loan Losses
  at Beginning of Year                          $   1,019   $     879

Loans Charged Off:
  Real Estate                                   $    -      $      14
  Commercial, Industrial and Agricultural              74         184
  Individuals and Others                              304         248
                                                ---------   ---------
                                                $     378   $     446
Recoveries of Loans previously charged off:
  Real Estate                                   $    -      $       2
  Commercial, Industrial and Agricultural              49          29
  Individuals and Others                               79          35
                                                ---------   ---------
    Total Recoveries                            $     128   $      66
                                                ---------   ---------                                                  
    Net Loans Charged Off                       $     250   $     380
Additions to Allowance Charged to Expense       $     302   $     520
                                                ---------   ---------                      
Balance at End of Year                          $   1,071   $   1,019
                                                =========   =========

Ratio of Net Charge-Offs to Total Loans
  Outstanding                                         .37%        .61%
                                                =========   =========

Ratio of Net Charge-Offs to Average Loans
  Outstanding                                         .38%        .66%
                                                =========   =========
</TABLE>





                                       45
<PAGE>   56
         The allowance for loan losses is an amount which in management's
judgment is adequate to absorb potential losses in the loan portfolio.  The
allowance for loan losses is based upon management's review and evaluation of
the loan portfolio.  Factors considered in the establishment of the allowance
for loan losses include management's evaluation of specific loans; the level
and composition of classified loans; historical loss experience; results of
examinations by regulatory agencies; an internal asset review process;
expectations of future economic conditions and their impact on particular
borrowers; and other judgmental factors.

         The allowance for loan losses is based on estimates of potential
future losses, and ultimate losses may vary from the current estimates.  These
estimates are reviewed periodically and as adjustments become necessary, the
effect of the change in estimate is charged to operating expenses in the period
incurred.  All losses are charged to the allowance for loan losses when the
loss actually occurs or when management believes that the collectibility of the
principal is unlikely.  Recoveries are credited to the allowance at the time of
recovery.

         The allowance for loan losses has been allocated according to the type
of loan described:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     December 31, 1993                        December 31, 1992   
                                            ---------------------------------        ----------------------------------
                                                                  PERCENT OF                               PERCENT OF
                                                                   LOANS IN                                 LOANS IN
                                                                EACH CATEGORY                             EACH CATEGORY
                                                                  TO TOTAL                                  TO TOTAL
                                            ALLOWANCE               LOANS            ALLOWANCE                LOANS    
                                            ---------           -------------        ---------            -------------
                                         (in thousands)                           (in thousands)
<S>                                          <C>                   <C>               <C>                     <C>
Real Estate                                  $    691               56.79%            $    632                54.80%
Commercial, Industrial
  and Agricultural                                113               16.13                  106                15.75
Individuals and Others                            267               27.08                  281                29.45
                                             --------              ------             --------               ------
                                             $  1,071              100.00%            $  1,019               100.00%
                                             ========              ======             ========               ======
</TABLE>

     Management reviews the allowance for loan loss on a monthly basis.  As
discussed above, historical loss experience is considered as well as economic
factors that effect the local economy.  Specific risk factors that are inherent
with certain types of lending are also considered.  Past experience shows that
the greatest exposure is in the area of real estate loans which represent
approximately 57% of the loan portfolio.  After reviewing these factors and
reviewing the loan portfolio through internal procedures, it was management's
opinion that an allowance of $1,070,802 was adequate at December 31, 1993.

     Management maintains an internal "Watch List" which identifies loans
requiring special supervision because of unexpected changes in various risk
conditions.  The "Watch List" may include both accruing and nonaccrual loans.
The "Watch List" categories resemble the regulators classification methods.

     The categories and the similar regulatory classifications are:  Loss,
Doubtful, Substandard and OLEM (Other Loans Especially Mentioned).  OLEM loans
require special observation to determine if current conditions warrant a
reclassification.





                                       46
<PAGE>   57
                                   WATCH LIST
                                 (in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                      LOSS     DOUBTFUL    SUBSTANDARD    OLEM
                     ------    --------    -----------    ----
<S>                  <C>       <C>         <C>            <C>
December 31, 1993    $  -      $  -        $2,549         $292
</TABLE>

         The "Watch List" is routinely evaluated and may vary dramatically
based upon the borrower's status as well as industry and economic trends.

V.  DEPOSITS

         The average daily balances and average rates paid on deposits are
summarized for each of the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          1993                               1992        
                                -----------------------          --------------------------
                                 AVERAGE       AVERAGE            AVERAGE          AVERAGE
                                 BALANCE      RATE PAID           BALANCE         RATE PAID
                                ---------     ---------          ---------        ---------
                              (in thousands)                   (in thousands)
<S>                             <C>             <C>              <C>                 <C>
Noninterest Bearing
  Demand Deposits               $  25,593        -  %            $  21,814            -  %
Savings and NOW
  Accounts                         29,774       2.32%               26,549           2.95%
Insured Money Market
  Accounts                         10,735       2.81%                9,619           3.47%
Certificates of
  Deposit                          26,108       3.52%               27,177           4.30%
                                ---------                        ---------                 
Total Deposits                  $  92,210                        $  85,159
                                =========                        =========
</TABLE>


   
         The following table sets forth the maturities of the Company's
certificates of deposits of $100,000 or more for the year ended December 31, 
1993.
    

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                (in thousands)
          <S>                      <C>                   
          3 Months or Less         $  1,048


          Over 3 through 12 Months      200

          Over 12 Months                400
                                   --------
                                   $  1,648
                                   ========        
</TABLE>





                                       47
<PAGE>   58
VI.  Return on Equity and Assets

     The table below summarizes significant financial ratios for the years ended
December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 1993        1992   
                                              ----------  ----------
<S>                                             <C>         <C>
Return on Average Total Assets                   2.38%       1.83%

Return on Average Stockholders' Equity          25.75%      22.79%

Dividend Payout Ratio                           52.00%       5.41%

Average Equity to Average Assets                 9.26%       8.02%
</TABLE>





                                       48
<PAGE>   59
                       MANAGEMENT OF THE COMPANY AND BANK

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Certain information concerning the Board of Directors of each of the
Company and Bank is set forth below.  The Board of Directors of the Company and
Bank consist of the same nine individuals.  Directors of the Company and Bank
are elected at each annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company and Bank,
respectively, to hold office until the next annual meeting of such entity and
until their respective successors are elected and qualified.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       Company          Principal Occupation for
                                                       Director         the Past Five Years and
 Name and Age                                           Since:          Certain Other Directorships
 ------------                                         ---------         ---------------------------
 <S>                                                  <C>               <C>
 Bruce R. Easterly (41)                               1993              Real Estate Developer and Commercial
                                                                        Trucking

 Robert E. Easterly (52)                              1980              Chairman, President, CEO and
                                                                        Secretary of Bank and Chairman,
                                                                        President and CEO of the Company

 George Clifton Mercier (65)                          1980              Paint Contractor

 William R. Powers (65)                               1980              Retired Marine Dealer

 Ruben Spillman, Sr. (60)                             1980              Retail Sales & Trucking

 Thomas L. Sullivan (66)                              1980              Real Estate Executive

 Huey O. Taylor (73)                                  1980              Retired Businessman

 Oscar P. Waldrep, Jr., D.D.S. (71)                   1980              Dentist

 Willie "W.E." Wild, Jr. (77)                         1980              Retired Bank President
</TABLE>

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY

    Executive officers of the Company are appointed by and serve at the
pleasure of the Board of Directors of the Company.  The executive officers of
the Company, and certain information about them, are set forth below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Principal Occupation for the
                                                                       Past Five Years and Certain
 Name and Age                                     Position             Other Directorships
 ------------                                     --------             -------------------
 <S>                                 <C>                               <C>
 Robert E. Easterly (52)             Chairman of the Board, President  President, CEO and Secretary of Bank,
                                     and CEO                           Chairman of the Board and President of
                                                                       the Company

 Ruben Spillman, Sr. (60)            Secretary                         Retail Sales and Trucking

 Oscar P. Waldrep, Jr., D.D.S. (71)  Treasurer                         Dentist
</TABLE>

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF BANK

    Executive officers of Bank are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of
the Board of Directors of Bank.  The executive officers of Bank, other than
those who are also directors, and certain information about them are set forth
below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Name and Age                              Position         Principal Occupation for the Past Five Years
 ------------                              --------         --------------------------------------------
 <S>                               <C>                      <C>
 Steven D. Barnett (36)            Senior Vice President    Senior Vice President and Cashier of Bank
                                   and Cashier
</TABLE>





                                       49
<PAGE>   60
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Name and Age                              Position         Principal Occupation for the Past Five Years
 ------------                              --------         --------------------------------------------
 <S>                               <C>                      <C>
 Robert A. Seals (39)              Senior Vice President    Vice President and Trust Officer of Bank
                                   and Trust Officer
</TABLE>

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

    The following table sets forth information concerning the aggregate annual
remuneration of each  of the four highest paid executive officers or directors
of the Company for the year ended December 31, 1993, and the aggregate annual
remuneration of all executive officers and directors as a group, including
those individually listed.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 Name of Individual                                                          Aggregate Remuneration for the
 or Number in Group                    Capacities in Which Served             Year Ended December 31, 1993
 ------------------                    --------------------------             ----------------------------
 <S>                                   <C>                                            <C>
 Robert E. Easterly                    President, CEO, Chairman of the                $158,518(1)
                                       Board and Director of Bank and the
                                       Company

 Melvin T. Ott*                        Senior Vice President of Bank                   $79,455(2)

 Robert A. Seals, Jr.                  Senior Vice President and                       $71,938(2)
                                       Trust Officer of Bank

 Steven D. Barnett                     Senior Vice President and                       $71,663(2)
                                       Cashier of Bank

 All Directors and Executive Officers                                                 $488,136
 as Group (13 persons including those
 listed above)
</TABLE>

COMPENSATION PURSUANT TO PLANS

    Bank adopted the First National Bank of Denham Springs Savings Plan and
Trust (the "401(k) Plan") effective July 1, 1988, which conforms to the
requirements of Section 401(k) of the Code and is administrated through Pan
American Life Insurance the Company.  While participation in the 401(k) Plan is
voluntary, all regular full-time employees and part-time employees who work at
least 1,000 hours a year are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan after
meeting certain criteria related to age and length of service.  The amount of
contribution, if any, by each participant is discretionary with the
participant, but may not exceed 15 percent of the participant's compensation.

    Effective July 1, 1993, Bank's Board of Directors elected to begin making a
matching contribution to the plan on behalf of each participant in the amount
of one-half of each participant's voluntary contribution up to three percent of
the participant's compensation.  On or before December 31 of each year, Bank's
Board of Directors sets the dollar amount for the employer's matching
contribution to begin January 1st.  Employee contributions are fully vested.
Participants become vested in Bank contributions at the rate of 20 percent per
year after one year of service.  The Plan allows for in-service withdrawals
provided the event has been proven a financial hardship and all other means
have been exhausted.  Otherwise, withdrawals cannot be processed until the
participant reaches age 59-1/2, or upon the participant's death, termination of
employment, disability, or





__________________________________

     *  Melvin T. Ott resigned from his position with First National Bank of
Denham Springs as of May 23, 1994.

     (1) Includes an annual bonus of $74,294.

     (2) Includes an annual bonus of $24,975 and $4,500 in  fees paid for
attendance at Board of Directors meetings.  This bonus  was expensed in 1993
and paid January 15, 1994.





                                       50
<PAGE>   61
retirement.  The 401(k) Plan also allows participants to apply for loans and
provides three different investment funds for their contributions, a Deposit
Fund, a Growth Fund, and a Growth and Income Fund.

TRANSACTIONS WITH MANAGEMENT

    Bank had during the past two years, and expects to have in the future, loan
transactions in the ordinary course of business with directors and officers of
Bank, and shareholders owning in excess of five percent of the FDB's Common
Stock, relatives of such persons and corporations and firms of which they are
officers or in which they or their immediate families have at least a 10
percent equity interest.  Such loans amounted to approximately $595,576 at
September 30, 1994, constituting .83 percent of Bank's total loans as of such
date and 5.44 percent of the Company's shareholders' equity as of such date.
These transactions have been and will be on the same terms, including interest
rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable
transactions with unaffiliated persons and did not involve more than the normal
risk of collectibility or present other unfavorable features.


                       CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING HHC

GENERAL

    HHC is a multi-bank holding company headquartered in Gulfport, Mississippi
with total consolidated assets of approximately $2.0 billion at September 30,
1994.  HHC operates a total of 58 banking offices and 86 automated teller
machines in the States of Mississippi and Louisiana through two wholly owned
bank subsidiaries, Hancock Bank MS organized in 1899 and Hancock Bank organized
in August 1990.

    As of September 30, 1994, the authorized capital stock of HHC consists of
20,000,000 shares of HHC Common Stock of which, 7,557,924 shares are issued and
outstanding and no shares are held in its treasury.  Assuming consummation of
the Merger without any shareholders exercising their dissenters' rights, HHC
will have 8,332,171 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding after the
Closing.

    Both Hancock Bank MS and Hancock Bank are community oriented and focus
primarily on offering commercial, consumer and mortgage loans and deposit
services to individuals and small to middle market businesses in their
respective market areas.  Both Hancock Bank MS and Hancock Bank strive to
provide their customers with the financial sophistication and breath of
products of a regional bank while successfully retaining the local appeal and
level of service of a community bank.

MERGER AND ACQUISITION HISTORY

    HHC has expanded its market area through a series of mergers and branch and
deposit acquisitions.  Beginning with the 1985 acquisition of the
Pascagoula-Moss Point Bank in Pascagoula, Mississippi ("PMP"), HHC has assumed
approximately $626.2 million in deposit liabilities and acquired approximately
$693.9 million in assets through acquisitions or purchase and assumption
transactions involving four commercial banks, one savings association and one
savings association branch.  At the time of the PMP acquisition, PMP had total
assets of approximately $132 million and total deposit liabilities of
approximately $114 million.

    Until this year, the majority of HHC's acquisition activity occurred in
1990 and 1991, beginning with the June 1990, merger of Metropolitan National
Bank ("MNB") into Hancock Bank MS.  At the time of its acquisition, MNB had
total assets of approximately $98.8 million and total deposit liabilities of
approximately $95.1 million.  Also in June of 1990, pursuant to a Purchase and
Assumption Agreement, Hancock Bank MS acquired the Poplarville, Mississippi
branch of Unifirst Bank for Savings from the Resolution Trust Corporation
("RTC").  The acquisition increased HHC's total assets by approximately $7.8
million and its total deposit liabilities by approximately $7.4 million.  In
August 1990, HHC formed Hancock Bank for the purpose of assuming the deposit
liabilities and acquiring the consumer loan portfolio, corporate credit card
portfolio and non-adversely classified securities portfolio of AmBank, Baton
Rouge, from the FDIC.  As a result of the transaction, Hancock Bank acquired
fifteen (15) branch locations in the greater Baton Rouge area, approximately
$337.5 million in





                                       51
<PAGE>   62
assets and approximately $300.9 million in deposit liabilities.  In August
1991, Hancock Bank MS acquired certain assets and deposit liabilities of
Peoples Federal Savings Association, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi, from the
RTC.  As a result of the transaction, HHC acquired assets of approximately
$39.0 million and deposit liabilities of approximately $38.5 million.

    In April 1994, HHC acquired First State Bank and it was merged with Hancock
Bank under the pooling-of-interests accounting method.  The acquisition of
First State Bank expanded HHC's market share in East Baton Rouge Parish by
increasing HHC's total assets by approximately $82 million and total deposit
liabilities by approximately $70 million.

    HHC entered into a definitive merger agreement with Washington in July 1994
whereby Washington will be merged with and into HHC.  Washington is a bank
holding company within the meaning of the BHC Act, organized and existing under
and pursuant to the laws of the State of Louisiana.  Washington owns all of the
issued and outstanding common stock of Washington Bank & Trust Company, a
Louisiana banking corporation maintaining its principal place of business at
919 Washington Street, Franklinton, Washington Parish, Louisiana ("Washington
Bank").

    Simultaneously with the merger of Washington with and into HHC under the
Articles of Incorporation of HHC, Washington Bank will be merged with and into
Hancock Bank under the Articles of Incorporation of Hancock Bank.  The separate
corporate existences of Washington and Washington Bank will cease upon
consummation of the mergers.  As of August 31, 1994, Washington had total
consolidated assets of approximately $90 million and total deposit liabilities
of approximately $77 million.  It is anticipated by HHC and Washington that the
merger will be consummated in early 1995.

    HHC's regulatory capital at September 30, 1994, both on a historical basis
and after giving pro forma effect to the Merger, as of that date, substantially
exceeds all current minimum regulatory requirements.

TRANSFER AGENT

    The registered transfer agent and registrar for HHC Common Stock is Hancock
Bank MS, Gulfport, Mississippi.  

INDEMNIFICATION

    The HHC Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws provide for indemnification by
HHC, to the fullest extent permitted by the Mississippi Business Corporation
Act, of directors, officers, employees and agents for expenses, judgments,
fines and amounts paid in settlement by such persons.


CHANGES IN CONTROL

    Certain provisions of the HHC Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may have
the effect of preventing, discouraging or delaying any change in control of
HHC.  The classification of the HHC Board of Directors would delay any attempt
by dissatisfied shareholders or anyone who obtains a controlling interest in
the HHC Common Stock to elect a new board of directors.  The classes of
directors serve staggered three year terms so that one-third of the directors
are elected each year.  These staggered terms of service may make it more
difficult for HHC shareholders to effect a change in the majority of the HHC
directors because replacement of a majority of the directors will normally
require two annual meetings of shareholders.  Accordingly, this provision may
have the effect of discouraging hostile attempts to gain control of HHC.

    The HHC Articles of Incorporation contain in Article Fifth provisions
regarding the vote required to approve certain business combinations or other
significant corporate transactions involving HHC and a substantial shareholder.
Mississippi law generally requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of the shares entitled to vote at the meeting to approve a merger,
consolidation or dissolution of HHC or a disposition of all or substantially
all of HHC's assets.  Article Fifth raises the required affirmative vote to 80
percent of the total number of votes entitled to be cast to approve these and
other significant corporate transactions ("business





                                       52
<PAGE>   63
combinations") if a "Substantial Stockholder" (as defined) is a party to the
transaction or its percentage equity interest in HHC will be increased by the
transaction.  Two-thirds of the whole Board of Directors may, in all such
cases, determine not to require such 80 percent affirmative vote, but only if a
majority of the directors making such determine are "Continuing Directors" (as
defined).  Such determination may only be made prior to the time the
Substantial Stockholder in question achieves such status.

    A "Substantial Stockholder" generally is defined under Article Fifth as the
"beneficial owner" of 10 percent or more of the outstanding shares of stock of
HHC entitled to vote in the election of directors ("voting shares").
"Beneficial ownership" generally is defined in accordance with the definition
of beneficial ownership in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act and includes all
shares as to which the Substantial Stockholder in question has sole or shared
voting or investment power.  However, for purposes of Article Fifth, a
Substantial Stockholder is also deemed to own beneficially shares owned,
directly or indirectly, by an "affiliate" or "associate" of the Substantial
Stockholder, as well as (i) shares which it or any such "affiliate" or
"associate" has a right to acquire, (ii) shares issuable upon the exercise of
options or rights, or upon conversion of convertible securities, held by the
Substantial Stockholder and (iii) shares beneficially owned by any other person
with whom the Substantial Stockholder or any of his "affiliates" or
"associates" acts as a partnership, syndicate or other group pursuant to any
agreement, arrangement or understanding for the purpose of acquiring, holding,
voting or disposing of shares of capital stock of HHC.

    A "business combination" subject to Article Fifth includes, but is not
limited to, the following:  a merger or consolidation involving HHC or any of
its subsidiaries and a Substantial Stockholder; a sale, lease or other
disposition of a "substantial part" of the assets of HHC or any of its
subsidiaries (i.e., assets constituting in excess of 10 percent of the book
value of the total consolidated assets of HHC) to a Substantial Stockholder; an
issuance of equity securities of HHC or any of its subsidiaries to a
Substantial Stockholder for consideration aggregating $5 million or more; a
liquidation or dissolution of HHC; and a reclassification or recapitalization
of securities of HHC or any of its subsidiaries or a reorganization, in any
case having the effect, directly or indirectly, of increasing the percentage
interest of a Substantial Stockholder in any class of equity securities of HHC
or such subsidiary.

    The supermajority voting provisions embodied in Article Fifth may have the
effect of discouraging any takeover or change in control of HHC.  If the
holders of a majority of HHC's outstanding common stock desire a takeover or
change in control, and if such takeover or change in control is opposed by HHC
management, the existing Articles of Incorporation of HHC possibly could be
used to thwart the desires of such majority.  To the extent that the
supermajority provisions embodied in Article Fifth are effective in
discouraging any takeover or change in control of HHC, they will be to the
advantage of the shareholders of HHC only to the extent that such powers of HHC
management are used wisely.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    Additional information concerning HHC's business, and information
concerning the principal holders of HHC Common Stock, the directors and
executive officers of HHC, executive compensation, and certain relationships
and related transactions is contained in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of HHC
for the year ended December 31, 1993 (the "HHC 10-K"), in the Proxy Statement
for the February 24, 1994 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of HHC (incorporated
into the HHC 10-K by reference), and the Form 10-Q of HHC for the quarter ended
September 30, 1994.  All of such information is incorporated into this
Prospectus/Proxy Statement by reference.  See "DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY
REFERENCE".

                       COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS

    If the shareholders of the Company approve the Merger Agreement and the
Merger is subsequently consummated, all shareholders of the Company, other than
those exercising dissenters' rights, will become shareholders of HHC.  The
rights of shareholders of the Company who receive HHC Common Stock in
connection with the Merger will be governed by the Articles of Incorporation
and Bylaws of HHC, rather than the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the
Company.  The following is a brief summary of the principal





                                       53
<PAGE>   64
differences between the rights of shareholders of HHC and the shareholders of
the Company.  This summary does not purport to be complete and is qualified in
its entirety by reference to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of HHC
and the Company, as well as the LBCL and the Mississippi Business Corporation
Act.

DIRECTORS

    The Board of Directors of HHC may consist of not less than nine persons, as
set from time to time by the Board of Directors, and currently consists of nine
members.  The HHC Board of Directors is divided into three classes, as nearly
equal in number as possible, with members of each class to serve for three
years and with one class being elected each year.  In contrast, the Board of
Directors of the Company may be composed of such number of persons determined
by resolution of the Company's Board of Directors or by the shareholders but
can never be less than one.  The Company's Board of Directors currently
consists of nine members.  The directors of the Company are elected for one
year terms and serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until
their successors are elected and qualified.

    A director of HHC may be removed from office only for cause by the
affirmative vote of a majority of directors present.  The Bylaws of the Company
provide that at any meeting of shareholders called expressly for that purpose,
any director or the entire Board of Directors of the Company may be removed,
with or without cause, by a vote of the holders of a majority of the shares
then entitled to vote on the election of directors.

    The Bylaws of the Company provide that any vacancy occurring in the Board
of Directors (by death, resignation, removal, or otherwise) may be filled by
the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors, though less than
a quorum of the Board of Directors.  A director elected to fill a vacancy
serves the unexpired term of his predecessor in office.  In case of any
increase in the number of directors constituting the entire Board of Directors,
the additional directors are to be elected at a meeting of shareholders.  At
all meetings of the Board of Directors of the Company, a majority of the
directors constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.  By resolution
of the Board of Directors of the Company, those persons serving as directors
may be compensated a fixed sum and expenses of attendance, if any, for
attending board meetings or they may receive a stated salary.

    The Bylaws of HHC provide that vacancies occurring on the Board of
Directors for any reason must be filled only by vote of a majority of the
remaining members of the Board of Directors, although less than a quorum.  The
person filling the vacancy must serve out the remainder of the term of the
vacated directorship or, in case the vacancy results from an increase in the
number of directors, the term designated for the class of directors of which
the directorship is a part.

AMENDMENT OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

    The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of votes entitled to be
cast at a shareholders meeting is required to amend any provision of the HHC
Articles of Incorporation unless the amendment would amend the Articles
relating to certain changes in control, in which case 80 percent or more of the
votes entitled to be cast is required or unless the amendment would amend the
Articles relating to size, composition and removal of the HHC Board of
Directors, in which case the approval of the holders of not less than
two-thirds of the outstanding shares of common stock is required.  The Articles
of Incorporation of the Company may be amended by two-thirds of the voting
power present.

AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS

    Although certain provisions of HHC's Bylaws relating to changes in control
and the size, composition and removal of the HHC Board of Directors require a
vote of 80 percent of the total voting power and a vote of two-thirds of the
outstanding common stock, respectively, the remaining provisions of HHC's
Bylaws may be amended or repealed by the Board of Directors by the affirmative
vote of a majority of the directors present or by a majority vote of the
shareholders present at a meeting.





                                       54
<PAGE>   65
    The Bylaws of the Company provide that the power and authority to alter,
amend or repeal the Bylaws or to adopt new Bylaws are concurrently vested in
the Board of Directors and shareholders of the Company, subject to the right of
shareholders to repeal the authority of the Board of Directors to alter, amend,
or repeal the Bylaws or to adopt new Bylaws.

CUMULATIVE VOTING

    The Articles of Incorporation of the Company deny shareholders the right of
cumulative voting in the election of directors.  Likewise, the Articles of
Incorporation of HHC deny shareholders the right of cumulative voting in the
election of directors.

    THE ABSENCE OF CUMULATIVE VOTING REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD THAT THE HOLDERS OF
A MINORITY INTEREST IN A CORPORATION WILL BE ABLE TO OBTAIN REPRESENTATION ON
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THAT CORPORATION.

PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS

    The Articles of Incorporation of the Company grant to its common
shareholders preemptive rights to receive, purchase, or subscribe to (a) any
unissued or treasury shares of any class of stock of the Company, (b) any
obligations, evidences of indebtedness, or other securities of the Company
convertible into or exchangeable for, or carrying or accompanied by any rights
to receive, purchase, or subscribe to, any such unissued or treasury shares,
(c) any right of subscription to or to receive, or any warrant or option for
the purchase of, any of the foregoing securities, or (d) any other securities
that may be issued or sold by the Company.  The Company's Articles of
Incorporation further provide for the extinguishment of such preemptive rights,
upon the vote of two-thirds of the shareholders of the Company who possess such
preemptive rights.  At the annual meeting of shareholders held on May 24, 1990,
holders of in excess of 75 percent of the outstanding shares of FDB Common
Stock voted in favor of a proposal that permitted the Board of Directors of the
Company to issue all or part of 161,148 shares of authorized but unissued
shares of FDB Common Stock without preemptive rights.

    The holders of HHC Common Stock do not have any preemptive or preferential
right to purchase or to subscribe for any additional shares of HHC Common Stock
that may be issued.

REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS

    The HHC Common Stock is registered under the Exchange Act, and, therefore,
HHC is required to provide annual reports containing audited financial
statements to shareholders and to file such other reports with the SEC and
solicit proxies in accordance with the rules of the SEC.  HHC also provides
reports to its shareholders on an interim basis containing unaudited financial
information.  The FDB Common Stock is not registered under the Exchange Act.
Upon request of any shareholder, the Company will provide an annual report
containing unaudited financial statements of the Company.

                                 LEGAL MATTERS

    Certain legal matters in connection with the HHC Common Stock being offered
hereby will be passed upon by Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A., 125 South Congress
Street, Jackson, Mississippi, counsel for HHC.

                                    EXPERTS

    The consolidated audited financial statements of the Company as of and for
the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1992 contained in this Prospectus/Proxy
Statement have been audited by Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P., independent
public accountants, as set forth in their report with respect thereto, and have
been included herein in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their
authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

    The consolidated financial statements of HHC incorporated in this
Prospectus/Proxy Statement by reference from the HHC 10-K have been audited by
Deloitte & Touche, LLP, independent auditors, as stated in their





                                       55
<PAGE>   66
report, which is incorporated herein by reference and have been so incorporated
in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts
in accounting and auditing.


                                 OTHER MATTERS

    At the time of the preparation of this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, the
Company had not been informed of any matters to be presented by or on behalf of
the Company or its management for action at the Special Meeting other than
those listed in the Notice of Special Meeting of Shareholders and referred to
herein.  If any other matters come before the meeting or any adjournment
thereof, the persons named in the enclosed proxy will vote on such matters
according to their best judgment.

    Shareholders are urged to sign the enclosed proxy, which is solicited on
behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company, and return it at once in the
enclosed envelope.





                                       56
<PAGE>   67
                         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS





<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                          <C>
Report of Independent Accountant's  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets -
     September 30, 1994, December 31, 1993 and September 30, 1993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-4

Consolidated Statements of Income -
     for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-5

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity -
     for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-6

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
     for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-7

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-9

Independent Auditor's Report  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-13

Consolidated Balance Sheets -
     as of December 31, 1993 and 1992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-15

Consolidated Statements of Income -
     for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-16

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity -
     for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-17

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
     for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-18

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  F-21
</TABLE>





                                      F-1
<PAGE>   68
                     
                     
                     
                     
                     
                     
                     




                                October 3, 1994


                        Independent Accountant's Report


To the Shareholders
  and Board of Directors
First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and
  Subsidiary
Denham Springs, Louisiana


         We have reviewed the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets of First
Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary as of September 30, 1994 and 1993, and
the related Consolidated Statements of Income, Changes in Stockholders' Equity
and Cash Flows for the nine month periods then ended all in accordance with
standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants.

         We previously audited and expressed our unqualified opinion in our
report dated January 14, 1994, on the Balance Sheet of First Denham Bancshares,
Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1993.

         A review of interim financial information consists principally of
obtaining an understanding of the system for the preparation of interim
financial information, applying analytical review procedures to financial data,
and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting
matters. It is substantially less in scope than an examination in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards, the objective of which is the
expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole.
Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.





                                      F-2
<PAGE>   69
         Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications
that should be made to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for
them to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                       Respectfully submitted,


                                       /s/ Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.





                                      F-3
<PAGE>   70
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

          September 30, 1994, December 31, 1993 and September 30, 1993

                                            
<TABLE>                              
<CAPTION>
                                            ASSETS 
                                            ------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)                                      (UNAUDITED)
                                                                  SEPTEMBER 30,             DECEMBER 31,            SEPTEMBER 30,
                                                                      1994                     1993                     1993 
                                                                  -------------             ------------            ------------
<S>                                                               <C>                       <C>                     <C>
Cash and Due from Banks                                           $  8,166,608              $  5,378,510            $  5,309,196
Federal Funds Sold                                                   2,975,000                 4,825,000               1,875,000

Securities:
 Held for Investment (Approximate
   Fair Value of $-0-, $21,474,500
   and $22,835,000, Respectively)                                 $     -                   $ 21,112,965            $ 22,331,508
 Available for Sale (Approximate
   Fair Value of $22,059,427, $-0-
   and $-0-, Respectively)                                          22,059,427                    -                      -     
                                                                  ------------              ------------           ------------
                                                                  $ 22,059,427              $ 21,112,965            $ 22,331,508
Loans                                                             $ 71,484,501              $ 68,183,811            $ 66,704,744
 Less: Allowance for Loan Losses                                    (1,123,966)               (1,070,802)             (1,074,687)
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------ 
                                                                  $ 70,360,535              $ 67,113,009            $ 65,630,057
Premises and Equipment                                               3,910,494                 3,603,952               3,469,531
Other Real Estate                                                      473,998                   451,429                 411,701
Accrued Interest Receivable                                            746,883                   688,658                 743,390
Other Assets                                                           611,385                   421,987                 557,959
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------
    Total Assets                                                  $109,304,330              $103,595,510            $100,328,342
                                                                  ============              ============            ============


                                            LIABILITIES
                                            -----------
Deposits:
 Noninterest Bearing                                              $ 30,017,479              $ 26,400,676            $ 24,412,949
 Interest Bearing                                                   67,957,886                67,341,120              65,449,993
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------
                                                                  $ 97,975,365              $ 93,741,796            $ 89,862,942
Notes Payable                                                           -                         75,000                 150,000
Accrued Interest Payable                                               156,184                   129,131                 155,388
Other Liabilities                                                      227,859                   208,095                 251,296
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------
    Total Liabilities                                             $ 98,359,408              $ 94,154,022            $ 90,419,626

                                            SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                            --------------------

Preferred Stock - $22.24 Par
 Value; 100,000 Shares Author-
 ized; 19,290 Shares Issued                                       $    429,010              $    429,010            $    429,010
Common Stock - $10.00 Par Value;
 200,000 Shares Authorized;
 48,035 Shares Issued                                                  480,350                   480,350                 480,350
Surplus                                                              1,813,923                 1,813,923               1,813,923
Unrealized Loss on Securities                                         (241,707)                  (45,480)                (37,025)
Retained Earnings                                                    8,796,067                 7,096,406               7,480,702
Treasury Stock - 2,854, 2,854 and
 2,517 Shares of Common Stock
 at Cost, Respectively                                                (332,721)                 (332,721)               (258,244)
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------ 
    Total Shareholders' Equity                                    $ 10,944,922              $  9,441,488            $  9,908,716
                                                                  ------------              ------------            ------------
    Total Liabilities and
      Shareholders' Equity                                        $109,304,330              $103,595,510            $100,328,342
                                                                  ============              ============            ============
</TABLE>


See accountant's report and accompanying notes.





                                      F-4
<PAGE>   71
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

             for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             (UNAUDITED)
                                                         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                            SEPTEMBER 30,    
                                                    ------------------------------
                                                       1994               1993   
                                                    ----------          ----------
<S>                                                 <C>                 <C>
Interest Income:
  Interest and Fees on Loans                        $5,967,437          $5,493,233
  Interest on Securities:
    Taxable Interest                                $  898,060          $  953,297
     Nontaxable Interest                                15,938              15,937
                                                    ----------          ----------
                                                    $  913,998          $  969,234
   Other Interest Income                               177,247             150,565
                                                    ----------          ----------
      Total Interest Income                         $7,058,682          $6,613,032
Interest Expense on Deposits                         1,420,056           1,447,042
                                                    ----------          ----------
      Net Interest Income                           $5,638,626          $5,165,990
Provision for Loan Losses                              156,000             197,000
                                                    ----------          ----------
      Net Interest Income After
        Provision for Loan Losses                   $5,482,626          $4,968,990

Other Income:
  Service Charges on Deposit Accounts               $1,616,417          $1,573,638
  Other Operating Income                               387,668             443,463
                                                    ----------          ----------
       Total Other Income                           $2,004,085          $2,017,101
                                                    ----------          ----------
       Income before Operating Expenses             $7,486,711          $6,986,091
Operating Expenses:
  Salaries and Employee Benefits                    $1,955,873          $1,854,162
  Occupancy Expense                                    256,681             241,154
  Net Other Real Estate Expense                        182,985             165,815
  Other Operating Expenses                           2,058,343           1,861,225
                                                    ----------          ----------
      Total Operating Expenses                      $4,453,882          $4,122,356
                                                    ----------          ----------
      Income before Income Taxes                    $3,032,829          $2,863,735

Applicable Income Taxes                              1,042,806             956,810
                                                    ----------          ----------

      Net Income                                    $1,990,023          $1,906,925
                                                    ==========          ==========

Per Share:
  Net Income                                        $    43.62          $    41.47
  Cash Dividend - Common                            $     6.00          $     7.50
  Cash Dividend - Preferred                         $     1.00          $     1.00
</TABLE>




See accountant's report and accompanying notes.





                                      F-5
<PAGE>   72
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

             for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993





<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  (UNAUDITED)
                                                                 SEPTEMBER 30,    
                                                          ----------------------------
                                                             1994              1993   
                                                          ----------        ----------
<S>                                                       <C>               <C>
Preferred Stock:
   Balance - Beginning and End of Period                  $  429,010        $  429,010
                                                          ==========        ==========
                                                          
Common Stock:
   Balance - Beginning and End of Period                  $  480,350        $  480,350
                                                          ==========        ==========

Surplus:
   Balance - Beginning and End of Period                  $1,813,923        $1,813,923
                                                          ==========        ==========

Unrealized Loss on Securities:
   Balance - Beginning of Period                          $  (45,480)       $  (65,650)
       Adjust to Market Value                               (196,227)           28,625
                                                          ----------        ----------

   Balance - End of Period                                $ (241,707)       $  (37,025)
                                                          ==========        ==========

Retained Earnings:
   Balance - Beginning of Period                          $7,096,406        $5,934,440
    Net Income                                             1,990,023         1,906,925
    Cash Dividends on Preferred Stock                        (19,288)          (19,288)
    Cash Dividends on Common Stock                          (271,074)         (341,375)
                                                          ----------        ---------- 

  Balance - End of Period                                 $8,796,067        $7,480,702
                                                          ==========        ==========

Treasury Stock:
  Balance - Beginning and End of Period                   $ (332,721)       $ (258,244)
                                                          ==========        ==========
</TABLE>





See accountant's report and accompanying notes.





                                      F-6
<PAGE>   73
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

             for the nine months ended September 30, 1994 and 1993




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         (UNAUDITED)
                                                                        SEPTEMBER 30,      
                                                              --------------------------------
                                                                  1994                1993    
                                                              ------------        ------------
<S>                                                           <C>                 <C>
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
  Net Income                                                  $  1,990,023        $  1,906,925
  Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to
    Net Cash Provided by Operating
    Activities:
      Provision for Loan Losses                                    156,000             197,000
      Provision for Losses on Other
           Real Estate                                              33,061              51,137
      Provision for Depreciation                                   342,281             392,185
      Amortization (Accretion) of
        Securities Premiums (Discounts)                             (4,904)             10,898
      Loss on Sale of Premises and Equipment                        15,107               1,440
      (Gain) Loss on Sale of Other Real Estate                      78,903              (4,154)
      Changes in Assets and Liabilities:
        (Increase) Decrease in Interest
          Receivable                                               (58,225)              5,784
        (Increase) Decrease in Other
          Assets                                                  (189,398)           (113,832)
        Increase (Decrease) in Interest
          Payable                                                   27,053              (8,139)
        Increase (Decrease) in Other
          Liabilities                                               19,764              98,569
                                                              ------------        ------------
          Net Cash Provided by Operating
            Activities                                        $  2,409,665        $  2,537,813


Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
  Net Decrease in Federal Funds Sold                          $  1,850,000        $  1,700,000
  Purchases of Securities                                       (4,961,676)         (7,029,214)
  Proceeds from Maturities of Securities                         3,823,891           5,173,545
  Net Increase in Loans                                         (3,557,130)         (4,165,940)
  Proceeds from Sales of Premises and
       Equipment                                                     6,370              28,434
  Purchases of Premises and Equipment                             (670,300)           (802,707)
  Proceeds from Sales of Other Real Estate                          19,071             768,349
                                                              ------------        ------------
          Net Cash Used in
            Investing Activities                              $ (3,489,774)       $ (4,327,533)
</TABLE>





                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-7
<PAGE>   74
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         (UNAUDITED)
                                                                        SEPTEMBER 30,      
                                                              --------------------------------
                                                                  1994                1993    
                                                              ------------        ------------
<S>                                                           <C>                 <C>
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
  Net Increase in Demand Deposits,
    NOW Accounts and Savings Accounts                         $  2,823,563        $  2,931,500
  Net Increase (Decrease) in
    Certificates of Deposit                                      1,410,006          (1,533,328)
  Repayment of Debt                                                (75,000)           (550,950)
  Net Borrowings on Revolving Credit
    Agreements                                                      -                  150,000
  Cash Dividends                                                  (290,362)           (360,663)
                                                              ------------        ------------ 
          Net Cash Provided by
            Financing Activities                              $  3,868,207        $    636,559
                                                                                              
                                                              ------------        ------------
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and
  Due from Banks                                              $  2,788,098        $ (1,153,161)

Cash and Due from Banks - Beginning of
  Period                                                         5,378,510           6,462,357
                                                              ------------        ------------

Cash and Due from Banks - End of Period                       $  8,166,608        $  5,309,196
                                                              ============        ============

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow
  Information:
     Cash Payments for:
       Interest Paid to Depositors                            $  1,393,003        $  1,455,181
                                                              ============        ============


       Interest Paid on Notes Payable                         $      2,256        $     40,779
                                                              ============        ============


       Income Taxes                                           $    980,000        $    950,000
                                                              ============        ============


    Noncash Investing Activities:
       Increase (Decrease) in Loans
         from Sales (through Acquisi-
         tions) of Other Real Estate                          $   (153,604)       $    864,449
                                                              ============        ============

       Increase (Decrease) in
         Unrealized Loss on Securities                        $    196,227        $    (28,625)
                                                              ============        ============
</TABLE>





See accountant's report and accompanying notes.





                                      F-8
<PAGE>   75
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                  (UNAUDITED)

                          September 30, 1994 and 1993


Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies -

   The accounting principles followed by First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and its
wholly-owned subsidiary, First National Bank of Denham Springs, are those which
are generally practiced within the banking industry. The methods of applying
those principles conform with generally accepted accounting principles and have
been applied on a consistent basis. The principles which significantly affect
the determination of financial position, results of operations, changes in
stockholders' equity and changes in cash flows are summarized below.

   The accompanying Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements have been
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule
10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the
information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles
for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary
for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for interim
periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for
the entire year. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and subsidiary
for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991 included elsewhere
herein.

Principles of Consolidation

   The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Denham
Bancshares, Inc. (the Company) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, First National
Bank of Denham Springs (the Bank). All material intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications to previously
published financial statements have been made to comply with current reporting
requirements.

Securities

   Securities classified as held to maturity are those debt securities the Bank
has both the intent and ability to hold to maturity regardless of changes in
market conditions, liquidity needs or changes in general economic conditions.
These securities are carried at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and
accretion of discount, computed by various methods approximating the interest
method over their contractual lives. At this time the Bank does not intend to
hold any securities to maturity.

   Securities classified as available for sale are those debt securities that
the Bank intends to hold for an indefinite period of time but not necessarily
to maturity. Any decision to sell a security classified as available for sale
would be based on various factors, including signif-





                                      F-9
<PAGE>   76
icant movements in interest rates, changes in the maturity mix of the Bank's
assets and liabilities, liquidity needs, regulatory capital considerations, and
other similar factors. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value.
Unrealized gains or losses are reported as increases or decreases in
stockholders' equity, net of the related deferred tax effect. Realized gains or
losses, determined on the basis of the cost of specific securities sold, are
included in earnings. The Bank does not engage in trading activities.

   The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 115,
"Accounting for Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." The Statement
establishes accounting and reporting standards for investments in debt and
equity securities that have readily determinable fair value. This Statement was
required to be adopted for years beginning after December 15, 1993. The Company
adopted this statement effective January 1, 1994. The net effect is reflected
in the consolidated financial statements as a separate component of
stockholder's equity as Unrealized Loss on Securities Available for Sale, Net,
in the amount of $241,707 at September 30, 1994.

Loans

   Loans are stated at principal amounts outstanding, less unearned income and
allowance for loan losses. Interest on commercial loans is accrued daily based
on the principal outstanding. Interest on installment loans is recognized and
included in interest income using the sum-of-the-digits method, which does not
differ materially from the interest method.

   The Bank discontinues the accrual of interest income when a loan becomes 90
days past due as to principal or interest. When a loan is placed on non-accrual
status, previously recognized but uncollected interest is reversed to income or
charged to the allowance for loan losses. If the underlying collateral value is
sufficient to cover the principal balance and accrued interest, the Bank may
decide to continue the accrual of interest.

Allowance for Loan Losses

   The allowance for loan losses is an amount which in management's judgement
is adequate to absorb potential losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance for
loan losses is based upon management's review and evaluation of the loan
portfolio. Factors considered in the establishment of the allowance for loan
losses include management's evaluation of specific loans; the level and
composition of classified loans; historical loss experience; results of
examinations by regulatory agencies; an internal asset review process;
expectations of future economic conditions and their impact on particular
borrowers; and other judgmental factors.

   The allowance for loan losses is based on estimates of potential future
losses, and ultimate losses may vary from the current estimates. These
estimates are reviewed periodically and as adjustments become necessary, the
effect of the change in estimate is charged to operating expenses in the period
incurred. All losses are charged to the allowance for loan losses when the loss
actually occurs or when management believes that the collectibility of the
principal is unlikely. Recoveries are credited to the allowance at the time of
recovery.





                                      F-10
<PAGE>   77
Bank Premises and Equipment

   Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is provided at rates based upon estimated useful
service lives using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes
and accelerated methods for income tax purposes.


   The costs of assets retired or otherwise disposed of and the related
accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts in the year of
disposal and the resulting gains or losses are included in current operations.

   Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as
incurred. Costs of major additions and improvements are capitalized.

Other Real Estate

   Other real estate is comprised of properties acquired through foreclosure or
negotiated settlement. The carrying value of these properties is lower of cost
or fair market value. Loan losses arising from the acquisition of these
properties are charged against the allowance for loan losses. Any subsequent
market reductions required are charged to other operating expense. Revenues and
expenses associated with maintaining or disposing of foreclosed properties are
recorded during the period in which they are incurred.

Income Taxes

   The provision for income taxes is based on income as reported in the
financial statements after interest income from state and municipal securities
is excluded. Also certain items of income and expenses are recognized in
different time periods for financial statement purposes than for income tax
purposes. Thus, provisions for deferred taxes are recorded in recognition of
such timing differences.

   Deferred taxes are provided utilizing a liability method whereby deferred
tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and operating
loss and tax credit carryforwards and deferred tax liabilities are recognized
for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the differences
between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases.
Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion
of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the
deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities
are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of
enactment.

   The Company and its subsidiary file a consolidated federal income tax
return. In addition, state income tax returns are filed individually by company
in accordance with state statutes.

   Effective January 1, 1993, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 109,
"Accounting for Income Taxes". The effect of the adjustments to the January 1,
1993 Balance Sheet to adopt Statement 109 was $-0-.





                                      F-11
<PAGE>   78
Earnings per Common Share

   The computation of earnings per share and other per share amounts of common
stock is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock
outstanding during each period, which is 45,181 and 45,518 as of September 30,
1994 and 1993, respectively.

Statements of Cash Flows

   For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and due from banks includes cash 
on hand and amounts due from banks (including cash items in process of 
clearing).

Current Accounting Developments

   In December, 1991, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement
No. 107, "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments." This
Statement requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments, both
assets and liabilities, whether or not such instruments are recognized in the
balance sheet. As it relates to the Company, financial instruments include
primarily cash equivalents, securities, loans, and deposits. SFAS No. 107 must
be adopted by the Company no later than July 1, 1995.

   The Financial Accounting Standards Board has issued Statement No. 114,
"Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," which becomes effective for
years beginning after December 15, 1994. The Statement generally requires
impaired loans to be measured on the present value of expected future cash
flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, as an expedient, at
the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the
loan is collateral dependent. A loan is impaired when it is probable the
creditor will be unable to collect all contractual principal and interest
payments due in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement. The effect of
this statement on the financial statements of the Company is expected to be
immaterial.

Proposed Merger

   On August 20, 1994, the Company entered into an agreement and plan of
reorganization with Hancock Holding Company (Hancock), a bank holding company
with its principal office in Gulfport, Mississippi, pursuant to which the
Company will merge with and into Hancock and the Bank will become a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Hancock. The proposed merger is subject to various
conditions, including approval by the shareholders of the Company and by
certain regulatory agencies. The agreement contemplates that the shareholders
of the Company will receive approximately $4 million in cash and shares of
Hancock common stock valued at $22 million, subject to adjustment under certain
circumstances. If the merger is consummated, the Bank is expected to continue
to be operated by current management and board of directors of the Bank as a
first tier subsidiary of Hancock.





                                      F-12
<PAGE>   79





                                January 14, 1994

                          Independent Auditor's Report


To the Shareholders
  and Board of Directors
First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and
  Subsidiary
Denham Springs, Louisiana


         We have audited the Consolidated Balance Sheets of First Denham
Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1993 and 1992, and the
related Statements of Income, Changes in Stockholders' Equity, and Cash Flows
for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1993.  These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these 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.





                                      F-13
<PAGE>   80

         In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of First Denham
Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1993 and 1992, and the
results of its operations, changes in its stockholders' equity, and its cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1993, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                        Respectfully submitted,


                                        /s/ Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.





                                      F-14
<PAGE>   81
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                        as of December 31, 1993 and 1992

                                           
<TABLE>                              
<CAPTION>
                                           ASSETS
                                           ------
                                                                  1993                   1992    
                                                              ------------           ------------
<S>                                                           <C>                    <C>
Cash and Due from Banks - Note B                              $  5,378,510           $  6,462,357
Federal Funds Sold                                               4,825,000              3,575,000
Investment Securities:  (Approximate Fair
  Value of $21,474,500 and $21,011,600,
  Respectively) - Note C                                        21,112,965             20,458,112
Loans - Note D                                                $ 68,183,811           $ 61,815,660
  Less:  Allowance for Loan Losses - Note E                     (1,070,802)            (1,018,992)
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
                                                              $ 67,113,009           $ 60,796,668
Premises and Equipment - Notes F and H                           3,603,952              3,088,883
Other Real Estate                                                  451,429              2,091,482
Accrued Interest Receivable                                        688,658                749,174
Other Assets                                                       421,987                444,127
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
      Total Assets                                            $103,595,510           $ 97,665,803
                                                              ============           ============

                                          LIABILITIES
                                          -----------
Deposits - Note G:
  Noninterest Bearing                                         $ 26,400,676           $ 25,246,105
  Interest Bearing                                              67,341,120             63,218,665
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
                                                              $ 93,741,796           $ 88,464,770
Notes Payable - Note H                                              75,000                550,950
Accrued Interest Payable                                           129,131                163,527
Other Liabilities                                                  208,095                152,727
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
      Total Liabilities                                       $ 94,154,022           $ 89,331,974

                                        SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                        --------------------
Preferred Stock - $22.24 Par Value; 100,000
  Shares Authorized; 19,290 Shares Issued -
  Note I                                                      $    429,010           $    429,010
Common Stock - $10.00 Par Value; 200,000
  Shares Authorized; 48,035 Issued - Note I                        480,350                480,350
Surplus                                                          1,813,923              1,813,923
Unrealized Loss on Marketable Equity Securities                    (45,480)               (65,650)
Retained Earnings                                                7,096,406              5,934,440
Treasury Stock - 2,854 and 2,517 Shares
  of Common Stock at Cost, Respectively                           (332,721)              (258,244)
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
      Total Shareholders' Equity                              $  9,441,488           $  8,333,829
                                                              ------------           ------------ 
      Total Liabilities and
            Shareholders' Equity                              $103,595,510           $ 97,665,803
                                                              ============           ============
</TABLE>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.





                                      F-15
<PAGE>   82
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

             for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            1993                  1992                   1991   
                                                                        -----------           -----------            -----------
<S>                                                                     <C>                   <C>                   <C>
Interest Income:
  Interest and Fees on Loans                                            $ 7,460,588           $ 6,750,120           $ 6,400,357
  Interest on Investment Securities:
    Taxable Interest                                                    $ 1,261,355           $ 1,619,023           $ 1,721,541
    Nontaxable Interest                                                      21,250                24,554                40,129
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
                                                                        $ 1,282,605           $ 1,643,577           $ 1,761,670
  Other Interest Income                                                     186,529               156,751               195,653
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Total Interest Income                                           $ 8,929,722           $ 8,550,448           $ 8,357,680
Interest Expense on Deposits - Note G                                     1,912,299             2,288,409             3,441,612
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Net Interest Income                                             $ 7,017,423           $ 6,262,039           $ 4,916,068
Provision for Loan Losses - Note E                                          302,000               520,000               685,000
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Net Interest Income After
          Provision for Loan Losses                                     $ 6,715,423           $ 5,742,039           $ 4,231,068
Other Income:
  Service Charges on Deposit
    Accounts                                                            $ 2,120,097           $ 2,000,298           $ 1,775,690
  Gain on Investment Securities                                              -                      8,287                 7,553
  Other Operating Income - Note K                                           600,541               422,558               300,008
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Total Other Income                                              $ 2,720,638           $ 2,431,143           $ 2,083,251
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Income before Operating
          Expenses                                                      $ 9,436,061           $ 8,173,182           $ 6,314,319
Operating Expenses:
  Salaries and Employee Benefits -
    Note J                                                              $ 2,638,211           $ 2,480,738           $ 2,210,137
  Occupancy Expense                                                         301,424               324,750               321,829
  Net Other Real Estate Expenses                                            213,639               380,688               479,373
  Other Operating Expenses - Note L                                       2,583,447             2,401,621             2,188,223
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Total Operating Expenses                                        $ 5,736,721           $ 5,587,797           $ 5,199,562
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Income before Income Taxes                                      $ 3,699,340           $ 2,585,385           $ 1,114,757
Applicable Income Tax Expense -
  Note M                                                                  1,253,841               864,644               379,770
                                                                        -----------           -----------           -----------
        Net Income                                                      $ 2,445,499           $ 1,720,741           $   734,987
                                                                        ===========           ===========           ===========

Per Share - Note I:
  Net Income                                                            $     52.88           $     36.96           $     15.30
                                                                        ===========           ===========           ===========

  Cash Dividend - Common                                                $     27.50           $      2.00           $    -
                                                                        ===========           ===========           ===========

  Cash Dividend - Preferred                                             $      2.00           $      2.00           $      2.00
                                                                        ===========           ===========           ===========
</TABLE>


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.





                                      F-16
<PAGE>   83
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

             for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      1993                  1992                  1991   
                                                                  -----------           -----------           -----------
<S>                                                              <C>                    <C>                   <C>
Preferred Stock:
  Balance - Beginning and End
    of Year                                                      $   429,010            $   429,010           $   429,010
                                                                 ===========            ============          ===========


Common Stock:
  Balance - Beginning and
       End of Year                                               $   480,350            $   480,350           $   480,350
                                                                 ===========            ===========           ===========


Surplus:
  Balance - Beginning and
       End of Year                                               $ 1,813,923            $ 1,813,923           $ 1,813,923
                                                                 ===========            ===========           ===========


Unrealized Loss on Marketable
  Equity Securities:
    Balance - Beginning of Year                                  $   (65,650)           $   (76,650)          $  (105,338)
      Adjust to Market Value                                          20,170                 11,000                28,688
                                                                 -----------            -----------           -----------
    Balance - End of Year                                        $   (45,480)           $   (65,650)          $   (76,650)
                                                                 ===========           ===========            ===========


Retained Earnings:
  Balance - Beginning of Year                                    $ 5,934,440            $ 4,343,309           $ 3,646,900
    Net Income                                                     2,445,499              1,720,741               734,987
    Cash Dividends on Preferred
      Stock                                                          (38,578)               (38,576)              (38,578)
    Cash Dividends on Common
      Stock                                                       (1,244,955)               (91,034)               -     
                                                                 -----------            -----------           -----------
  Balance - End of Year                                          $ 7,096,406            $ 5,934,440           $ 4,343,309
                                                                 ===========            ===========           ===========


Treasury Stock:
  Balance - Beginning of Year                                    $  (258,244)           $  (258,244)          $  (258,244)
    Purchase of 337 Shares of
     Common Stock at Cost                                            (74,477)               -                     -     
                                                                 -----------            -----------           -----------
  Balance - End of Year                                          $  (332,721)           $  (258,244)          $  (258,244)
                                                                 ===========            ===========           ===========
</TABLE>




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.





                                      F-17
<PAGE>   84
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

             for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        1993                    1992                    1991    
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
<S>                                                                 <C>                     <C>                     <C>
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
  Net Income                                                        $  2,445,499            $  1,720,741            $    734,987
  Adjustment to Reconcile Net
    Income to Net Cash Provided
    by Operating Activities:
      Provision for Depreciation
            and Amortization                                             504,499                 481,467                 475,098
      Provision for Loan Losses                                          302,000                 520,000                 685,000
      Provision for Losses on
        Other Real Estate                                                 51,852                 204,020                 118,429
      Amortization (Accretion)
        of Investment
        Securities Premiums
        (Discounts)                                                        8,277                  (8,480)                (23,744)
      Gain on Sale of Investment
        Securities                                                        -                       (8,287)                 (7,553)
      Loss on Sale of Bank
        Premises and Equipment                                               274                   1,761                   1,309
      Loss on Sale of Other Real
        Estate                                                            12,067                  47,588                 148,034
      Provision (Benefit) for
        Deferred Taxes                                                      (163)               (125,534)                238,918

      Changes in Assets and
        Liabilities:
          (Increase) Decrease in
            Interest Receivable                                           60,516                  76,174                 158,602
          (Increase) Decrease
            in Other Assets                                               22,140                (139,356)                 23,292
          Increase (Decrease) in
            Interest Payable                                             (34,396)                (56,936)               (113,145)
          Increase (Decrease) in
            Other Liabilities                                             55,531                  26,495                   8,086
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
              Net Cash Provided
                by Operating
                Activities                                          $  3,428,096            $  2,739,653            $  2,447,313

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
  Net (Increase) Decrease in
    Federal Funds Sold                                              $ (1,250,000)           $ (1,925,000)           $    950,000
  Purchase of Investment
    Securities                                                        (7,516,764)             (7,929,375)             (7,201,879)
  Proceeds from Sales of
    Investment Securities                                                 -                    1,189,612               3,335,860
</TABLE>



                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-18
<PAGE>   85
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        1993                    1992                    1991    
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
<S>                                                                 <C>                     <C>                     <C>
  Proceeds from Maturities of
     Investment Securities                                             6,873,804               5,022,868               4,365,763
  Net Increase in Loans                                               (5,903,426)             (9,002,743)             (6,100,948)
  Purchase of Bank Premises
    and Equipment                                                     (1,048,276)               (218,406)               (283,509)
  Proceeds from Sale of
    Premises and Equipment                                                28,434                  -                        2,600
  Proceeds from Sale of Other
    Real Estate                                                          861,219                 415,078                 722,789
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
            Net Cash Used in
              Investing
              Activities                                            $ (7,955,009)           $(12,447,966)           $ (4,209,324)

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
  Net Increase (Decrease) in
    Demand Deposits, NOW
    Accounts and Savings
    Accounts                                                        $  7,342,053            $  9,687,854            $ 11,119,276
  Net Increase (Decrease) in
    Certificates of Deposit                                           (2,065,027)               (834,289)             (5,897,569)
  Repayment of Debt                                                     (550,950)               (184,071)               (328,543)
  Net Borrowings on Revolving
    Credit Agreements                                                     75,000                  -                      -
  Purchase of Common Stock for
    the Treasury                                                         (74,477)                 -                      -
  Cash Dividends                                                      (1,283,533)               (129,610)                (38,578)
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------ 
            Net Cash Provided
              by Financing
              Activities                                            $  3,443,066            $  8,539,884            $  4,854,586
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
Increase (Decrease) in Cash
  and Due from Banks                                                $ (1,083,847)           $ (1,168,429)           $  3,092,575
Cash and Due from Banks -
  Beginning of Year                                                    6,462,357               7,630,786               4,538,211
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
Cash and Due from Banks -
  End of Year                                                       $  5,378,510            $  6,462,357            $  7,630,786
                                                                    ============            ============            ============

Supplemental Disclosures of
  Cash Flow Information:
    Cash Payments for:
      Interest Paid to
        Depositors                                                  $  1,916,296            $  2,343,419            $  3,549,579
                                                                    ============            ============            ============

      Interest Paid on
        Notes Payable                                               $     14,801            $     61,011            $     88,297
                                                                    ============            ============            ============

      Income Tax Payments                                           $  1,349,511            $    987,962            $    114,000
                                                                    ============            ============            ============
</TABLE>


                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-19
<PAGE>   86
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        1993                    1992                    1991    
                                                                    ------------            ------------            ------------
    <S>                                                             <C>                     <C>                     <C>
    Non Cash Investing
      Activities:
        Increase (Decrease) in
          Other Real Estate
          Acquired in Settle-
          ment of Loans                                             $   (714,915)           $   (146,777)           $    141,762
                                                                    ============            ============             ===========


        Increase (Decrease) in
          Unrealized Loss on
          Marketable Equity
          Securities                                                $    (20,170)           $    (11,000)           $    (28,688)
                                                                    ============            ============             ===========
</TABLE>





The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.





                                      F-20
<PAGE>   87
                  First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                        December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991


Note A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies -

       The accounting principles followed by First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and
   its wholly-owned subsidiary, First National Bank of Denham Springs, are
   those which are generally practiced within the banking industry. The methods
   of applying those principles conform with generally accepted accounting
   principles and have been applied on a consistent basis. The principles which
   significantly affect the determination of financial position, results of
   operations, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows are summarized
   below.

   Principles of Consolidation

       The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First
   Denham Bancshares, Inc. (the Company) and its wholly-owned subsidiary,
   First National Bank of Denham Springs (the Bank). All material intercompany
   accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications to
   previously published financial statements have been made to comply with
   current reporting requirements.

   Investment Securities

       Investment securities are stated at cost adjusted for amortization of
   premiums and accretion of discounts on a straight-line basis or factor
   method to maturity. The straight-line and factor methods do not differ
   materially from results obtained using the interest method. The adjusted
   cost of the specific securities sold is used to compute gains or losses on
   the sale of investment securities. Marketable equity securities are stated
   at the lower of cost or fair market value.

       Investment securities are being held for investment purposes. The Bank
   intends, and has the ability, to hold its investment securities to maturity.
   The Bank does not engage in trading account activities.

   Loans

       Loans are stated at principal amounts outstanding, less unearned income
   and allowance for loan losses. Interest on commercial loans and simple
   interest installment loans is accrued daily based on the principal
   outstanding. Interest on discounted installment loans is recognized and
   included in interest income using the sum-of-the-digits method, which does
   not differ materially from the interest method.





                                      F-21
<PAGE>   88

       The Bank discontinues the accrual of interest income when a loan becomes
   90 days past due as to principal or interest. When a loan is placed on
   nonaccrual status, previously recognized but uncollected interest is
   reversed to income or charged to the allowance for loan losses. If the
   underlying collateral value is sufficient to cover the principal balance and
   accrued interest, the Bank may decide to continue the accrual of interest.

   Allowance for Loan Losses

       The allowance for loan losses is an amount which in management's
   judgment is adequate to absorb potential losses in the loan portfolio. The
   allowance for loan losses is based upon management's review and evaluation
   of the loan portfolio. Factors considered in the establishment of the
   allowance for loan losses include management's evaluation of specific loans;
   the level and composition of classified loans; historical loss experience;
   results of examinations by regulatory agencies; an internal asset review
   process; expectations of future economic conditions and their impact on
   particular borrowers; and other judgmental factors.

       The allowance for loan losses is based on estimates of potential future
   losses, and ultimate losses may vary from the current estimates. These
   estimates are reviewed periodically, and as adjustments become necessary,
   the effect of the change in estimate is charged to operating expenses in the
   period incurred. All losses are charged to the allowance for loan losses
   when the loss actually occurs or when management believes that the
   collectibility of the principal is unlikely. Recoveries are credited to the
   allowance at the time of recovery.

   Premises and Equipment

       Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
   Depreciation is provided at rates based upon estimated useful service lives
   using principally the straight-line method for financial purposes and
   accelerated methods for tax purposes.

       The costs of assets retired or otherwise disposed of and the re-lated
   accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts in the year of
   disposal and the resulting gains or losses are included in current
   operations.

       Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as
   incurred. Costs of major additions and improvements are capitalized.

   Other Real Estate

       Other real estate is comprised of properties acquired through
   foreclosure or negotiated settlement. The carrying value of these properties
   is lower of cost or fair market value. Loan losses arising





                                      F-22
<PAGE>   89
   from the acquisition of these properties are charged against the allowance
   for loan losses. Any subsequent market reductions required are charged to
   Net Other Real Estate Expense. Revenues and expenses associated with
   maintaining or disposing of foreclosed properties are recorded during the
   period in which they are incurred.

   Income Taxes

       The provision for income taxes is based on income as reported in the
   financial statements after interest income from state and municipal
   securities is excluded. Also certain items of income and expenses are
   recognized in different time periods for financial statement purposes than
   for income tax purposes. Thus, provisions for deferred taxes are recorded in
   recognition of such timing differences.

       Deferred taxes are provided utilizing a liability method whereby
   deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and
   operating loss and tax credit carryforwards and deferred tax liabilities are
   recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the
   differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their
   tax bases. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in
   the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or
   all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and
   liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on
   the date of enactment. Reference should also be made to Note M regarding a
   change in the method of accounting for income taxes.

       The Company and its subsidiary file a consolidated federal income tax
   return. In addition, state income tax returns are filed individually by
   company in accordance with state statutes.

   Earnings per Common Share

       The computation of earnings per share and other per share amounts of
   common stock is based on the weighted average number of shares of common
   stock outstanding during each year, which is 45,514 in 1993 and 45,518 in
   1992 and 1991.

   Statements of Cash Flows

       For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and due from banks includes
   cash on hand and amounts due from banks (including cash items in process of
   clearing).

   Current Accounting Developments

       In December, 1991, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued
   Statement No. 107, "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments."
   This Statement requires disclosure of the fair value of





                                      F-23
<PAGE>   90
   financial instruments, both assets and liabilities, whether or not such
   instruments are recognized in the balance sheet. As it relates to the
   Company, financial instruments include primarily cash equivalents,
   securities, loans, and deposits. SFAS No. 107 must be adopted by the Company
   no later than July 1, 1995.

       The Financial Accounting Standards Board has issued Statement No. 114,
   "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan", which becomes effective
   for years beginning after December 15, 1994. The Statement generally
   requires impaired loans to be measured on the present value of expected
   future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, as an
   expedient, at the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the
   collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. A loan is impaired when it
   is probable the creditor will be unable to collect all contractual principal
   and interest payments due in accordance with the terms of the loan
   agreement. The effect of this statement on the financial statements of the
   Company is expected to be immaterial.

       The Financial Accounting Standards Board has issued Statement No. 115,
   "Accounting for Investments in Debt and Equity Securities". This Statement
   establishes accounting and reporting standards for investments in debt and
   equity securities that have readily determinable fair values. This Statement
   is required to be adopted for years beginning after December 15, 1993. The
   Bank has not addressed the potential future impact of the application of
   this Statement, nor has it decided to adopt the Statement early.

Note B - Cash and Due from Banks -

       The Bank is required to maintain average cash reserve balances. The
   amount of those reserves at December 31, 1993 and 1992 were approximately
   $854,000 and $791,000.

Note C - Investment Securities -

       Carrying amounts and fair values of investment securities as of December
   31, 1993 and 1992 are summarized as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        1993                       
                           --------------------------------------------------------------
                                              GROSS            GROSS
                            AMORTIZED       UNREALIZED       UNREALIZED          FAIR
                              COST            GAINS            LOSSES            VALUE   
                           -----------     -----------      -----------       -----------
   <S>                    <C>              <C>              <C>               <C>
   U.S. Treasury
     Securities           $ 2,519,319      $     8,122      $    (2,941)      $ 2,524,500

   Securities of
     Other U.S.
     Government
     Agencies               9,160,717           47,656          (10,973)        9,197,400
</TABLE>



                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-24
<PAGE>   91
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        1993                       
                          ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                              GROSS            GROSS
                            AMORTIZED       UNREALIZED       UNREALIZED          FAIR
                              COST            GAINS            LOSSES            VALUE   
                          ------------     -----------      -----------       -----------
   <S>                    <C>              <C>              <C>               <C>
   Mortgage-Backed
     Securities             8,910,009          335,634          (15,943)        9,229,700
   Other Securities           522,920           -                   (20)          522,900
                          -----------      -----------      -----------       -----------
          Total           $21,112,965      $   391,412      $   (29,877)      $21,474,500
                          ===========      ===========      ===========       ===========
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       1992                       
                          ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                              GROSS            GROSS
                            AMORTIZED       UNREALIZED       UNREALIZED          FAIR
                              COST            GAINS            LOSSES            VALUE   
                          ------------     -----------      -----------       -----------
   <S>                    <C>              <C>              <C>               <C>
   U.S. Treasury
    Securities            $   510,008      $     7,992      $    -            $   518,000
   Securities of
    Other U.S.
    Government
    Agencies                8,413,722           71,478           -              8,485,200
   Mortgage-Backed
    Securities              8,647,976          464,124           -              9,112,100
   Collateralized
    Mortgage
    Obligations             2,383,656            9,844           -              2,393,500
   Other Securities           502,750               50           -                502,800
                          -----------      -----------      -----------        ----------
          Total           $20,458,112      $   553,488      $    -            $21,011,600
                          ===========      ===========      ===========       ===========
</TABLE>


       The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities as of
   December 31, 1993 by contractual maturity are shown below.  Expected
   maturities may differ from contractual maturities on mortgage-backed
   securities because the mortgages underlying the securities may be called or
   prepaid without any penalties.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             AMORTIZED           FAIR
                                                               COST              VALUE   
                                                            -----------       -----------
          <S>                                               <C>               <C>
          Within One Year                                   $ 1,026,892       $ 1,033,400
          One to Five Years                                  12,733,948        12,788,700
          Five to Ten Years                                   2,840,534         2,989,700
          After Ten Years                                     4,511,591         4,662,700
                                                            -----------       -----------
                                                            $21,112,965       $21,474,500
                                                            ===========       ===========
</TABLE>

       Investment securities with carrying values aggregating $5,840,354 and
   $7,164,183 at December 31, 1993 and 1992, respectively, were pledged as
   collateral on public deposits and for other purposes as required or
   permitted by law.





                                      F-25
<PAGE>   92
       Gross realized gains and losses from the sales of investment securities
   for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1993            1992              1991   
                                             ----------      ----------        ----------
     <S>                                     <C>             <C>               <C>
     Realized gains                          $   -           $    8,287        $   17,116
     Realized losses                             -                -                (9,563)
                                             ---------       ----------        ---------- 
                                             $   -           $    8,287        $    7,553
                                             =========       ==========        ==========
</TABLE>

Note D - Loans -

       An analysis of the loan portfolio at December 31, 1993 and 1992, is as
   follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1993             1992   
                                                            -----------       -----------
  <S>                                                       <C>               <C>
  Real Estate Loans - Construction                          $ 6,463,022       $ 2,860,116
  Real Estate Loans - Mortgage                               32,625,834        31,072,473
  Commercial or Industrial Loans                              9,959,153         9,649,984
  Loans to Individuals                                       18,453,744        18,070,176
  Loans to Farmers                                              499,680            -
  All Other Loans                                               183,846           166,432
                                                            -----------       -----------
        Total Loans                                         $68,185,279       $61,819,181
  Unearned Income                                                (1,468)           (3,521)
                                                            -----------       ----------- 
                                                            $68,183,811       $61,815,660
                                                            ===========       ===========
</TABLE>

       The Bank had non-performing loans on a non-accrual basis totaling
   approximately $1,431,900 and $1,914,600 at December 31, 1993 and 1992,
   respectively. The Bank recognized $29,058, $30,332, and $56,076 in interest
   income relating to these loans during the years ended December 31, 1993,
   1992, and 1991, respectively. Had the loans been performing, approximately
   $163,741, $229,291 and $112,300 of additional interest income would have
   been recognized in 1993, 1992 and 1991, respectively. Loans contractually
   past due 90 days or more, in addition to loans on nonaccrual, were
   approximately $118,929 and $284,260 at December 31, 1993 and 1992.

       The Bank is permitted to make extensions of credit to its executive
   officers and directors and their affiliates in the ordinary course of
   business. The aggregate balance of these loans as of December 31, 1993 and
   1992, amounted to $267,754 and $361,535.

Note E - Allowance for Loan Losses -

       Following is a summary of the activity in the allowance for loan losses.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1993                  1992                  1991   
                                                                -----------           -----------           -----------
  <S>                                                           <C>                   <C>                   <C>
   Balance - Beginning
    of Year                                                     $ 1,018,992           $   879,133           $   693,684
  Current Provision from
    Income                                                          302,000               520,000               685,000
</TABLE>


                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-26
<PAGE>   93
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1993                  1992                  1991   
                                                                -----------           -----------           -----------
  <S>                                                           <C>                   <C>                   <C>
  Recoveries of Amounts
    Previously Charged-Off                                          128,005                65,109               104,096
  Amounts Charged-Off                                              (378,195)             (445,250)             (603,647)
                                                                -----------           -----------           ----------- 
  Balance - End of Year                                         $ 1,070,802           $ 1,018,992           $   879,133
                                                                ===========           ===========           ===========

   Ratio of Reserve for
    Possible Loan Losses
    to Non-Performing
    Loans at End of Year                                              74.78%                53.22%                77.33%
   Ratio of Reserve for
    Possible Loan Losses
    to Loans Outstanding
    at End of Year                                                     1.57%                 1.65%                 1.66%
   Ratio of Net Loans
    Charged Off to Average
    Loans Outstanding
    for the Year                                                        .38%                  .66%                  .99%
</TABLE>

Note F - Premises and Equipment -

       Premises and equipment costs and the related accumulated depreciation at
   December 31, 1993 and 1992, are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     ACCUMULATED
     DECEMBER 31, 1993                                         ASSET COST            DEPRECIATION             NET    
     -----------------                                         ----------            ------------          -----------
  <S>                                                          <C>                   <C>                   <C>
  Land                                                         $  488,656            $    -                $  488,656
  Bank Premises                                                 2,584,852               884,815             1,700,037
  Buildings - Other than
    Bank                                                          773,748               221,848               551,900
  Furniture, Fixtures and
    Equipment                                                   3,610,063             2,746,704               863,359
                                                               ----------            ----------             ---------
                                                               $7,457,319            $3,853,367            $3,603,952
                                                               ==========            ==========            ==========

     DECEMBER 31, 1992
     -----------------
  Land                                                         $  488,656            $    -                $  488,656
  Bank Premises                                                 2,025,481               797,089             1,228,392
  Buildings - Other than
    Bank                                                          773,748               193,458               580,290
  Furniture, Fixtures and
    Equipment                                                   3,181,993             2,390,448               791,545
                                                               ----------            ----------            ----------
                                                               $6,469,878            $3,380,995            $3,088,883
                                                               ==========            ==========            ==========
</TABLE>

       The provision for depreciation charged to operating expenses was
   $504,499, $481,467 and $475,098 for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992
   and 1991, respectively.





                                      F-27
<PAGE>   94
Note G - Deposits -

       The following is a detail of deposits as of December 31, 1993 and 1992:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          1993                  1992   
                                                                                      -----------           -----------
  <S>                                                                                 <C>                   <C>
  Demand Deposit Accounts                                                             $26,400,676           $25,246,105
  NOW and Super NOW Accounts                                                            9,806,112             7,592,321
  Insured Money Market Accounts                                                        10,525,130             9,325,134
  Savings Accounts                                                                     22,524,505            19,750,810
  Certificates of Deposit Over $100,000                                                 1,648,000             2,970,306
  Other Certificates of Deposit                                                        22,837,373            23,580,094
                                                                                      -----------           -----------
                                                                                      $93,741,796           $88,464,770
                                                                                      ===========           ===========
</TABLE>

       Interest expense on Certificates of Deposit over $100,000 for the years
   ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991, amounted to $77,428, $82,977 and
   $219,032, respectively.

       Public Fund deposits at December 31, 1993 and 1992, were approximately
   $768,519 and $1,082,375, respectively.

Note H - Notes Payable -

       The following is a detail of Notes Payable at December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           TOTAL          SHORT-TERM         LONG-TERM
           DECEMBER 31, 1993                                               DEBT           BORROWINGS            DEBT   
           -----------------                                            ----------        ----------         ----------
  <S>                                                                   <C>               <C>                <C>
  First National Bankers' Bank (Note
    is an unsecured line of credit of
    $85,000 which matures April 30,
    1994.  Principal and interest,
    accrued at lender's index rate on
    unpaid principal balance, are due
    at maturity.)                                                       $   75,000        $   75,000         $    -    
                                                                        ----------        ----------         ----------
                                                                        $   75,000        $   75,000         $    -
                                                                        ==========        ==========         ==========
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           TOTAL          SHORT-TERM         LONG-TERM
           DECEMBER 31, 1992                                               DEBT           BORROWINGS           DEBT   
           -----------------                                            ----------        ----------         ----------
  <S>                                                                   <C>               <C>                <C>
  First Interstate Bank of Southern
    Louisiana (Note bears interest
    of Chase Manhattan Bank prime
    plus 1.25%.  Principal and in-
    terest is payable in fifteen
    annual payments of $84,615.  The
    note is secured by a $900,000
    mortgage on real estate.)                                           $  550,950        $    -             $  550,950
                                                                        ----------        ----------         ----------
                                                                        $  550,950        $    -             $  550,950
                                                                        ==========        ==========         ==========
</TABLE>





                                      F-28
<PAGE>   95
Note I - Shareholders' Equity and Regulatory Matters -

       The dividends on preferred stock of the Company are non-cumulative. If
   said dividend shall not be paid on the preferred stock in any year, the
   holders of such preferred shares shall not be entitled in any later year to
   any dividend for the year in which no dividends are paid. The dividends on
   the preferred stock of the Company shall be payable before any dividends
   shall be declared or paid on the common stock for such year.

       Dividends are paid by the Company from its assets which are provided
   primarily by dividends from the Bank. Dividends are payable only out of
   retained earnings and current earnings of the Company. Certain restrictions
   exist, and may require regulatory approval, regarding the ability of the
   Bank to transfer funds to the Company in the form of cash dividends.

       The Bank is also required to maintain minimum amounts of capital to
   total risk weighted assets, as required by banking regulators. At December
   31, 1993, the Bank is required to have minimum Tier 1 and Total Capital
   ratios of 4.00% and 8.00%, respectively. The Bank's actual ratios at that
   date were 13.41% and 14.67%, respectively. The Bank's Leverage Ratio at
   December 31, 1993, was 8.71%.

       Under current regulations, the Bank is limited in the amount it may loan
   to its Parent. Loans to the Parent may not exceed 10% of the Bank's
   stockholders' equity. Within these limits and in the ordinary course of
   business, the Bank had loans to its Parent aggregating $646,711 and $103,571
   as of December 31, 1993 and 1992, respectively.

Note J - Profit Sharing Plan -

       The Bank had a noncontributory profit sharing plan for all employees who
   qualified as to age and length of service. The Board of Directors authorized
   the termination of the plan effective December 31, 1992. All plan assets
   were distributed to the participants in accordance with the plan document.
   Contributions to the profit sharing plan, determined by the Board of
   Directors, amounted to $-0- and $25,000 for the years ended December 31,
   1992 and 1991.

       Effective July 1, 1988, the Bank adopted a Tax Deferred Employee Savings
   Plan for all employees who qualify as to age and length of service.
   Employees may become participants in the plan by electing to contribute 1%
   of 15% of gross pay to the plan.  Beginning in July, 1993, the Bank matched
   one-half of the employee's contribution to a maximum of 3% of gross pay.
   Contributions charged to expense for this plan were $14,730 for the year
   ended December 31, 1993.

       The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement Number 106,
   "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions". The
   Company adopted this standard during 1993, and the effect of this statement
   on the financial statements is insignificant.





                                      F-29
<PAGE>   96
Note K - Other Operating Income -

       The following is a detail of Other Operating Income for the years ended
   December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1993                 1992                1991   
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------
  <S>                                          <C>                  <C>                 <C>
  Insurance Commissions                        $  168,870           $  123,913          $   70,378
                                       
  Other Operating Income                          431,671              298,645             229,630
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------
                                               $  600,541           $  422,558          $  300,008
                                               ==========           ==========          ==========
</TABLE>                               

Note L - Other Operating Expenses -

       The following is a detail of Other Operating Expenses for the years
   ended December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1993                 1992                1991   
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------
  <S>                                          <C>                  <C>                 <C>                            
  Ad Valorem Taxes                             $  233,284           $  147,719          $  124,046                     
  Insurance                                       120,055              119,711             110,264                     
  Office Expense                                  297,214              300,071             313,357                     
  Equipment                                       566,421              562,176             540,027                     
  Regulatory Assessments                          248,402              210,544             182,878                     
  Professional Fees                               188,326              208,703             154,786                     
  Other Operating Expenses                        929,745              852,697             762,865                     
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                     
                                               $2,583,447           $2,401,621          $2,188,223                     
                                               ==========           ==========          ==========                     
</TABLE>                                                            

Note M - Income Taxes -

       The total provision for income taxes charged against income amounted to
   $1,253,841, $864,644 and $379,770 for the years ended December 31, 1993,
   1992 and 1991, respectively. The provisions represent an effective tax rate
   of 34% in each of these years.

       Following is a reconciliation between income tax expense based on the
   federal statutory tax rates and income taxes reported in the Statements of
   Income.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1993                 1992                1991                         
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                      
    <S>                                        <C>                  <C>                 <C>                             
    Income Taxes Based on                                                                                            
       Statutory Rates                         $1,257,775           $  879,031          $  379,017                      
    Tax Exempt Income                              (6,147)             (10,235)             (4,613)                     
       Other                                        2,213               16,792             142,383                          
    Net Operating Loss                                                                                                 
       Utilized                                     -                    -                (148,374)                     
    Alternative Minimum Tax                         -                    -                  11,357                      
    Minimum Tax Credit Utilized                     -                  (20,944)              -                          
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                      
                                               $1,253,841           $  864,644          $  379,770                      
                                               ==========           ==========          ==========                      
</TABLE>                                                            





                                      F-30
<PAGE>   97
       The components of consolidated income tax expense (benefit) are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1993                 1992                1991                        
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                     
    <S>                                        <C>                  <C>                 <C>                            
    Provision for Current Taxes                $1,254,004           $  990,178          $  140,852                     
    Provision (Credit) for                                                                                             
          Deferred Taxes                             (163)            (125,534)            238,918                     
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                     
                                               $1,253,841           $  864,644          $  379,770                     
                                               ==========           ==========          ==========                     
</TABLE>                                                            


       Effective January 1, 1993, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 109,
   "Accounting for Income Taxes". As explained in Note A, Statement 109 adopts
   a liability method that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and
   liabilities for the expected future consequences of events that have been
   recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax returns. In
   estimating future tax consequences, Statement 109 generally considers all
   expected future events other than enactments of changes in tax laws or
   rates. Previously, the Company used a liability method under FASB Statement
   No. 96, but that method gave no recognition to future events other than the
   recovery of assets and settlement of liabilities at their reported amounts.
   The effect of the adjustments to the January 1, 1993 Balance Sheet to adopt
   Statement 109 was $-0-.

       Deferred tax liabilities of $101,926 and $102,089 are included in other
   liabilities at December 31, 1993 and 1992, respectively.

       The deferred tax provision (credit) consists of the following timing
   differences:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1993                 1992                1991                         
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                      
       <S>                                     <C>                  <C>                 <C>                             
       Provision (Credit) for Loan                                                                                      
         Losses for Financial Re-                                                                                       
         porting in Excess of Amount                                                                                   
         for Tax Reporting                     $  (26,236)          $ (141,620)         $   69,027                      
       Provision (Credit) for Other                                                                                     
         Real Estate for Financial                                                                                      
         Reporting in Excess of Amount                                                                                 
         for Tax Reporting                         39,092               31,816              (6,909)                     
       Depreciation Expense for Tax                                                                                     
         Reporting in Excess of Amount                                                                                 
         for Financial Reporting                  (13,019)             (14,908)            (31,717)                     
       Accretion Income for Financial                                                                                   
         Reporting in Excess of Amount                                                                                 
         for Tax Reporting                          -                     (822)            (20,332)                     
       Net Effect of Net Operating                                                                                      
         Loss Carryforward                          -                    -                 228,849                      
                                               ----------           ----------          ----------                      
                                               $     (163)          $ (125,534)         $  238,918                      
                                               ==========           ==========          ==========                      
</TABLE>                                                            





                                      F-31
<PAGE>   98
       The net deferred tax liability consists of the following components at
   December 31, 1993 and 1992:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          1993                1992                                      
                                                       ----------          ----------                                   
       <S>                                             <C>                 <C>                                          
       Provision for Loan Losses                       $  (26,921)         $     (685)                                  
       Other Real Estate                                  (26,122)            (65,214)                                  
       Depreciation Expense                               154,969             167,988                                   
                                                       ----------          ----------                                   
                                                       $  101,926          $  102,089                                   
                                                       ==========          ==========                                   
</TABLE>  

Note N - Off-Balance-Sheet Instruments -

       The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet
   risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its
   customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit
   and letters of credit. Those instruments involve, to varying degrees,
   elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the Balance
   Sheets.

       The Company's exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by
   the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit
   and letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those
   instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments
   and conditional obligations as they do for on-balance-sheet instruments.

       In the normal course of business the Company has made commitments to
   extend credit of $9,885,074 at December 31, 1993. This amount includes
   unfunded loan commitments aggregating $9,473,345 and letters of credit of
   $411,729.

Note O - Concentrations of Credit -

       All of the Bank's business activities are with customers in the Bank's
   market area, which consists primarily of Livingston and adjacent parishes.
   The majority of such customers are depositors of the Bank. The
   concentrations of credit by type of loan are shown in Note D. Most of the
   Bank's credits are to individuals and small businesses secured by real
   estate. The Bank, as a matter of policy, does not extend credit to any
   single borrower or group related borrowers in excess of $750,000.

Note P - Contingencies -

       In the normal course of business, the Company is involved in various
   legal proceedings. In the opinion of management and counsel, any liability
   resulting from such proceedings would not have a material adverse effect on
   the Company's financial statements.





                                      F-32
<PAGE>   99
Note Q - Parent Company Only Financial Statements -

       The financial statements for First Denham Bancshares, Inc. (Parent
    Company) are presented below:


                                 BALANCE SHEETS

                        as of December 31, 1993 and 1992




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      1993               1992   
                                                                   -----------        -----------
<S>                                                                <C>                <C>
Assets:
  Cash                                                             $   756,741        $   136,948
  Investment in First National Bank                                  8,806,487          8,205,744
  Due from Subsidiary                                                   -                   1,121
  Property and Equipment                                               743,437            769,636
  Income Taxes                                                          11,056             -
  Other Assets                                                           8,853              8,853
                                                                   -----------        -----------

        Total Assets                                               $10,326,574        $ 9,122,302
                                                                   ===========        ===========


Liabilities:
  Notes Payable                                                    $   721,711        $   654,521
  Due to Subsidiary                                                     86,680             -
  Income Taxes                                                          -                  49,339
  Other Liabilities                                                     38,602             50,620
                                                                   -----------        -----------
        Total Liabilities                                          $   846,993        $   754,480


Stockholders' Equity:
  Preferred Stock                                                  $   429,010        $   429,010
  Common Stock                                                         480,350            480,350
  Paid-In Capital                                                    1,813,923          1,813,923
  Retained Earnings                                                  7,089,019          5,902,783
  Treasury Stock                                                      (332,721)          (258,244)
                                                                   -----------        ----------- 
        Total Stockholders' Equity                                 $ 9,479,581        $ 8,367,822
                                                                   -----------        -----------
        Total Liabilities and Stockholders'
          Equity                                                   $10,326,574        $ 9,122,302
                                                                   ===========        ===========
</TABLE>





                                      F-33
<PAGE>   100





                              STATEMENTS OF INCOME

             for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1993                 1992               1991   
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------
<S>                                          <C>                  <C>                 <C>                               
Income:                                                                                                                 
  Rental                                     $  209,105           $  142,500          $  124,225                
  Dividends from Subsidiary                   1,818,000              135,500              -                             
  Miscellaneous                                   7,744                3,700               5,483                        
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------                        
        Total Income                         $2,034,849           $  281,700          $  129,708                        
                                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                        
Interest Expense                             $   48,373           $   58,866          $   62,693                        
Operating Expenses                               91,165               81,602              84,019                        
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------                        
                                             $  139,538           $  140,468          $  146,712                        
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------                        
Income (Loss) before Income                                                                                             
  Tax and Equity in Undistributed                                                                                       
  Net Income of Subsidiary                   $1,895,311           $  141,232          $  (17,004)                       
                                                                                                                        
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)                     26,285              (11,378)            (12,619)                       
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------                        
Income (Loss) before Equity                                                                                             
  in Undistributed Net Income                                                                                           
  of Subsidiary                              $1,869,026           $  152,610          $   (4,385)                       
                                                                                                                        
Equity in Undistributed                                                                                                 
  Net Income of Subsidiary                      580,573            1,564,731             739,372                        
                                             ----------           ----------          ----------                        
                                                                                                                        
        Net Income                           $2,449,599           $1,717,341          $  734,987                        
                                             ==========           ==========          ==========                        
</TABLE>                                                            





                                      F-34
<PAGE>   101


                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

             for the years ended December 31, 1993, 1992, and 1991




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1993                   1992                 1991   
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------
<S>                                          <C>                   <C>                   <C>                                 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:                                                                                        
  Net Income                                 $ 2,449,599           $ 1,717,341           $   734,987                         
  Adjustments to Reconcile Net                                                                                               
    Income to Net Cash Provided                                                                                              
     by Operating Activities:                                                                                                
      Provision for Depreciation                                                                                          
        and Amortization                          80,879                73,236                73,236                         
      Gain on Sale of Property                    (4,100)               -                     -                              
      Equity in Undistributed                                                                                             
        Net Income of Subsidiary                (580,573)           (1,564,731)             (739,372)                        
      Provision (Benefit) for                                                                                             
        Deferred Taxes                             2,411               (10,257)               59,596                         
      Noncash Dividend                            -                    (35,500)               -                              
                                                                                                                             
      Changes in Assets and                                                                                                  
        Liabilities:                                                                                                         
          (Increase) Decrease in                                                                                         
            Due from/to Subsidiary                87,801               113,589              (114,710)                        
          (Increase) Decrease                                                                                                
            in Other Assets                       -                      9,671                12,120                         
          Increase (Decrease)                                                                                            
            in Income Taxes                      (62,806)              (30,375)               30,375                         
          Increase (Decrease)                                                                                                
            in Other Liabilities                 (12,018)               (6,677)              (30,252)                        
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------                         
              Net Cash Provided                                                                                              
                by Operating                                                                                                 
                Activities                   $ 1,961,193           $   266,297           $    25,980                         
                                                                                                                             
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:                                                                                        
   Purchases of Equipment                    $   (90,180)          $    -                $    -                              
   Proceeds From Sale of Property                 39,600                -                     -                              
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------                         
              Net Cash Used in                                                                                         
                Investing                                                                                              
                Activities                   $   (50,580)          $    -                $    -                              
                                                                                                                             
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:                                                                                        
  Repayment of Debt                          $  (577,925)          $   (53,589)          $  (312,313)                        
  Proceeds from Issuance                                                                                                    
    of Debt                                      570,115                -                     -
</TABLE>                                                             




                                  (CONTINUED)





                                      F-35
<PAGE>   102
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 1993                  1992                 1991   
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------
<S>                                          <C>                   <C>                   <C>                                 
   Net Borrowings on Revolving Credit                                                                                        
       Agreements                                 75,000                -                     -                              
   Purchase of Common Stock for the                                                                                          
       Treasury                                  (74,477)               -                     -                              
   Dividends Paid                             (1,283,533)             (129,610)              (38,578)                        
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------                         
                                                                                                                             
              Net Cash Used in                                                                                               
                Financing                                                                                                    
                Activities                   $(1,290,820)          $  (183,199)          $  (350,891)                        
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------                         
Increase (Decrease) in Cash                  $   619,793           $    83,098           $  (324,911)                        

Cash - Beginning of Year                         136,948                53,850               378,761                         
                                             -----------           -----------           -----------                         
                                                                                                                             
Cash - End of Year                           $   756,741           $   136,948           $    53,850                         
                                             ===========           ===========           ===========                         
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                             
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash                                                                                             
  Flow Information:                                                                                                          
    Cash Payments for:                                                                                                       
      Interest Paid on Notes                                                                                                 
        Payable                              $    52,391           $    65,545           $    72,345                         
                                             ===========           ===========           ===========                         
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                             
      Income Tax Payments                    $ 1,349,511           $   987,962           $   114,000                         
                                             ===========           ===========           ===========                         
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                             
    Noncash Investing Activities:                                                                                         
      Property Acquired Through                                                                                          
       Receipt of Dividend                   $    -                $    35,500           $    -                              
                                             ===========           ===========           ===========                         
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                             
       Increase (Decrease) in Unreal-                                                                                     
        ized Loss on Marketable                                                                                            
        Equity Securities -                                                                                                
        Held by Subsidiary                   $   (20,170)          $   (11,000)          $   (28,688)                        
                                             ===========           ===========           ===========                         
</TABLE>                                                             





                                      F-36
<PAGE>   103

                                   APPENDIX A


                      AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION


         THIS AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION (the "Agreement"), dated as
of the 20th day of August, 1994, is made between FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.,
Denham Springs, Louisiana, a Louisiana corporation ("Bancshares"), and HANCOCK
HOLDING COMPANY, Gulfport, Mississippi, a Mississippi corporation ("HHC").

         The Boards of Directors of Bancshares and HHC have duly approved this
Agreement and have authorized the execution hereof by Bancshares' President and
HHC's President and Chief Executive Officer or Vice Chairman, respectively.
Bancshares has directed that this Agreement be submitted to a vote of its
shareholders in accordance with Part XI of the Louisiana Business Corporation
Law ("LBCL") and the terms of this Agreement.

         In consideration of their mutual promises and obligations, the parties
hereto adopt and make this Agreement for the merger of Bancshares with and into
HHC and prescribe the terms and conditions of such merger and the mode of
carrying it into effect, which shall be as follows:


                                   ARTICLE 1

                                  DEFINITIONS

         Certain Defined Term.  As used in this Agreement, the following terms
shall have the following meanings (such meaning to be equally applicable to
both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined):

         1.1     "Agreement" shall mean this Agreement and Plan of
Reorganization by and between Bancshares and HHC and any amendments thereto.
References to Articles, Sections, Schedules and the like refer to the Articles,
Sections, Schedules and the like of this Agreement unless otherwise indicated.

         1.2     "Bancshares"  means First Denham Bancshares, Inc., a
corporation duly chartered, organized and existing under and pursuant to the
laws of the State of Louisiana; maintaining its principal place of business at
523 Florida Avenue, in Denham Springs, Livingston Parish, Louisiana; and is a
bank holding company within the meaning of the Bank Holding Company Act of
1956, as amended.

         1.3     "Bank" means First National Bank of Denham Springs, a national
banking association duly chartered, organized and existing under and pursuant
to the laws of the United States of America and maintaining its principal place
of business at 523 Florida Avenue, in Denham Springs, Livingston Parish,
Louisiana.





                                      A-1
<PAGE>   104
         1.4     "Business Day" shall mean a day which is not a Saturday,
Sunday or legal national bank holiday.

         1.5     "Closing"  The closing (the "Closing") of the transactions
contemplated herein will take place at Hancock Bank's office at 3854 American
Way, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on a date that is mutually agreed to by both
parties ("Closing Date") that is within thirty (30) days following the later of
the date of receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals relating to the
transactions contemplated herein, the expiration of all applicable statutory
and regulatory waiting periods relative thereto, or the date the Registration
Statement (the "Registration Statement") filed with the SEC is declared
effective, or such later date as may be agreed to by the parties. At the
Closing the parties shall each deliver to the other such evidence of the
satisfaction of the conditions to the Merger as may reasonably be required
(including material required to be delivered under this Agreement).

         1.6     "Effective Date"  Immediately upon consummation of the Closing
, or on such other later date as the parties hereto may agree, the Merger
Agreement (as defined in Section 2.1 hereof) shall be certified, executed,
acknowledged and delivered to the Secretary of State of the State of Louisiana
(the "Secretary") for filing pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions
of Section 12:112 of the LBCL.  The Merger (as defined in Section 2.1 hereof)
shall become effective as of the date and time of issuance by the Secretary of
a certificate of merger relating to the Merger.

         1.7     "FRB" means that agency of the United States of America which
acts in the capacity of a governmental central bank known as the Federal
Reserve System represented by actions of its Board of Governors, having
regulatory authority over bank holding companies, or any successor United
States governmental agency performing the function of exercising such
regulatory authority.

         1.8     "HHC" means Hancock Holding Company, a corporation duly
chartered, organized and existing under and pursuant to the laws of the State
of Mississippi; maintaining its principal place of business at One Hancock
Plaza, in Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi; and is a bank holding company
within the meaning of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended.

         1.9     "Hancock Bank" means Hancock Bank of Louisiana, a Louisiana
banking corporation, duly chartered, organized and existing under and pursuant
to the laws of the State of Louisiana and maintaining its principal place of
business at One American Place in Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish,
Louisiana.

         1.10    "OCC" means that agency of the United States of America known
as the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency having regulatory authority
over Bank or any successor United States governmental agency exercising such
regulatory authority.

         1.11    "Party" shall mean HHC or Bancshares and "Parties" shall mean
HHC and Bancshares.





                                      A-2
<PAGE>   105
         1.12    "Person" shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership,
joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated
organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.

         1.13    "SEC" means that agency of the United States of America known
as the Securities and Exchange Commission.

                                   ARTICLE 2

                         THE MERGER AND RELATED MATTERS

         2.1     Merger.  On the Effective Date, Bancshares shall be merged
with and into HHC under the Articles of Incorporation of HHC, pursuant to the
provisions of this Agreement, the provisions of, and with the effect provided
in, Part XI of the LBCL (the "Merger") and the Merger Agreement in
substantially the form of Exhibit A hereto (the "Merger Agreement").  For
federal income tax purposes, it is intended that the Merger shall qualify as a
non-taxable reorganization under and in accordance with Section 368(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the applicable IRS regulations.
The Parties expect that the Merger will further certain of their business
objectives, including, and without limitation, the expansion of operations as a
financial institution.

         2.2     Effect of the Merger. Upon consummation of the Merger, the
separate corporate existence of Bancshares shall cease and HHC shall continue
as the surviving corporation. The name of HHC, as the surviving corporation,
shall by virtue of the Merger remain unchanged. On the Effective Date, as
hereinabove provided, all of the assets and property of every kind and
character, real, personal and mixed, tangible and intangible, chooses in
action, rights, and credits then owned by Bancshares, or which would inure to
it, shall immediately by operation of law and without any conveyance or
transfer or without any further action or deed, be vested in and become the
property of HHC, which shall have, hold, and enjoy the same in its own right as
fully and to the same extent as the same were possessed, held, and enjoyed by
Bancshares prior to such merger; and HHC shall be deemed to be and shall be a
continuation of the original entities and all of the rights and obligations of
Bancshares shall remain unimpaired, and HHC, on the Effective Date of the
Merger shall succeed to all such rights, obligations, duties and liabilities
connected therewith.

                                   ARTICLE 3

                         CONVERSION OF BANCSHARES STOCK

         3.1     Conversion of Bancshares Stock.

                 (a)   On the Effective Date, each share of the Common Stock,
$3.33 par value, of HHC ("HHC Common Stock") issued and outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Date shall remain outstanding and shall represent one
share of Common Stock, $3.33 par value, of HHC.





                                      A-3
<PAGE>   106
                 (b)  On the Effective Date, each share of Common Stock, $10
par value, of Bancshares ("Bancshares Common Stock") issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Date shall, by virtue of the Merger and
without any action on the part of the holder thereof, be converted into the
right to receive 17.13667 shares of HHC Common Stock and $88.761758 in cash
(collectively, the "Exchange Ratio").

                 (c)  On the Effective Date, each share of Preferred Stock,
$22.24 par value, of Bancshares ("Bancshares Preferred Stock") issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date (and not redeemed pursuant
to Section 5.1(e) hereof), the number of which shall not exceed 2,885 shares,
shall by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder
thereof, be converted into the right to receive $22.24 in cash, plus all
accrued and unpaid dividends thereon (the "Preferred Exchange Ratio").

                 (d)  As a result of the Merger and without any action on the
part of the holder thereof, all shares of Bancshares Common Stock and all
shares of Bancshares Preferred Stock shall cease to be outstanding and shall be
canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of a certificate
(a "Certificate") representing any shares of Bancshares Common Stock or any
shares of Bancshares Preferred Stock shall thereafter cease to have any rights
with respect to such shares of Bancshares Common Stock or Bancshares Preferred
Stock, except the right to receive, without interest, the HHC Common Stock
and/or cash in accordance with Section 3.1(b) and 3.1(c), and cash for
fractional shares of HHC Common Stock in accordance with Section 3.2(e) upon
the surrender of such Certificate.

                 (e)  Each share of Bancshares Common Stock and Bancshares
Preferred Stock issued and held in Bancshares' treasury at the Effective Date
shall, by virtue of the Merger, cease to be outstanding and shall be canceled
and retired without payment of any consideration therefor.

         3.2     Exchange of Certificates Representing Bancshares Common Stock
and Bancshares Preferred Stock.

                 (a)  As of the Effective Date, HHC shall deposit, or shall
cause to be deposited, with Hancock Bank Trust Department, as exchange agent
(the "Exchange Agent"), for the benefit of the holders of shares of Bancshares
Common Stock and Bancshares Preferred Stock, for exchange in accordance with
this Article 3, certificates representing the shares of HHC Common Stock and
cash (such certificates for shares of HHC Common Stock and cash being
hereinafter referred to as the "Exchange Fund") to be issued pursuant to
Section 3.1 and paid pursuant to this Section 3.2 in exchange for outstanding
shares of Bancshares Common Stock and Bancshares Preferred Stock.

                 (b)  Promptly after the Effective Date, HHC shall cause the
Exchange Agent to mail to each holder of record of a Certificate or
Certificates (other than those representing shares  with respect to which the
holder thereof has perfected appraisal rights under the LBCL and has not
subsequently lost, withdrawn or forfeited such rights) (i) a letter of
transmittal which shall specify that delivery shall be effected, and risk of
loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon delivery of the
Certificates to the Exchange Agent and shall be in such form and have such
other provisions as HHC may reasonably specify and





                                      A-4
<PAGE>   107
(ii) instructions for use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates in
exchange for certificates representing shares of HHC Common Stock and /or cash,
and cash in lieu of fractional shares.  Upon surrender of a Certificate for
cancellation to the Exchange Agent together with such letter of transmittal,
duly executed and completed in accordance with the instructions thereto, the
holder of such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor
(x) a certificate representing that number of whole shares of HHC Common Stock
and/or (y) a check representing the amount of cash and cash in lieu of
fractional shares, if any, which such holder has the right to receive in
respect of the Certificate surrendered pursuant to Section 3.1(b) or Section
3.1(c), after giving effect to any required withholding tax, and the
Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith be canceled.  No interest will be
paid or accrued on the value of any HHC Common Stock or cash payable to holders
of Certificates.  In the event of a transfer of ownership of Bancshares Common
Stock or Bancshares Preferred Stock which is not registered in the transfer
records of Bancshares, a certificate representing the proper number of shares
of HHC Common Stock, together with a check for the cash component of the
Exchange Ratio or Preferred Exchange Ratio and cash to be paid in lieu of
fractional shares, if any, may be issued to such a transferee if the
Certificate representing such Bancshares Common Stock or Bancshares Preferred
Stock is presented to the Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required
to evidence and effect such transfer and to evidence that any applicable stock
transfer taxes have been paid.

                 (c)  Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement,
no dividends on HHC Common Stock shall be paid with respect to any shares of
Bancshares Common Stock represented by a Certificate until such Certificate is
surrendered for exchange as provided herein.  Subject to the effect of
applicable laws, following surrender of any such Certificate, there shall be
paid to the holder of the certificates representing whole shares of HHC Common
Stock issued in exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such
surrender, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date
after the Effective Date theretofore payable with respect to such whole shares
of HHC Common Stock and not paid, less the amount of any withholding taxes
which may be required thereon, and (ii) at the appropriate payment date, the
amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the
Effective Date but prior to surrender and a payment date subsequent to
surrender payable with respect to such whole shares of HHC Common Stock, less
the amount of any withholding taxes which may be required thereon.

                 (d)  On or after the Effective Date, there shall be no
transfers on the stock transfer books of Bancshares of the shares of Bancshares
Common Stock or Bancshares Preferred Stock which were outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Time.  If, after the Effective Date, Certificates are
presented to HHC, they shall be canceled and exchanged for certificates for
shares of HHC Common Stock and/or cash, as appropriate, and cash in lieu of
fractional shares, if any, deliverable in respect thereof pursuant to this
Agreement in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Article 3.
Certificates surrendered for exchange by any person constituting an "affiliate"
of Bancshares for purposes of Rule 145(c) under the Securities Act of 1933 (the
"Securities Act") shall not be exchanged until HHC has received a written
agreement from such person as provided in Section 4.1.





                                      A-5
<PAGE>   108
                 (e)  No fractional shares of HHC Common Stock shall be issued
pursuant hereto.  In lieu of the issuance of any fractional share of HHC Common
Stock pursuant to Section 3.1(b), cash adjustments will be paid to holders in
respect of any fractional share of HHC Common Stock that would otherwise be
issuable, and the amount of such cash adjustment shall be equal to such
fractional proportion of $28.52.

                 (f)  Any portion of the Exchange Fund (including the proceeds
of any investments thereof and any shares of HHC Common Stock) that remains
unclaimed by the former stockholders of Bancshares one year after the Effective
Date shall be delivered to HHC.  Any former stockholders of Bancshares who have
not theretofore complied with this Article 3 shall thereafter look only to HHC
for payment in respect of their shares, in any event without any interest
thereon.  In the event that any such holder fails to surrender either such
Certificate or the documents and information contemplated by the letter of
transmittal and instructions on or before the fifth (5th) anniversary of the
Effective Date, HHC shall not have any obligation to deliver the amount to
which any such holder would have been entitled in accordance with the
provisions of this Agreement and any such holder shall not be entitled to
receive from HHC any amount in substitution and exchange for each share
canceled and extinguished in accordance with this Agreement.

                 (g)  None of HHC, Bancshares, the Exchange Agent or any other
person shall be liable to any former holder of shares of Bancshares Common
Stock or Bancshares Preferred Stock for any amount properly delivered to a
public official pursuant to applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar
laws.

                 (h)  In the event any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen
or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person
claiming such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed and, if required by
HHC, the posting by such person of a bond in such reasonable amount as HHC may
direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against it with respect
to such Certificate, the Exchange Agent will issue in exchange for such lost,
stolen or destroyed Certificate the shares of HHC Common Stock and/or cash, as
appropriate, and cash in lieu of fractional shares, if any, and unpaid
dividends and distributions on shares of HHC Common Stock as provided in
Section 3.2(c), deliverable in respect thereof pursuant to this Agreement.

         3.3     Adjustment of Exchange Ratio.  In the event that, subsequent
to the date of this Agreement but prior to the Effective Date, Bancshares or
HHC changes the number of shares of Bancshares Common Stock, Bancshares
Preferred Stock or HHC Common Stock, respectively, issued and outstanding as a
result of a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization
or other similar transaction, the Exchange Ratio or the Preferred Exchange
Ratio, as the case may be, shall be appropriately adjusted.





                                      A-6
<PAGE>   109
                                   ARTICLE 4

                           ACCOUNTING AND TAX MATTERS

         4.1     Affiliates. Bancshares and HHC shall cooperate and use their
best efforts to identify those persons who may be deemed to be "affiliates" of
Bancshares within the meaning of Rule 145(c) or Rule 144 (as applicable) under
the Securities Act.  Bancshares shall use its best efforts to cause each person
so identified to deliver to HHC, not later than thirty (30) days prior to the
Effective Date, a written agreement in substantially the form set forth in
Exhibit B attached hereto.  HHC shall be entitled to place appropriate legends
on the certificates evidencing shares of HHC Common Stock to be received
pursuant to this Agreement by such affiliates and to issue appropriate stop
transfer instructions to the transfer agent for HHC Common Stock.

         4.2     Accounting Treatment.  It is intended by the Parties hereto,
that the Merger will qualify for purchase accounting treatment under general
accepted accounting principles.

         4.3     Accounting and Tax Representations.  Each Party hereto
represents and warrants that the statements made with respect to it in the
Statement of Representations attached hereto on Exhibit C and made a part
hereof, are true and correct as of the date hereof and will be true and correct
on the Effective Date.


                                   ARTICLE 5

                      BANCSHARES' COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS

         5.1     Operation of Business. Between the date hereof and the
Effective Date, or until the termination of this Agreement, Bancshares
covenants and agrees that it will operate its business solely in the ordinary
course and in material compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and
rules; and, Bancshares will cause Bank to operate its business solely in the
ordinary course and in material compliance with all applicable laws,
regulations and rules; and without prior written consent of HHC, Bancshares
will not, and Bancshares will cause Bank not to:

                 (a)  Amend or otherwise change its respective articles of
incorporation or bylaws, as each such document is in effect on the date hereof;

                 (b)  Issue or sell, or authorize for issuance or sale, any
additional shares of any class of capital stock of Bancshares or Bank;

                 (c)  Issue, grant, or enter into any subscription, option,
warrant, right, convertible security, or other agreement or commitment of any
character obligating Bancshares or Bank to issue securities;

                 (d)  Except for intercompany dividends between Bank and
Bancshares necessary to effect the transactions contemplated herein, declare,
set aside, make, or pay any dividend





                                      A-7
<PAGE>   110
or other distribution with respect to its capital stock, provided, however,
that Bancshares shall to the extent lawfully permitted declare and pay
dividends on Bancshares Preferred Stock in accordance with the terms of
Bancshares' Articles of Incorporation, as amended and/or restated, and provided
further, however, that in the event the Merger shall not have become effective
on or before March 5, 1995, Bancshares shall be allowed to declare and pay its
normal and customary quarterly dividend on Bancshares Common Stock.

                 (e)  Redeem, purchase, or otherwise acquire, directly or
indirectly, any of its capital stock, provided, however, that, prior to
closing, Bancshares shall redeem all outstanding shares of Bancshares Preferred
Stock in accordance with the terms of Bancshares Articles of Incorporation, as
amended and/or restated at a redemption price not greater than the par value of
each such share plus accrued and unpaid dividends, as soon as legally
permissible.

                 (f)  Authorize any capital expenditure(s) which, individually
or in the aggregate, exceed $250,000;

                 (g)  Extend any new, or renew any existing, loan, credit,
lease, or other type of financing which individually exceeds $750,000;
provided, however, that the outstanding debt of Bancshares to Bank shall be
retired in full prior to Closing.

                 (h)  Except in the ordinary course of business sell, pledge,
dispose of, or encumber, or agree to sell, pledge, dispose of, or encumber, any
assets of Bancshares or Bank;

                 (i)  Amend its or Bank's Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws
(except to the extent required in order to effect the Merger as contemplated
herein); impose, or suffer the imposition of, on any share of stock of Bank
held by Bancshares, any material lien, charge, or encumbrance, or permit any
such lien to exist; establish or add any automated teller machines or branch or
other banking offices; take any action that would materially and adversely
affect the ability of any Party hereto to obtain the approvals necessary for
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or that would materially
and adversely affect Bancshares' ability to perform its covenants and
agreements hereunder;

                 (j)  Acquire (by merger, consolidation, lease or other
acquisition of stock, ownership interests or assets) any corporation,
partnership, or other business organization or division thereof, or enter into
any contract, agreement, commitment, or arrangement with respect to any of the
foregoing; excluding normal and customary banking transactions, incur any
indebtedness for borrowed money, issue any debt securities, or enter into or
modify any contract, agreement, commitment, or arrangement with respect
thereto; or enter into, amend, or terminate any employment agreement,
relationship or responsibilities with any director, officer, or key employee or
representative of Bancshares or Bank, or enter into, amend, or terminate any
employment agreement with any other person otherwise than in the ordinary
course of business, or take any action with respect to the grant or payment of
any severance or termination pay except as expressly consented to in writing by
HHC;

                 (k)  Enter into, extend, or renew any lease for office or
other space;





                                      A-8
<PAGE>   111
                 (l)  Except as required by law, enter into, adopt or amend any
bonus, profit sharing, compensation, stock option, pension, retirement,
deferred compensation, employment, or other employee benefit plan, agreement,
trust, fund, or arrangement for the benefit or welfare of any officer, employee
or representative of Bancshares or Bank;

                 (m)  Grant any increase in compensation to any director,
officer, or employee or representative of Bancshares or Bank except in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice;

                 (n)  Take any action or omit to take any action which would
cause any of Bancshares' representations or warranties to be untrue or
misleading in any material respect or any covenant of Bancshares under this
Agreement incapable of being performed; or

                 (o)  Agree in writing or otherwise to do any of the foregoing.

         5.2     Preservation of Business. Between the date hereof and the
Effective Date, Bancshares will, and will cause Bank to, use its best efforts
to preserve its existing business and to keep its business organization intact,
including its present relationships with its employees and customers and others
having business relations with it.

         5.3     Insurance. Pending the Closing, Bancshares shall cause the
real property owned by Bancshares and Bank to be insured reasonably against all
material insurable risks under policies with reasonable deductibles and in full
compliance with any co-insurance provision.

         5.4     Shareholders' Meeting. After receipt of notice from HHC that
the Registration Statement filed pursuant to Section 8.6 (the "Registration
Statement") has been declared effective by the SEC, Bancshares will promptly
give proper notice of a shareholders' meeting for the purpose of approving and
adopting this Agreement and the Merger contemplated hereby. Said notice and/or
proxy statement shall include notice of dissenter's rights, if any, and shall
solicit shareholders' proxies in favor of this Agreement and the Merger, and
all notices shall be given in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and
rules.  Bancshares shall use its best efforts to cause its directors to support
and vote in favor of a shareholder resolution approving this Agreement and to
execute and deliver contemporaneously herewith joinder agreements in the form
attached hereto as Exhibit D.

         5.5     Property Transfers.  From time to time, as and when requested
by HHC and to the extent permitted by Louisiana law, the officers and directors
of Bancshares last in office shall execute and deliver such deeds and other
instruments and shall take or cause to be taken such further or other actions
as shall be necessary in order to vest or perfect in or to confirm of record or
otherwise to HHC title to, and possession of, all the property, interests,
assets, rights, privileges, immunities, powers, franchises, and authorities of
Bancshares, and otherwise to carry out the purposes of this Agreement.

         5.6     Bancshares and Bank Financial and Other Reports. Bancshares
shall (and shall cause Bank to) make available to HHC the following statements
and other reports and documents:





                                      A-9
<PAGE>   112
                 (a)  Bancshares' Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30,
1994 and 1993 (unaudited) and December 31, 1993, 1992 and 1991 (audited);
Consolidated Statements of Income and Changes in Stockholders' Equity and
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 1993,
1992 and 1991 (audited), and Consolidated Statements of Income for the
six-month periods ended June 30, 1994 and 1993 (unaudited) ("Bancshares
Financial Statements");

                 (b)  All correspondence with the OCC, the FRB and the Internal
Revenue Service from January 1, 1994 through the date of Closing to the extent
legally permissible; and

                 (c)  Such additional financial or other information as may be
required for the regulatory applications and the Registration Statement in
connection with the consummation of the Merger (subject to any legal
limitations).

         5.7     Due Diligence.  In order to afford HHC access to such
information as it may reasonably deem necessary to perform any due diligence
review with respect to the assets of Bancshares to be acquired as a result of
the Merger, Bancshares shall (and shall cause Bank to), upon reasonable notice,
afford HHC and its officers, employees, counsel, accountants, and other
authorized representatives access, during normal business hours throughout the
period prior to the Effective Date, to all of its and Bank's properties, books,
contracts, commitments, loan files, litigation files and records (including,
but not limited to, the minutes of the Boards of Directors of Bancshares and
Bank and all committees thereof, and it shall (and shall cause Bank to), upon
reasonable notice and to the extent consistent with applicable law, furnish
promptly to HHC such information as HHC may reasonably request to perform such
review.

         5.8     No Solicitation.  Prior to the Effective Date, Bancshares
agrees that neither it nor the Bank shall, and Bancshares shall direct and use
its best efforts to cause its respective officers, directors, employees, agents
and representatives not to, initiate, solicit or encourage, directly or
indirectly, any inquiries or the making or implementation of any proposal or
offer (including, without limitation, any proposal or offer to its
shareholders) with respect to a merger, acquisition, consolidation or similar
transaction involving, or any purchase of all or any significant portion of the
assets or equity securities of, Bancshares or Bank (any such proposal or offer
being hereinafter referred to as an "Acquisition Proposal") or engage in any
negotiations concerning, or provide any confidential information or data to, or
have any discussions with, any person relating to an Acquisition Proposal, or
otherwise facilitate any effort or attempt to make or implement an Acquisition
Proposal.


                                   ARTICLE 6

                   BANCSHARES' REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

         Bancshares represents and warrants to HHC as follows:





                                      A-10
<PAGE>   113
         6.1     Organization and Authority. Each of Bancshares and Bank is a
corporation or banking association duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of the State of Louisiana and the United States of
America, respectively, and each of Bancshares and Bank has the corporate power
and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and assets and to carry
on its business as it is now being conducted, and is qualified and in good
standing as a foreign corporation in all jurisdictions in which the character
of the properties owned or leased by it therein or in which the transaction of
its business makes such qualification necessary, except where the failure to so
qualify would not have a material adverse effect on the business, results of
operations or financial condition of Bancshares and Bank and its subsidiaries,
taken as a whole.

         6.2     Authorization. The execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement by Bancshares and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
hereby have been duly authorized by the Board of Directors of Bancshares,
subject to requisite regulatory and shareholder approvals.  No other corporate
proceedings on the part of Bancshares are necessary to authorize consummation
of this Agreement, except for the approval of the transaction by Bancshares'
shareholders, and the performance by Bancshares of the terms hereof. This
Agreement is a valid and binding obligation of Bancshares enforceable against
Bancshares in accordance with its terms except as enforceability may be limited
by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or moratorium or other
similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and general principles of
equity and except that it is subject to approval by its shareholders and
applicable regulatory agencies.

         Neither the execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement by
Bancshares, nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, nor
compliance by Bancshares with any of the provisions hereof, will (a) in any
material respect violate, conflict with, or result in a breach of any provision
of, or constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or
both, would constitute a default) under or result in the termination of, or
accelerate the performance required by, or result in a right of termination or
acceleration, or the creation of any lien, security interest, charge or
encumbrance upon any of the properties or assets of Bancshares or Bank under
any terms, conditions or provisions of (i) Bancshares' or Bank's Articles of
Incorporation or Bylaws, or (ii) any material note, bond, mortgage, indenture,
deed of trust, license, lease, agreement or other instrument or obligation to
which Bancshares or Bank is a party or by which Bancshares or Bank may be
bound, or to which Bancshares or Bank or the properties or assets of it may be
subject, or (b) violate in any material respect any judgment, ruling, order,
writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation applicable to Bancshares
or Bank or any of its properties or assets.

         6.3     Capital Structure of Bancshares.  As of the date hereof, the
authorized capital of Bancshares consists solely of 200,000 shares of
Bancshares Common Stock and 100,000 shares of Bancshares Preferred Stock.  As
of the date hereof 48,035 shares of Bancshares Common Stock are issued and
45,181 shares are outstanding (2,854 shares being held in treasury), and 19,290
shares of Bancshares Preferred Stock are issued and outstanding.  The
outstanding shares of capital stock of Bancshares are validly issued and
outstanding, fully paid and nonassessable.  There are no outstanding options,
conversion rights, warrants, calls, rights, commitments or agreements to issue
any form of stock or other security of





                                      A-11
<PAGE>   114
Bancshares.  Except for the redemption of Bancshares Preferred Stock
contemplated by this Agreement, there are no outstanding obligations or
commitments to purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any outstanding shares of
Bancshares capital stock.

         6.4     Ownership of Other Banks.  Bancshares does not own, directly
or indirectly, five percent (5%) or more of the outstanding capital stock or
other voting securities of any corporation, bank, or other organization except
Bank and First Advantage, Inc.  The authorized capital of the Bank consists
solely of 48,000 shares of Common Stock, $10.00 par value.  As of the date
hereof, 42,445 shares of such common stock are issued and outstanding.  The
outstanding shares of capital stock of the Bank are validly issued and
outstanding, fully paid and nonassessable, (subject to 12 U.S.C. Section 55),
and all of such shares are owned by Bancshares free and clear of all liens,
claims and encumbrances.

         6.5     Bancshares Financial and Other Reports. Bancshares' Financial
Statements (i) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles ("GAAP"), consistently applied, except to the extent that
the interim financial statements for June 30, 1994 and 1993 are not by their
nature in conformity with the disclosure and statement requirements of GAAP,
(ii) present fairly the consolidated results of operations and financial
position of Bancshares for the periods and at the times indicated, and (iii)
are true and correct in all material respects for the periods and at the times
indicated.

         6.6     No Material Adverse Change.  Since December 31, 1993, there
has been no event or condition of any character (whether actual, or to the
knowledge of the executive officers of Bancshares, threatened or contemplated)
that has had or can reasonably be anticipated to have, or that, if concluded or
sustained adversely to Bancshares or Bank would reasonably be anticipated to
have, a material adverse effect on the financial condition, results of
operations or business of Bancshares and Bank, taken as a whole, excluding
changes in laws or regulations that affect banking institutions generally.

         6.7     Tax Liability.  The amounts recorded as liabilities for taxes
in the Bancshares Financial Statements are sufficient for the payment of all
respective taxes (including, without limitation, federal, state, local, and
foreign excise, franchise, property, payroll, income, capital stock, and sales
and use taxes) accrued in accordance with GAAP and unpaid at the respective
dates thereof.

         6.8     Tax Returns; Payment of Taxes.  All federal, state, local, and
foreign tax returns (including, without limitation, estimated tax returns,
withholding tax returns with respect to employees, and FICA and FUTA returns)
required to be filed by or on behalf of Bancshares or the Bank have been timely
filed or requests for extensions have been timely filed and granted and have
not expired for periods ending on or before December 31, 1993, and all returns
filed are complete and accurate to the best information and belief of their
respective managements and all taxes shown on filed returns have been paid.  As
of the date hereof, there is no audit, examination, deficiency or refund
litigation or matter in controversy with respect to any taxes that might result
in a determination materially adverse to Bancshares and Bank taken as a whole,
except as reserved against in the Bancshares Financial Statements.  All taxes,
interest, additions and penalties due with respect to completed and settled
examinations or concluded litigation have been paid, and Bancshares' and Bank's





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reserves for bad debts at December 31, 1993, as filed with the Internal Revenue
Service were not greater than the maximum amounts permitted under the
provisions of Section 585 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Internal Revenue Code").

         6.9     Litigation and Proceedings.  Except as set forth on Schedule
6.9 hereto, no litigation, proceeding or controversy before any court or
governmental agency is pending against Bancshares or Bank that in the opinion
of its management is likely to have a material  adverse effect on the business,
results of operations or financial condition of Bancshares and Bank taken as a
whole, and, to the best of its executive officers' knowledge, no such
litigation, proceeding or controversy has been threatened or is contemplated.

         6.10    Brokers' or Finders' Fees.  Except for advisory and legal fees
in connection with the transactions contemplated herein, no agent, broker,
investment banker, investment or financial advisor or other person acting on
behalf of Bancshares or Bank or under their authority is entitled to any
commission, broker's or finder's fee from any of the Parties hereto in
connection with any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

         6.11    Contingent Liabilities.  Except as disclosed on Schedule 6.11
hereto or as reflected in Bancshares Financial Statements and except in the
case of Bank for unfunded loan commitments made in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practices, as of June 30, 1994, neither
Bancshares nor Bank has any obligation or liability (contingent or otherwise)
that was material, or that when combined with all similar obligations or
liabilities would have been material, to Bancshares and Bank taken as a whole
and there does not exist a set of circumstances resulting from transactions
effected or events occurring prior to, on, or after June 30, 1994, or from any
action omitted to be taken during such period that, to the knowledge of
Bancshares' executive officers, could reasonably be expected to result in any
such material obligation or liability.

         6.12    Title to Assets; Adequate Insurance Coverage.

         Except as described on Schedule 6.12:

                 (a)  As of June 30, 1994, Bancshares and Bank had, and except
with respect to assets disposed of for adequate consideration in the ordinary
course of business since such date, now have, good and merchantable title to
all real property and good and merchantable title to all other material
properties and assets reflected in Bancshares Financial Statements, free and
clear of all mortgages, liens, pledges, restrictions, security interests,
charges and encumbrances of any nature except for (i) mortgages and
encumbrances which secure indebtedness which is properly reflected in
Bancshares Financial Statements or which secure deposits of public funds as
required by law; (ii) liens for taxes accrued by not yet payable; (iii) liens
arising as a matter of law in the ordinary course of business with respect to
obligations incurred after June 30, 1994, provided that the obligations secured
by such liens are not delinquent or are being contested in good faith; (iv)
such imperfections of title and encumbrances, if any, as do not materially
detract from the value or materially interfere with the present use of any of
such properties or assets or the potential sale of any such owned properties or
assets; and (v) capital leases and leases, if any, to third parties for fair
and adequate consideration.  Bancshares and Bank own, or have valid leasehold
interests in, all





                                      A-13
<PAGE>   116
material properties and assets, tangible or intangible, used in the conduct of
its business.  Any real property and other material assets held under lease by
Bancshares or Bank are held under valid, subsisting and enforceable leases with
such exceptions as are not material and do not interfere with the use made or
proposed to be made by HHC in such lease of such property.

                 (b)  With respect to each lease of any real property or a
material amount of personal property to which Bancshares or Bank is a party,
except for financing leases in which Bancshares or Bank is lessor, (i) such
lease is in full force and effect in accordance with its terms; (ii) all rents
and other monetary amounts that have been due and payable thereunder have been
paid; (iii) there exists no default or event, occurrence, condition or act
which with the giving of notice, the lapse of time or the happening of any
further event, occurrence, condition or act would become a default under such
lease; and (iv) the Merger will not constitute a default or a cause for
termination or modification of such lease.

                 (c)  Neither Bancshares nor Bank has any legal obligation,
absolute or contingent, to any other person to sell or otherwise dispose of any
substantial part of its assets or to sell or dispose of any of its assets
except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices.

                 (d)  To the knowledge and belief of its executive officers,
the policies of fire, theft, liability and other insurance maintained with
respect to the assets or businesses of Bancshares and Bank provide adequate
coverage against loss and the fidelity bonds in effect as to which Bancshares
or Bank is named insured are considered adequate by Bancshares' executive
officers.

         6.13    Liabilities. To the best of Bancshares' executive officers'
knowledge, all liabilities of Bancshares and Bank were, and will be created,
for good, valuable and adequate consideration in substantial compliance with
all laws, regulations and rules, and the accounts or evidence of ownership of
accounts are and will be genuine, true, valid and enforceable in accordance
with their written terms. Neither Bancshares nor Bank has agreed to any
modification or extension of accounts or account terms or otherwise made any
agreements regarding such accounts except as disclosed in writing on the books
and records of Bancshares or Bank; and executive officers of Bancshares have no
knowledge of any claim of ownership to any account other than as shown on the
written ownership records of Bancshares and Bank for each account, and the
executive officers of Bancshares have no knowledge of any alleged improper or
wrongful withdrawal or payment of any such account.

         6.14    Loans.  To the best knowledge Bancshares' executive officers,
each loan reflected as an asset in Bancshares Financial Statements, as of June
30, 1994, or acquired since that date, is the legal, valid, and binding
obligation of the obligor named therein, enforceable in accordance with its
terms, and no loan is subject to any asserted defense, offset or counterclaim
known to Bancshares, except as disclosed in writing to HHC on or prior to the
date hereof.

         6.15    Allowance for Loan Losses.  The allowances for possible loan
losses shown on the consolidated balance sheet of Bancshares as of June 30,
1994 are adequate in all





                                      A-14
<PAGE>   117
material respects under the requirements of GAAP to provide for possible
losses, net of recoveries, relating to loans previously charged off, on loans
outstanding (including accrued interest receivable) as of June 30, 1994, and
each such allowance has been established in accordance with GAAP.

         6.16    Investments.  Except for investments classified as
held-to-maturity as prescribed under the Financial Accounting Standards Board
Statement Number 115, and pledges to secure public or trust deposits, none of
the investments reflected in Bancshares Financial Statements under the heading
"Investment Securities", and none of the investments made by Bancshares or Bank
since June 30, 1994, and none of the assets reflected in Bancshares Financial
Statements under the heading "Cash and Due From Banks," is subject to any
restriction, whether contractual or statutory, that materially impairs the
ability of Bancshares or Bank freely to dispose of such investment at any time.
With respect to all repurchase agreements to which Bancshares or Bank is a
party, Bancshares or Bank, as the case may be, has a valid, perfected first
lien or security interest in the government securities or other collateral
securing each such repurchase agreement which equals or exceeds the amount of
debt secured by such collateral under such agreement.

         6.17    Registration and Proxy Statements. None of the information
supplied or to be supplied by Bancshares for inclusion in (a) the Registration
Statement to be filed by HHC with the SEC (b) the Notice of Meeting and Proxy
Statement to be mailed by Bancshares to its shareholders in connection with the
meeting referred to in Section 5.4 hereof (the "Proxy Statement"), and (c) any
other documents to be filed with the SEC or any regulatory agency in connection
with the transactions contemplated hereby will, as amended or supplemented at
the time the Registration Statement is filed with the SEC or at the time it
becomes effective, at the time the Proxy Statement is mailed to holders of
Bancshares' stock, as may be amended at the time of Bancshares' Shareholders'
Meeting, and at the time of filing of such other documents, respectively,
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein in order to make the statements therein, in
light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. All
financial statements which Bancshares shall provide for filing with the SEC and
any regulatory agency in connection with the Merger will comply with GAAP
and/or the rules and regulations of the SEC or other applicable agency.

         6.18    Commitments and Contracts. Neither Bancshares nor Bank is a
party or subject to any of the following (whether written or oral, express or
implied):

                 (a)  Except as listed on Schedule 6.18a attached hereto and
with a complete copy provided to HHC, any employment contract (including any
obligations with respect to severance or termination pay liabilities or fringe
benefits) with any present or former officer, director, employee or consultant
(other than those which are terminable at will by Bancshares or Bank);

                 (b)  Except as listed on Schedule 6.18b attached hereto and
with a complete copy provided to HHC, any plan or contract providing for any
bonus, pension, option, deferred compensation, retirement payment, profit
sharing or similar arrangement with respect to any present or former officer,
director, employee or consultant; or





                                      A-15
<PAGE>   118
                 (c)  Any contract not made in the ordinary course of business
containing covenants which limit the ability of Bancshares or Bank to compete
in any line of business or with any person or which involves any restriction of
the geographical area in which, or method by which, Bancshares or Bank may
carry on its respective business (other than as may be required by law or
applicable regulatory authorities).

         6.19    Employee Plans.  To the knowledge of Bancshares' executive
officers, it, Bank, and all "employee benefit plans", as defined in Section
3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended
("ERISA"), that cover one or more employees employed by Bancshares or Bank:

                  i.  is in compliance with all laws, regulations, reporting
                 and licensing requirements and orders applicable to its
                 business or to such plan or any of its employees (because of
                 such employee's activities on behalf of it), the breach or
                 violation of which could have a material adverse effect on
                 Bancshares and Bank taken as a whole; and

                 ii.  has received no notification from any agency or
                 department of federal, state or local government or the staff
                 thereof asserting that any such entity is not in compliance
                 with any of the statutes, regulations or ordinances that such
                 governmental authority enforces, or threatening to revoke any
                 license, franchise, permit or governmental authorization, and
                 is subject to no agreement with any such governmental
                 authority with respect to its assets or business.

         6.20    Plan Liability.  Except for liabilities to the Pension Benefit
Guaranty Corporation pursuant to Section 4007 of ERISA, all of which have been
fully paid, and except for liabilities to the Internal Revenue Service under
Section 4971 of the Internal Revenue Code, all of which have been fully paid,
neither Bancshares nor Bank has any liability to the Pension Benefit Guaranty
Corporation or to the Internal Revenue Service with respect to any pension plan
qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code.

         6.21    Vote Required. The affirmative vote of the holders of at least
two-thirds of the voting power present at a shareholders' meeting called for
the purpose is the only vote of the shareholders of Bancshares necessary to
approve and adopt this Agreement and the Merger.

         6.22    Continuity of Interest. To the knowledge of Bancshares'
executive officers, there is no plan or intention by the Bancshares
shareholders who own one percent (1%) or more of Bancshares Common Stock, and
to the knowledge of Bancshares' executive officers, there is no plan or
intention on the part of the remaining Bancshares shareholders to sell,
exchange or otherwise dispose of a number of shares of HHC Common Stock to be
received in the Merger that would reduce Bancshares shareholders' ownership of
HHC Common Stock to a number of shares having a value, as of the date of the
Merger, of less than fifty percent (50%) of the value of all of the formerly
outstanding shares of Bancshares Common Stock as of the same date.  For
purposes of this representation, shares of Bancshares Common Stock surrendered
by dissenters or exchanged for cash (in lieu of fractional shares of HHC Common
Stock or otherwise) will be treated as outstanding Bancshares Common





                                      A-16
<PAGE>   119
Stock on the date of the Merger.  Furthermore, shares of Bancshares Common
Stock and shares of HHC Common Stock held by Bancshares shareholders and
otherwise sold, redeemed, or disposed of prior to or subsequent to the Merger
are considered in this assumption.

         6.23    Continuity of Business Enterprise.  Bancshares operates at
least one significant historic business line, namely, financial services, and
owns at least a significant portion of its historic business assets within the
meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(d).

         6.24    Environmental Matters.  Except as set forth on Schedule 6.24,
neither Bancshares nor Bank nor, to the knowledge of Bancshares' or Bank's
executive officers, any previous owner or operator of any properties at any
time owned (including any properties owned or subsequently resold) leased, or
occupied by Bancshares or Bank or used by Bancshares or Bank in their
respective business ("Bancshares Properties") used, generated, treated, stored,
or disposed of any hazardous waste, toxic substance, or similar materials on,
under, or about Bancshares Properties except in material compliance with all
applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations pertaining to
air and water quality, hazardous waste, waste disposal, air emissions, and
other environmental matters ("Environmental Laws").  Neither Bancshares nor
Bank has received any notice of noncompliance with Environmental Laws, relating
to waste generated by any such party or otherwise or notice that any such party
is liable or responsible for the remediation, removal, or clean-up of any site
relating to Bancshares Properties.

         6.25    Compliance with Laws and Contracts. To the knowledge of
Bancshares' executive officers, Bancshares and Bank in the operation of their
business have complied in all material respects with applicable laws,
regulations, and agreements to which it is a party and have not failed to file
any material reports required by any governmental or other regulatory body.

         6.26    Regulatory Matters. As of the date of this Agreement, neither
Bancshares nor Bank has received a current Community Reinvestment Act rating of
less than "satisfactory" and, neither Bancshares nor Bank have been cited for
discriminatory lending practices by any of its regulatory authorities.

         6.27    Accuracy of Statements. No warranty or representation made or
to be made by Bancshares or Bank in this Agreement or in any document furnished
or to be furnished by Bancshares or Bank pursuant to this Agreement, and no
information furnished by either pursuant to this Agreement, contains or will
contain, as of the date of this Agreement, the effective date of the
Registration Statement and the Closing, an untrue statement of a material fact
or an omission of a material fact necessary to make the statements contained
herein, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading.

                                   ARTICLE 7

                      HHC'S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES





                                      A-17
<PAGE>   120
         HHC represents and warrants to Bancshares as follows: for purposes of
this Agreement, except in Section 7.1 and where the context requires otherwise,
any reference to HHC in this Article 7 shall be deemed to include HHC and
Hancock Bank and any reference to "material", "material adverse effect" or a
similar standard shall refer to the financial condition, operations or other
aspects of HHC and its subsidiaries including Hancock Bank taken as a whole.

         7.1     Organization and Authority. HHC is a corporation duly
incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State
of Mississippi and is a bank holding company within the meaning of Bank Holding
Company Act of 1956, as amended.  HHC and each of its subsidiaries has all
requisite corporate power and authority to own its properties and assets and to
carry on its business as it is now being conducted, and is qualified and in
good standing as a foreign corporation in all jurisdictions in which the
character of the properties owned or leased by it therein or in which the
transaction of its business makes such qualification necessary, except where
the failure to so qualify would not have a material adverse effect on the
business, results of operations or financial condition of HHC and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole.

         7.2     Capital Stock: Other Interests.  The authorized capital stock
of HHC consists of 20,000,000 shares of HHC Common Stock of which, at the date
of this Agreement, 7,505,201 shares were issued and outstanding and no shares
were held in its treasury.  All issued and outstanding shares of capital stock
of HHC have been duly authorized and are validly issued, fully paid and non-
assessable.  The outstanding capital stock of HHC has been issued in compliance
with all legal requirements and any preemptive or similar rights.  HHC owns all
of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of Hancock Bank free and
clear of all  liens, charges, security interests, mortgages, pledges and other
encumbrances.  As of the date of this Agreement, HHC has no outstanding stock
options or other rights to acquire any shares of its capital stock, other than
HHC's Automatic Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan.

         7.3     Shares Fully Paid and Non Assessable.  The shares of HHC
Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger pursuant to this
Agreement have been duly authorized and, when issued in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement, will be validly issued, fully paid, and nonassessable.

         7.4     Authorization. The execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement by HHC and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
have been duly authorized by the Board of Directors of HHC and Hancock Bank,
subject to regulatory approvals.  No other corporate proceedings on the part of
HHC are necessary to authorize the execution and delivery of this Agreement and
the performance by HHC of the terms hereof. This Agreement is a valid and
binding obligation of HHC enforceable against HHC in accordance with its terms
except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization or moratorium or other similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally and general principals of equity and except that it is subject to
approval of applicable regulatory agencies.





                                      A-18
<PAGE>   121
         Neither the execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement by
HHC, nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, nor
compliance by HHC with any of the provisions hereof, will (a) in any material
respect violate, conflict with, or result in a breach of any provision of, or
constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both,
would constitute a default) under or result in the termination of, or
accelerate the performance required by, or result in a right of termination or
acceleration, or the creation of any lien, security interest, charge or
encumbrance upon any of the properties or assets of HHC or Hancock Bank under
any terms, conditions or provisions of (i) HHC's or Hancock Bank's Articles of
Incorporation or Bylaws, or (ii) any material note, bond, mortgage, indenture,
deed of trust, license, lease, agreement or other instrument or obligation to
which HHC or Hancock Bank is a party or by which HHC or Hancock Bank may be
bound, or to which HHC or Hancock Bank or the properties or assets of it may be
subject, or (b) violate in any material respect any judgment, ruling, order,
writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation applicable to HHC or
Hancock Bank or any of its properties or assets.

         7.5     Financial Statements, Report and Proxy Statements.

                 (a)  HHC has delivered to Bancshares true and complete copies
of the Financial Statements, Interim Financial Statements and other documents
listed on Schedule 7.5 hereto.

                 (b)  The Financial Statements and the Interim Financial
Statements have been prepared in conformity with GAAP applied on a basis
consistent with prior periods, and present fairly, in conformity with GAAP, the
consolidated results of operations of HHC's consolidated group for the
respective periods covered thereby and the consolidated financial condition of
its consolidated group as of the respective dates thereof.  All call reports
have been filed on the appropriate form and prepared in accordance with such
form's instructions and the applicable rules and regulations of the regulating
federal agency.  As of the date of the latest balance sheet forming part of the
Interim Financial Statements (the "Latest Balance Sheet"), no members of HHC's
consolidated group had, nor were any of any of such member's assets subject to,
any material liability, commitment, indebtedness or obligation, which is not
reflected and adequately reserved against in the Latest Balance Sheet in
accordance with GAAP.

         7.6     No Material Adverse Change.  Since the Latest Balance Sheet,
there has been no event or condition of any character (whether actual, or to
the knowledge of HHC or Hancock Bank, threatened) that has had or can
reasonably be anticipated to have, or that, if concluded or sustained adversely
to HHC or Hancock Bank would reasonably be anticipated to have, a material
adverse effect on the financial condition, results of operations or business of
HHC and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, excluding changes in laws or
regulations that affect banking institutions generally.

         7.7     Loans.  To the knowledge of its management, and management of
Hancock Bank, each loan reflected as an asset of HHC in the Latest Balance
Sheet, or acquired since that date, is the legal, valid and binding obligation
of the obligor named therein, enforceable in accordance with its terms, and no
loan is subject to any asserted defense, offset, or





                                      A-19
<PAGE>   122
counterclaim known to HHC, except as disclosed in writing to Bancshares on or
prior to the date hereof.

         7.8     Litigation.  Except as disclosed on Schedule 7.8, no
litigation, proceeding or controversy before any court or governmental agency
is pending that in the opinion of its management is likely to have a material
adverse effect on the business, results of operations or financial condition of
HHC and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, and, to the best of its knowledge,
no such litigation, proceeding or controversy has been threatened.

         7.9     Contingent Liabilities.  Except as disclosed on Schedule 7.9
hereto or reflected in the HHC reports filed with the SEC and except in the
case of HHC's subsidiaries for unfunded loan commitments made in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practices, as of the date of the Latest
Balance Sheet, neither HHC nor any of its subsidiaries had any obligation or
liability (contingent or otherwise) that was material, or that when combined
with all similar obligations or liabilities would have been material, to HHC
and its subsidiaries taken as a whole and there does not exist a set of
circumstances resulting from transactions effected or events occurring prior to
or, or after the date of the Latest Balance Sheet, or from any action omitted
to be taken during such period that, to the knowledge of HHC's senior
management could reasonably be expected to result in any such material
obligation or liability.

         7.10    Allowances for Possible Loan Losses.  The allowances for
possible loan losses shown on the Latest Balance Sheet of HHC were adequate in
all material respects under the requirements of GAAP to provide for possible
loan losses, net of recoveries relating to loans previously charged off, on
loans outstanding (including accrued interest receivable) as of the date of
such balance sheet and each such allowance has been established in accordance
with GAAP.  To the knowledge of HHC's and Hancock Bank's management, HHC is not
likely to be required to materially increase the provision for loan losses
between the date hereof and the Effective Date.

         7.11    Benefit Plans.  To the knowledge of HHC's senior management,
HHC, each of its subsidiaries and all "employee benefit plans," as defined in
Section 3(3) of ERISA, that cover one or more employees employed by HHC or any
of its subsidiaries:

                  i.  is in compliance with all laws, regulations, reporting and
                 licensing requirements and orders applicable to its business
                 or to such plan or any of its employees (because of such
                 employee's activities on behalf of it), the breach or
                 violation of which could have a material adverse effect on HHC
                 and its subsidiaries taken as a whole; and

                 ii.  has received no notification from any agency or
                 department of federal, state or local government or the staff
                 thereof asserting that any such entity is not in compliance
                 with any of the statutes, regulations or ordinances that such
                 governmental authority enforces, or threatening to revoke any
                 license, franchise or permit or governmental authorization,
                 and is subject to no agreement or written understanding with
                 any such governmental authorities with respect to its assets
                 or business.





                                      A-20
<PAGE>   123
         7.12    Plan Liability.  Except for liabilities to the Pension Benefit
Guaranty Corporation pursuant to Section 4007 of ERISA, all of which have been
fully paid, and except for liabilities to the Internal Revenue Service under
Section 4971 of the Internal Revenue Code, all of which have been fully paid,
neither HHC nor Hancock Bank has any liability to the Pension Benefit Guaranty
Corporation or to the Internal Revenue Service with respect to any pension plan
qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code.

         7.13    Environmental Matters.  Except as set forth on Schedule 7.13,
neither HHC nor Hancock Bank nor, to the knowledge of HHC's or Hancock Bank's
executive officers, any previous owner or operator of any properties at any
time owned (including any properties owned or subsequently resold) leased, or
occupied by HHC or Hancock Bank or used by HHC or Hancock Bank in their
respective business ("Hancock Bank Properties") used, generated, treated,
stored, or disposed of any hazardous waste, toxic substance, or similar
materials on, under, or about Hancock Bank Properties except in material
compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules and
regulations pertaining to air and water quality, hazardous waste, waste
disposal, air emissions, and other environmental matters ("Environmental
Laws").  Neither HHC nor Hancock Bank has received any notice of noncompliance
with Environmental Laws, relating to waste generated by any such party or
otherwise or notice that any such party is liable or responsible for the
remediation, removal, or clean-up of any site relating to Hancock Bank
Properties.

         7.14    Broker's or Finder's Fees. No agent, broker, investment
banker, investment or financial advisor or other person acting on behalf of HHC
or Hancock Bank is entitled to any commission, broker's or finder's fees from
any of the parties hereto in connection with any of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.

         7.15    Regulatory Matters. As of the date of this Agreement, neither
HHC nor any of its banking subsidiaries has received a current Community
Reinvestment Act rating of less than "satisfactory" and, neither HHC nor any of
its banking subsidiaries has been cited for discriminatory lending practices by
any of its regulatory authorities.

         7.16    Accuracy of Statements. No warranty or representation made or
to be made by HHC or Hancock Bank in this Agreement or in any document
furnished or to be furnished by HHC or Hancock Bank pursuant to this Agreement,
and no information furnished by either pursuant to this Agreement, contains or
will contain, as of the date of this Agreement, the effective date of the
Registration Statement and the Closing, an untrue statement of a material fact
or an omission of a material fact necessary to make the statements contained
herein, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading.

                                   ARTICLE 8

                         HHC'S COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS

         8.1     Conduct of Business. HHC agrees to operate its business solely
in the ordinary course consistent with prudent business practices and in
compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and rules; but, except as
provided in Section 3.3, nothing herein shall be construed as limiting or
restricting HHC in its assets, liability, or capital structure or limiting





                                      A-21
<PAGE>   124
any action of HHC or its affiliates, nor shall anything in this Agreement be
construed as limiting the future number and amount of outstanding shares of HHC
stock pending settlement of this transaction.

         8.2     Due Diligence.  In order to afford Bancshares access to such
information as it may reasonably deem necessary to perform its due diligence
review with respect to HHC and its subsidiaries and assets in connection with
the Merger, HHC shall (and shall cause Hancock Bank to), (a) upon reasonable
notice, afford Bancshares and its officers, employees, counsel, accountants and
other authorized representatives, during normal business hours throughout the
period prior to the Effective Date and to the extent consistent with applicable
law, access to its premises, properties, books and records, and to furnish
Bancshares and such representatives with such financial and operating data and
other information of any kind respecting its business and properties as
Bancshares shall from time to time reasonably request to perform such review,
(b) furnish Bancshares with copies of all reports filed by HHC and its
subsidiaries with the SEC and its or their regulatory authorities throughout
the period after the date hereof prior to the Effective Date promptly after
such reports are so filed, and (c) promptly advise Bancshares of the occurrence
before the Effective Date of any event or condition of any character (whether
actual or to the knowledge of HHC, threatened or contemplated) that has had or
can reasonably be anticipated to have, or that, if concluded or sustained
adversely to HHC, would reasonable be anticipated to have, a material adverse
effect on the financial condition, results of operations or business of HHC and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole.

         8.3     Continuity of Business Enterprise.  It is the present
intention of HHC to continue at least one significant historic business line of
Bancshares, namely, financial services, and to use at least a significant
portion of Bancshares's historic business assets in a business within the
meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(d).

         8.4     Cooperation and Best Efforts.  HHC will and will cause Hancock
Bank, to cooperate with Bancshares and Bank, and use its best efforts to (a)
procure all necessary consents and approvals of third parties, (b) complete all
necessary filings, registrations, applications, schedules and certificates, (c)
satisfy all requirements prescribed by law for, and all conditions set forth in
this Agreement to, the consummation of the Merger and the transactions
contemplated hereby and by the Merger Agreement and (d) effect the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement and the Merger Agreement at the earliest
practicable date.

         8.5     Press Releases.  HHC will cooperate with Bancshares in the
preparation of any press releases announcing the execution of this Agreement or
the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby.  Without the prior
written consent of HHC, Bancshares will not issue any press release or other
written statement for general circulation relating to the transactions
contemplated hereby, except as may otherwise be required by law.

         8.6     Registration Statement.  (a) HHC will promptly prepare and
file on Form S-4 a registration statement under the Securities Act (which will
include the Proxy Statement) complying with all the requirements of the
Securities Act applicable thereto, for the purpose, among other things, of
registering the HHC Common Stock which will be issued





                                      A-22
<PAGE>   125
to the holders of Bancshares Common Stock pursuant to the Merger.  HHC shall
use its best efforts to cause the Registration Statement to become effective as
soon as practicable, to qualify the HHC Common Stock under the securities or
blue sky laws of such jurisdictions as may be required and to keep the
Registration Statement and such qualifications current and in effect for so
long as is necessary to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.

                 (b)  HHC will indemnify and hold harmless each member of
Bancshares' consolidated group and each of their respective directors,
officers, agents and other persons, if any, who control Bancshares within the
meaning of the Securities Act from and against any losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or judgments, joint or several, to which they or any of them may
become subject under the Securities Act or any state securities or blue sky
laws or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages, liabilities, or
judgements (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon an
untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in
the Registration Statement, or in any amendment or supplement thereto, or in
any state application for qualification, permit, exemption or registration as a
broker/dealer, or in any amendment or supplement thereto, or arise out of or
are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein
not misleading, and will reimburse each such person for any legal or other
expenses reasonably incurred by such person in connection with investigating or
defending any such action or claim; provided, however, that HHC shall not be
liable, in any such case, to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage,
liability, or judgment (or action in respect thereof) arises out of or is based
upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged
omission made in the Registration Statement, or any such amendment or
supplement thereto, or in any such state application, or in any amendment or
supplement thereto, in reliance upon and in conformity with information
furnished in writing to HHC by Bancshares.

         8.7     Application to Regulatory Authorities.  HHC shall prepare, as
promptly as practicable, all regulatory applications and filings which are
required to be made with respect to the Merger and provide copies thereof to
Bancshares and its counsel in advance of filing for Bancshares' prior review
and approval.

         8.8     Revenue Ruling.  HHC or Bancshares may elect to prepare (and
in that event the other Party shall cooperate in the preparation of) a request
for a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service with respect to certain tax
matters in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and
the Merger Agreement.

         8.9     Additional Information.  HHC will provide Bancshares with: (a)
prompt written notice of any material adverse change in the financial
condition, results of operations or business of HHC or its subsidiaries, (b) as
soon as they become available and are publicly disclosed, copies of any
financial statements, reports and other documents of the type referred to in
Section 7.5 with respect to HHC and its subsidiaries, and (c) promptly upon its
dissemination, any report disseminated to the shareholders of HHC.

         8.10    Indemnification of Directors and Officers of Bancshares and
Bank.  (a) From and after the Effective Date of the Merger, HHC agrees to
indemnify and hold harmless





                                      A-23
<PAGE>   126
each person who is an officer or director (including but not limited to R.
Dawes Easterly, deceased) of Bancshares or Bank on the date of this Agreement
or hereafter from and against all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and
judgments (and related expenses including, but not limited to, attorney's fees
and amounts paid in investigating or defending any action in respect thereof or
in settlement of any such action) based upon or arising from his capacity as an
officer or director of Bancshares or Bank, as the case may be, to the same
extent he would have been indemnified under the Articles of Incorporation and
By-laws of HHC as such documents were in effect on the date of this Agreement
as if he were an officer or director of HHC at all relevant times.  Any
indemnification to which subparagraph (b) of Section 8.6 applies shall be paid
pursuant thereto and shall not be payable under this Section 8.10.  The persons
entitled to indemnification hereunder and their respective heirs, executors,
estates and assigns are hereinafter referred to as "Indemnified Persons."

                 (b)  The rights granted to the Indemnified Persons hereby
shall be contractual rights inuring to the benefit of all Indemnified Persons
and shall survive the Merger, and any merger, consolidation or reorganization
of HHC.

                 (c)  An Indemnified Person shall give HHC prompt notice of any
matter as to which indemnification is provided, shall employ counsel that is
reasonably acceptable to HHC (and no more than one counsel for all Indemnified
Persons shall be employed in any one matter or series of related matters except
to the extent that actual conflicts of interest require otherwise) and shall
not settle any such matter unless HHC shall first consent thereto.

                 (d)  The total aggregate indemnification to be provided by HHC
pursuant to Section 8.10 hereof will not exceed, as to all of the Indemnified
Persons described herein as a group, the sum of Four Million Dollars
($4,000,000.00).

         8.11    Benefits Provided to Employees of Hancock Consolidated Group.
From and after the Effective Date, HHC may cause Bank to offer to all persons
who were employees of Bank immediately prior to the Effective Date and who
become or remain employees of Bank immediately following the Effective Date,
similar employee benefits (including benefits under Hancock Bank's Pension
Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k), Cafeteria Plan, Vacation and Salary Continuation
plans or policies) as are offered by HHC or Hancock Bank to similarly situated
employees of Hancock Bank, except that there shall be no waiting period for
coverage under Hancock Bank's Medical Benefit Plan, Dental Reimbursement Plan,
Cafeteria Plan, Group Life Insurance Plan, Long Term Disability Plan and HHC's
Stock Purchase Plan and no employee who is an active employee of Bank on the
Effective Date shall be denied benefits under such plans for prior service by
such employees with Bank for eligibility and vesting purposes under all of
Hancock Bank's benefit plans and policies, except that credit for prior service
shall not be given for eligibility, vesting or benefit accrual purposes under
Hancock Bank's Pension Plan, Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan and Medical Benefit
Plan.

         8.12    Bancshares 401(k) Plan.  HHC agrees that Bancshares and/or
Bank may amend its 401(k) plan to provide that all participants in such plan
who are employed on the date





                                      A-24
<PAGE>   127
of this Agreement shall be fully vested in their accounts in such plan as of
the Effective Date.  HHC and Hancock Bank shall take all reasonable actions
necessary after the Effective Date to maintain the qualification and tax-exempt
status of such 401(k) plan and to meet all other requirements of applicable law
and regulations and the provision of such plan until such plans are either
terminated and fully liquidated or combined with a plan of HHC.

         8.13    Governance.  HHC's Board of Directors shall take all action
necessary to appoint a designee or designees of Bancshares to the Board of
Directors of Hancock Bank and Hancock Bank, Gulfport, Mississippi upon the
Effective Date.  HHC's Board of Directors shall nominate Bancshares Designee or
Designees for election and/or reelection to the Board of Directors of the
respective Bank for not less than each of the next five years succeeding the
Effective Date of the Merger.

                                   ARTICLE 9

                             CONDITIONS TO CLOSING

         The obligations of Bancshares and HHC under this Agreement, except as
otherwise provided herein, shall be subject to the satisfaction or waiver of
the following conditions on or prior to the Closing:

         9.1     Conditions to Each Party's Obligations to Effect the Merger.
The respective obligation of each party to effect the Merger contemplated by
this Agreement shall be subject to the following conditions:

                 (a)  Shareholder Approval. The Merger shall have been approved
by the requisite vote of the holders of the outstanding shares of Bancshares
Common Stock at Bancshares' Shareholders' Meeting.

                 (b)  Regulatory Approvals. The transactions contemplated by
this Agreement shall have been approved by all governing regulatory
authorities, without any condition or requirement that either HHC or Bancshares
deems unreasonably burdensome, or which otherwise would have a material adverse
effect on the business, operations,  assets or financial condition of HHC,
Bancshares or Bank after the Effective Date, and all conditions required to be
satisfied shall have been satisfied, and all waiting periods relating to such
approvals shall have expired.

                 (c)  Registration Statement. The Registration Statement shall
have been declared effective by the SEC and shall not be subject to a stop
order or any threatened stop order, and all state securities and blue sky
permits or approvals required to consummate the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement shall have been received.

                 (d)  No Restraining Action.  No action or proceeding shall
have been threatened or instituted before a court or other governmental body to
restrain or prohibit the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or
this Agreement or to obtain damages or other relief in connection with the
execution of such agreements or the





                                      A-25
<PAGE>   128
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby; and no
governmental agency shall have given notice to any party hereto to the effect
that consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or
this Agreement would constitute a violation of any law or that it intends to
commence proceedings to restrain consummation of the Merger.

         9.2     Conditions to Obligations of Bancshares to Effect the Merger.
The obligations of Bancshares to effect the Merger shall be subject to the
following additional conditions:

                 (a)  Representations, Warranties and Covenants. Each of the
representations and warranties of HHC contained in this Agreement shall be true
and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing Date, with the
same effect as though made on and as of such date, except to the extent of
changes permitted by the terms of this Agreement (it being understood that
exceptions noted in the certificate referred to in the following sentence or in
any notice given by any member of HHC's consolidated group do not constitute
changes permitted by the terms of this Agreement), and HHC and each of its
subsidiaries shall have in all material respects performed all obligations and
complied with all covenants required by this Agreement and the Merger Agreement
to be performed or complied with by it or them at or prior to the Closing.  In
addition, HHC shall have delivered to Bancshares its certificate dated as of
the Closing Date and signed by its chief executive officer and chief financial
officer to the effect that, except as specified in such certificate, such
persons do not know, and have no reasonable grounds to know, of any material
failure or breach of any representation, warranty or covenant made by it in
this Agreement.

                 (b)  No Material Adverse Change. There shall not have occurred
any material adverse change from the date of the Latest Balance Sheet to the
date of the Closing in the financial condition, results of operations or
business of HHC and its subsidiaries taken as a whole.

                 (c)  Opinion of Counsel. Bancshares shall have received from
Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A., special counsel to HHC, an opinion, dated as of
the Closing Date, in form and substance satisfactory to Bancshares, to the
effect set forth in Exhibit E to this Agreement.  In giving such opinion, such
counsel may rely as to questions of fact upon certificates of one or more
officers of HHC or its subsidiaries, and governmental officials and as to
matters of law other than Mississippi or federal law on the opinions of foreign
counsel retained by them or HHC and acceptable to Bancshares.

                 (d)  Regulatory Action.  No adverse regulatory action shall be
pending or threatened against any member of HHC's consolidated group, including
(without limitation) any proposed amendment to any existing agreement,
memorandum, letter, order or decree, formal or informal, between any regulator
and any member of HHC's consolidated group, if such action would or could
impose any material liability on or interfere with the conduct of the
businesses of HHC's consolidated group following the Merger.





                                      A-26
<PAGE>   129
                 (e)  Tax Opinion.  Bancshares shall have received from
McGlinchey Stafford Lang, A Law Corporation, an opinion of counsel as to
certain tax aspects of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the
Merger Agreement.

                 (f)  Opinion of Financial Advisor.  Bancshares shall have
received a letter from its financial advisor, dated on or within 10 days prior
to the date of mailing the Proxy Statement to its shareholders, in form and
substance satisfactory to Bancshares, confirming such financial advisor's prior
oral opinion to the Board of Directors of Bancshares to the effect that the
consideration to be paid in the Merger is fair to it and its shareholders from
a financial point of view.

         9.3     Conditions to Obligations of HHC to Effect the Merger. The
obligations of HHC to effect the Merger shall be subject to the following
additional conditions:

                 (a)  Representations; Warranties and Covenants. Each of the
representations and warranties of Bancshares contained in this Agreement shall
be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the Closing Date,
with the same effect as though made on and as of such date, except to the
extent of changes permitted by the terms of this Agreement (it being understood
that exceptions noted in the certificate referred to in the following sentence
or in any notice given by any member of Bancshares' consolidated group do not
constitute changes permitted by the terms of this Agreement), and Bancshares
shall have in all material respects performed all obligations and complied with
all covenants required by this Agreement and the Merger Agreement to be
performed or complied with by it at or prior to the Closing.  In addition,
Bancshares shall have delivered to HHC its certificate dated as of the Closing
Date and signed by its chief executive officer and chief financial officer to
the effect that, except as specified in such certificate, such persons do not
know, and have no reasonable grounds to know, of any material failure or breach
of any representation, warranty or covenant made by it in this Agreement.

                 (b)  No Material Adverse Change. There shall not have occurred
any material adverse change from June 30, 1994 to the date of the Closing in
the financial condition, results of operations or business of Bancshares and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole.

                 (c)  Redemption of Preferred Stock.  Bancshares shall have
redeemed, or at least provided notice of redemption, with respect to all shares
of Bancshares Preferred Stock legally available for redemption, at a redemption
price not greater than the par value of each such share, plus accrued and
unpaid dividends, prior to the Closing.

                 (d)  Retirement of Debt.  All amounts outstanding under the
following described promissory notes shall be paid in full prior to closing,
to-wit:

                 1.  Note Number 80251-13901 dated January 19, 1989 in the
original principal amount of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Thirty-Seven and 00/100
($160,037.00) Dollars made and executed by Bancshares payable to the order of
Bank;





                                      A-27
<PAGE>   130
                 2.  Note Number 80251-93903 dated July 1, 1990 in the original
principal amount of Six Hundred Eighteen Thousand Six Hundred Sixty-Six and
66/100 ($618,666.66) Dollars made and executed by Bancshares payable to the
order of Bank; and

                 3.  Note Number 8025-193902 dated June 10, 1993 in the
original principal amount of Sixty-three Thousand Thirty and 00/100
($63,030.00) Dollars made and executed by Bancshares payable to the order of
Bank.


                 (e)  Opinion of Counsel.  HHC shall have received from
McGlinchey Stafford Lang, A Law Corporation, special counsel to Bancshares, an
opinion, dated as of the Closing, in form and substance satisfactory to HHC, to
the effect set forth in Exhibit F to this Agreement.


                                   ARTICLE 10

                                    CLOSING

         10.1    Closing. The Closing shall be held at the offices of Hancock
Bank or such other place as HHC and Bancshares shall mutually designate.

         10.2    Deliveries at Closing. At the Closing, all documents and
instruments required by this Agreement and the Merger Agreement, or otherwise
required to consummate the Merger shall be duly and validly executed and
delivered by all the Parties hereto, and possession of all liabilities and
assets shall be transferred and delivered accordingly.


                                   ARTICLE 11

                                  TERMINATION

         11.1    Termination. This Agreement may be terminated or renegotiated
in good faith, either before or after approval by the shareholders of
Bancshares as follows:

                 (a)  Mutual Consent.  At any time on or prior to the Effective
Date, by the mutual consent in writing of the Parties hereto;

                 (b)  Expiration of Time.  By HHC in writing or by Bancshares
in writing (unless mutually extended), if the Merger shall have not become
effective on or before March 31, 1995 unless the absence of such occurrence
shall be due to the failure of the Party seeking to terminate this Agreement to
perform each of its obligations under this Agreement required to be performed
by it on or prior to the Effective Date;

                 (c)  Breach of Representation, Warranty or Covenant.  By
either Party hereto, in the event of a breach by the other Party (a) of any
covenant or agreement contained herein or (b) of any representation or warranty
herein, if (i) the facts constituting such breach reflect a material adverse
change in the financial condition, results of operations or





                                      A-28
<PAGE>   131
business taken as a whole, of the breaching Party, which in either case cannot
be or is not cured within 30 days after written notice of such breach is given
to the Party committing such breach, or (ii) in the event of a breach of a
warranty or covenant, such breach results in a material increase in the cost of
the non-breaching Party's performance of this Agreement.

                 (d)  Regulatory Approval.  By either Party hereto, at any time
after the FRB, OCC or SEC has denied any application for any approval or
clearance required to be obtained as a condition to the consummation of the
Merger and the time period for all appeals or requests for reconsideration
thereof has run.

                 (e)  Shareholder Approval.  By either Party hereto, if this
Agreement and the Merger is not approved by the required vote of shareholders
of Bancshares.

                 (f)  Price of Acquiror Common Stock.  By Bancshares if both
(i) the quotient of the average closing price of HHC Common Stock for the five
trading days immediately preceding the Closing Date divided by the closing
price of such stock on the day immediately preceding the date of this
Agreement, as reported in The Wall Street Journal, (the "Acquiror Quotient") is
less than 0.8 and (ii) the quotient of the average closing value of the
Standard & Poors Regional Bank Index for the five trading days preceding the
Closing Date divided by the value of the Standard & Poors Regional Bank Index
for the day immediately preceding the date of this Agreement (the "S&P
Quotient") exceeds the Acquiror Quotient by more than 0.10.

         11.2    Effect of Termination: Survival. Upon termination of this
Agreement pursuant to this Article 11 , the Merger Agreement shall also
terminate, and this Agreement and the Merger Agreement shall be void and of no
effect, and there shall be no liability by reason of this Agreement or the
Merger Agreement, or the termination thereof, on the part of any Party or their
respective directors, officers, employees, agent or shareholders except for any
liability of a Party hereto arising out of an intentional breach of any
representation, warranty or covenant in this Agreement prior to the date of
termination, except if such breach was required by law or by any bank or bank
holding company regulatory authority, or of any covenant that survives pursuant
to the following sentence.  The following provisions shall survive any
termination of this Agreement:  Section 8.6(b), Section 8.10, Section 11.2 and
Article 13.


                                   ARTICLE 12

                                APPRAISAL RIGHTS

         12.1    Appraisal Rights of Bancshares.  Notwithstanding any other
provision of this Agreement to the contrary, dissenting shareholders of
Bancshares who comply with the procedural requirements of Section 12:131 of the
LBCL will be entitled to receive payment of the fair cash value of their shares
if the Merger is effected upon approval by less than eighty percent (80%) of
Bancshares' total voting power.





                                      A-29
<PAGE>   132
                                   ARTICLE 13

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

         13.1    Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the schedules and
exhibits hereto, and that certain Confidentiality Agreement, between the
Parties embody the entire understanding of the Parties in relation to the
subject matter herein and supersede all prior understandings or agreements,
oral or written, between the Parties hereto, including that certain Letter of
Intent, dated August 15, 1994, between the Parties.

         13.2    Headings. The headings and subheadings in this Agreement,
except the terms identified for definition in Article 1 and elsewhere in this
Agreement, are inserted for convenience only and shall not affect the meaning
or interpretation of this Agreement or any provision hereof.

         13.3    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed by the Parties in
any number of counterparts all of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which taken together shall constitute one and the same document.

         13.4    Governing Law. This Agreement and the rights and obligations
hereunder shall be governed and construed by the laws of the State of
Louisiana.

         13.5    Successors; No Third Party Beneficiaries. All terms and
conditions of this Agreement shall be binding on the successors and assigns of
Bancshares and HHC.  Except as otherwise specifically provided in this
Agreement, nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement is intended or
shall be construed to give any person other than Bancshares and HHC any legal
or equitable right, remedy or claim under or in respect of this Agreement or
any provision contained herein, it being the intention of the Parties hereto
that this Agreement, the obligations and statements of responsibilities
hereunder, and all other conditions and provisions hereof are for the sole and
exclusive benefit of Bancshares and HHC and for the benefit of no other person.

         13.6    Modification; Assignment. No amendment or other modification
of any part of this Agreement shall be effective except pursuant to a written
agreement subscribed by the duly authorized representatives of all of the
Parties hereto. This Agreement may not be assigned without the express written
consent of both Parties.

         13.7    Notice. Any notice, request, demand, consent, approval or
other communication to any Party hereof shall be effective when received and
shall be given in writing, and delivered in person against receipt thereof, or
sent by certified mail, postage prepaid, courier service or facsimile
transmission at its address or number set forth below or at such other address
or number as it shall hereafter furnish in writing to the other. All such
notices and other communications shall be deemed given on the date received by
the addressee or its agent.





                                      A-30
<PAGE>   133
                                   Bancshares

                 First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
                 523 Florida Avenue
                 Denham Springs, Louisiana  70726
                 Attn: Mr. Robert E. Easterly, President
                 Fax No.:  504-664-1324

                 Copies to:

                 A. Shelby Easterly, III, Esquire
                 Easterly & Pittman
                 142 Del Norte Avenue
                 Denham Springs, Louisiana  70726
                 Fax No.: 504-665-3115
                 and

                 Alan Jacobs, Esq.
                 McGlinchey Stafford Lang
                 2777 Stemmons Freeway
                 Suite 925
                 Dallas, Texas  75207
                 Fax No.: 214-634-6579

                                      HHC

                 Hancock Holding Company
                 Post Office Box 4019
                 One Hancock Plaza
                 Gulfport, MS  39502
                 Attn:  Mr. George A. Schloegel, Vice Chairman
                 Fax No.: 601-868-4627





                                      A-31
<PAGE>   134
                 Copy to:

                 Carl J. Chaney, Esquire
                 Heidelberg and Woodliff, P.A.
                 P. O. Box 23040
                 Jackson, MS 39225-3040

                 or

                 Suite 1400
                 125 South Congress Street
                 Jackson, Mississippi 39201
                 Fax No.: 601-968-8464

         13.8    Waiver. Bancshares and HHC may waive their respective rights,
powers or privileges under this Agreement provided that such waiver shall be in
writing, and provided further that no failure or delay on the part of
Bancshares or HHC to exercise any right, power or privilege under this
Agreement will operate as a waiver thereof, nor will any single or partial
exercise of any right, power or privilege under this Agreement preclude any
other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or
privilege by Bancshares or HHC under the terms of this Agreement, nor will any
such waiver operate or be construed as a future waiver of such right, power or
privilege under this Agreement.

         13.9    Costs, Fees and Expenses. Each Party hereto agrees to pay all
costs, fees and expenses which it has incurred in connection with or incidental
to the matters contained in this Agreement, including without limitation any
fees and disbursements to its accountants and counsel.  HHC will be responsible
for preparing the applications, regulatory filings and Registration Statement
necessary to obtain approval of the Merger and the issuance of the HHC Common
Stock.  Bancshares will be responsible for the cost of its accountants and
legal counsel and will bear all costs related to conducting its shareholders'
meeting and obtaining shareholder approval of this Agreement and the Merger.

         13.10   Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is invalid or
unenforceable then, to the extent possible, all of the remaining provisions of
this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect, and shall be binding upon
the Parties hereto.

         13.11   Survival of Representations and Warranties.  Upon consummation
of the Merger, all representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement
shall terminate.

         13.12   Mutual Covenant of Best Efforts and Good Faith. The Parties
mutually covenant and agree with each other that they will use their best
efforts to consummate the transactions herein contemplated and that they will
act and deal with each other in good faith as to this Agreement and all matters
arising from or related to it.





                                      A-32
<PAGE>   135
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Agreement to
be executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first above
written.

                                        FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.

                                        By:  /s/ Robert E. Easterly

                                        Name:  Robert E. Easterly
Attest:
                                        Title:  President
/s/ A. Shelby Easterly, III





                                        HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY

                                        
                                        By:  /s/ George A. Schloegel

                                        Name:  George A. Schloegel
Attest:
                                        Title:  Vice-Chairman
/s/ A. Bridger Eglin





                                      A-33
<PAGE>   136
                                   EXHIBIT A

                                MERGER AGREEMENT

     This Merger Agreement is made and entered into as of the 20th day of
August, 1994, between Hancock Holding Company, Gulfport, Mississippi, a
Mississippi corporation ("HHC"), and First Denham Bancshares, Inc., Denham
Springs, Louisiana, a Louisiana corporation ("Bancshares") (the "Merger
Agreement").

                              W I T N E S S E T H:

     WHEREAS, HHC and Bancshares (collectively, the "Constituent Corporations")
and their respective Boards of Directors deem it advisable that Bancshares be
merged into HHC (the "Merger") pursuant to the provisions of the Louisiana
Business Corporation Law ("LBCL") and upon the terms and conditions hereinafter
set forth and in the Plan (as hereinafter defined); and

     WHEREAS, the Constituent Corporations have entered into an Agreement and
Plan of Reorganization, dated as of the date hereof (the "Plan") (the defined
terms in which are used herein as defined therein) setting forth certain
representations, warranties, covenants and conditions relating to the Merger;

     NOW THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:

                                  ARTICLE ONE

                                   The Merger

     In accordance with applicable provisions of the LBCL and upon the terms
and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, on the Effective Date (as
defined in Article Two hereof) Bancshares shall be merged with and into HHC,
the separate existence of Bancshares shall cease, and HHC shall be the
corporation surviving the Merger.

                                  ARTICLE TWO

                            Effective Date and Time

     2.1      Effective Time of Merger.  The Merger shall be effective as of
the date and time when this Merger Agreement, having been certified, signed and
acknowledged in the manner required by law, is filed in the office of the
Secretary of State of Louisiana (such time and date being herein referred to as
the "Effective Time" and the "Effective Date," respectively).

     2.2      Effect of the Merger.  At the Effective Time, (i) the separate
existence of Bancshares shall cease and Bancshares shall be merged with and
into HHC, (ii) HHC shall continue to possess all of the rights, privileges and
franchises possessed by it and shall, at the Effective Time, become vested with
and possess all rights, privileges and franchises possessed by Bancshares,
(iii) HHC shall be responsible for all of the liabilities and
<PAGE>   137
obligations of Bancshares in the same manner as if HHC had itself incurred such
liabilities or obligations and the Merger shall not affect or impair the rights
of the creditors or of any persons dealing with the Constituent Corporations;
(iv) the Merger shall not of itself cause a change, alteration or amendment to
the Articles of Incorporation of HHC; (v) The Merger shall not of itself affect
the tenure in office of any current officer or director of HHC; and (vi) the
Merger shall, from and after the Effective Time, have all the effects provided
by applicable Louisiana law.

     2.3      Additional Actions.  If, at any time after the Effective Time,
HHC shall consider or be advised that any further assignments or assurances in
law or any other acts are necessary or desirable (a) to vest, perfect or
confirm, of record or otherwise, in HHC, title to or the possession of any
property or right of Bancshares acquired or to be acquired by reason of, or as
a result of, the Merger, or (b) otherwise to carry out the purposes of this
Merger Agreement, Bancshares and its proper officers and directors shall be
deemed to have granted to HHC an irrevocable power of attorney to execute and
deliver all such proper deeds, assignments and assurances in law and to do all
acts necessary or proper to vest, perfect or confirm title to and possession of
such property or rights in HHC and otherwise to carry out the purposes of this
Merger Agreement; and the proper officers and directors of HHC are fully
authorized in the name of Bancshares to take any and all such action.

                                 ARTICLE THREE

                     Conversion and Cancellation of Shares

     3.1      Conversion of Bancshares shares.  Except for shares as to which
dissenters' rights have been perfected and not withdrawn or otherwise forfeited
under Section 12:131 of the Louisiana Business Corporation Law, on the
Effective Date each issued and outstanding share of Bancshares common stock,
$10.00 par value, shall be exchanged for and converted into: (i) 17.13667
shares of HHC common stock, $3.33 par value, and (ii) $88.761758 in cash; and
each issued and outstanding share of Bancshares preferred stock, $22.24 par
value, shall be exchanged and converted into $22.24 in cash, plus all accrued
and unpaid dividends thereon.  The exchange of certificates representing HHC
common stock for certificates formerly representing Bancshares common stock
shall be effected as provided in the Plan.

     3.2      Fractional Shares.  No fractional shares of HHC common stock
representing such fractional shares will be issued to the holders of Bancshares
common stock.  Instead, a shareholder otherwise entitled to receive such
fractional shares shall be entitled to a cash payment (without interest) as
provided in the Plan.

     3.3      Shares of HHC.  The shares of capital stock of HHC outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time shall not be changed or converted by
virtue of the Merger.





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<PAGE>   138
                                  ARTICLE FOUR

                               Effects of Merger

     The Merger shall have the effects set forth in Section 12:115 of the LBCL.

                                  ARTICLE FIVE

                           Filing of Merger Agreement

     This Merger Agreement shall be submitted to the shareholders of Bancshares
and if this Merger Agreement is approved by the shareholders of Bancshares,
then the fact of such approval shall be certified hereon by the Secretary of
Bancshares.  Approval of this Merger Agreement by the shareholders of HHC is
not required, and that fact shall be certified hereon by the Secretary or
Assistant Secretary of HHC.  This Merger Agreement, as approved and certified,
shall be signed and acknowledged by the majority of the Board of Directors of
each of the Constituent Corporations.  Thereafter, a multiple original of this
Merger Agreement, so certified, signed and acknowledged, shall be delivered to
the Secretary of State of Louisiana for filing and recordation in the manner
required by law; and thereafter, as soon as practicable (but not later than the
time required by law), a copy of the Certificate of Merger issued by the
Secretary of State of Louisiana shall be filed for record in the office of the
recorder of mortgages for the parish of Livingston and shall also be recorded
in the conveyance records for the parish of Livingston and any other parish in
which any of the Constituent Corporations owns real property on the Effective
Date of the Merger.
                                  ARTICLE SIX

                                 Miscellaneous

     6.1      Termination.  The obligations of the Constituent Corporations to
effect the Merger shall be subject to all of the terms and conditions of the
Plan.  At any time prior to the Effective Date, this Merger Agreement may be
terminated (i) by the mutual agreement of the Constituent Corporations or (ii)
pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Plan.

     6.2      Headings.  The descriptive headings of the sections of this
Merger Agreement are inserted for convenience only and do not constitute a part
thereof for any other purpose.

     6.3      Modifications, Amendments and Waivers.  At any time prior to the
Effective Time (notwithstanding any shareholder approval that may have already
been given), the parties hereto may, to the extent permitted by and as provided
in the Plan, modify, amend or supplement any term or provision of the Merger
Agreement.

     6.4      Governing Law.  This Merger Agreement shall be governed by the
laws of the State of Louisiana (regardless of the laws that might be applicable
under principles of conflicts of law) as to all matters, including but not
limited to matters of validity, construction, effect and performance.





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<PAGE>   139
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Merger Agreement is signed by a majority of the
Directors of each of the Constituent Corporations as of the day first above
written.

                                        FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.

                                        By a Majority of its Board of Directors


                                        /s/ Robert E. Easterly

                                        /s/ William R. Powers

                                        /s/ Oscar P. Waldrep, Jr.

                                        /s/ Huey O. Taylor

                                        /s/ W. E. Wild, Jr.

                                        /s/ Ruben R. Spillman, Sr.

                                        /s/ Thomas L. Sullivan, Sr.

                                        /s/ George C. Mercier

   
                                        /s/ Bruce R. Easterly
    





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<PAGE>   140
                                        HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY
                                        By a Majority of its Board of Directors


                                        /s/ George A. Schloegel

                                        /s/ T. W. Milner, Jr.

                                        /s/ Victor V. Mavar

                                        /s/ Leo W. Seal

                                        /s/ J. F. Boardman, Jr.

                                        /s/ H. C. Moody, Jr.

                                        /s/ Charles H. Johnson

                                        /s/ A. F. Dantzler, Jr.





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<PAGE>   141
                                   EXHIBIT B



                                      DATE



Hancock Holding Company
One Hancock Plaza
Gulfport, Mississippi  39502

Gentlemen:

     This letter agreement is given in connection with the closing of the
proposed merger (the "Merger") of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. ("Bancshares")
with and into Hancock Holding Company ("HHC").  I am aware and acknowledge
that, as a member of the Board of Directors or an executive officer or the
beneficial owner of a substantial amount of the outstanding common stock of
Bancshares or its wholly-owned subsidiary, First National Bank of Denham
Springs, I may be an "affiliate" of Bancshares as that term is defined in the
Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and the rules and regulations
thereunder.

     I understand that resales or other dispositions of shares of the Common
Stock, $3.33 par value, of HHC (the "HHC Common Stock") to be acquired by me as
a result of the Merger may be governed by Rules 144 and 145 promulgated under
the Securities Act.

     I have no plan or intention to sell, exchange, transfer by gift or
otherwise dispose of a number of said securities to be received in the Merger
that would reduce Bancshares stockholders' ownership of the HHC Common Stock to
a number of shares having a value, as of the date of the Merger, of less than
50% of the value of all of the formerly outstanding Bancshares Common Stock as
of the same date.

     I understand that the certificates for shares of HHC received pursuant to
the Merger will bear a restrictive legend, to the effect that the shares were
received in a transaction to which Rule 145 applies, as follows:

     "The shares represented by this certificate have been issued or
     transferred to the registered holder as a result of a transaction to which
     Rule 145 under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Act") applies.  The shares
     represented by this certificate may not be sold, assigned or otherwise
     disposed of, and the issuer shall not be required to give effect to any
     attempted sale, transfer or assignment, except in accordance with the
     requirements of the Act and the other conditions specified in that certain
     Affiliates Agreement, dated as of _________________________, 1994 between
     the issuer and the shareholder, a copy of which Agreement will be
     furnished, without charge, by Hancock Holding Company to the holder of
     this certificate upon written request therefor."
<PAGE>   142
     On the basis of the foregoing, and in consideration of the delivery to me
of the HHC Common Stock into which my Bancshares Common Stock will be
converted, I agree that I will not, directly or indirectly, sell, exchange,
transfer by gift or otherwise dispose of any of the HHC Common Stock held by me
in violation of the Securities Act or the rules or regulations promulgated
thereunder.

                                                   Sincerely,





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<PAGE>   143
                                   EXHIBIT C
                       ACCOUNTING AND TAX REPRESENTATIONS


   
     References to the "Code" are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
    


1.   Each of HHC and Bancshares represent the following as true:

     1.1.     The Merger will be consummated in compliance with the material
terms of the Agreement and the Merger Agreement, and, except as described in
Exhibit ___, none of the material terms and conditions therein have been waived
or modified and neither HHC nor Bancshares has any plan or intention to waive
or modify further any such material condition.

   
     1.2.     The exchange of Bancshares stock for HHC Common Stock and/or other
consideration in the Merger was negotiated through arm's length bargaining.
Accordingly, the fair market value of the HHC Common Stock and/or other
consideration received by each Bancshares shareholder will be approximately
equal to the fair market value of the Bancshares stock surrendered in the
exchange.
    

     1.3.     No liabilities of any person other than Bancshares will be
assumed by HHC in the Merger, and none of the shares of Bancshares Common Stock
to be surrendered in exchange for shares of HHC Common Stock and/or other
consideration in the Merger will be subject to any liabilities.

     1.4.     HHC, Bancshares, and the shareholders of Bancshares will pay
their respective expenses, if any, incurred in connection with the transaction.

     1.5.     There is no intercorporate indebtedness existing between
Bancshares and HHC that was issued, acquired, or will be settled at a discount.

     1.6.     No two parties in the transaction are investment companies as
defined in Section 368(a)(2)(F)(iii) and (iv) of the Internal Revenue Code.

     1.7.     On the date of the Merger, the fair market value of the assets of
Bancshares transferred to HHC will equal or exceed the sum of the liabilities
assumed by HHC plus the amount of liabilities, if any, to which the transferred
assets are subject.

     1.8.     None of the compensation received by any shareholder-employees of
Bancshares will be separate consideration for, or allocable to, any of their
shares of Bancshares stock; none of the shares of HHC Common Stock received by
any shareholder-employees will be separate consideration for, or allocable to,
any employment agreement; and the compensation paid to any shareholder-
employees will be for services actually rendered and will be commensurate with
amounts paid to third parties bargaining at arms length for similar services.

     1.9.     The Merger will qualify as a statutory merger under the LBCL.
<PAGE>   144
2.   HHC represents the following as true:

     2.1.     HHC has no plan or intention to reacquire any of its stock issued
in this transaction.

     2.2.     HHC has no plan or intention to sell or otherwise dispose of any
of the assets of Bancshares acquired in the transaction, except for
dispositions made in the ordinary course of business or transfers described in
Section 368(a)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code.

     2.3.     Following the transaction HHC will continue the historic business
of Bancshares or use a significant portion of Bancshares' historic business
assets in a business.

     2.4.     The payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares of HHC Common
Stock is solely for the purpose of avoiding expense and inconvenience to HHC of
issuing fractional shares and does not represent separately bargained for
consideration.  The total cash consideration that will be paid in the
transaction to the shareholders of Bancshares instead of issuing fractional
shares of HHC stock will not exceed one percent (1%) of the total consideration
that will be issued in the transaction to the shareholders of Bancshares in
exchange for their shares of Bancshares Common Stock.  The fractional share
interest of each Bancshares shareholder will be aggregated and no Bancshares
shareholder will receive cash in an amount equal to or greater than the value
of one full share of HHC Common Stock.


3.   Bancshares represents the following as true:

     3.1.     There is no plan or intention by the shareholders of Bancshares
who own 1% or more of the Bancshares stock, and to the best of the knowledge of
the management of Bancshares, there is no plan or intention on the part of the
remaining shareholders of Bancshares to sell, exchange, transfer by gift or
otherwise dispose of a number of shares of HHC Common Stock received in the
transaction that would reduce the Bancshares shareholders' ownership of HHC
Common Stock to a number of shares having a value, as of the date of
transaction, of less than fifty percent (50%) of the value of all of the
formerly outstanding stock of Bancshares as of the same date.  For purposes of
the preceding sentences, shares of Bancshares stock exchanged for cash or other
property, surrendered by dissenters, or exchanged for cash in lieu of
fractional shares of HHC Common Stock, will be treated as outstanding
Bancshares stock on the date of the transaction.  In addition, shares of
Bancshares stock and shares of HHC Common Stock held by Bancshares'
shareholders and otherwise sold, redeemed, or disposed of prior or subsequent
to the transaction will be considered in making this representation.

     3.2.     The liabilities of Bancshares assumed by HHC and the liabilities
to which the transferred assets of Bancshares are subject were incurred by
Bancshares in the ordinary course of its business.

     3.3.     The assumption by HHC of the liabilities of Bancshares pursuant
to the Merger is for a bona fide business purpose and the principal purpose of
such assumption is not the





                                     Ac-2
<PAGE>   145
avoidance of federal income tax on the transfer of assets of Bancshares to HHC
pursuant to the Merger.

     3.4.     Bancshares owns at least one significant historic business line,
namely financial services, and owns at least a significant portion of its
historic business assets within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section
1.368-1(d).

     3.5.     Bancshares is not under the jurisdiction of a court in a Title 11
or similar case within the meaning of Section 368(a)(3)(A) of the Code.





                                     Ac-3
<PAGE>   146
                                   EXHIBIT D
                        FORM OF JOINDER OF SHAREHOLDERS

     The undersigned shareholder of First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
("Bancshares"), in consideration of the benefits to be derived by Bancshares
and its shareholders pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated
______________, 1994 (the "Agreement") by and between Bancshares and Hancock
Holding Company ("HHC") (the defined terms in which are used herein as defined
therein) and the expenses to be incurred by HHC in connection therewith, hereby
agrees with HHC as follows:

     1.  Such shareholder, acting solely in such shareholder's capacity as
such, agrees and undertakes to vote or cause to be voted all shares of
Bancshares Common Stock as to which such shareholder has voting power at any
meeting or meetings (including any and all adjournments thereof) before which
the Agreement may come for consideration by Bancshares shareholders, in favor
of the approval of the Agreement and the Merger Agreement, unless HHC then is
in breach or default in any material respect with respect to any covenant,
representation or warranty as to it contained in the Agreement to an extent
that would permit Bancshares to terminate the Agreement pursuant to Article 11
of the Agreement.  Such shareholder further agrees not to transfer any of the
shares of Bancshares Common Stock over which such shareholder has dispositive
power or grant any proxy thereto (except any such proxy solicited by the Board
of Directors of Bancshares) until the earlier of the Effective Date or the date
that the Agreement has been terminated pursuant to its provisions, except (i)
for transfers by operation of law and (ii) for transfers in connection with
which the transferee shall agree in writing with HHC to be bound by this
Joinder of Shareholders as fully as the undersigned.  In the case of any
transfer by operation of law, the provisions of this Joinder of Shareholders
are intended to be binding upon and to inure to the benefit of such transferee,
and such transferee shall be bound thereby.

     2.  The provisions of this Joinder of Shareholders shall be enforceable
through an action by HHC for damages at law or a suit for specific performance
or other appropriate extraordinary relief, the signatory shareholder
acknowledging that remedies at law for breach or default under this Joinder of
Shareholders might be or become inadequate.

     This Joinder of Shareholders is dated _______________________, 1994.


                 ______________________________________________
<PAGE>   147
                                   EXHIBIT E


     The opinion letter referred to in paragraph (c) of Section 9.2 of the
Agreement from counsel for HHC shall state that:

         (i)  each of HHC and Hancock Bank is duly organized, validly existing
and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization,
each has all requisite corporate power and authority to own and lease its
property and to carry on the business described as being carried on by it in
the Registration Statement and each is qualified and in good standing as a
foreign corporation in any jurisdictions in which the character of the property
owned or leased by it or the nature of the activities conducted by it make such
qualification necessary;

         (ii)  the execution, delivery and performance of the  Agreement and
the Merger Agreement have been duly authorized by the Board of Directors of
HHC, and all corporate acts and other corporate proceedings required on the
part of HHC for the due and valid authorization, execution, delivery and
performance of the Agreement and the Merger Agreement, and the consummation of
the Merger, have been validly and appropriately taken.  Upon the filing of the
executed  Merger Agreement with the Secretary of State of Louisiana, the
Merger will be effective as of the Effective Date;

         (iii)  the Agreement and the Merger Agreement are the legal, valid and
binding obligations of HHC, and are enforceable against it in accordance with
their terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency and other similar laws and court decisions relating
to or affecting the enforcement of creditor's rights generally and except as to
the availability of specific performance or other equitable remedies;

         (iv)  neither the execution, delivery or performance of the Agreement
or the Merger Agreement by HHC nor the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby or thereby, will (A) violate, conflict with or result in a
breach of any provision of, constitute a default (or an event that, with notice
or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default) under, result in the
termination of or accelerate the performance required by, or result in the
creation of any lien, security interest, charge or encumbrance upon any of the
properties or assets of HHC under, any of the terms, conditions or provisions
of the articles of incorporation, articles of association or by-laws of HHC or
of any material note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, lease, license,
agreement or other instrument or obligation known to such counsel which binds
it or any of its assets or (B) to the knowledge of such counsel, violate any
order, writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation of any
governmental body applicable to HHC or any of its assets;

         (v)  the authorized capital stock of HHC is as set forth in Section
7.2 of the Agreement.  All issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of
HHC have been duly authorized and validly issued, and are fully paid and
non-assessable.  To such counsel's knowledge, except as contemplated in the
Agreement there are no outstanding options, warrants, contracts or commitments
entitling any person to purchase or otherwise acquire
<PAGE>   148
from HHC any shares of its capital stock; other than HHC's Automatic Dividend
Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan nor to such counsel's knowledge has either
HHC any outstanding obligation with respect to its unissued capital stock or
treasury stock, nor any outstanding obligation to repurchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire any of its outstanding shares of capital stock;

         (vi)  all shares of HHC Common Stock to be issued pursuant to the
Merger have been duly authorized and, when issued pursuant to the Merger
Agreement, will be validly and legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable,
and will be, at the time of their delivery, free and clear of all liens,
charges, security interests, mortgages, pledges and other encumbrances and any
preemptive or similar rights.

         (vii)  to such counsel's knowledge, there are no material claims of
any kind or any material actions, suits, proceedings, arbitrations or
investigations pending or threatened, nor does such counsel have actual
knowledge of a basis for any material claim, in any court or before any
governmental agency or instrumentality or arbitration panel or otherwise
against, by or affecting any member of HHC's consolidated group or the
business, condition (financial or otherwise) or assets of any such member or
which would prevent the performance of the Agreement or the Merger Agreement or
any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby or declare the same
unlawful or cause the rescission thereof; and

         (viii) the Registration Statement became effective under the
Securities Act prior to the time of the mailing or distribution of the Proxy
Statement, HHC has received all state securities laws permits and
authorizations necessary to consummate the transaction contemplated by the
Agreement and, to the knowledge of such counsel, no stop order suspending the
effectiveness of the Registration Statement or similar proceeding under any
state securities or blue sky laws has been instituted and none is threatened or
contemplated by the SEC or any state securities board, commission or authority.

         In addition, such counsel shall state that they have participated in
conferences with representatives of the parties hereto and their respective
accountants and counsel in connection with the preparation of the Registration
Statement and the Proxy Statement and have considered the matters required to
be stated therein and the statements contained therein, and based on the
foregoing (in certain circumstances relying as to materiality on the opinions
of officers and representatives of the parties hereto) nothing has come to the
attention of such counsel that would lead them to believe that the Registration
Statement and the Proxy Statement, as amended or supplemented, if they have
been amended or supplemented, at the time it became effective and as amended or
supplemented (in the case of Registration Statement), or at the time
distributed to shareholders (in the case of the Proxy Statement), contained any
untrue statement of a material fact or omitted a material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading
(except in each such case for the financial statements and other financial and
statistical data included therein, as to which no statement need be made).




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<PAGE>   149
                                   EXHIBIT F


     The opinion letter referred to in paragraph (e) of Section 9.3 of the
Agreement from special counsel for Bancshares shall state that except as
described in the Schedules to the Agreement:

         (i)  each of Bancshares and Bank is duly organized, validly existing
and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization,
each has all requisite corporate power and authority to own and lease its
property and to carry on the business described as being carried on by it in
the Registration Statement and each is qualified and in good standing as a
foreign corporation in any jurisdictions in which the character of the property
owned or leased by it or the nature of the activities conducted by it make such
qualification necessary;

         (ii)  the execution, delivery and performance of the Agreement and the
Merger Agreement have been duly authorized by the Board of Directors and
shareholders of Bancshares and all corporate acts and other corporate
proceedings required on the part of Bancshares for the due and valid
authorization, execution, delivery and performance of the Agreement and the
Merger Agreement, and the consummation of the Merger, have been validly and
appropriately taken.  Upon the filing of the executed the Merger Agreement with
the Secretary of State of Louisiana, the Merger will be effective as of the
Effective Date;

         (iii)  the Agreement and the Merger Agreement are the legal, valid and
binding obligations of Bancshares, and are enforceable against it in accordance
with their terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency and other similar laws and court decisions relating
to or affecting the  enforcement of creditors' rights generally and except as
to the availability of specific performance or other equitable remedies;

         (iv)  neither the execution, delivery or performance of the Agreement 
of the Merger Agreement by Bancshares, nor the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby or thereby, will (A) violate, conflict with or result in a
breach of any provision of, constitute a default (or an event that, with notice
or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default) under, result in the
termination of or accelerate the performance required by, or result in the
creation of any lien, security interest, charge or encumbrance upon any of the
properties or assets of Bancshares under, any of the terms, conditions or
provisions of the articles of incorporation or by-laws of Bancshares or of any
material note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, lease, license,
agreement or other instrument or obligation known to such counsel which binds
it or any of its assets or (B) to the knowledge of such counsel, violate any
order, writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation of any
governmental body applicable to Bancshares or any of its assets;

         (v)  the authorized capital stock of Bancshares is as set forth in
Section 6.3 of the Agreement and the authorized capital stock of Bank is as set
forth in Section 6.4 of the Agreement, and all shares described therein as
issued and outstanding have been duly
<PAGE>   150
authorized and validly issued, and are fully paid and (as provided in 12 U.S.C.
55) non-assessable.  To such counsel's knowledge, except as contemplated in the
Agreement there are no outstanding options, warrants, contracts or commitments
entitling any person to purchase or otherwise acquire from Bancshares or Bank
any shares of its capital stock; nor to such counsel's knowledge has Bancshares
or Bank any outstanding obligation with respect to its unissued capital stock
or treasury stock, nor any outstanding obligation to repurchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire any of its outstanding shares of capital stock, except as
contemplated in the Agreement;

         (vi)  to such counsel's knowledge, there are no material claims of any
kind or any material actions, suits, proceedings, arbitrations or
investigations pending or threatened, nor does such counsel have actual
knowledge of a basis for any material claim, in any court or before any
governmental agency or instrumentality or arbitration panel or otherwise
against, by or affecting Bancshares or Bank or the business, condition
(financial or otherwise) or assets of Bancshares or Bank of which would prevent
the performance of the Agreement or the Merger Agreement or any of the
transactions contemplated any of such agreements or declare the same unlawful
or cause the rescission thereof; and

         (vii)  to such counsel's knowledge, Bancshares complied with the
applicable provisions of LBCL in connection with the shareholders' meeting
called to consider and act upon the Agreement and the Merger, including the
provisions of Section 12:131 of the LBCL.

         In addition, such counsel shall state that they have participated in
conferences with representatives of the parties hereto and their respective
accountants and counsel in connection with the preparation of the Registration
Statement and the Proxy Statement and have considered the matters required to
be stated therein and the statements contained therein relating to Bancshares
and Bank, and based on the foregoing (in certain circumstances relying as to
materiality on the opinions of officers and representatives of the parties
hereto) nothing has come to the attention of such counsel that would lead them
to believe that the Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement, as amended
or supplemented, if they have been amended or supplemented, at the time it
became effective and as amended or supplemented (in the case of Registration
Statement), or at the time distributed to shareholders (in the case of the
Proxy Statement), contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted
a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein not misleading (except in each such case for the financial
statements and other financial and statistical data included therein, as to
which no statement need be made).




                                     Af-2
<PAGE>   151
                                   APPENDIX B

                 NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION FAIRNESS OPINION

                   (National Capital Corporation Letterhead)




   
December 2, 1994
    


Board of Directors
First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
523 Florida Avenue
Denham Springs, Louisiana  70726-3706

Gentlemen:

You have requested our opinion as to the fairness, from a financial point of
view, to the shareholders of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. ("Bancshares"), of
the proposed merger ("the Merger") of Bancshares and Hancock Holding Company
("Hancock") of Gulfport, Mississippi.  Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement
and Plan of Reorganization ("the Plan") and as a result of the Merger, each
outstanding share of Bancshares Common Stock shall be converted into the right
to receive 17.13667 shares of Hancock Common Stock, and $88.761758 in cash.
Each outstanding share of Bancshares Preferred Stock, $22.24 par value, shall
be converted into the right to receive $22.24 in cash plus all accrued and
unpaid dividends thereon.

National Capital Corporation ("NCC") has extensive experience in investment
analysis and the valuation of bank and bank holding company securities in
connection with acquisitions and mergers.  Neither NCC, nor any of its
officers, directors, or employees has an interest in the common or preferred
stock of Bancshares.  NCC has performed no services for Bancshares at any time
prior to the present, although an affiliate of NCC, American Planning
Corporation, has provided advisory services to Bancshares and its subsidiary
bank related to profit planning and strategic planning.  The revenues derived
from such services are insignificant when compared to the affiliate's total
gross revenues.  NCC is currently acting as financial advisor to the Board of
Directors of Bancshares in connection with the Merger and will receive a fee
for those services.  NCC will also receive a fee for rendering this opinion.

In arriving at our opinion, we have: (1) met with officers of Hancock and
Bancshares to discuss their businesses, reserves, earnings, properties and
prospects; (2) reviewed certain public financial information and other data
with respect to both Hancock and Bancshares, including certain financial
forecasts, consolidated financial statements for recent years and interim
periods through June 30, 1994, as well as other relevant financial and
operating data furnished by Bancshares to NCC; (3) reviewed the Plan; (4)
reviewed certain historical market prices and trading volumes of Hancock Common
Stock; (5) analyzed market volatility studies of Hancock Common Stock; (6) made
inquires regarding and discussed the Plan and other matters related thereto
with Bancshares's counsel; and (7) performed such other analyses and
examinations as National Capital Corporation deemed appropriate.

In connection with our review, we have not independently verified any of the
foregoing information, and have relied on its being complete and accurate in
all material respects.  We have assumed that the financial information and
forecasts reviewed by us have been prepared using the best available judgments
of Hancock and Bancshares's management regarding the projected financial
performance of Hancock and Bancshares.  In addition, we have not made an
independent evaluation or appraisal of any of the assets of Hancock and
Bancshares, nor have we examined any individual loan files, or been furnished
with any such appraisals or files.
<PAGE>   152
Bancshares is hereby authorized to reproduce this opinion in full in any
disclosure document or proxy statement regarding the merger that is: (1) filed
under the Securities Act of 1933, (2) filed under any state blue sky law, or
(3) distributed to Bancshares's shareholders.  Otherwise it is understood that
this letter is for the information of the Board of Directors only and is not to
be quoted or referred to, in whole or in part, in any document used in
connection with the offering or sale of securities, nor shall this letter be
used for any other purpose, without National Capital Corporation's prior
written consent.

In reaching our opinion we took into consideration the financial benefits of
the proposed transaction to all Bancshares's shareholders.  It is our opinion
that the proposed transaction is fair to Bancshares and all of Bancshares's
shareholders, based on all factors that we consider relevant.

Very Truly Yours,


/s/ National Capital Corporation
NATIONAL CAPITAL CORPORATION





                                     B-2
<PAGE>   153
                                   APPENDIX C

              PROVISIONS OF THE LOUISIANA BUSINESS CORPORATION LAW
                 RELATING TO RIGHTS OF DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS

                   (EXTRACT FROM LOUISIANA REVISED STATUTES,
                             TITLE 12, SECTION 131)

     A.  Except as provided in subsection B of this section, if a corporation
has, by vote of its shareholders, authorized a sale, lease or exchange of all
of its assets, or has, by vote of its shareholders, become a party to a merger
or consolidation, then, unless such authorization or action shall have been
given or approved by at least eighty percent of the total voting power, a
shareholder who voted against such corporate action shall have the right to
dissent.  If a corporation has become a party to a merger pursuant to R.S.
12:112(H), the shareholders of any subsidiaries party to the merger shall have
the right to dissent without regard to the proportion of the voting power which
approved the merger and despite the fact that the merger was not approved by
vote of the shareholders of any of the corporations involved.

     B.  The right to dissent provided by this Section shall not exist in the
case of:

         (1)  A sale pursuant to an order of a court having jurisdiction in the
     premises.

         (2)  A sale for cash on terms requiring distribution of all or
     substantially all of net proceeds to the shareholders in accordance with
     their respective interests within one year after the date of the sale.

         (3)  Shareholders holding shares of any class of stock which, at the
     record date fixed to determine shareholders entitled to receive notice of
     and to vote at the meeting of shareholders at which a merger or
     consolidation was acted on, were listed on a national securities exchange,
     unless the articles of the corporation issuing such stock provide
     otherwise or the shares of such shareholders were not converted by the
     merger or consolidation solely into shares of the surviving or new
     corporation.

     C.  Except as provided in the last sentence of this subsection, any
shareholder electing to exercise such right of dissent shall file with the
corporation, prior to or at the meeting of shareholders at which such proposed
corporate action is submitted to a vote, a written objection to such proposed
corporate action, and shall vote his shares against such action.  If such
proposed corporate action be taken by the required vote, but by less than
eighty percent of the total voting power, and the merger, consolidation or
sale, lease or exchange of assets authorized thereby be effected, the
corporation shall promptly thereafter give written notice thereof, by
registered mail, to each shareholder who filed such written objection to, and
voted his shares against, such action, at such shareholder's last address on
the corporation's records.  Each such shareholder may, within twenty days after
the mailing of such notice to him, but not thereafter, file with the
corporation a demand in writing for the fair cash value of his shares as of the
day before such vote was taken; provided that he state in such demand the value
demanded, and a post office address to which the reply of the corporation may
be sent, and at the same time deposit in escrow in a chartered bank or trust
company located in the parish of the registered office of the corporation, the
certificates representing his shares, duly endorsed and transferred to the
corporation upon the sole condition that said certificates shall be delivered
to the corporation upon payment of the value of the shares determined in
accordance with the provisions of this section.  With his demand the
shareholder shall deliver to the corporation, the written acknowledgment of
such bank or trust company that it so holds his certificates of stock.  Unless
the objection, demand and acknowledgment aforesaid be made and delivered by the
shareholder within the period above limited, he shall conclusively be presumed
to have acquiesced in the corporate action proposed or taken.  In the case of a
merger pursuant to R.S. 12:112(H), the dissenting shareholder need not file an
objection with the corporation nor vote against the merger, but need only file
with the corporation, within twenty days after a copy of the merger certificate
was mailed to him, a demand in writing for the cash value of his shares as of
the day before the certificate was filed with the secretary of state, state in
such demand the value demanded and a post office address to which the
corporation's reply may be sent, deposit the
<PAGE>   154
certificates representing his shares in escrow as hereinabove provided, and
deliver to the corporation with his demand the acknowledgment of the escrow
bank or trust company as herein-above prescribed.

     D.  If the corporation does not agree to the value so stated and demanded,
or does not agree that a payment is due, it shall, within twenty days after
receipt of such demand and acknowledgment, notify in writing the shareholder,
at the designated post office address, of its disagreement, and shall state in
such notice the value it will agree to pay if any payment should be held to be
due; otherwise it shall be liable for, and shall pay to the dissatisfied
shareholder, the value demanded by him for his shares.

     E.  In case of disagreement as to such fair cash value, or as to whether
any payment is due, after compliance by the parties with the provisions of
subsections C and D of this section, the dissatisfied shareholder, within sixty
days after receipt of notice in writing of the corporation's disagreement, but
not thereafter, may file suit against the corporation, or the merged or
consolidated corporation, as the may be, in the district court of the parish in
which the corporation or the merged or consolidated corporation, as the case
may be, has its registered office, praying the court to fix and decree the fair
cash value of the dissatisfied shareholder's shares as of the day before such
corporate action complained of was taken, and the court shall, on such evidence
as may be adduced in relation thereto, determine summarily whether any payment
is due, and, if so, such cash value, and render judgment accordingly.  Any
shareholder entitled to file such suit may, within such sixty-day period but
not thereafter, intervene as a plaintiff in such suit filed by another
shareholder, and recover therein judgment against the corporation for the fair
cash value of his shares.  No order or decree shall be made by the court
staying the proposed corporate action, and any such corporate action may be
carried to completion notwithstanding any such suit.  Failure of the
shareholder to bring suit, or to intervene in such a suit, within sixty days
after receipt of notice of disagreement by the corporation shall conclusively
bind the shareholder (1) by the corporation's statement that no payment is due,
or (2) if the corporation does not contend that no payment is due to accept the
value of his shares as fixed by the corporation in its notice of disagreement.

     F.  When the fair value of the shares has been agreed upon between the
shareholder and the corporation, or when the corporation has become liable for
the value demanded by the shareholder because of failure to give notice of
disagreement and of the value it will pay, or when the shareholder has become
bound to accept the value the corporation agrees is due because of his failure
to bring suit within sixty days after receipt of notice of the corporation's
disagreement, the action of the shareholder to recover such value must be
brought within five years from the date the value was agreed upon, or the
liability of the corporation became fixed.

     G.  If the corporation or the merged or consolidated corporation, as the
case may be, shall, in its notice of disagreement, have offered to pay to the
dissatisfied shareholder on demand an amount in cash deemed by it to be the
fair cash value of his shares, and if, on the institution of a suit by the
dissatisfied shareholder claiming an amount in excess of the amount so offered,
the corporation, or the merged or consolidated corporation, as the case may be,
shall deposit in the registry of the court, there to remain until the final
determination of the cause, the amount so offered, then, if the amount finally
awarded such shareholder, exclusive of interest and costs, be more than the
amount offered and deposited as aforesaid, the costs of the proceeding shall be
taxed against the corporation, or the merged or consolidated corporation, as
the case may be; otherwise the costs of the proceeding shall be taxed against
the corporation, or the merged or consolidated corporation, as the case may be;
otherwise the costs of the proceeding shall be taxed against such shareholder.

     H.  Upon filing a demand for the value of his shares, the shareholder
shall cease to have any of the rights of a shareholder except the rights
accorded by this section.  Such a demand may be withdrawn by the shareholder at
any time before the corporation gives notice of disagreement, as provided in
subsection D of this section.  After such notice of disagreement is given,
withdrawal of a notice of election shall require the written consent of the
corporation.  If a notice of election is withdrawn, or the proposed corporate
action is abandoned or rescinded, or a court shall determine that the
shareholder is not entitled to receive payment for his shares, or the
shareholder shall otherwise lose his dissenter's rights, he shall not have the
right to receive payment for his shares, his share certificates shall be
returned to him (and, on his request, new certificates shall be issued to him
in exchange for the old ones endorsed to the corporation), and he shall be
reinstated to all his rights as a shareholder as of the filing of his demand
for value, including any intervening preemptive rights, and the right to
payment of any intervening dividend or other distribution, or, if any such
rights have expired or any such




                                     C-2
<PAGE>   155
dividend or distribution other than in cash has been completed, in lieu
thereof, at the election of the corporation, the fair value thereof in cash as
determined by the board as of the time of such expiration or completion, but
without prejudice otherwise to any corporate proceedings that may have been
taken in the interim.




                                     C-3
<PAGE>   156
                                    PART II

             INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT

ITEM 20.  INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.

     The Registrant's Articles of Incorporation provide for indemnification to
the fullest extent allowed by law.  The Articles of the Registrant provide in
Article Sixth certain provisions regarding the extent to which the Registrant
will provide indemnification and advancement of expenses to its directors,
officers, employees and agents as well as persons serving at the request of the
Registrant as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise
(collectively referred as "Eligible Persons").

     The Registrant's Bylaws currently contain a provision requiring the
Registrant to indemnify any director, officer, employee or agent who is made a
party or threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed
claim, action, suit or proceeding, other than an action by or in the right of
the Registrant, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director,
officer, employee or agent of the Registrant, or is or was serving at the
request of the Registrant as director, officer, partner, employee or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise,
against reasonably incurred expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments,
fines and amounts paid in settlement, but only if such person acted in good
faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the
best interests of the Registrant, and, in criminal actions, he had no
reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.

     Unless limited by its Articles of Incorporation the Mississippi Business
Corporation Act ("MBCA") mandates that the Registrant indemnify any director
who is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of any proceeding
to which he was a party, against reasonable expenses incurred by him in
connection with such proceeding (the "Mandatory Provision").  The MBCA permits
the Registrant to indemnify a director who is made a party to a proceeding
against liability (including reasonable expenses) incurred in connection with
such proceeding provided (1) the director's conduct was in good faith, (2) in
the case of conduct in his official capacity, the director reasonably believed
his conduct was in the best interests of the Registrant, (3) in the case of
conduct not in his official capacity, the director reasonably believed  his
conduct was not opposed to the best interests of the Registrant, (4) in the
case of any criminal proceeding, the director had no reasonable cause to
believe that his conduct was unlawful, (5) in the case of claims by or in the
right of the Registrant, the director is not adjudged liable to the Registrant,
and (6) in the case of third-party claims, the director is not adjudged liable
on the basis that he derived an improper personal benefit (the "Permissive
Provision").  Statutory indemnification is permitted under the Permissive
Provision, however, only if indemnification is authorized in a specific case
after a determination is made by the Board of Directors (by majority vote of a
quorum consisting of directors not at the time parties to the proceeding), by a
majority of a special committee of disinterested directors (if such quorum of
directors is unobtainable), by special legal counsel or by the shareholders (a
"Disinterested Party"), that the director has met the applicable standard of
conduct.  The MBCA also provides that unless the Registrant's Articles of
Incorporation provide otherwise, a court may order indemnification of a
director even if it finds he has not met the applicable standard of conduct, or
in the case of third-party claims, involving action where the director acted
within or without of his official capacity, the director is adjudged liable on
the basis that he derived an improper personal benefit, the director was
adjudged liable to the Registrant in a proceeding by or in the right of the
Registrant, if the court determines that the director is reasonably entitled to
indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances; provided, however,
that if the director was adjudged liable to the Registrant, his indemnification
is limited to reasonable expenses.  The MBCA permits the Registrant to pay for
or reimburse the reasonable expenses incurred by a director in advance of final
disposition of the proceeding, provided the director affirms that he reasonably
believes he has met the applicable standard of conduct, the director agrees to
repay the advance if it is ultimately determined that he did not meet the
standard of conduct, and a determination is made by a Disinterested Party that
the facts then known to the person(s) making the determination would not
preclude indemnification.  The MBCA also permits the Registrant to indemnify
officers, employees and agents of the Registrant to the same extent permitted
for directors.  Finally, the MBCA allows indemnification beyond the scope of
the Amended and Restated Mandatory and Permissive Provisions.
<PAGE>   157
     Article Sixth of the Registrant's Articles of Incorporation does not limit
the applicability of the indemnification provisions contained in the MBCA and,
as permitted by the MBCA, requires the Registrant to indemnify Eligible Persons
beyond the scope of such provisions.  The Registrant must indemnify an Eligible
Person, despite the fact that such person has not met the standard of conduct
set forth in the Permissive Provision or would be disqualified for
indemnification under the Permissive Provision because such person was either
found liable to the Registrant in a suit brought by or in the right of the
Registrant or was found liable in a third-party action on the basis that he
received an improper personal benefit, if a determination is made by a
Disinterested Party, or a court, that the act or omissions of the person
seeking indemnification did not constitute gross negligence or willful
misconduct.  Article Sixth also provides for mandatory advancement of
reasonable expenses to a person seeking indemnification, without an affirmation
by such person that he believes he has met the applicable standard of conduct,
as long as he agrees to repay the advance if it is ultimately determined that
he has not met the standard of conduct and a Disinterested Party determines
that the facts then known to such Disinterested Party would not preclude
indemnification.

     Article Sixth further provides that no amendment or repeal of its
provisions may be applied retroactively with respect to any event that occurred
prior to such amendment or appeal.  The effect of such provision is that the
protection of Article Sixth may not be taken away or diminished by an amendment
in the event of a change in control of the Registrant.

     In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities
(other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a
director, officer, or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful
defense of any such action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director,
officer, or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the
matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of
appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is
against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and will be
governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

ITEM 21.  EXHIBITS

 2       Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated August 20, 1994 among
         Hancock Holding Company and First Denham Bancshares, Inc.  (included
         as Appendix A to the Prospectus/Proxy Statement).

 3.1     Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation dated November 8, 1990
         (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended
         December 31, 1990, and incorporated herein by reference).

 3.2     Bylaws of Hancock Holding Company restated through November 8, 1990
         (filed as Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended
         December 31, 1990, and incorporated herein by reference).

 3.3     Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Hancock
         Holding Company, dated October 16, 1991 (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1991, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

 3.4     Articles of Correction, filed with Mississippi Secretary of State on
         November 15, 1991 (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant's Form 10-Q
         for the quarter ended September 30, 1991, and incorporated herein by
         reference).

 3.5     Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Hancock
         Holding Company, adopted February 13, 1992 (filed as Exhibit 3.5 to
         the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

 3.6     Articles of Correction, filed with the Mississippi Secretary of State
         on March 2, 1992 (filed as Exhibit 3.6 to the Registrant's Form 10-K
         for the year ended December 31, 1992, and incorporated herein by
         reference).

 4.1     Specimen stock certificate (reflecting change in par value from $10.00
         to $3.33, effective March 6, 1989)(filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1989, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

 5       Opinion of Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A. as to the legality of the
         shares being registered.  

   
 8       Opinion of McGlinchey Stafford Lang regarding certain tax matters.
    

10.1     Description of Hancock Bank Executive Supplemental Reimbursement Plan,
         as amended (provided on page 14 of the Registrant's definitive proxy
         statement for its annual shareholders' meeting on February 24, 1994,
         and incorporated herein by reference).


<PAGE>   158
10.2     Description of Hancock Bank Automobile Plan (provided on page 14 of
         the Registrant's definitive proxy statement for its annual
         shareholders' meeting on February 24, 1994, and incorporated herein by
         reference).

10.3     Description of Deferred Compensation Arrangement for Directors
         (provided on pages 10-15 of the Registrant's definitive proxy
         statement for its annual shareholders' meeting on February 24, 1994,
         and incorporated herein by reference).

10.4     Site Lease Agreement between Hancock Bank and City of Gulfport,
         Mississippi dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

10.5     Project Lease Agreement between Hancock Bank and City of Gulfport,
         Mississippi dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

10.6     Deed of Trust dated as of March 1, 1989 from Hancock Bank to Deposit
         Guaranty National Bank as trustee (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

10.7     Trust Indenture between City of Gulfport, Mississippi and Deposit
         Guaranty National Bank dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit
         10.7 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
         1989, and incorporated herein by reference).

10.8     Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 1, 1989 from Hancock Bank to
         Deposit Guaranty National Bank as trustee (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to
         the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

10.9     Bond Purchase Agreement dated as of February 23, 1989, among Hancock
         Bank, J.C. Bradford & Co. and City of Gulfport, Mississippi (filed as
         Exhibit 10.9 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December
         31, 1989, and incorporated herein by reference).

10.10    Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (filed as Form S-3
         Registration Statement, Commission No. 33-31782 on October 26, 1989,
         as amended on March 20, 1991, and incorporated herein by reference).

21       Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed as Exhibit 22 to the
         Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, and
         incorporated herein by reference).

23.1     Consent of Deloitte & Touche, LLP

23.2     Consent of Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.

23.3     Consent of Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A. (included in Exhibit 5).

   
23.4     Consent of McGlinchey Stafford Lang (included in Exhibit 8).
    

23.5     Consent of National Capital Corporation (included in Appendix B to
         Prospectus/Proxy Statement).

27       Selected Financial Data.

28       Power of Attorney.

99       Form of Proxy.

* Indicates exhibit to be filed by amendment.

ITEM 22.  UNDERTAKINGS.

(a)      The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:

         (1)     To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
                 made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration
                 Statement:

                 (i)      To include any prospectus required by Section
                          10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1993;

                 (ii)     To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events
                          arising after the effective date of the Registration
                          Statement (or the most recent post-effective
                          amendment thereof) which, individually or in the
                          aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the
                          information set forth in the Registration Statement;
<PAGE>   159
                 (iii)    To include any material information with respect to
                          the plan or distribution not previously disclosed in
                          the Registration Statement or any material change to
                          such information in the Registration Statement;

         (2)     That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
                 Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment
                 shall be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to
                 the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
                 securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
                 fide offering thereof;

         (3)     To remove from registration by means of post-effective
                 amendment any of the securities being registered which remain
                 unsold at the termination of the offering.

(b)      The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the
Registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (and, when applicable, each filing of an employee benefit
plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall
be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered
therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be
the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(c)      (1)     The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes as follows:  that
                 prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered
                 hereunder through use of a prospectus which is a part of this
                 Registration Statement, by any person or party who is deemed
                 to be an underwriter within the meaning of Rule 145(c), the
                 issuer undertakes that such reoffering prospectus will contain
                 the information called for by the applicable registration form
                 with respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed
                 underwriters, in addition to the information called for by the
                 other items of the applicable form.

         (2)     The Registrant undertakes that every prospectus (i) that is
                 filed pursuant to paragraph (1) immediately preceding, or (ii)
                 that purports to meet the requirements of Section 10(a)(3) of
                 the Act and is used in connection with an offering of
                 securities subject to Rule 415, will be filed as a part of an
                 amendment to the Registration Statement and will not be used
                 until such amendment is effective, and that, for purposes of
                 determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933,
                 each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new
                 Registration Statement relating to the securities offered
                 therein, and the offering of such securities at that time
                 shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(d)      Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise,
the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and
Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed
in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.  In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and
will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

(e)      The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests
for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant
to Item 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one business day of receipt of
such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first class mail or
other equally prompt means.  This includes information contained in documents
filed subsequent to the effective date of the Registration Statement through
the date of responding to the request.
<PAGE>   160
(f)      The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of
post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the Registration Statement when it became effective.
<PAGE>   161
                                   SIGNATURES

   
         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
Registrant has duly caused this Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement
to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in
the City of Gulfport, State of Mississippi, this 29th day of November, 1994.
    

                                     HANCOCK HOLDING COMPANY
                                     (Registrant)

                                     By: /s/ LEO W. SEAL, JR.               
                                         Leo W. Seal, Jr.,
                                         President and Chief Financial Officer

                                     By: /s/ GEORGE A. SCHLOEGEL           
                                         George A. Schloegel
                                         Director and Vice Chairman of the Board

         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signatures                                              Title                                      Date
- ----------                                              -----                                      ----
<S>                                           <C>                                             <C>
By: /s/ JOSEPH F. BOARDMAN, JR.*                   Chairman of the                            November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------           Board and Director                                          
    Joseph F. Boardman, Jr.                                         
                                                  
By: /s/ THOMAS W. MILNER, JR.*                         Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    Thomas W. Milner, Jr.

By: /s/ DR. HOMER C. MOODY, JR.*                       Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    Dr. Homer C. Moody, Jr.

By: /s/ A. F. DANTZLER*                                Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    A. F. Dantzler

By: /s/ VICTOR MAVAR*                                  Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    Victor Mavar

By: /s/ CHARLES H. JOHNSON*                            Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    Charles H. Johnson

By: /s/ L. A. KOENENN, JR.*                            Director                               November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------                                                                       
    L. A. Koenenn, Jr.

By: /s/ LEO W. SEAL, JR.                      President, Chief Financial                      November 29, 1994
    -----------------------------------          Officer and Director                                         
    Leo W. Seal, Jr.                                                 




* /s/ GEORGE A. SCHLOEGEL                                                                     November 29, 1994
  -----------------------------------          
      George A. Schloegel
        Attorney-in-Fact

</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   162
                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT NO.                                          DESCRIPTION                                                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NO.
- -----------                                          -----------                                                 -------------------
     <S>      <C>                                                                                                <C>
     2        Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated August 20, 1994
              among Hancock Holding Company and First Denham Bancshares, Inc. (included as 
              Appendix A to the Prospectus/Proxy Statement).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

     3.1      Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation dated November 8, 1990
              (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
              1990, and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3.2      Bylaws of Hancock Holding Company restated through November 8, 1990 (filed as
              Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended
              December 31, 1990, and incorporated herein by reference).   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3.3      Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation
              of Hancock Holding Company, dated October 16, 1991 (filed as
              Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter
              ended September 30, 1991, and incorporated herein by
              reference).   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3.4      Articles of Correction, filed with Mississippi Secretary of
              State on November 15, 1991 (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the
              Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1991,
              and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3.5      Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Hancock
              Holding Company, adopted February 13, 1992 (filed as Exhibit 3.5 to
              the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992, and
              incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3.6      Articles of Correction, filed with the Mississippi Secretary of
              State on March 2, 1992 (filed as Exhibit 3.6 to the Registrant's Form
              10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992, and incorporated herein
              by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     4.1      Specimen stock certificate (reflecting change in par value from $10.00 to $3.33,
              effective March 6, 1989)(filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-Q
              for the quarter ended March 31, 1989, and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . .

     5        Opinion of Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A. to the legality of the shares being registered.  . . .

     8        Opinion of McGlinchey Stafford Lang regarding certain tax matters.  . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.1     Description of Hancock Bank Executive Supplemental Reimbursement Plan,
              as amended (provided on page 14 of the Registrant's definitive proxy statement
              for its annual shareholders' meeting on February 24, 1994, and incorporated
              herein by reference).   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.2     Description of Hancock Bank Automobile Plan (provided on page 14 of the
              Registrant's definitive proxy statement for its annual shareholders' meeting
              on February 24, 1994, and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.3     Description of Deferred Compensation Arrangement for Directors (provided on pages 10-15
              of the Registrant's definitive proxy statement for its annual shareholders'
              meeting on February 24, 1994, and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.4     Site Lease Agreement between Hancock Bank and City of Gulfport, Mississippi
              dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant's
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated
              herein by reference).   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.5     Project Lease Agreement between Hancock Bank and City of Gulfport,
              Mississippi dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant's
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated herein by
              reference).   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.6     Deed of Trust dated as of March 1, 1989 from Hancock Bank to Deposit
              Guaranty National Bank as trustee (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant's
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   163
   
<TABLE>
     <S>      <C>                                                                                                <C>
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated herein
              by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.7     Trust Indenture between City of Gulfport, Mississippi and Deposit Guaranty
              National Bank dated as of March 1, 1989 (filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant's
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated herein
              by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.8     Guaranty Agreement dated as of March 1, 1989 from Hancock Bank to Deposit
              Guaranty National Bank as trustee (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant's
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and incorporated herein
              by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.9     Bond Purchase Agreement dated as of February 23, 1989, among Hancock Bank,
              J.C. Bradford & Co. and City of Gulfport, Mississippi (filed as Exhibit 10.9
              to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989, and
              incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     10.10    Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (filed as Form S-3 Registration
              Statement, Commission No. 33-31782 on October 26, 1989, as amended on
              March 20, 1991, and incorporated herein by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     21       Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed as Exhibit 22 to the Registrant's
              Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, and incorporated herein
              by reference).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     23.1     Consent of Deloitte & Touche, LLP   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     23.2     Consent of Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     23.3     Consent of Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A. (included in Exhibit 5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     23.4     Consent of McGlinchey Stafford Lang (included in Exhibit 8).  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     23.5     Consent of National Capital Corporation (included in Appendix B to Prospectus/Proxy 
              Statement). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     27       Selected Financial Data.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     28       Power of Attorney.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     99       Form of Proxy.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
</TABLE>                      
    

* Indicates exhibit to be filed by amendment.

<PAGE>   1





November 2, 1994



Hancock Holding Company
One Hancock Plaza
2510 4th Street
Gulfport, Mississippi  39501

Gentlemen:

In our capacity as counsel for Hancock Holding Company, a Mississippi
corporation ("HHC") and Hancock Bank of Louisiana, a Louisiana banking
corporation ("Hancock Bank"), we have examined the Registration Statement on
Form S-4 (the "Registration Statement"), in the form as proposed to be filed by
HHC with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the provisions of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, on November 2, 1994, relating to the
proposed merger (the "Merger") of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. ("Bancshares")
with HHC and the issuance by HHC of up to 774,251 shares of common stock, par
value $3.33 per share (the "Shares"), in connection with the Merger.  Pursuant
to the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Agreement") and a related
Merger Agreement (the "Merger Agreement") dated effective August 20, 1994, each
holder of shares of common and preferred stock of Bancshares will receive HHC
common stock and/or cash.  In this regard, we have examined such records,
documents and proceedings as we have deemed relevant and necessary as a basis
for the opinions expressed herein.

Upon the basis of the foregoing, we are of the opinion that:

       (i)     each of HHC and Hancock Bank is duly organized, validly existing
and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization,
each has all requisite corporate power and authority to own and lease its
property and to carry on the business described as being carried on by it in
the Registration Statement and each is qualified and in good standing as a
foreign corporation in any jurisdictions in which the character





<PAGE>   2
Hancock Holding Company
November 2, 1994
Page 2

of the property owned or leased by it or the nature of the activities conducted
by it make such qualification necessary;

       (ii)    the execution, delivery and performance of the Agreement and the
Merger Agreement have been duly authorized by the Board of Directors of HHC,
and all corporate acts and other corporate proceedings required on the part of
HHC for the due and valid authorization, execution, delivery and performance of
the Agreement and the Merger Agreement, and the consummation of the Merger,
have been validly and appropriately taken.  Upon the filing of the executed
Merger Agreement with the Secretary of State of Louisiana, the Merger will be
effective as of the Effective Date as defined in the Agreement;

       (iii)   the Agreement and the Merger Agreement are the legal, valid and
binding obligations of HHC, and are enforceable against it in accordance with
their terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy,
reorganization, insolvency and other similar laws and court decisions relating
to or affecting the enforcement of creditor's rights generally and except as to
the availability of specific performance or other equitable remedies;

       (iv)    neither the execution, delivery or performance of the Agreement
or the Merger Agreement by HHC nor the consummation of the transactions
contemplated thereby, will (A) violate, conflict with or result in a breach of
any provision of, constitute a default (or an event that, with notice or lapse
of time or both, would constitute a default) under, result in the termination
of or accelerate the performance required by, or result in the creation of any
lien, security interest, charge or encumbrance upon any of the properties or
assets of HHC under, any of the terms, conditions or provisions of the articles
of incorporation, articles of association or by-laws of HHC or of any material
note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, lease, license, agreement or
other instrument or obligation known to us which binds it or any of its assets
or (B) to our knowledge, violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, statute,
rule or regulation of any governmental body applicable to HHC or any of its
assets;

       (v)     the authorized capital stock of HHC is as set forth in Section
7.2 of the Agreement.  All issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of
HHC have been duly authorized and validly issued, and are fully paid and
non-assessable.  To our knowledge, except as contemplated in the Agreement
there are no outstanding options, warrants, contracts or commitments entitling
any person to purchase or otherwise acquire from HHC any shares of its capital
stock, other than HHC's Automatic Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan
nor to our knowledge does HHC have any outstanding obligation with respect to
its unissued capital stock or treasury stock, nor any outstanding





<PAGE>   3
Hancock Holding Company
November 2, 1994
Page 3

obligation to repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any of its outstanding
shares of capital stock;

       (vi)    all shares of HHC Common Stock to be issued pursuant to the
Merger have been duly authorized and, when issued pursuant to the Merger
Agreement, will be validly and legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable,
and will be, at the time of their delivery, free and clear of all liens,
charges, security interests, mortgages, pledges and other encumbrances and any
preemptive or similar rights.

       (vii)   to our knowledge, there are no material claims of any kind or any
material actions, suits, proceedings, arbitrations or investigations pending or
threatened, nor do we have actual knowledge of a basis for any material claim,
in any court or before any governmental agency or instrumentality or
arbitration panel or otherwise against, by or affecting any member of HHC's
consolidated group or the business, condition (financial or otherwise) or
assets of any such member or which would prevent the performance of the
Agreement or the Merger Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated
hereby or thereby or declare the same unlawful or cause the rescission thereof;
and

       (viii)  the Registration Statement became effective under the Securities
Act prior to the time of the mailing or distribution of the Proxy Statement,
HHC has received all state securities laws permits and authorizations necessary
to consummate the transaction contemplated by the Agreement and, to our
knowledge, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration
Statement or similar proceeding under any state securities or blue sky laws has
been instituted and none is threatened or contemplated by the SEC or any state
securities board, commission or authority.

       We have participated in conferences with representatives of the parties
to the Merger and their respective accountants and counsel in connection with
the preparation of the Registration Statement and the Prospectus/Proxy
Statement and have considered the matters required to be stated therein and the
statements contained therein, and based on the foregoing (in certain
circumstances relying as to materiality on the opinions of officers and
representatives of the parties thereto) nothing has come to our attention that
would lead us to believe that the Registration Statement and the
Prospectus/Proxy Statement, as amended or supplemented, if they have been
amended or supplemented, at the time it became effective and as amended or
supplemented (in the case of Registration Statement), or at the time
distributed to shareholders (in the case of the Proxy Statement), contained any
untrue statement of a material fact or omitted a material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading
(except in such case for the financial statements and other financial and
statistical data included therein, as to which no statement or representation
is made).





<PAGE>   4
Hancock Holding Company
November 2, 1994
Page 4

We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with the Securities and
Exchange Commission as an Exhibit to the above-referenced Registration
Statement.  In addition, we hereby consent to the inclusion of the statements
made in reference to this law firm under the caption "LEGAL MATTERS" in the
Prospectus/Proxy Statement, which is a part of the Registration Statement.

Sincerely yours,

HEIDELBERG & WOODLIFF, P.A.

/s/ Heidelberg & Woodliff, P.A.


LHP/bcm






<PAGE>   1

   
                               November 29, 1994
    





   
First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
    
   
523 Florida Avenue
    
   
Denham Springs, LA  70726
    

   
         Re:     Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, dated as of August 20,
                 1994, by and between First Denham Bancshares, Inc., and
                 Hancock Holding Company.
    


   
Gentlemen:
    

   
         We have acted as special counsel for First Denham Bancshares, Inc., a
Louisiana corporation  (the "Company" or "FDB"), in connection with the
proposed merger (the "Merger") of  the Company with and into Hancock Holding
Company, a Mississippi corporation ("HHC"), pursuant to the terms of the
Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Reorganization Agreement"), dated as
of August 20, 1994, by and between the Company and HHC, and the related Merger
Agreement, dated as of August 20, 1994, by and between  the Company and HHC,
(together with the Reorganization Agreement, the "Agreements") each as
described in the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration
Statement") filed by HHC with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  This
opinion is being rendered pursuant to Section 9.2(e) of the Reorganization
Agreement.  All capitalized terms, unless otherwise specified herein, have the
meaning assigned to them in the  Reorganization Agreement.
    

   
         In connection with this opinion, we have examined and are familiar
with originals or copies, certified or otherwise identified to our
satisfaction, of the Agreements, the Registration Statement and such other
documents as we have deemed necessary or appropriate in order to enable us to
render the opinion below.  In our examination, we have assumed the genuineness
of all signatures, the legal capacity of all natural persons, the authenticity
of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original
documents of all documents submitted to us as certified, conformed or
photostatic copies and the authenticity of the originals of such copies.  In
rendering the opinion set forth below, we have relied upon certain written
representations and covenants of HHC and  the Company which are annexed to the
Reorganization Agreement.
    
<PAGE>   2
   
First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
    
   
November 29, 1994
    
   
Page 2
    



   
         In rendering our opinion, we have considered the applicable provisions
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), Treasury
Regulations, pertinent judicial authorities, interpretive rulings of the
Internal Revenue Service and such other authorities as we have considered
relevant.
    
   
   
         Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that,
under current law:
    

   
         1.  The Merger will constitute a tax-free reorganization under Section
368(a) of the Code, and each of HHC and  the Company will be a "party to a
reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code.
    

   
         2.  No material gain or loss will be recognized by HHC or the Company
as a result of the Merger.
    

   
         3.  No gain or loss will be recognized by a shareholder of  the
Company who receives solely HHC Common Stock in exchange for his  FDB Common
Stock.  However, because both HHC Common Stock and other consideration will be
transferred in exchange for shares of  FDB Common Stock, then, in general, such
a shareholder will be required to recognize gain, subject to the provisions and
limitations of Section 302 of the Code.  The amount of gain recognized will not
exceed the amount of cash received in the exchange.
    

   
         4.      Cash received in the Merger by a  FDB shareholder in lieu of a
fractional share interest in HHC Common Stock will be treated under Section 302
of the Code as having been received by the  FDB Shareholder in exchange for
such fractional share, and the  FDB shareholder generally will recognize gain
or loss in such exchange equal to the difference between the cash received and
the FDB shareholder's basis allocable to the fractional share.
    

   
         5.      A  FDB shareholder who perfects his statutory right to dissent
from the Merger and who receives solely cash in exchange for his  FDB Common
Stock will be treated as having received such cash payment as a distribution in
redemption of his shares of  FDB stock, subject to the provisions and
limitations of Section 302 of the Code.  After such distribution, if the former
FDB shareholder does not actually or constructively own any  FDB or HHC stock,
the redemption will constitute a complete termination of interest and be
treated as a distribution in full payment in exchange for the  FDB stock so
redeemed.
    

   
         6.  A shareholder of  the Company who owns  FDB Preferred Stock and
who receives solely cash in exchange for his  FDB Preferred Stock will be
treated as having received such cash payment as a distribution in redemption of
his shares of  FDB Preferred Stock, subject to the provisions and limitations
of Sections 302 and 306 of the Code.  After such distribution, if the former
FDB shareholder does not actually or constructively own any  FDB or HHC stock
    
<PAGE>   3
   
First Denham Bancshares, Inc.
    
   
November 29, 1994
    
   
Page 3
    



   
and if such stock is not treated as "section 306 stock," the redemption will
constitute a complete termination of interest and be treated as a distribution
in full payment in exchange for the  FDB stock so redeemed.
    

   
         Except as set forth above, we express no opinion as to the tax
consequences, whether Federal, state, local or foreign, to any party  in
connection with the Merger or of any transactions related to the Merger or
contemplated by the Agreements.  This opinion is specifically limited to
applicable federal income tax law in effect as of the date hereof.  We
undertake no responsibility to advise you of any changes in the Federal income
tax law or as to any events that occur or as to any amendment of any of the
documents referred to herein, after the date hereof that may alter the scope or
substance of this opinion.
    

   
         This opinion is being furnished to you solely in connection with the
transactions described herein and  is solely for your benefit.  Accordingly,
without our prior written consent, except as set forth below, this letter may
not be quoted in whole or in part or otherwise referred to in any report or
document or otherwise referred to or circulated in connection with any
transactions other than those contemplated hereby.  Notwithstanding the
foregoing sentence, we consent to the use of this opinion in the Registration
Statement  to be filed by HHC for the registration of 774,251 shares of HHC
Common Stock to be issued in the Merger and to the reference to this firm under
the caption "Legal Matters" in the Prospectus/Proxy Statement comprising part
of such Registration Statement.
    
 
   
                                        MCGLINCHEY STAFFORD LANG,
    
   
                                         A Law Corporation
    
 
   
                                        By: __________________________________
    
 
 
 
   
JM:nd
    

<PAGE>   1
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT



         We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration
Statement of Hancock Holding Company on Form S-4 of the report of Deloitte &
Touche dated January 14, 1994, incorporated by reference in the Annual Report
on Form 10-K of Hancock Holding Company for the year ended December 31, 1993
and to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in the Prospectus/Proxy
Statement, which is part of this Registration Statement.



/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP    
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New Orleans, Louisiana
October 27, 1994






<PAGE>   1
                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT



         We consent to the use in this Registration Statement of Hancock
Holding Company on Form S-4 of our report dated January 14, 1994, relating to
the consolidated financial statements of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and
Subsidiary, appearing in the Prospectus, which is part of this Registration
Statement.

         We also consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in
such Prospectus.


                                        /s/ Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.
                                            HANNIS T. BOURGEOIS & CO., L.L.P.
                                            Baton Rouge, Louisiana
                                            October 27, 1994





<PAGE>   2





                                October 27, 1994


First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary
Denham Springs, Louisiana

         We have made a review, in accordance with standards established by the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, of the unaudited interim
financial information of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiary for the
period ended September 30, 1994 and 1993, as indicated in our report dated
October 3, 1994; because we did not perform an audit, we expressed no opinion
on that information.

         We are aware that our report referred to above, is being used in this
Registration Statement of Hancock Holding Company on Form S-4.

         We also are aware that the aforementioned report, pursuant to Rule
436(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, is not considered a part of the
Registration Statement prepared or certified by an accountant or a report
prepared or certified by an accountant within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11
of that Act.


                                         /s/ Hannis T. Bourgeois & Co., L.L.P.

                                         HANNIS T. BOURGEOIS & CO., L.L.P.

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 9
<CIK> 0000750577
<NAME> HANCOCK HOLDING
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1994
<PERIOD-START>                              JAN-1-1994
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1994
<CASH>                                         114,580
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                       1,378,412
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                                33,750
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                     20,737
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                         875,260
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                           895,997
<LOANS>                                        873,651
<ALLOWANCE>                                     14,055
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               1,974,186
<DEPOSITS>                                   1,751,577
<SHORT-TERM>                                       480
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                              7,702
<LONG-TERM>                                      3,820
<COMMON>                                        25,658
                                0
                                          0
<OTHER-SE>                                     140,596
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>               1,974,186
<INTEREST-LOAN>                                 57,891
<INTEREST-INVEST>                               34,583
<INTEREST-OTHER>                                 3,264
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                                95,738
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                              34,393
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                              35,644
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                           60,094
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                    1,203
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                                  97
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                                 50,388
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 23,584
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                      23,584
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    16,149
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.14
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     2.14
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                    4.55
<LOANS-NON>                                      4,147
<LOANS-PAST>                                     2,073
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                   630
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                                14,219
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                    2,471
<RECOVERIES>                                     1,104
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                               14,055
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                            14,055
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                              0
        

</TABLE>

<PAGE>   1
                               POWER OF ATTORNEY

         Know all men by these presents, that each individual whose signature
appears below constitutes and appoints Leo W. Seal, Jr. and George A.
Schloegel, and each or either one of them, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact
and agent, with power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his
name, place and stead in any and all capacities, to sign this Registration
Statement on Form S-4 in connection with the acquisition of First Denham
Bancshares, Inc. and relating to the registration of shares of Hancock Holding
Company common stock, $3.33 par value per share, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) to such Registration Statement, and to
file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection
therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said
attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, 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 as he might or
could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said
attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, their, or his substitute or
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signatures                             Title                             Date
- ----------                             -----                             ----
<S>                                    <C>                          <C>
/s/ JOSEPH F. BOARDMAN, JR.            Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                    
Joseph F. Boardman, Jr.                        
                                               
/s/ THOMAS W. MILNER, JR.              Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                    
Thomas W. Milner, Jr.                          
                                               
/s/ DR. HOMER C. MOODY, JR.            Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                    
Dr. Homer C. Moody, Jr.           

/s/ A. F. DANTZLER                     Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                             
A. F. Dantzler

/s/ VICTOR MAVAR                       Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                             
Victor Mavar

/s/ CHARLES H. JOHNSON                 Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                    
Charles H. Johnson

/s/ L. A. KOENENN, JR.                 Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                             
L. A. Koenenn, Jr.

/s/ GEORGE A. SCHLOEGEL                Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------                                                    
George A. Schloegel

/s/ LEO W. SEAL, JR.                   Director                     October 31, 1994
- --------------------------------       President and Chief                                   
Leo W. Seal, Jr.                       Financial Officer  
</TABLE>                               

<PAGE>   1
                         FIRST DENHAM BANCSHARES, INC.
                               523 Florida Avenue
                              Post Office Box 1559
                     Denham Springs, Louisiana  77027-1559

                                     PROXY

          THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

   
The undersigned hereby appoints Robert E. Easterly, Bruce R. Easterly and A.
Shelby Easterly, or any of them each with full power to act alone and to
appoint his substitute, as Proxies, and hereby authorizes them to represent and 
to vote all the shares of common stock of First Denham Bancshares, Inc. (the
"Company") held of record by the undersigned on December 2, 1994, at the
special meeting of shareholders to be held on January 11, 1995, at 5:00 p.m.
and at any and all adjournments thereof.
    

         1.      A proposal to approve and adopt the Agreement and Plan of
                 Reorganization, and a related Merger Agreement, pursuant to 
                 which the Company will be merged with and into Hancock 
                 Holding Company.

                 FOR  ________      AGAINST  _________      ABSTAIN  ________

         2.      In their discretion,  to vote upon such other business as may
                 properly come before the special meeting or any adjournment
                 thereof.

The Board of Directors recommends a vote "FOR" Proposal 1.

***************************************************************************
*                                                                         *
*  THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS SPECIFIED, BUT IF NO INSTRUCTIONS ARE      *
*  SPECIFIED, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR PROPOSAL 1.  IF ANY OTHER      *
*  BUSINESS IS PRESENTED AT SUCH MEETING, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED BY     *
*  THOSE NAMED IN THIS  PROXY IN THEIR DISCRETION.                        *
*                                                                         *
***************************************************************************


         Please sign exactly as your name appears on certificate(s)
representing shares to be voted by this proxy.  When signing as attorney,
executor, administrator, trustee, or guardian, please give your full title.  If
a corporation, please sign in full corporate name by the president or other
authorized officer.  If a partnership, please sign in full partnership name by
an authorized person.  If shares are held as joint tenants, each holder should
sign.

Dated ___________________, 199__

____________________________________        ____________________________________
PRINT NAME OF SHAREHOLDER                   PRINT NAME OF SHAREHOLDER

____________________________________        ____________________________________
SIGNATURE OF SHAREHOLDER                    SIGNATURE OF SHAREHOLDER

***************************************************************************
*                                                                         *
*     PLEASE PROMPTLY COMPLETE, DATE, SIGN AND MAIL THIS PROXY IN THE     *
*                     ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE                      *
*                                                                         *
***************************************************************************



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