SURETY CAPITAL CORP /DE/
10-K, 1996-04-03
NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANKS
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                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                                ----------------

                                    FORM 10-K
Mark One

[ X ]ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
     ACT OF 1934 For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1995 --- Commission File
     Number 33-1983; OR

[   ]TRANSITION  REPORT  PURSUANT  TO  SECTION  13 OR 15(d)  OF THE  SECURITIES
     EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Transition Period From ___________________ to
     ___________________.

                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
             (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


       Delaware                                          75-2065607
(State of Incorporation)                      (IRS Employer Identification No.)

             1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100, Hurst, Texas 76054
                    (Address of Principal Executive Offices)

                                 (817) 498-8154
              (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

           Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

                                                     Name of each exchange
    Title of each class                               on which registered
    -------------------                               -------------------

Common Stock, $0.01 par value                        American Stock Exchange

Securities  registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.01
par value

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the  preceding 12 months (or for such  shorter  period that the  Registrant  was
required  to file  such  reports),  and  (2) has  been  subject  to such  filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]

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

The  aggregate  market  value  of  Common  Stock  held by  nonaffiliates  of the
Registrant,  based on the quoted  price of the Common  Stock as  reported on the
American Stock Exchange on March 26, 1996, was  $17,036,283.75.  For purposes of
this  computation,  all  officers,  directors  and 5%  beneficial  owners of the
Registrant are deemed to be affiliates.  Such determination should not be deemed
an admission that such officers, directors or 5% beneficial owners are, in fact,
affiliates of the Registrant.  As of March 26, 1996,  5,758,429 shares of Common
Stock were outstanding.

Documents  Incorporated by Reference:
- -------------------------------------
Portions of the Company's  Proxy  Statement  dated not later than 120 days after
the end of the Company's  most recent fiscal year,  filed pursuant to Regulation
14A of the  Securities  Exchange  Act of 1934 for the  1996  Annual  Meeting  of
Stockholders of Surety Capital  Corporation,  are incorporated by reference into
Part III.


                                       1
<PAGE>

                                     PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS.

General
- -------

     Surety Capital  Corporation  (the  "Company"),  a corporation  incorporated
under the laws of the  state of  Delaware  in 1985,  is a bank  holding  company
registered  under the Bank  Holding  Company Act of 1956,  as amended  (the "BHC
Act").  The  Company  owns all of the issued and  outstanding  shares of capital
stock of Surety  Bank,  National  Association,  formerly  Texas  Bank,  National
Association  and formerly Texas National Bank,  Midlothian,  Texas (the "Bank"),
with full service offices in Hurst, Lufkin, Chester, Wells, Kennard, Whitesboro,
Waxahachie and Midlothian, Texas.

     The Company's principal executive offices are located at 1845 Precinct Line
Road,  Suite 100, Hurst,  Texas 76054, and its telephone number is 817-498-8154.
The Bank's  principal  offices are located at 910 N. Ninth  Street,  Midlothian,
Texas, 76065, and its telephone number is 214-299-5115.

The Company
- -----------

     At  December  31,  1995  the  Company  had  consolidated  total  assets  of
$121,397,490,  total net loans of  $66,399,312,  consolidated  total deposits of
$109,598,502, and consolidated total shareholders' equity of $10,294,472.

     The Company acts as a registered  bank holding  company  under the BHC Act.
The Company does not have any  independent  material  business  activities.  The
Company  anticipates  that its future  activities will be limited to acting as a
source of support for the Bank.

     As a result of the  consolidation of the Bank and First National Bank under
the  charter  of the  Bank,  and  under  the  title of  "Surety  Bank,  National
Association"  effective  March 1, 1996,  the Company owns 100% of the issued and
outstanding   shares   of   common   stock   of   the   Bank.   See   "Item   1.
Business-Acquisitions."

     The  Company's  business  is neither  seasonal  in nature nor in any manner
related to or dependent upon patents, licenses,  franchises or concessions,  and
the Company has not spent material amounts on research activities.

     The following  table sets forth in summary form the revenues,  expenses and
income for the Company and the Bank as of, and for the year ended,  December 31,
1995:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Balance Sheet Data                              Company Only           Bank Only           Consolidated
- ------------------                              ------------           ---------           ------------
<S>                                             <C>                 <C>                    <C>
Cash and Cash Equivalents                         $   59,525        $ 23,217,018           $ 23,217,018
Total Net Loans                                                       66,399,312             66,399,312
Total Assets                                      10,728,278         121,261,540            121,339,273
Deposits                                                             109,598,502            109,598,502
Total Liabilities                                    433,806         110,745,822            111,044,801
Shareholders' Equity                              10,294,472          10,493,698             10,294,472
</TABLE>


                                       2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Income Statement Data                           Company Only           Bank Only           Consolidated
- ---------------------                           ------------           ---------           ------------
<S>                                             <C>                 <C>                    <C>
Interest Income                                    $   7,395          $9,534,781             $9,534,781
Interest Expense                                     122,579           3,562,295              3,677,479
Non-Interest Expense                                 230,252           5,648,300              5,878,552
Net Income                                           886,886           1,140,603                886,886
</TABLE>


The Subsidiary Bank
- -------------------

     The Bank was chartered as a national  banking  association  in 1963 and has
its main offices located in Midlothian,  Texas. The Bank also operates seven (7)
branches in Lufkin, Hurst, Chester,  Wells, Kennard,  Whitesboro and Waxahachie,
Texas.  The Bank has filed an application  with the Office of the Comptroller of
the  Currency  (the "OCC") to change the  location of its main offices to Hurst,
Texas.  If approved,  the Bank's branch in Hurst will become the main offices of
the Bank and the Bank's offices in  Midlothian,  Texas will continue as a branch
of the Bank. The Company  anticipates  that the change of location will occur in
April 1996.

     The  services  offered by the Bank and its  branches  are  generally  those
offered by commercial banks of comparable size in their respective areas, except
that a large portion of the Bank's loan portfolio  represents  insurance premium
financing loans. Some of the major services are described below.

     COMMERCIAL  BANKING.  The Bank provides general commercial banking services
for corporate and other business  clients  located in Ellis County,  Texas,  and
through its branches located in Angelina, Tarrant, Tyler, Cherokee, Houston, and
Grayson  Counties,  Texas as a part of the  Bank's  efforts  to serve  the local
communities  in which it  operates.  These loans are  generally  made to provide
working capital, to finance the purchase of equipment,  and for the expansion of
existing  businesses.  Most loans are  secured by the assets of the  businesses,
including real estate, inventories,  receivables,  equipment and cash. Virtually
all of these  loans are also  guaranteed  by the owners of the  businesses.  The
commercial  loan  portfolio also includes a significant  amount of  agricultural
loans to farmers and  ranchers.  These loans are normally  secured by equipment,
crops, livestock, real estate and cash.

     The average yield during 1995 for the Bank's commercial  lending activities
was 11%. The Bank's  commercial  loans have maturities of twelve months or less.
The Bank also offers programs for medical claims factoring.

     CONSUMER  BANKING.  The Bank  provides  a full  range of  consumer  banking
services,  including  checking  accounts,  "NOW" and  "money  market"  accounts,
savings  programs,  installment and real estate loans,  money transfers and safe
deposit facilities.

     INSURANCE PREMIUM FINANCING. As described in greater detail below, the Bank
makes insurance premium financing loans in Texas and in other states.  See "Item
1. Business - Insurance Premium Financing."

     At December  31,  1995  approximately  29%,  39% and 33% of the Bank's loan
portfolio  represented  corporate  banking  loans,  consumer  banking  loans and
insurance premium financing loans, respectively.


                                       3
<PAGE>



Acquisitions
- ------------

         On March 22, 1993 the Bank  acquired  the Bank of East  Texas,  a Texas
banking association located in Chester,  Texas,  through a merger of the Bank of
East  Texas  with and into the  Bank.  Pursuant  to the  merger,  the Bank  paid
$645,676 to Bancwell  Financial  Corp., the sole shareholder of the Bank of East
Texas.  The purchase price was based on the book value of the Bank of East Texas
as of February 28, 1993, subject to certain agreed upon adjustments. The Company
financed the acquisition with internally-generated cash reserves.

         Additionally,  on March 22, 1993 the Bank acquired  First State Bank, a
Texas banking  association  located in Wells,  Texas,  through a merger of First
State  Bank  with and into the  Bank.  Pursuant  to the  merger,  the Bank  paid
$1,090,203 to Newell Bancshares, Inc., the sole shareholder of First State Bank.
The  purchase  price  was  based on the book  value  of First  State  Bank as of
February 28, 1993, subject to certain agreed upon adjustments.
The Company financed the acquisition with internally-generated cash reserves.

         On May 31, 1994 the Bank  acquired The Farmers  Guaranty  State Bank of
Kennard, a Texas banking association located in Kennard, Texas, through a merger
of The Farmers  Guaranty State Bank of Kennard with and into the Bank.  Pursuant
to the merger, the Bank paid the stockholders of The Farmers Guaranty State Bank
of Kennard  $1,200,000 for all of its issued and outstanding stock. The purchase
price was based on a multiple of the book value of the bank as of May 31,  1994,
subject to certain agreed upon adjustments. The Company financed the acquisition
with internally-generated cash reserves.

         On December 8, 1994 the Bank acquired  First  National Bank, a national
banking  association  located in  Whitesboro,  Texas,  through a merger of First
National  Bank with and into the Bank.  The  purchase  price was Twenty Nine and
50/100  Dollars  ($29.50)  per  share  for each of the  200,000  shares of First
National  Bank common stock issued and  outstanding  as of the  effective  date,
subject to certain agreed upon adjustments. The Company financed the acquisition
in part through a private  placement of its common stock,  pursuant to which the
Company  raised  $2,169,050,  and in  part  through  a  $1,750,000  loan  from a
financial institution.

         On September  28, 1995 the Bank  purchased  certain  assets and assumed
certain  liabilities  of the  branch of Bank One,  Texas,  National  Association
located in  Waxahachie,  Texas.  At the closing,  the Bank assumed  deposits and
other liabilities  totaling  approximately  $16,539,000.  In addition,  the Bank
acquired  certain  small  business and  consumer  loans  totaling  approximately
$933,000, certain real property,  furniture and equipment totaling approximately
$274,000,  and cash and other assets totaling approximately  $15,426,000.  After
paying a deposit  premium of two percent (2%) on the deposits  assumed  totaling
approximately $331,000, the Bank received approximately $15,419,000 in cash from
Bank One as consideration for the net deposit liabilities  assumed.  The Company
financed the acquisition with internally-generated cash reserves.

         On  February  29,  1996,   the  Company   acquired   First   Midlothian
Corporation,  a Texas bank holding company located in Midlothian,  Texas ("First
Midlothian"),  and its wholly-owned subsidiary,  First National Bank, a national
banking  association  located in Midlothian,  Texas ("First National Bank"). The
acquisition was effected  through a series of separate  transactions,  including
the merger of a newly-formed  operating subsidiary of the Bank, SCC Acquisition,
Inc.  ("SCC"),  with and into First Midlothian (the "Merger") and the subsequent
consolidation of First National Bank and the Bank under the charter and title of
"Surety Bank, National Association" (the "Consolidation").

         Pursuant to the Merger,  the Bank paid a total of $6,595,707,  of which
$5,976,000 was paid to the former  shareholders of First  Midlothian in exchange
for their shares of common stock of First Midlothian and $619,707 was applied to
the repayment in full of certain outstanding debentures of First Midlothian. The
purchase  price was  approximately  one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the book
value  of  First  National  Bank  as of the  effective  date of the  Merger.  In
connection with the Consolidation, all of the assets of First National Bank were
transferred and conveyed to the Bank and the Bank assumed all of the liabilities
of First National Bank.

                                       4
<PAGE>

         The Company  financed  the  acquisition  through an  $8,000,000  firmly
underwritten  public offering of its shares of common stock which closed in late
February 1996.  Upon  completion of the public  offering,  Surety made a capital
contribution  in the  amount of  $4,000,000  to the Bank to  enable  the Bank to
consummate the acquisition.

     Effective March 15, 1996, the Bank acquired all of the assets,  and assumed
certain of the  liabilities in the approximate  amount of $50,000,  of Providers
Funding  Corporation  ("PFC"), a Dallas-based  medical claims servicing company,
for a purchase  price of $1,000,000.  Prior to its  acquisition by the Bank, PFC
administered the medical receivables factored by the Bank. See "Item 1. Business
- - Medical Receivables Factoring." The purchase price was paid by the Bank by the
cancellation of the outstanding  principal of, and accrued  interest on, certain
indebtedness  of PFC to the Bank in the  approximate  amount of $650,000 and the
balance  in the form of cash.  In  connection  with  the  acquisition,  the Bank
entered into separate  non-competition and  confidentiality  agreements with the
three  former  principals  of PFC,  pursuant to which the  Company  collectively
granted to such  individuals  25,398  shares of Common  Stock of the  Company in
consideration  for their covenants and agreements set forth in such  agreements.
The Company financed the acquisition with internally-generated cash reserves. As
a result of this  acquisition,  the Bank will, in addition to factoring  medical
receivables,  also engage in the  servicing and  processing of such  receivables
through a  separate  division  of the Bank.  PFC's  former  president,  Barry T.
Carroll, has joined the Bank to head up the division.

Insurance Premium Financing
- ---------------------------

          Insurance  premium  financing  involves lending money to purchasers of
property  and  casualty  insurance  (the  "insureds")  for the  payment of their
insurance premiums.  This is an established type of lending, which has typically
been provided by special purpose  subsidiaries of major insurance  companies and
by finance companies.  Insurance premium financing is generally considered a low
risk form of lending for three reasons:

      1.  Approximately 25% of the annual premium must be paid by the insured at
          the  time  the  insurance  is  purchased,  so the  amount  of the loan
          represents only approximately 75% of the annual insurance premium.

      2.  At any date  before  the end of the  policy  term,  a  portion  of the
          premium is not yet earned  because it applies to the period  from that
          date to the end of the policy term. This unearned  premium is refunded
          if the  policy is  canceled  before the end of the  policy  term.  The
          amount of the premium  financed is  generally  payable  over the first
          nine months of the policy's term, so the unearned  premium exceeds the
          outstanding balance of the loan and will repay the loan in full if the
          policy is canceled before the end of the policy term.

      3.  Even though the insured is  responsible  for  repayment of the premium
          finance  loan, if the insured does not make the loan payments on time,
          the lender has the right to cancel  the  policy  (after  notice to the
          insured) and to receive the entire amount of the unearned premium from
          the  insurance  carrier.  The  unearned  premium is usually  more than
          enough to repay the  entire  balance  of the loan,  including  accrued
          interest.

                                       5
<PAGE>

      The Company has engaged in insurance  premium  finance lending since 1986,
and the  business  has grown in terms of volume and  outstanding  loan  balances
since that time.  Since its acquisition in 1989, the Bank has made all insurance
premium  financing loans.  The following table shows the outstanding  balance of
premium finance loans at the end of each of the years indicated:

                                               Gross Loans
                               Year            Outstanding
                               ----            -----------
                               1989            $ 4,682,321
                               1990              7,061,880
                               1991              8,265,490
                               1992              7,267,889
                               1993             14,518,680
                               1994             20,931,642
                               1995             22,409,356

         The  typical  insurance  premium  finance  loan has a nine month  life.
Because of the need to bill policy holders and to promptly  cancel policies when
loan payments are not received in a timely fashion, this product requires highly
sophisticated data processing systems. Over the past several years, the Bank has
developed  a  customized  computer  system,  and has  established  a variety  of
policies and procedures that allow it to handle,  on an integrated basis, all of
the administrative  aspects of this business. The Bank's computer system handles
the preparation of loan documents, billing of insureds,  preparation of notices,
calculation and billing of late charges,  notification of policy  cancellations,
and preparation of premium rebate requests to insurance  companies when a policy
is canceled.

         The  insurance  premium  finance  division,  which  is  headed  by G.M.
Heinzelmann,  III, is staffed by ten people and is housed in the Bank's  offices
in  Hurst,  Texas.  Three of the  employees  of the  insurance  premium  finance
division  devote  all of their time to  developing  and  maintaining  the Bank's
relationships  with both  insurance  companies  and  insurance  brokers.  At the
present time the Bank has active  relationships with approximately 400 insurance
companies  and  approximately  3,000  insurance  agents.   These  parties  refer
insurance  purchasers who request financing to the Bank,  although in most cases
the relationships are not exclusive.

         A majority of the insurance premiums are financed by the Bank relate to
commercial property and casualty policies.  Since the premiums on these policies
can be quite high, many businesses prefer to pay the premiums over the course of
the policy life rather than to pay the entire  premium at the time the policy is
purchased.

         Since the Bank relies on a rebate of the unearned premium as collateral
to pay off defaulted  insurance  premium loans, the Bank evaluates the financial
strength  of the  insurance  company as well as the  insured.  In order to avoid
excessive concentrations, the Bank limits the dollar amount of premium financing
for policies written by any single insurance company.  The Bank's current policy
limits  the  aggregate  loans  related to any  single  insurance  company or any
insurance  syndicate  to a maximum of 35% of the Bank's  capital.  The 35% limit
applies only to insurance companies rated "A" or better by A. M. Best & Company,
Inc. ("Best"),  and to certain unrated insurance  organizations which the Bank's
management has  determined to be financially  strong.  Lower  percentage  limits
apply to  insurance  companies  which have ratings of less than "A" from Best or
are not rated by Best. For example,  the aggregate  premium loans related to any
insurance  entity that is not rated by Best and is not admitted in Texas may not
exceed 10% of the Bank's capital unless the Bank's board of directors authorizes
a higher  limit based on a review of the  insurer,  principally  concerning  its
financial strength.


                                       6
<PAGE>

         Best is the most widely recognized rater of insurance  companies in the
United  States.  Best only rates  companies  that have been in business for five
years, and these companies are rated using the following system:

             A++, A+       Superior
             A, A-         Excellent
             B++, B+       Very Good
             B, B-         Adequate
             C++,C+        Fair
             C, C-         Marginal

         In  addition  to these six  ratings,  Best has a variety of ratings for
companies for which the standard  ratings are not applicable.  These  additional
ratings simply indicate the reason no rating is assigned and are not necessarily
qualitative assessments.  The following table provides a breakdown of the Bank's
insurance  premium  financing  loans  outstanding as of December 31, 1995 by the
type and, where applicable, the rating of the entity providing the insurance:


Insurance companies rated "A++, A+, A or A-" by Best .................    57.1%

Insurance companies rated "B++, B+, B or B-" by Best .................     8.1%

Texas Workers Compensation Insurance Fund ............................    11.8%

Insurance syndicates operating through established insurance exchanges     6.8%

Non-rated insurance companies admitted in Texas ......................    13.1%

Non-rated insurance companies not admitted in Texas ..................     3.1%
                                                                         ------

Total ................................................................   100.0%
                                                                         ====== 

         Management  believes the  structure  of these loans  results in limited
credit  losses.  The Bank may incur  losses  in its  insurance  premium  finance
business  for a number of  reasons,  including  fraud,  refusal of an  insurance
company to refund a premium,  insurance company insolvency,  failure of the Bank
to  properly  notify an  insurance  company of the Bank's  interest  in unearned
premiums under  applicable law and other reasons.  The Bank's loss experience on
insurance premium finance lending was adversely  affected during the second half
of 1991 by the failure of a non-rated  insurance  company.  Since 1991, the Bank
has limited its exposure to non-rated  companies,  as described  above,  and has
experienced  no net  credit  losses on  premium  financing  loans.  See "Item 7.
Management's  Discussion  and  Analysis of Financial  Conditions  and Results of
Operations - Allowance for Credit Losses."

Medical Receivables Factoring
- -----------------------------

         The Bank has  engaged  in medical  receivables  factoring  since  1990.
Medical receivables  factoring involves the purchase of accounts receivable from
doctors,  hospitals,  and  other  health  care  organizations.   These  accounts
receivable are due principally  from major insurance  companies and governmental
agencies, and are purchased by the Bank at a price equal to approximately 50% to
60% of their face  amount.  When the  receivable  is paid the Bank  retains  the
purchase  price  it paid  for  the  receivables  plus a  discount  factor  and a
servicing  fee. The  remaining  balance of the payment is paid to the party from
which the receivable was initially purchased.

                                       7
<PAGE>

         The turnover in the Bank's medical  receivables  portfolio is rapid and
is  attributable  to  each  factored   receivable  having  an  average  life  of
approximately nine weeks.  During the year ended December 31, 1995, the yield on
the funds committed to this activity was 17.2%.  During 1995, the administration
of the medical receivables was handled by Providers Funding Corporation ("PFC"),
a company  which  specialized  in the  acquisition  and  processing  of  medical
receivables.  PFC developed specialized computer systems to automate much of the
administration  of the  medical  receivables.  In  addition  to a review  of the
receivables  conducted  by PFC, the Bank had two  employees  conduct a secondary
review  of the  receivables  to make sure  that  they met the  Bank's  criteria.
Effective  March 15, 1996,  the Bank  acquired  PFC,  which is now operated as a
division of the Bank and now conducts in-house the acquisition and processing of
medical receivables.

         The Bank has experienced no losses in its medical receivables factoring
business  since the Bank began this type of lending in 1990.  However,  the Bank
could incur losses in its medical receivables factoring business for a number of
reasons,  including  fraud  and the  failure  of the  insurance  company  or the
government  agency to pay the receivable for any reason.  The Bank generally has
no recourse against the health care provider for payment of a medical receivable
which is not otherwise paid,  although the Bank generally obtains and perfects a
security  interest in all medical  receivables  of that health care  provider to
secure payment of the receivables.  Therefore,  payments on any other receivable
in excess of the balance  due the Bank  regarding  that  receivable  may,  under
certain circumstances,  be applied to an unpaid receivable.  Medical receivables
factoring,  like insurance premium  financing,  is a specialty type of financing
which provides high yields and requires  specialized  expertise and systems. The
Bank considers the market for this type of financing to be relatively broad, and
to extend beyond the local markets served by its branches.

Competition
- -----------

         There is significant competition among banks and bank holding companies
in Angelina,  Tarrant,  Tyler, Cherokee,  Houston,  Ellis, and Grayson Counties,
Texas,  and the Bank  believes that such  competition  among such banks and bank
holding companies, many of which have far greater assets and financial resources
than the Bank, will continue to increase in the future. The Bank also encounters
intense competition in its commercial and consumer banking business from savings
and loan associations,  credit unions, factors, insurance companies,  commercial
and captive finance companies, and certain other types of financial institutions
located in other major  metropolitan  areas in the United States,  many of which
are larger in terms of capital,  resources and personnel. The casualty insurance
premium finance business of the Bank is also very  competitive.  Large insurance
companies offer their own financing plans, and other independent premium finance
companies and other  financial  institutions  offer  insurance  premium  finance
loans.

Employees
- ---------

         As of  December  31,  1995 the Company and the Bank had ninety two (92)
full-time  employees and two (2) part-time  employees.  None of the Company's or
Bank's  employees  are subject to a  collective  bargaining  agreement,  and the
Company and the Bank believes that their respective employee relations are good.


                                       8
<PAGE>

SUPERVISION AND REGULATION

General
- -------

         The Company and the Bank are subject to the generally  applicable state
and federal laws governing  businesses  and employers.  The Company and the Bank
are  further  extensively  regulated  by  special  state  and  federal  laws and
regulations   applicable  only  to  financial   institutions  and  their  parent
companies.  Virtually all aspects of the Company's and the Bank's operations are
subject  to  specific   requirements  or  restrictions  and  general  regulatory
oversight, from laws regulating consumer finance transactions, such as the Truth
in  Lending  Act,  the  Home  Mortgage  Disclosure  Act  and  the  Equal  Credit
Opportunity Act, to laws regulating collections and confidentiality, such as the
Fair Debt Collection  Practices Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the Right
to Financial  Privacy Act. With few  exceptions,  state and federal banking laws
have as their  principal  objective  either  the  maintenance  of the safety and
soundness of financial  institutions and the federal deposit insurance system or
the  protection of consumers or classes of  consumers,  rather than the specific
protection of shareholders of the Company.

         To  the  extent  the  following   discussion   describes  statutory  or
regulatory  provisions,  it is  qualified  in its  entirety by  reference to the
particular statute or regulation.  Any change in applicable laws, regulations or
policies of various  regulatory  authorities  may have a material  effect on the
business,  operations  and prospects of the Company and the Bank. The Company is
unable to predict  the nature or the extent of the  effects on its  business  or
earnings that fiscal or monetary  policies,  economic  control or new federal or
state legislation may have in the future.

Federal Bank Holding Company Regulation
- ---------------------------------------

         The  Company is a bank  holding  company  within the meaning of the BHC
Act, and  therefore is subject to  regulation  and  supervision  by the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "FRB").  The Company is required to
file reports with, and to furnish such other information as, the FRB may require
pursuant to the BHC Act, and to subject  itself to  examination  by the FRB. The
FRB has the  authority to issue  orders to bank  holding  companies to cease and
desist from unsound banking  practices and violations of conditions  imposed by,
or violations of agreements  with,  the FRB. The FRB is also empowered to assess
civil monetary  penalties  against  companies or individuals who violate the BHC
Act or orders or  regulations  thereunder,  to order  termination of non-banking
activities of non-banking  subsidiaries of bank holding companies,  and to order
termination  of  ownership  and control of a  non-banking  subsidiary  by a bank
holding company.  Certain violations may also result in criminal penalties.  The
OCC is authorized to exercise comparable authority with respect to the Bank.

         The FRB takes the position  that a bank holding  company is required to
serve as a source of financial and managerial  strength to its subsidiary  banks
and may not conduct its operations in an unsafe or unsound manner.  In addition,
it is the  FRB's  position  that,  in  serving  as a source of  strength  to its
subsidiary  banks,  a bank holding  company  should stand ready to use available
resources  to provide  adequate  capital  funds to its  subsidiary  banks during
periods of financial  stress or  adversity  and should  maintain  the  financial
flexibility  and  capital-raising  capacity to obtain  additional  resources for
assisting its  subsidiary  banks. A bank holding  company's  failure to meet its
obligations  to serve as a source  of  strength  to its  subsidiary  banks  will
generally be considered by the FRB to be an unsafe and unsound banking  practice
or a violation of the FRB regulations or both. This doctrine has become known as
the "source of strength" doctrine. In addition, statutory changes in the Federal
Deposit  Insurance  Act  (the  "FDIA")  made by the  Federal  Deposit  Insurance
Corporation  Improvement  Act of 1991 ("FDICIA") now require the holding company
parent of an  undercapitalized  bank to  guarantee,  up to certain  limits,  the
bank's compliance with a capital restoration plan approved by the bank's primary
federal supervisory agency.

                                       9
<PAGE>

         The  BHC Act  and  the  Change  in  Bank  Control  Act,  together  with
regulations  promulgated by the FRB,  require that,  depending on the particular
circumstances,  either FRB approval must be obtained or notice must be furnished
to the FRB  and  not  disapproved  prior  to any  person  or  company  acquiring
"control" of a bank  holding  company,  such as the Company,  subject to certain
exemptions for certain  transactions.  Control is conclusively presumed to exist
if an  individual  or  company  acquires  25% or more  of any  class  of  voting
securities of the bank holding company.  Control is rebuttably presumed to exist
if a  person  acquires  10% or more but less  than  25% of any  class of  voting
securities and either the company has registered  securities under Section 12 of
the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,  or no other person will own a
greater  percentage  of that class of voting  securities  immediately  after the
transaction. The regulations provide a procedure for challenge of the rebuttable
control  presumption.  Control is rebuttably  presumed not to exist if a company
acquires  less  than 5% of any class of  voting  securities  of a bank or a bank
holding company.

         As a bank holding  company,  the Company is required to obtain approval
prior to merging or consolidating with any other bank holding company, acquiring
all or  substantially  all of the assets of any bank or  acquiring  ownership or
control of shares of a bank or bank holding  company if, after the  acquisition,
the Company would directly or indirectly own or control 5% or more of the voting
shares of such bank or bank holding company.

         The  Company is also  prohibited  from  acquiring  a direct or indirect
interest in or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company which
is not a bank or bank holding  company and from engaging  directly or indirectly
in  activities  other than those of banking,  managing or  controlling  banks or
furnishing  services to its subsidiary  banks,  except that it may engage in and
may own shares of companies engaged in certain activities found by the FRB to be
so  closely  related to banking or  managing  and  controlling  banks as to be a
proper incident thereto.  These activities  include,  among others,  operating a
mortgage,  finance,  credit card, or factoring company;  performing certain data
processing  operations;  providing investment and financial advice; acting as an
insurance agent for certain types of credit-related insurance;  leasing personal
property on a  full-payout,  non-operating  basis;  and providing  certain stock
brokerage and investment  advisory  services.  In approving  acquisitions or the
addition  of  activities,  the FRB  considers  whether  the  acquisition  or the
additional  activities  can  reasonably  be expected to produce  benefits to the
public,  such  as  greater  convenience,  increased  competition,  or  gains  in
efficiency,  that outweigh such possible adverse effects as undue  concentration
of resources, decreased or unfair competition,  conflicts of interest or unsound
banking practices. In considering any application for approval of an acquisition
or merger,  the FRB is also required to consider the  financial  and  managerial
resources of the companies and the banks  concerned,  as well as the applicant's
record of compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (the "CRA").

         As of  December  31,  1995,  the  Riegle-Neal  Interstate  Banking  and
Branching  Act  of  1994  (the  "Interstate   Banking  Act")  allows  adequately
capitalized  and managed bank holding  companies to acquire  banks in any state,
regardless of whether the  acquisition  would be prohibited by applicable  state
law. An  out-of-state  bank  holding  company  seeking to acquire  ownership  or
control of a Texas  state  bank,  a national  bank  located in Texas or any bank
holding company owning or controlling a state bank or a national bank located in
Texas  must  obtain  the  prior  approval  of  both  the  FRB  and  the  Banking
Commissioner  of Texas.  In addition,  under the Interstate  Banking Act, a bank
holding  company  and its  insured  depository  institution  affiliates  may not
complete an  acquisition  which would cause it to control more than 10% of total
deposits in insured depository institutions nationwide or to control 30% or more
of total deposits in insured  depository  institutions  in the home state of the
target  bank.  However,  state  deposit  concentration  caps  adopted by various
states,  such as Texas,  which limit control of in-state  insured  deposits to a
greater extent than the Interstate  Banking Act will be given effect.  Texas has
adopted  a  deposit  concentration  cap  of 25% of  in-state  insured  deposits;
therefore,  the Texas state deposit  concentration  cap will lower the otherwise
applicable 30% federal deposit concentration cap. Additionally, state provisions
regarding  the minimum  years the target has been in existence  will be honored;
provided, however, acquisitions may be approved when the target bank has been in
existence  for at least five  years,  notwithstanding  state  provisions  to the
contrary. The minimum age provision adopted by Texas is five years and therefore
this provision will not be preempted by the federal provision.

                                       10
<PAGE>

         The  Interstate  Banking  Act will  also  allow  out-of-state  branches
through  interstate  mergers  commencing  June 1, 1997,  provided that each bank
involved  in the  merger is  adequately  capitalized  and  managed.  States  are
permitted, however, to pass legislation either providing for earlier approval of
mergers with out-of-state  banks or "opting-out" of interstate mergers entirely,
provided such legislation  applies equally to all out-of-state  banks. Texas has
passed  legislation to "opt out" of interstate  mergers entirely until 1999. The
Interstate  Banking  Act also  provides  for  interstate  mergers  involving  an
out-of-state  bank's  acquisition  of a branch of an insured  bank  without  the
acquisition  of the entire bank, if permitted  under the laws of the state where
the branch is  located.  The  deposit  concentration  caps and the  minimum  age
provisions  applicable to interstate bank  acquisitions also apply to interstate
bank mergers.

         The  Interstate  Banking Act also  provides  for de novo  branches in a
state  if  that  state  expressly  elects  to  permit  de  novo  branching  on a
non-discriminatory  basis. A "de novo branch" is defined as a branch office of a
national or state bank that is originally  established  as a branch and does not
become  a  branch  as  a  result  of  an  acquisition,   conversion,  merger  or
consolidation.  De novo  interstate  branching is subject to the same conditions
applicable to interstate  mergers under the  Interstate  Banking Act, other than
deposit concentration limits.

         The Bank is subject  to  certain  limitations  on  transactions  by and
between  the Bank and other banks and  non-bank  companies  in the same  holding
company  structure,  including  limitations  on extensions of credit  (including
guarantees  of loans)  by the Bank to  affiliates,  investments  in the stock or
other  securities  of the  Company  by the Bank,  and the  nature  and amount of
collateral  that the Bank may accept from any affiliate to secure loans extended
to the affiliate.  The Company,  as an affiliate of the Bank, is also subject to
these restrictions. Additionally, under the BHC Act and the FRB's regulations, a
bank  holding  company and its  subsidiaries  are  prohibited  from  engaging in
certain tie-in arrangements in connection with any extension of credit, lease or
sale of property or furnishing of services.

National Bank Regulation
- ------------------------

         The Bank is a national banking  association and therefore is subject to
regulation, supervision and examination by the OCC. The Bank is also a member of
the FRB and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC"). Requirements
and  restrictions  under the laws of the United States  include the  requirement
that reserves be maintained against deposits, restrictions on the nature and the
amount of loans which can be made,  restrictions  on the business  activities in
which  a  bank  may  engage,   restrictions  on  the  payment  of  dividends  to
shareholders,  and  minimum  capital  requirements.  See  "Item 7.  Management's
Discussion  and  Analysis of  Financial  Condition  and Results of  Operations -
Capital Resources".  As discussed above, the OCC has enforcement  authority over
the Bank that is similar  to that of the FRB with  respect  to the  Company.  In
addition,  upon making certain  determinations  with respect to the condition of
any insured  national bank,  such as the Bank, the FDIC may begin to terminate a
bank's federal deposit insurance.

         There are certain statutory  limitations on the payment of dividends by
national banks. Without approval of the OCC, dividends may not be paid in excess
of a bank's total net profits for that year,  plus its retained  profits for the
preceding  two  years,  less any  required  transfers  to  capital  surplus.  In
addition,  a national  bank may not pay  dividends  in excess of total  retained
profits,  including  current year's earnings.  In some cases, the OCC may find a
dividend  payment  that meets these  statutory  requirements  to be an unsafe or
unsound practice.

                                       11
<PAGE>

         Federal and Texas state laws generally limit the amount of interest and
fees  which  lenders,  including  the Bank,  may  charge  regarding  loans.  The
applicable law, and the applicable  limits, may vary depending upon, among other
things, the identity, nature and location of the lender, and the type of loan or
collateral. In Texas, the maximum interest rate applicable to most loans changes
with changes in the average auction rate for United States  Treasury Bills,  but
does not decline below 18% or rise above 24% (except for certain loans in excess
of $250,000 for which the maximum annual rate may not rise above 28%).  However,
the  interest  which may be  charged on an  insurance  premium  finance  loan is
regulated  by the  Texas  State  Board of  Insurance.  See "Item 1.  Business  -
Insurance Premium Financing".

         National banks  domiciled in Texas are permitted to engage in unlimited
branch  banking,  subject  to the prior  approval  of the OCC to  establish  any
branch.

         Banks  are   affected  by  the  credit   policies  of  other   monetary
authorities, including the FRB, which affect the national supply of bank credit.
Such policies influence overall growth of bank loans, investments,  and deposits
and may also affect  interest  rates charged on loans and paid on deposits.  The
monetary  policies  of the FRB have had a  significant  effect on the  operating
results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue to do so in
the future.

         FDICIA requires the OCC to take "prompt corrective action" with respect
to any national bank which does not meet specified minimum capital requirements.
The  applicable   regulations  establish  five  capital  levels,   ranging  from
"well-capitalized" to "critically  undercapitalized,"  and require or permit the
OCC to take supervisory  action regarding any national bank that is not at least
"adequately  capitalized."  Under  these  regulations,  which  became  effective
December 19, 1992, a national bank is considered "well  capitalized" if it has a
total risk-based  capital ratio of 10% or greater,  a Tier I risk-based  capital
ratio of 6% or greater,  and a leverage  ratio of 5% or  greater,  and it is not
subject to an order,  written agreement,  capital directive or prompt corrective
action  directive to meet and maintain a specific  capital level for any capital
measure.  A national bank is  considered  "adequately  capitalized"  if it has a
total  risk-based  capital ratio of 8% or greater,  a Tier I risk-based  capital
ratio and leverage  ratio of 4% or greater (or a leverage ratio of 3% or greater
if  the  institution  is  rated  composite  1  in  its  most  recent  report  of
examination,  subject to appropriate federal banking agency guidelines), and the
institution does not meet the definition of an undercapitalized  institution.  A
national  bank is  considered  "undercapitalized"  if it has a total  risk-based
capital  ratio of less than 8%, a Tier I risk-based  capital  ratio of less than
4%, or a leverage  ratio of less than 4% (or a leverage ratio of less than 3% if
the  institution is rated  composite 1 in its most recent report of examination,
subject to appropriate  federal  banking agency  guidelines).  A  "significantly
undercapitalized"  institution is one which has a total risk-based capital ratio
of less  than 6%,  a Tier I  risk-based  capital  ratio  of less  than 3%,  or a
leverage ratio of less than 3%. A "critically  undercapitalized"  institution is
one which  has a ratio of  tangible  equity to total  assets of equal to or less
than 2%.

         With certain exceptions,  national banks will be prohibited from making
capital  distributions  or  paying  management  fees  if  the  payment  of  such
distributions or fees will cause them to become  undercapitalized.  Furthermore,
undercapitalized  national  banks will be required to file  capital  restoration
plans  with the OCC.  Undercapitalized  national  banks  will also be subject to
restrictions  on growth,  acquisitions,  branching  and engaging in new lines of
business unless they have an approved capital plan that permits  otherwise.  The
OCC may also, among other things,  require an undercapitalized  national bank to
issue shares or obligations,  which could be voting stock,  to recapitalize  the
institution or, under certain circumstances, to divest itself of any subsidiary.


                                       12
<PAGE>

         The OCC is authorized to take various  enforcement  actions against any
significantly  undercapitalized  national bank and any undercapitalized national
bank that fails to submit an  acceptable  capital  restoration  plan or fails to
implement a plan  accepted by the OCC. The powers  include,  among other things,
requiring  the  institution  to  be  recapitalized,  prohibiting  asset  growth,
restricting   interest   rates  paid,   requiring   prior  approval  of  capital
distributions  by any bank  holding  company  which  controls  the  institution,
requiring  divestiture by the institution of its  subsidiaries or by the holding
company of the institution  itself,  requiring a new election of directors,  and
requiring the dismissal of directors and officers.

         Significantly  and  critically  undercapitalized  national banks may be
subject to more extensive control and supervision. The OCC may prohibit any such
institutions  from, among other things,  entering into any material  transaction
not in the ordinary  course of business,  amending their charters or bylaws,  or
engaging  in certain  transactions  with  affiliates.  In  addition,  critically
undercapitalized  institutions generally will be prohibited from making payments
of principal or interest on outstanding  subordinated  debt.  Within ninety (90)
days of a national bank's  becoming  critically  undercapitalized,  the OCC must
appoint a receiver or conservator  unless certain findings are made with respect
to the prospect for the institution's continued viability.

         Based on its  capital  ratios as of  December  31,  1995,  the Bank was
classified as "well capitalized" under the applicable  regulations.  The Company
does not believe that FDICIA's prompt  corrective  action  regulations will have
any material effect on the activities or operations of the Bank. However, if the
Bank were to become  undercapitalized and these restrictions were to be imposed,
the  restrictions,  either  individually  or in  the  aggregate,  could  have  a
significant  adverse effect on the operations of the Bank, and, as a result, the
ability of the Company to pay  dividends on the Common Stock or service any cash
flow needs.

Deposit Insurance
- -----------------

         As an FDIC member  institution,  the deposits of the Bank are currently
insured to a maximum of $100,000 per depositor  through the Bank  Insurance Fund
("BIF"), administered by the FDIC.

         FDICIA  requires the FDIC to  establish a schedule to increase  (over a
period  of not more  than 15  years)  the  reserve  ratio of the BIF to 1.25% of
insured deposits,  and impose higher deposit insurance  premiums of BIF members,
if necessary,  to achieve that ratio.  Generally,  banks are assessed  insurance
premiums  according  to how much risk they are deemed to  present  to BIF.  Such
premiums ranged from 0.23% of insured  deposits to 0.31% of insured  deposits in
1994 and 1995.  Banks with higher  levels of capital and which have earned a low
degree of supervisory  concern are assessed lower premiums than banks with lower
levels of capital or a higher  degree of  supervisory  concern.  During 1994 and
most of 1995 the Bank was assessed at the rate of $0.23 per $100 of deposits. On
August 8, 1995, the FDIC Board of Directors  voted to  significantly  reduce the
deposit  insurance  premium paid by most banks but to keep  existing  assessment
rates intact for savings associations.  Under the new rate structure, which went
into effect in October 1995, the highest rated  institutions  insured by BIF pay
$0.04 per $100 of domestic  deposits.  Based on the risk category  applicable to
the Bank, the premium paid by the Bank is presently $.04 per $100 of deposit. On
November 14, 1995, the FDIC announced that commencing in 1996 it would eliminate
insurance deposit premiums for all but the banks warranting the highest level of
supervisory concern.


                                       13
<PAGE>

Internal Operating Requirements
- -------------------------------

         FDICIA contains  numerous other  provisions,  including new accounting,
auditing and reporting requirements,  the termination (beginning in 1995) of the
"too big to fail" doctrine except in special cases, new regulatory  standards in
areas such as asset quality,  earnings and compensation  and revised  regulatory
standards for the powers of state chartered  banks,  real estate  lending,  bank
closures and capital adequacy.

Community Reinvestment Act of 1977
- ----------------------------------

         Under the CRA, a bank's applicable  regulatory  authority (which is the
OCC for the Bank) is required to assess the record of each financial institution
which it regulates to determine if the institution meets the credit needs of its
entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods served by the
institution,  and to take that  record  into  account in its  evaluation  of any
application made by such  institution  for, among other things,  approval of the
acquisition or  establishment of a branch or other deposit  facility,  an office
relocation,  a merger,  or the acquisition of shares of capital stock of another
financial institution. The regulatory authority prepares a written evaluation of
an institution's  record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community and
assigns a rating. The Bank has undertaken significant actions to comply with the
CRA, and has received a "satisfactory" commendation in its most recent review by
federal  regulators with respect to its compliance with the CRA. Both the United
States Congress and the banking regulatory authorities have proposed substantial
changes to the CRA and fair lending laws, rules and  regulations,  and there can
be no certainty as to the effect,  if any,  that any such changes  would have on
the Bank.

Capital Adequacy Guidelines
- ---------------------------

         Capital management consists of providing equity to support both current
and future operations.  The Company is subject to capital adequacy  requirements
issued by the FRB,  and the Bank is subject to similar  requirements  imposed by
the OCC.

         Specifically,  the various federal bank regulatory agencies,  including
the FRB and the OCC, have adopted risk-based capital  requirements for assessing
bank holding company and bank capital  adequacy.  These standards define capital
and establish minimum capital requirements in relation to assets and off-balance
sheet  exposure,  adjusted for credit risk.  The  risk-based  capital  standards
currently in effect are designed to make regulatory  capital  requirements  more
sensitive to differences in risk profile among bank holding companies and banks,
to account for  off-balance  sheet  exposure and to minimize  disincentives  for
holding liquid assets.  Assets and off-balance sheet items are assigned to broad
risk  categories,  each with  appropriate  relative risk weights.  The resulting
capital ratios represent capital as a percentage of total  risk-weighted  assets
and  off-balance  sheet items.  On September 14, 1993, the FRB together with the
FDIC and the OCC jointly  proposed new rules  implementing an interest rate risk
("IRR") component to the risk-based  standards as required by FDICIA. The effect
the proposed IRR rule will have on the Bank's risk-based  capital  requirements,
if any, cannot be determined until the rule is finalized.

         The minimum standard for the ratio of capital to  risk-weighted  assets
(including  certain  off-balance sheet  obligations,  such as standby letters of
credit) is 8%. At least half of the  risk-based  capital  must consist of common
equity,  retained  earnings,  and qualifying  perpetual  preferred  stock,  less
deductions for goodwill and various other  intangibles  ("Tier I capital").  The
remainder may consist of a limited amount of subordinated  debt,  certain hybrid
capital  instruments and other debt  securities,  preferred stock, and a limited
amount of the general valuation allowance for credit losses ("Tier II capital").
The sum of Tier I capital and Tier II capital is "total risk-based capital."


                                       14
<PAGE>

         The FRB (for the  Company) and the OCC (for the Bank) have also adopted
guidelines  which  supplement the risk-based  capital  guidelines with a minimum
leverage ratio of Tier I capital to average total consolidated assets ("leverage
ratio") of 3% for  institutions  with well  diversified risk (including no undue
interest rate exposure; excellent asset quality; high liquidity; good earnings);
that  are  generally  considered  to  be  strong  banking  organizations  (rated
composite 1 under applicable federal guidelines);  and that are not experiencing
or anticipating  significant growth. Other banking organizations are required to
maintain a leverage ratio of at least 4% to 5%. These rules further provide that
banking  organizations  experiencing internal growth or making acquisitions will
be  expected  to  maintain  capital  positions  substantially  above the minimum
supervisory  levels and comparable to peer group averages,  without  significant
reliance on intangible  assets. The FRB continues to consider a "tangible Tier I
leverage ratio" in evaluating proposals for expanding activities by bank holding
companies.  The  tangible  Tier I  leverage  ratio  is the  ratio  of a  banking
organization's  Tier  I  capital  (less  deductions  for  intangibles  otherwise
includable in Tier I capital) to total tangible assets.

         As of December 31, 1995, the Company's Tier I risk-based  capital ratio
was 10.76%, its total risk-based capital ratio was 11.72% and its leverage ratio
was 6.9%, which equaled or exceeded the federal minimum regulatory requirements.

         Bank  regulators may raise capital  requirements  applicable to banking
organizations  beyond current levels.  However, the Company is unable to predict
whether higher capital  requirements  will be imposed and, if so, at what levels
and on what  schedules,  and  therefore  cannot  predict what effect such higher
requirements may have on the Company and the Bank.

     For an  analysis  of the  Company's  and the Bank's  capital,  see "Item 7.
Management's  Discussion  and  Analysis of  Financial  Condition  and Results of
Operations - Capital Resources."


ITEM 4A. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE CORPORATION.

         The executive officers of the Corporation, each elected to serve at the
pleasure of the Board of Directors until the next annual meeting of the Board of
Directors to be held on June 12, 1996,  their respective ages, and their present
position with the Corporation are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                              Position With                             Position
           Name           Age                  Corporation                             Held Since
           ----           ---                  -----------                             ----------
<S>                       <C>    <C>                                                  <C>
C. Jack Bean              67     Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director       March 1987
Bobby W. Hackler          49     Senior Vice President, Secretary and Director        January 1992
G. M. Heinzelmann, III    33     President and Director                                 July 1992
B.J. Curley               31     Chief Financial Officer and Vice President           October 1995
</TABLE>


                                       15
<PAGE>

     The business experience of each of these executive officers during the past
five (5) years is set forth below:

     C. Jack Bean has been  Chairman  of the Board and a director of the Company
since March 1987, and served as President of the Company from March 1987 to July
1992.  Mr.  Bean was the  owner  and  founder  of Surety  Finance  Company,  the
predecessor  company to the Company's  business,  from 1985 until March 1987. He
has served as Chairman  of the Board and a director  of the Bank since  December
1989.

     Bobby W.  Hackler has been  Senior  Vice  President  and  Secretary  of the
Company since January 1992. He served as Chief Financial  Officer of the Company
from January 1992 to October  1995. He has served as President of the Bank since
February 1994, as Chief Executive  Officer of the Bank since July 1992, and as a
director of the Bank since December 1990. Mr. Hackler  previously  served as the
Bank's Chief  Operating  Officer  from January 1992 to July 1992,  as its Senior
Vice President and Controller  from March 1991 to December 1991, and as its Vice
President and Controller from January 1990 to March 1991.

     G. M.  Heinzelmann,  III has been  President of the Company since July 1992
and a director  of the Company  since July 1993.  He  previously  served as Vice
President of the Company from May 1987 to July 1992. Mr.  Heinzelmann has served
as Executive  Vice  President and a director of the Bank since December 1989 and
as Manager  of the  Insurance  Premium  Finance  Division  of the  Company,  and
subsequently  the  Bank,  since  May  1987.  He has also  served  as  Secretary,
Treasurer and a director of Brian Capital,  Inc., a non-operating  publicly held
corporation, since November 1988.

     B.J. Curley has served as the Company's  Chief  Financial  Officer and Vice
President  since  October  1995.  Since  December  1994 he has  served  as Chief
Financial  Officer and Senior Vice  President of the Bank and since May 1993 has
served as the Bank's Controller.  Prior to May 1993, he served as controller for
Environmental Engineering & Geotechnics.

     No family relationships exist among the executive officers and directors of
the Corporation,  except as follows:  G. M.  Heinzelmann,  III,  President and a
director of the  Company,  is the  son-in-law  of C. Jack Bean,  Chairman of the
Board of the Company.


ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

         The Bank has  eight  banking  facilities.  The  Bank's  main  office is
currently  located in Midlothian,  Texas, and the Bank's branches are located in
Lufkin, Hurst, Chester, Wells, Kennard, Whitesboro and Waxahachie, Texas.

         The Lufkin facility is located in a two-story  building  located at 600
South First Street,  Lufkin, Texas 75901. This building and the underlying tract
of land are owned by the Bank. The building includes approximately 10,000 square
feet of office  space.  A detached  motor bank  facility is also  located on the
land.

         The Hurst banking facility is located at 1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite
100,  Hurst,  Texas  76054.  The  Company  and  a  branch  of  the  Bank  occupy
approximately 13,000 square feet of leased space in a two-story building under a
lease dated February 14, 1994 for a term of five years and ten months  beginning
March 1, 1994 and ending on December 31, 1999. The Bank is on a graduated  lease
payment schedule as follows:


                                       16
<PAGE>


                 Period                        Monthly Rent
                 ------                        ------------
        01-01-96 to 12-31-96                    $9,110.33
        01-01-97 to 12-31-98                    $9,521.08
        01-01-99 to 12-31-99                    $9,931.75

     The Company also  occupies a portion of the office space leased by the Bank
under these leases.

     The Chester  facility is located in a  two-story  building  located on U.S.
Highway 287 in Chester,  Texas. This building,  and the underlying tract of land
consisting  of  approximately  15,000  square feet,  are owned by the Bank.  The
building includes approximately 5,600 square feet of office space. The Bank also
owns an improved  tract of land  (containing  approximately  3,000  square feet)
located adjacent to the Chester facility.

     The Wells  facility  is located  in a  one-story  building  located on U.S.
Highway 69 in Wells,  Texas.  This building,  and the  underlying  tract of land
consisting  of  approximately  9,000  square  feet,  are owned by the Bank.  The
building includes approximately 4,500 square feet of office space. The Bank also
owns two unimproved tracts of land (one containing  approximately 2.31 acres and
the  other  approximately  1,800  square  feet)  located  adjacent  to the Wells
facility.

     The Kennard facility is located in a one-story building located at Broadway
and Main Streets, in Kennard,  Texas. This building, and the underlying tract of
land consisting of approximately  14,000 square feet, are owned by the Bank. The
building includes approximately 2,790 square feet of office space. The Bank also
owns two storage buildings located on the same tract of land.

     The Whitesboro  facility is located in a one-story building located at 2500
Highway 82 East, in Whitesboro,  Texas. This building,  and the underlying tract
of land consisting of approximately  132,000 square feet, are owned by the Bank.
The building includes approximately 6,400 square feet of office space.

     The Waxahachie  facility is located in a two-story  building located at 104
Elm Street, Waxahachie,  Texas 75165. This building, and the underlying tract of
land consisting of approximately  14,100 square feet, are owned by the Bank. The
building includes approximately 5,100 square feet of office space.

     The  Midlothian  facility is located in a one and one-half  story  building
located at 910 North 9th Street, Midlothian, Texas 76065. This building, and the
underlying  tract of land  consisting  of  approximately  71,330 square feet are
owned by the Bank.  The building  includes  approximately  17,116 square feet of
office space.

     The Company  believes the existing  facilities are adequate for its present
needs.


                                       17
<PAGE>

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

     The Bank is a defendant in two related  cases:  Tennessee  Ex Rel.  Douglas
Sizemore,  Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance for the State of Tennessee, et
al. vs. Surety Bank,  N.A., filed in June 1995 in the Federal District Court for
the Northern District of Texas,  Dallas,  Division (the "Anchorage  Case"),  and
United Shortline Inc.  Assurance  Services,  N.A. et al. vs.  MacGregor  General
Insurance  Company,  Ltd.,  et al., now pending in the 141st  Judicial  District
Court of Tarrant County, Texas (the "MacGregor Case").

     The claimant in the Anchorage Case is a liquidator (the "Liquidator"),  the
Tennessee  Commissioner  of Commerce  and  Insurance,  appointed by the Chancery
Court for the State of Tennessee,  Twentieth Judicial District, Davidson County,
to liquidate  Anchorage Fire and Casualty Insurance Company  ("Anchorage").  The
Liquidator seeks to recover compensatory and punitive damages on various alleged
causes of action,  including  violation of orders  issued by a Tennessee  court,
fraudulent and preferential transfers, common law conversion, fraud, negligence,
and bad faith, all of which are based on the same underlying facts and course of
conduct.

     The  plaintiff in the  MacGregor  Case,  United  Shortline  Inc.  Assurance
Services, N.A. ("United Shortline"), is the holder of a Florida judgment against
MacGregor General  Insurance  Company,  Ltd.  ("MacGregor") and seeks to recover
funds allegedly belonging to MacGregor which were held by the Bank.

     Both cases arise out of the Bank's  alleged  exercise of control over funds
held in accounts at the Bank under agreements with Anchorage and MacGregor.  The
exercise  of control  included  the setoff of  approximately  $570,000,  and the
interpleader, in the MacGregor Case, of approximately $600,000. The Bank asserts
that it had a right to exercise  control over the funds,  in the first  instance
under  contractual  agreements  between  the Bank and the  respective  insurance
companies  or the Bank and the policy  holders,  and in the second  instance  in
order to  protect  the Bank  against  the  possibility  of  inconsistent  orders
regarding the same funds.  The Liquidator  also seeks to recover funds allegedly
transferred from Anchorage/MacGregor  accounts at the Bank during an approximate
four month period in 1993, which exceed $2.6 million in the aggregate.  The Bank
believes that the claims lack merit and intends to defend the cases vigorously.

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

     No matter was submitted to a vote of the stockholders of the Company during
the fourth quarter of 1995.


                                       18
<PAGE>
 
                                     PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

Market Information
- ------------------

         Since  January 10, 1995 the  Company's  Common Stock has been traded on
the  American  Stock  Exchange,  Inc.'s  ("AMEX")  primary list under the symbol
"SRY". From February 23, 1994 through January 9, 1995 the Company's Common Stock
was traded on the AMEX Emerging Company  Marketplace  under the symbol "SRY.EC".
Prior to  February  23,  1994,  the  Company's  Common  Stock was  traded in the
over-the-counter  market  on the  National  Association  of  Securities  Dealers
Automated Quotation System ("NASDAQ").

         The following table sets forth,  for the periods  indicated,  the high,
low and close sale price per share of the Company's  Common Stock as reported on
the AMEX primary list since January 10, 1995,  and on the AMEX Emerging  Company
Marketplace from February 23, 1994 through January 9, 1995, and the high and low
bid  price per  share as  reported  by NASDAQ  for  prior  periods.  The  NASDAQ
quotations reflect prices quoted by market makers of the Company's Common Stock,
without  retail  markup,  markdown  or  commissions,  and  may  not  necessarily
represent actual transactions.

                                           High      Low     Close
                                           ----      ---     -----
      1994 Fiscal Year
      ----------------
      First Quarter .................   $   6.38   $ 3.00   $ 4.88
      Second Quarter ................       5.25     3.88     4.63
      Third Quarter .................       5.00     4.00     4.25
      Fourth Quarter ................       4.50     3.00     3.13

      1995 Fiscal Year
      ----------------
      First Quarter .................       4.38     3.06     4.13
      Second Quarter ................       6.75     3.19     3.44
      Third Quarter .................       5.13     3.50     4.75
      Fourth Quarter ................       5.00     3.50     3.50


Stockholders
- ------------

         As of March 20,  1996 there were 424  record  holders of the  Company's
Common Stock.


                                       19
<PAGE>

Dividend Policy
- ---------------

     THE COMPANY.  The Company  currently  intends not to pay  dividends for the
foreseeable future, but to retain any future earnings for use in the business of
the Company and the Bank.  The  payment of any  dividends  in the future will be
made at the  discretion of the Board of Directors of the Company and will depend
upon the operating results and financial  condition of the Company and the Bank,
their capital requirements,  contractual agreements, general business conditions
and other factors.  The Company's  principal source of funds to pay dividends in
the  future,  if any,  on the Common  Stock will be cash  dividends  the Company
receives from the Bank. See " Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation" for
a discussion of regulatory  constraints  on the payment of dividends by national
banks and bank holding companies generally.

         THE BANK.  The Bank is subject to various  restrictions  imposed by the
National  Bank Act relating to the  declaration  and payment of  dividends.  The
board of  directors  of a  national  banking  association  may,  subject  to the
following limitations,  declare a quarterly, semiannual or annual dividend of as
much of its net profits as it may judge  expedient.  The payment of dividends is
subject to the provisions of 12 U.S.C.  60, which provides that no dividends may
be  declared  or  paid  without  the  approval  of the OCC if the  total  of all
dividends,  including  the proposed  dividend,  in any calendar year exceeds the
total of the national banking  association's  net profits for that year combined
with its retained net profits of the preceding two years.  Under the  provisions
of 12 U.S.C.  56 no  dividends  may ever be paid in an amount  greater  than the
bank's net profits.

     The OCC also has  authority  to prohibit a national  bank from  engaging in
what  in the  OCC's  opinion  constitutes  an  unsafe  or  unsound  practice  in
conducting business,  including the payment of a dividend. See "Item 1. Business
- - Supervision and Regulation" for a discussion of regulatory  constraints on the
payment of dividends by national banks and bank holding companies generally.


                                       20
<PAGE>

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

     The following summary consolidated financial data of the Company is derived
from the financial  statements of the Company as of and for the five years ended
December 31, 1995.  The following  summary  consolidated  financial  data of the
Company should be read in connection with the consolidated  financial statements
of  the  Company  and  the  notes  thereto  and  the  information  in  "Item  7.
Management's  Discussion  and  Analysis of  Financial  Condition  and Results of
Operations."

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                   Years Ended December 31,
                                                                   ------------------------
                                                   1995<F1>    1994<F2>    1993<F3>      1992        1991
                                                   -------     -------     -------       ----        ----
<S>                                               <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C> 
INCOME STATEMENT DATA: ($ in 000's)
  Interest income .............................   $  9,535    $  5,387    $  3,995    $  3,344    $  2,953
  Interest expense ............................      3,678       1,488       1,124         978       1,380
      Net interest income .....................      5,857       3,899       2,871       2,366       1,573
  Provision for credit losses .................         60         107          91         300         467
      Net interest income after provision for .      5,797       3,792       2,781       2,067       1,107
        credit losses
  Noninterest income ..........................      1,419       1,160       1,182         784         488
  Noninterest expense .........................      5,878       4,462       3,592       2,835       2,185
  Earnings before income taxes ................      1,338         490         371          16        (590)
  Income taxes ................................        451          17
  Net earnings (loss) .........................   $    887    $    473    $    371    $     16    $   (590)

COMMON SHARE DATA:<F4>
  Net earnings (loss) .........................   $   0.27    $   0.20    $   0.19    $   0.00    $  (0.45)
  Book value ..................................       2.94        2.65        2.32        2.05        1.85
  Weighted average common shares
     outstanding (in 000's) ...................      3,279       2,394       2,002       1,952       1,310
  Period end shares outstanding (in 000's) ....      3,506       3,041       2,273       1,981       1,767

BALANCE SHEET DATA: ($ in 000's)
  Total assets ................................   $121,339    $102,294    $ 49,036    $ 30,964    $ 26,877
  Insurance premium finance loans, net ........     21,905      20,497      14,209       7,051       8,016
  Other loans, net ............................     45,197      44,167      17,417      12,442      11,242
  Allowance for credit losses .................        703         698         401         325         343
  Total deposits ..............................    109,599      92,027      43,596      26,840      23,335
  Shareholders' equity ........................     10,295       8,066       5,281       4,058       3,263

PERFORMANCE DATA<F5>
  Return (loss) on average total assets .......         .8%         .8%         .8%         .1%       (2.3)%
  Return (loss) on average shareholders' equity        9.5         7.4         8.7          .4       (30.4)
  Net interest margin .........................        6.1         7.1         7.0         8.7         7.0
  Loans to deposits ...........................       60.6        70.3        72.5        72.6        82.5

ASSET QUALITY RATIOS<F5>
  Nonperforming assets to  total assets .......         .1%         .2%         .3%         .7%        2.1%
  Nonperforming loans to total loans ..........         .1          .2          .3          .8         2.4
  Net loan charge-offs to average loans .......         .1          .4          .3         1.6         2.3
  Allowance for credit losses to total loans ..        1.1         1.1         1.3         1.7         1.8
  Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming       996.1       574.8       425.8       201.1        74.8
    loans

CAPITAL RATIOS
  Tier I risk-based capital ...................      10.76%      10.13%      11.37%      14.44%       13.2%
  Total risk-based capital ....................      11.72       11.17       12.57       15.69        14.7
  Leverage ....................................        6.9         5.6        10.0        11.9        10.9

<FN>
<F1> On September  28, 1995 the Company  completed  the  acquisition  of certain
     assets and the assumption of certain liabilities  relating to the branch of
     Bank One, Texas, National Association located in Waxahachie, Texas.

<F2> On May 31, 1994 the Company  acquired 100% of the outstanding  common stock
     of The Farmers  Guaranty  State Bank of  Kennard,  Kennard,  Texas,  and on
     December 8, 1994 the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding  common stock
     of First  National  Bank,  Whitesboro,  Texas.

<F3> On March 23, 1993 the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding common stock
     of the Bank of East Texas,  Chester,  Texas and First  State  Bank,  Wells,
     Texas.  Operations  of these two banks have been  included in  consolidated
     operations subsequent to February 28, 1993.

<F4> The  information  provided for 1991 and 1992 has been restated to reflect a
     one-for-ten reverse stock split in June 1993.

<F5> All interim periods have been annualized.
</FN>
</TABLE>

                                       21
<PAGE>

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S  DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS.

General
- -------

The  information  presented  below  reflects  the lending  and  related  funding
business of the Company.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                           Year           Year           Year           Year
                                          Ended          Ended          Ended          Ended
                                         12/31/95       12/31/94       12/31/93       12/31/92
                                         --------       --------       --------       --------
<S>                                    <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
INSURANCE PREMIUM FINANCING:
Average Balance Outstanding ........   $23,532,953    $19,370,887    $ 9,855,620    $ 8,240,727
Average Yield ......................          11.6%          11.2%          13.2%          17.9%
Interest Income ....................   $ 2,739,060    $ 2,172,038    $ 1,302,854    $ 1,471,226

CONSUMER, COMMERCIAL AND REAL ESTATE
FINANCING:
Average Balance Outstanding Average    $44,351,305    $20,766,039    $16,153,213    $12,255,653
Yield ..............................          11.0%          12.0%          12.4%          13.3%
Interest Income ....................   $ 4,862,756    $ 2,482,099    $ 2,001,251    $ 1,632,746

COST OF FUNDS:
Average Balance of Deposits ........   $96,198,295    $54,458,467    $41,175,656    $26,469,157
Average Interest Rate ..............           3.7%           2.7%           2.7%           3.7%
Interest Expense ...................   $ 3,554,900    $ 1,476,656    $ 1,123,584    $   977,715

COST OF SHORT TERM DEBT:
Average Balance of Debt ............   $ 1,114,355    $   146,756
Average Interest Rate ..............          11.0%           9.5%
Interest Expense ...................   $   122,579    $    13,914
</TABLE>

Note: Average balances are computed using daily balances throughout each period.

         The following  discussion  highlights  the major changes  affecting the
operations  and  financial  condition  of the  Company for the three years ended
December  31,  1995.  The  discussion  should  be read in  conjunction  with the
consolidated  financial  statements  and  accompanying  notes  included  in this
report.


                                       22
<PAGE>

General
- -------

         The Company derives  substantially  all of its revenues and income from
the  operation  of the Bank,  which  provides  a full  range of  commercial  and
consumer  banking services to businesses and individuals in north and east Texas
and has attempted to distinguish itself by developing  specialized products such
as insurance premium finance lending and medical  receivables  factoring.  As of
December 31, 1995, the Company had total assets of $121.3 million,  net loans of
$66.4 million,  total deposits of $109.6 million, and total shareholders' equity
of $10.3 million. The Company reported net income of $886,886 for the year ended
December  31,  1995  compared  with net  income of  $472,760  for the year ended
December  31, 1994 as a result of internal  loan growth  within its  specialized
products and its acquisitions of community banks.

         During  1994,  the  Company  had no  effective  tax  rate  through  the
utilization of its net operating losses.  The Company returned to paying federal
income taxes at the effective  rate of 34% during 1995.  Income before taxes was
$1,337,817 for the year ended December 31, 1995, an increase of $847,369 or 173%
when compared with the same period for 1994.

     On May 31,  1994,  the Bank  acquired  The Farmers  Guaranty  State Bank of
Kennard,  Texas.  On December 8, 1994 the Bank acquired the First National Bank,
Whitesboro,  Texas and on September  28, 1995,  the Bank acquired the assets and
assumed the  liabilities of the  Waxahachie,  Texas,  branch of Bank One, Texas,
National  Association.  Management  views  these  acquisitions  as  a  means  of
expanding its  operations  and  anticipates  they will  contribute  favorably to
future results of the Company and the Bank. The Bank continues to actively serve
the  banking  needs of these  local  communities,  as it has  served  the  local
communities  where its other  branches  are  located.  The deposits at these new
branches  will allow the Bank to increase its business in the areas of insurance
premium finance and insurance medical claims factoring.  See "Item 1. Business -
Acquisitions".

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Earnings
- ------------

         Net  earnings  were  $886,886  ($0.27  per  share)  for the year  ended
December 31, 1995,  compared with net earnings of $472,760 ($0.20 per share) for
the year ended  December  31,  1994,  an increase of $414,126 or 87.6%.  Factors
contributing  to the increase in earnings in 1995  compared with 1994 include an
increase  in net  interest  income,  loan  growth in the  Company's  specialized
lending products, and the growth of noninterest income mainly as a result of the
acquisition of the Kennard and Whitesboro branches.

         Net earnings  were  $472,760 for 1994 ($0.20 per share),  compared with
net  earnings of $370,723 for 1993 ($0.19 per share) and $16,424 for 1992 ($0.00
per share).  The earnings per share for 1994 were affected by additional  shares
issued in December 1994 in connection  with the  acquisition  of First  National
Bank,  Whitesboro,  Texas. The 27.5% increase and 2,157.2%  increase in earnings
for 1994 and 1993 respectively, were attributable to an increase in net interest
income  resulting  from  improved  asset  quality,  loan growth in the Company's
specialized lending products and acquisitions of community banks.

Earnings Before Income Taxes
- ----------------------------

         Earnings  before  income  taxes  were  $1,337,817  for the  year  ended
December 31, 1995,  compared with $490,448 for the year ended December 31, 1994,
a 173% increase. As previously mentioned, the Company returned to paying federal
income taxes at the effective  rate of 34% during 1995,  compared with a nominal
effective tax rate for 1994. As a result of the return to paying  federal taxes,
the net income for the year ended  December 31, 1995 may be more  indicative  of
operating trends in the future. Conversely,  earnings before income taxes in the
1995 period may be more useful when comparing results with prior periods.

                                       23
<PAGE>

         Earnings  before  income  taxes were  $490,448 in 1994,  compared  with
$370,723 in 1993, an increase of $119,725 or 32.3%. Earnings before income taxes
were $16,424 in 1992. The  improvement in earnings  before income taxes for 1994
compared  with 1993 was  primarily  attributable  to an increase in net interest
income  resulting from an increase in net interest  margin.  The increase in net
interest  income in 1994, as compared  with 1993,  was the result of loan growth
within the  Company's  specialized  lending  products.  The  average  balance of
insurance premium finance loans grew by 96.6% to a balance of $19.4 million from
$9.9 million for 1994 and 1993,  respectively.  The 2,157.2%  growth in earnings
before  income  taxes  in 1993 as  compared  with  1992 was  attributable  to an
increase in net interest income as a result of loan growth. In 1993, the Company
also  realized  a gain on the sale of  investment  securities  of  approximately
$94,000.

Net Interest Income
- -------------------

         Net  interest  income  is  the  difference  between  income  earned  on
interest-earning  assets and the interest expense  incurred on  interest-bearing
liabilities. The net yield on total interest-earning assets, also referred to as
interest  rate margin or net interest  margin,  represents  net interest  income
divided  by   average   interest-earning   assets.   The   Company's   principal
interest-earning  assets are loans,  investment securities,  medical receivables
factoring and federal funds sold.

         Net interest  income was $5.8  million for the year ended  December 31,
1995, an increase of $2.0 million or 52.9% compared with the year ended December
31, 1994,  resulting  principally  from an increase in average  interest-earning
assets from $54.8 million to $96.3 million,  a significant  portion of which was
comprised  of loans  (typically  the highest  yielding  asset).  The increase in
average   interest-earning   assets  was  offset  by  an   increase  in  average
interest-bearing  liabilities from $46.5 million to $84.4 million.  In addition,
the  Company  experienced  a decrease  in the net  interest  spread of 100 basis
points  from  7.1% to 6.1% for the  year  ended  December  31,  1994  and  1995,
respectively. The foregoing decrease resulted principally from the fact that the
cost  of  interest-bearing   liabilities   increased  more  than  the  yield  on
interest-earning assets. The yield on interest-earning assets increased 10 basis
points  from  9.8% to  9.9%,  while  the  cost of  interest-bearing  liabilities
increased  120 basis  points from 3.2% to 4.4% for the year ended  December  31,
1994 and 1995,  respectively.  Net interest income was $3.9 million for 1994, an
increase of $1.0  million or 35.8%  compared  with net  interest  income of $2.9
million for 1993,  which  represented  an increase of $505,224 or 21.4% compared
with net interest  income of $2.4 million for 1992. The Company's  average total
interest-earning  assets increased from approximately  $41.2 million for 1993 to
$54.8 million for 1994, representing a 33.1% increase resulting principally from
an increase in loans.  The net  interest  margin of 7.1% for 1994  increased  10
basis points from 7.0% for 1993.  The Company's  average total  interest-earning
assets  increased  from  $27.1  million  for 1992 to  $41.2  million  for  1993,
representing a 51.7% increase  resulting  principally  from an increase in loans
and investment securities.

         The Company's net interest  income is affected by changes in the amount
and mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, referred to
as a "volume  change."  It is also  affected  by  changes  in  yields  earned on
interest-earning  assets and rates paid on  interest-bearing  deposits and other
borrowed funds,  referred to as a "rate change." The decline in the net yield on
total  interest-earning  assets from 1994  through the first nine months of 1995
resulted  principally from an increase in investment  securities as a percentage
of total interest-earning  assets, which produced a lower average rate of return
for the Company than loans,  and the addition of the  consumer,  commercial  and
real estate loans through the  acquisition of First  National Bank,  Whitesboro,
Texas.  The yield on consumer,  commercial and real estate loans declined to 11%
for the year  ended  December  31,  1995 from 12% for the  twelve  months  ended
December  31,  1994.  The  following  table  sets  forth  for each  category  of
interest-earning  assets and  interest-bearing  liabilities  the average amounts
outstanding,  the  interest  earned or paid on such amounts and the average rate
paid for the three years ended December 31, 1995,  1994 and 1993. The table also
sets forth the average rate earned on all  interest-earning  assets, the average
rate paid on all  interest-bearing  liabilities,  and the net  yield on  average
interest-earning assets for the same periods.

                                       24
<PAGE>

            AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET AND ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                             Year ended December 31, 1995           Year ended December 31, 1994
                                             ----------------------------           ----------------------------
                                           Average                   Average      Average                    Average
                                           Balance         Interest   Rate        Balance        Interest     Rate
                                           -------         --------   ----        -------        --------     ----
<S>                                   <C>               <C>           <C>       <C>            <C>            <C>  
ASSETS                                                       
    Interest-bearing deposits in   
        financial institutions ....   $   1,388,817     $   101,408    7.3%     $   981,184    $    68,173     6.9%
    U.S. Treasury and agency 
        securities <F1>............      16,659,034       1,173,748    7.1        7,648,411        362,078     4.7
    Federal funds sold ............      11,102,928         657,809    5.9        6,456,165        302,621     4.7
    Loans <F2> <F3>................      67,884,258       7,601,816   11.2       40,136,926      4,654,137    11.6
    Allowance for credit losses....        (713,629)         N/A       N/A         (444,805)          N/A      N/A
                                      -------------     -----------   -----     -----------    -----------    -----
Total interest-earning assets .....   $  96,321,408     $ 9,534,781    9.9%     $54,777,881    $ 5,387,009     9.8%
                                      -------------     -----------   -----     -----------    -----------    -----
    Cash and due from banks .......       4,637,833                               3,249,783
    Premises and equipment ........       2,495,279                               1,520,404
    Accrued interest receivable ...         646,012                                 205,770
    Other real estate owned .......          77,197                                  51,043
    Other assets ..................       3,076,316                               1,357,765                                        
                                      -------------                             -----------                                        
Total assets ......................   $ 107,254,045                             $61,162,646
                                      =============                             ===========
                                                                               
LIABILITIES
Interest-bearing liabilities:
   Interest-bearing demand deposits   $  23,106,404     $   678,303    2.9%     $14,680,300    $   259,113     1.8%
   Savings deposits ...............       5,329,462         127,211    2.4        3,104,155         94,010     3.0
   Time deposits ..................      54,873,148       2,749,386    5.0       28,530,396      1,123,533     4.0
   Notes payable ..................       1,114,355         122,579   11.0          146,756         11,075     7.5
                                      -------------     -----------   -----     -----------    -----------     ---
Total interest-bearing liabilities    $  84,423,369     $ 3,677,479    4.4%     $46,461,607    $ 1,487,731     3.2%
                                      -------------     -----------   -----     ------------   -----------     --- 
    Noninterest-bearing deposits ..      12,889,281                               7,996,860
    Other liabilities .............         630,055                                 281,660
                                      -------------                             -----------
Total liabilities .................      97,942,705                              54,740,127
Shareholders' equity ..............       9,311,340                               6,422,519
                                      -------------                             -----------
Total liabilities and equity ......   $ 107,254,045                             $61,162,646
                                      =============                             ===========
Net interest income ...............                     $ 5,857,302                            $ 3,899,278
                                                        ===========                            ===========
Net interest spread ...............                                    5.5%                                    6.6%
                                                                       ====                                    ==== 
Net interest margin ...............                                    6.1%                                    7.1%
                                                                       ====                                    ==== 
<FN>
<F1> Interest  income  on  tax  exempt  securities  does  not  reflect  the  tax
     equivalent  yield.

<F2> Loans on nonaccrual status have been included in the computation of average
     balances.

<F3> The  interest  income on loans does not  include  loan fees.  Loan fees are
     immaterial and are included in noninterest income.
</TABLE>

                                       25
<PAGE>



          The  following  table  reflects  the  changes in net  interest  income
stemming  from changes in interest  rates and from asset and  liability  volume,
including mix. The change in interest  attributable  to both rate and volume has
been allocated to the changes in the rate and the volume on a pro rata basis.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                   RATE/VOLUME ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME

                                              Years Ended                                 Years Ended
                                           December 31, 1995                           December 31, 1994
                                             Compared with                               Compared with
                                           December 31, 1994                           December 31, 1993
                                -----------------------------------------   ----------------------------------------
                                  Increase       (Decrease)      Due to        Increase     (Decrease)     Due to
                                 Volume<F1>         Rate         Changes      Volume<F1>       Rate        Changes
                                 ----------         ----         -------      ----------       ----        -------
<S>                              <C>             <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>          <C>
Interest Income:
  Interest-bearing deposits
    in financial institutions   $    29,607   $     3,628    $    33,235   $      (551)   $    47,871    $    47,320
  U.S. Treasury and agency
    securities ..............       573,825       237,845        811,670       (94,659)       (50,536)      (145,195)
  Federal funds sold ........       259,876        95,312        355,188        38,998        100,793        139,791
  Loans .....................     3,112,412      (164,733)     2,947,679     1,659,906       (309,874)     1,350,032
                                -----------   -----------    -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------

Total interest income .......   $ 3,975,720   $   172,052    $ 4,147,772   $ 1,603,694    $  (211,746)   $ 1,391,948
                                -----------   -----------    -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------

Interest Expense:
  Interest-bearing demand
    deposits ................   $   194,483   $   224,707    $   419,190   $    38,707    $    10,469    $    49,176
  Savings deposits ..........        47,128       (13,927)        33,201        (1,827)        (1,125)        (2,952)
  Time deposits .............     1,255,544       370,309      1,625,853       375,946        (69,098)       306,848
  Federal funds purchased
    and other borrowed funds        104,267         7,237        111,504        11,075           --           11,075
                                -----------   -----------    -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------
Total interest expense ......   $ 1,601,422   $   588,326    $ 2,189,748   $   423,901    $   (59,754)   $   364,147
                                -----------   -----------    -----------   -----------    -----------    -----------

Net interest margin .........   $ 2,374,298   $  (416,274)   $ 1,958,024   $ 1,179,793    $  (151,992)   $ 1,027,801
                                ===========   ===========    ===========   ===========    ===========    ===========
<FN>
<F1> Non-accrual  loans are included in the average  volumes used in calculating
     this table.
</FN>
</TABLE>

Provision for Credit Losses
- ---------------------------

          The amount of the  provision  for credit  losses is based on  periodic
(not less than  quarterly)  evaluations of the loan  portfolio,  with particular
attention  directed  toward  nonperforming  and other  potential  problem loans.
During  these   evaluations,   consideration   is  given  to  such  factors  as:
management's  evaluation  of  specific  loans;  the  level  and  composition  of
nonperforming  loans;  historical  loss  experience;  results of examinations by
regulatory  agencies;  an internal  asset  review  process;  the market value of
collateral;  the strength and  availability  of  guaranties;  concentrations  of
credits;  and other judgmental factors.  The Company determines separate general
allowances  for insurance  premium  finance and  non-insurance  premium  finance
loans.  The Company's loss  experience on insurance  premium finance lending was
adversely affected during the second half of 1991 by the failure of a non-Best's
rated  insurance  company.  The Company has  implemented  certain changes in its
lending  policies  and  procedures  with respect to  insurance  premium  finance
lending which have reduced the maximum concentration by insurance carrier except
as  approved  by the Board of  Directors  and also  reduced  the amount of loans
secured  by  unearned  premiums  of  insurance  policies  written  by  non-rated
carriers.  See "Item 1. Business - Insurance Premium  Financing." As a result of
these changes in loan policy and recoveries of previously  charged-off insurance
premium finance loans, the Company's historical loss factor on insurance premium
finance  loans  has  improved  from  0.15%  in 1993 to  0.00%  in 1994 and as of
December 31, 1995.

                                       26
<PAGE>

          The Company recorded a $60,000  provision for credit losses during the
year ended  December  31,  1995  compared  with  $106,899  during the year ended
December 31, 1994. As the Company's  ratio of net  charge-offs  to average loans
improved for these  periods,  the Company  provided  amounts to  compensate  for
growth in the loan  portfolio  in order to  maintain  the  allowance  for credit
losses at an adequate level.

          The 1994  provision  for credit  losses  was  $106,899  compared  with
$90,584 in 1993 and $299,555 in 1992. The 18% increase in the 1994 provision for
credit losses when compared with 1993 is a result of the 54.3% growth in average
loans  outstanding.  The 69.8% reduction in the provision for 1993 compared with
1992 was a result of successful collection efforts in both the insurance premium
finance portfolio and the general loan portfolio.

Noninterest Income
- ------------------

     Noninterest  income  is  generated  primarily  from  fees  associated  with
noninterest and interest-bearing  accounts as well as fees associated with loans
(e.g., late fees).  Noninterest  income for the year ended December 31, 1995 was
$1,419,067, an increase of $259,060 or 22.3% compared with noninterest income of
$1,160,007  for the year ended  December 31, 1994.  The increase in  noninterest
income is attributed to the  acquisition of the Kennard and Whitesboro  branches
during 1994,  and the  Waxahachie  branch during 1995, as well as an increase in
loans  outstanding.  The acquisition of the three banks increased the number and
balance of loans outstanding and increased the number and balance of noninterest
and interest-bearing accounts, which resulted in increased noninterest income.

          Noninterest  income was  $1,160,007 for 1994, a decrease of $21,801 or
1.8% compared with noninterest  income of $1,181,808 for 1993, which represented
an increase of $397,742 or 50.7% over 1992.  While service  charges and exchange
fees  increased  from 1993 to 1994,  loan fees and other income  decreased.  The
decrease  in  loan  fees  was  attributable  to  a  decision  by  management  to
discontinue servicing outside loan portfolios. The decrease in other income from
1993  to  1994 is the  result  of a gain  realized  on the  sale  of  investment
securities  during  1993 in the  amount of  approximately  $94,000.  Noninterest
income  increased from 1992 to 1993 in all categories,  primarily as a result of
the acquisition of banks in Wells and Chester, Texas.

          The following  table sets forth the various  categories of noninterest
income for the year ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993:


                                       27
<PAGE>

                                                    Years Ended December 31,
                                                    ------------------------
                                                1995         1994         1993
                                                ----         ----         ----
Noninterest income
    Nonsufficient fund charges ..........   $  291,954   $  263,315   $  248,890
    Late fee charges ....................      501,960      426,476      304,354
    Service charges .....................      220,086      163,336      120,143
    Collection fees .....................      115,478       96,162       71,760
    Credit life insurance ...............       75,435       44,402       49,777
    Premium finance servicing ...........                                161,310
    Secured credit card annual fee ......        6,561       15,905       36,968
    Other ...............................      207,493      150,411       97,843
    Gain on sale of investment ..........          100                    90,763
                                            ----------   ----------   ----------
 Total noninterest income ...............   $1,419,067   $1,160,007   $1,181,808
                                            ==========   ==========   ==========

Noninterest Expense
- -------------------

          Noninterest  expense was  $5,878,552  for the year ended  December 31,
1995, an increase of $1,416,614 or 31.7%  compared with  noninterest  expense of
$4,461,938  for the  year  ended  December  31,  1994.  This  increase  resulted
principally  from the acquisition of the Kennard and Whitesboro  branches during
1994 and the  Waxahachie  branch  during  1995.  The addition of the three banks
resulted  in  additional   personnel,   occupancy  and  office   expenses.   The
amortization  of  intangibles  increased  in 1995 as a result of the addition of
goodwill and costs  associated with the acquisition of the Kennard branch in the
amount of  $296,164,  the  addition of goodwill  and costs  associated  with the
acquisition of the Whitesboro branch $1,886,682 and the addition of goodwill and
costs associated with the acquisition of the Waxahachie  branch in the amount of
$148,772.

     Deposits held by the Bank are insured by the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") of
the Federal  Deposit  Insurance  Corporation  ("FDIC").  The FDIC  assessment is
calculated on the level of deposits  held by the Bank.  The increase in the FDIC
assessment  in 1995 over 1994 was tied to the increased  deposits  added through
the two acquisitions completed in 1994. The BIF assessment rate is determined by
the FDIC for  categories of banks based upon the risk to the insurance  fund. On
August 8, 1995, the FDIC's Board of Directors voted to significantly  reduce the
deposit  insurance  premiums paid by most banks but to keep existing  assessment
rates  intact  for  savings  associations.  Under  the new rate  structure,  the
best-rated  institutions  insured  by the BIF pay  $0.04  per  $100 of  domestic
deposits,  down from the rate of $0.23 per $100.  The new BIF  assessment  rates
apply  from the first day of the month  after the BIF was  recapitalized,  which
occurred in early  September 1995. The FDIC has issued refunds to the best-rated
institutions for assessments which exceeded the recapitalization of the BIF. The
Bank  received a refund from the FDIC of  approximately  $42,000.  The change in
assessment  rate is  expected  to  significantly  reduce  the  cost  of  deposit
insurance  for the Bank.  In  connection  with the new rate  schedule,  the FDIC
established a process for quickly  raising or lowering all rates for BIF-insured
institutions  up to twice a year without  seeking public  comment.  See "Item 1.
Business - Supervision and Regulation".

          Noninterest  expense was  $4,461,938 for 1994, an increase of $869,960
or 24.2%  compared  with  noninterest  expense  of  $3,591,978  for 1993,  which
represented an increase of $757,638 or 26.7% compared with  noninterest  expense
of $2,834,340 for 1992.  The increase in noninterest  expense for 1994 from 1993
was  attributable  to a 28.3%  increase in salaries and employee  benefits and a
15.2% increase in general and administrative  expenses. The increase in salaries
and  benefits  for the same  period was due  primarily  to  additional  staffing
associated with the acquisition of the two banks and the Bank's loan and deposit
growth. Noninterest expense increased in 1993 from 1992 primarily as a result of
a 43.7%  increase in salaries  and  employee  benefits  and a 12.4%  increase in
general and administrative  expenses.  The increase in salaries and benefits was
due primarily to additional  staffing associated with the two 1993 acquisitions,
the Bank's loan and deposit growth and the  establishment  of the secured credit
card program.

                                       28
<PAGE>
                                              Years Ended December 31,
                                          1995         1994         1993
                                          ----         ----         ----
Salaries and employee benefits ....   $2,923,118   $2,201,188   $1,715,952
Occupancy and equipment ...........      907,286      669,936      495,055
General and administrative expense:
    Professional fees .............      416,006      315,434      362,571
    Office supplies ...............      253,542      201,028      165,416
    Travel and entertainment ......       68,987       60,162       62,184
    Telephone .....................      166,858      128,407      103,921
    Advertising ...................      104,499       54,683       60,302
    Postage .......................      230,807      133,887      125,092
    Amortization of intangibles ...      184,332       51,201       35,567
    Dues and subscriptions ........       49,331       54,609       26,707
    Insurance .....................      130,335       97,473       59,882
    Credit cards ..................       19,868       59,573       63,298
    Bank service charge ...........       57,196       25,808       29,018
    FDIC assessment ...............      123,310      133,112       71,003
    Credit reports ................       40,105       17,714       48,495
    Other .........................      202,972      257,723      167,515
                                      ----------   ----------   ----------
     Total general and
         administrative ...........    2,048,148    1,590,814    1,380,971
                                      ----------   ----------   ----------
    Total noninterest expense .....   $5,878,552   $4,461,938   $3,591,978
                                      ==========   ==========   ==========


Income Taxes
- ------------

          During 1993,  the Company  adopted  Statement of Financial  Accounting
Standards ("SFAS") No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." SFAS No. 109 provides
that  deferred tax assets may be reduced by a valuation  allowance  if, based on
the weight of available expense, it is more likely than not that some portion or
all of the  deferred  tax asset will not be  realized.  In  accordance  with the
provisions  of SFAS No. 109, the Company  elected not to restate prior years and
has determined that the cumulative effect of implementation was not significant.
The Company and the Bank will file a consolidated tax return for 1995.


                                       29
<PAGE>

          The Company  estimates  that its  effective  tax rate for 1995 will be
approximately  34% and has  recognized  income tax expense of $450,931 on income
before taxes of $1,337,817 for the year ended December 31, 1995 as compared with
income tax expense of $17,688 on income  before  taxes of $490,418  for the year
ended December 31, 1994.

Interest Rate Sensitivity Management
- ------------------------------------

          The  operating  income  and  net  income  of  the  Bank  depend,  to a
substantial extent, on "rate  differentials,"  i.e., the differences between the
income the Bank receives from loans,  securities and other earning  assets,  and
the interest  expense it pays to obtain  deposits and other  liabilities.  These
rates are highly  sensitive to many factors  which are beyond the control of the
Bank,  including  general  economic  conditions  and  the  policies  of  various
governmental and regulatory authorities.

          The  objective of  monitoring  and  managing  the  interest  rate risk
position of the balance  sheet is to  contribute to earnings and to minimize the
adverse  changes in net  interest  income.  The  potential  for  earnings  to be
affected  by changes in interest  rates is inherent in a financial  institution.
Interest rate sensitivity is the relationship between changes in market interest
rates and changes in net interest income due to the repricing characteristics of
assets and  liabilities.  An  asset-sensitive  position  in a given  period will
result in more assets being subject to repricing;  therefore,  as interest rates
rise,  such a  position  will have a  positive  effect on net  interest  income.
Conversely,  in a liability-sensitive  position,  where liabilities reprice more
quickly  than assets in a given  period,  a rise in interest  rates will have an
adverse effect on net interest income.

          One way to analyze  interest  rate risk is to evaluate  the balance of
the interest rate sensitivity position. A mix of assets and liabilities that are
roughly  equal in volume and term and  repricing  represents a matched  interest
rate sensitivity  position.  Any excess of assets or liabilities in a particular
period results in an interest rate sensitivity gap. The following table presents
the interest  rate  sensitivity  for the Company's  interest-earning  assets and
interest-bearing liabilities at December 31, 1995:



                                       30
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                   3 months         6 months          1 year
                                   3 months           to               to               to              Over
                                   or less         6 months          1 year           5 years         5 years         Total
                                   -------         --------          ------           -------         -------         -----
<S>                             <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>             <C>             <C>
Interest-earning assets:
  Interest-earning deposits
    in financial institutions   $    383,560     $    374,971             --       $    287,766            --      $  1,046,297
  Investment securities .....        504,458          285,000     $  2,047,729       10,987,824    $ 10,083,684      23,908,695
  Federal funds sold ........     18,490,000                                                                         18,490,000
  Loans .....................     22,697,886       14,123,542       15,010,891       12,826,998       2,442,922      67,102,239
                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------    ------------    ------------
Interest-earning assets .....   $ 42,075,904     $ 14,783,513     $ 17,058,620     $ 24,102,588    $ 12,526,606    $110,547,232
                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------    ------------    ------------

Interest-bearing liabilities:
  Interest-bearing demand-
    deposits ................   $ 25,264,198             --               --               --              --      $ 25,264,198
  Savings deposits ..........      5,348,657             --               --               --              --         5,348,657
  Time deposits .............     20,015,384     $ 16,598,574     $ 18,567,861     $ 10,620,940            --        65,802,759
  Notes payable .............        375,000             --               --               --              --           375,000
                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------    ------------    ------------

Interest-bearing liabilities    $ 51,003,239     $ 16,598,574     $ 18,567,861     $ 10,620,940            --      $ 96,790,614
                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------    ------------    ------------

Period interest sensitivity
  gap .......................   $ (8,927,335)    $ (1,815,061)    $ (1,509,241)    $ 13,481,648    $ 12,526,606    $ 13,756,618
                                ============     ============     ============     ============    ============    ============
Cumulative interest
  sensitivity gap ...........   $ (8,927,335)    $(10,742,396)    $(12,251,637)    $  1,230,011    $ 13,756,618    $ 13,756,618
                                ============     ============     ============     ============    ============    ============

Cumulative gap as a percent
  of total assets ...........           (7.4)%           (8.9)%          (10.1%)            1.0%           11.3%           11.3%

Cumulative interest-sensitive
  assets as percent of
  cumulative interest-
  sensitive liabilities .....           82.5%            84.1%            85.8%           101.3%          114.2%          114.2%
</TABLE>

          The  cumulative   rate-sensitive  gap  position  at  one  year  was  a
liability-sensitive  position  of $12.3  million,  or negative  10.1%.  A closer
examination  of the  investment  securities  reveals  that the call  options  on
securities  within the portfolio  that are expected to be exercised  will change
the cumulative  rate-sensitive gap position at one year to a liability-sensitive
position of $1.1 million,  or negative 0.9%, which indicates that the Company is
currently in a closely matched interest rate-sensitive position. Accordingly the
Company  believes it will not  experience a  significant  impact from changes in
interest rates.

          The Company  undertakes  this  interest  rate-sensitivity  analysis to
monitor the potential risk to future earnings from the impact of possible future
changes in interest  rates on  currently  existing  net assets or net  liability
positions. However, this type of analysis is as of a point-in-time, when in fact
the Company's interest rate sensitivity can quickly change as market conditions,
customer needs, and management strategies change. Thus, interest rate changes do
not affect all categories of assets and liabilities equally or at the same time.
The  Company's  investment  policy does not permit the  purchase  of  derivative
financial instruments or structured notes.


                                       31
<PAGE>

     The  preceding  table does not  necessarily  indicate the impact of general
interest  rate  movements  on the  Company's  net  interest  income  because the
repricing of certain assets and liabilities is  discretionary  and is subject to
competitive  and other  pressures.  Currently,  the Bank is holding  $706,228 in
mortgage-backed  securities.  Although  the  mortgage-backed  securities  have a
stated maturity greater than five years, it is not uncommon for  mortgage-backed
securities  to fully pay down  well  ahead of  stated  maturities.  As a result,
assets and  liabilities  indicated as  repricing  within the same period may, in
fact, reprice at different times and at different rate levels.

ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

Loans and Asset Quality
- -----------------------

     The Company's loans are  diversified by borrower and industry  group.  Loan
growth has  occurred  every year over the past five years can be  attributed  to
acquisitions,  increased  loan demand and the addition of new lending  products.
The following  table  describes  the  composition  of loans by major  categories
outstanding   at   December   31,   1995,    1994,    1993,   1992   and   1991:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                   December 31,
                                                                                   ------------

                                                     1995             1994             1993             1992             1991
                                                     ----             ----             ----             ----             ----
                                                                              Aggregate Principal Amount
                                                                              --------------------------
<S>                                             <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Loans, net of unearned interest:
     Insurance premium financing ............   $ 21,904,913     $ 20,496,562     $ 14,209,177     $  7,051,266     $  8,015,723

     Commercial loans .......................     16,301,840       13,205,698        5,198,223        4,142,926        4,029,111

     Installment loans ......................      9,280,359       10,968,948        7,961,350        6,395,752        5,558,513

     Real estate loans ......................     16,281,558       17,297,636        1,878,030          809,215          738,950

     Medical claims receivable ..............      3,333,569        2,694,506        2,379,482        1,094,461          915,259
                                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
                                                  
        Total loans .........................     67,102,239       64,663,350       31,626,262       19,493,620       19,257,556

   Less: Allowance for credit losses ........       (702,927)        (697,948)        (401,227)        (324,728)        (343,206)
                                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------ 
                                                
                  Total net loans ...........   $ 66,399,312     $ 63,965,402     $ 31,225,035     $ 19,168,892     $ 18,914,350
                                                ============     ============     ============     ============     ============

                                                                             Percentage of Loan Portfolio
                                                                             ----------------------------

Loans, net of unearned interest:
    Insurance premium financing .............           32.6%            31.7%            44.9%            36.1%            41.6%

    Commercial loans ........................           24.3             20.4             16.5             21.2             20.9

    Installment loans .......................           13.8             17.0             25.2             32.9             28.9

    Real estate loans .......................           24.3             26.8              5.9              4.2              3.8

    Medical claims receivable ...............            5.0              4.1              7.5              5.6              4.8
                                                ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
                                   Total ....          100.0%           100.0%           100.0%           100.0%           100.0%
                                                ============     ============     ============     ============     ============ 
</TABLE>

          The  concentration  of insurance  premium finance loans may expose the
Bank to greater risk of loss than would a more diversified loan portfolio.

          As of December 31, 1995 and 1994 commitments of the Bank under standby
letters of credit and unused lines of credit  totaled  approximately  $3,698,000
and $2,353,000, respectively.

                                       32
<PAGE>

          Stated loan maturities  (including floating rate loans reset to market
interest  rates) of the total loan  portfolio,  net of  unearned  income,  as of
December 31, 1995 were:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      
                                                 Within      One Year to    After Five    
                                                One Year     Five Years        Years        Total
                                               -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
<S>                                            <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Stated Loan Maturities/Floating Rates Reset:
  Insurance premium financing ..............   $21,904,913                               $21,904,913
  Commercial and real estate loans .........    25,649,540   $ 4,490,936   $ 2,442,922    32,583,398
  Installment loans ........................       944,297     8,336,062                   9,280,359
  Medical claims receivable ................     3,333,569                                 3,333,569
                                               -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
           Total ...........................   $51,832,319   $12,826,998   $ 2,442,922   $67,102,239
                                               ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========
</TABLE>

     Rate  sensitivities of the total loan portfolio before unearned income,  as
of December 31, 1995 were as follows:


                  Within      One Year to       After
                 One Year      Five Years    Five Years      Total
                -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
Fixed rate ..   $31,594,703   $12,696,882   $ 2,442,922   $46,734,507
Variable rate    20,237,616        99,116          --      20,336,732
Nonaccrual ..          --          31,000          --          31,000
                -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
     Total ..   $51,832,319   $12,826,998   $ 2,442,922   $67,102,239
                ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========

          The maturities presented above are based upon contractual  maturities.
Many of these  loans are made on a  short-term  basis  with the  possibility  of
renewal at time of maturity.  All loans,  however,  are reviewed on a continuous
basis for creditworthiness.

Nonperforming Assets
- --------------------

          The Company's  financial  statements are prepared on the accrual basis
of  accounting,  including  the  recognition  of  interest  income  on its  loan
portfolio,  unless a loan is placed on a nonaccrual basis. Loans are placed on a
nonaccrual   basis  when  there  are  serious  doubts   regarding  the  complete
collectibility  of principal and interest.  Amounts received on nonaccrual loans
generally  are  applied  first to  principal  and  then to  interest  after  all
principal has been collected.  Troubled debt  restructurings are those for which
concessions,  including  reduction of interest  rates or deferral of interest or
principal,  have been granted, due to a borrower's weakened financial condition.
Interest on restructured  loans is accrued at the restructured  rates when it is
anticipated  that no loss of original  principal will occur. It is the policy of
the Bank not to  renegotiate  the terms of a loan simply because of a delinquent
status.  Rather, a loan is generally transferred to a nonaccrual status if it is
not in the  process  of  collection  and is  delinquent  in  payment  of  either
principal or interest beyond 90 days. Loans which are 90 days delinquent but are
well secured and in the process of collection are not included in  nonperforming
assets.

                                       33
<PAGE>

          Other  nonperforming  assets consist of real estate  acquired  through
loan foreclosures or other workout  situations and other assets acquired through
repossessions.  The following table summarizes  nonperforming assets by category
as of December 31, 1995 and 1994:


                                                       1995        1994
                                                     --------    --------
Nonaccrual loans .................................   $ 31,000    $ 83,000
Loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest     39,568      38,432
                                                     --------    --------
Total nonperforming loans ........................     70,568     121,432
Other real estate owned and other assets .........     85,528     121,359
                                                     --------    --------
Total nonperforming assets .......................   $156,096    $242,791
                                                     ========    ========
Nonperforming assets to total assets .............        0.1%        0.2%
Nonperforming loans to total loans ...............        0.1%        0.2%

          The classification of a loan on nonaccrual status does not necessarily
indicate  that  the  principal  is  uncollectible,   in  whole  or  in  part.  A
determination as to collectibility is made by the Bank on a case-by-case  basis.
The Bank considers  both the adequacy of the collateral and the other  resources
of the  borrower  in  determining  the steps to be taken to  collect  nonaccrual
loans.  The  final  determination  as to these  steps is made on a  case-by-case
basis.   Alternatives  that  are  considered  are  foreclosure,   collecting  on
guarantees, restructuring the loan or collection lawsuits.

          The  following  table sets forth a summary of other real estate  owned
and other collateral acquired as of December 31, 1995:

                                                 Number of     Net Book Carrying
                         Description           Parcels/Autos         Value
                 --------------------------    -------------   -----------------
                 Developed property
                 Vacant land or unsold lots         2               $ 3,429
                 Repossessed automobiles ..        16                82,099
                                                   --                ------ 
                                                   18               $85,528
                                                   ==               =======

Allowance for Credit Losses
- ---------------------------

          In originating  loans, the Company  recognizes that credit losses will
be experienced and the risk of loss will vary with, among other things,  general
economic  conditions,  the type of loan being made, the  creditworthiness of the
borrower over the term of the loan and, in the case of a  collaterialized  loan,
the quality of the  collateral  for such loan.  The  allowance for credit losses
represents  the  Company's  estimate of the  allowance  necessary to provide for
losses incurred in the loan portfolio. In making this determination, the Company
analyzes  the  ultimate   collectibility   of  the  Company's  loan   portfolio,
incorporating  feedback  provided by the internal loan review staff and provided
by examinations  performed by regulatory agencies.  The Company makes an ongoing
evaluation as to the adequacy of the allowance for credit  losses.  To establish
the  appropriate  level of the  allowance,  all loans  (including  nonperforming
loans),  commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit are reviewed
and  classified as to potential  loss  exposure.  Specific  allowances  are then
established for those loans,  commitments to extend credit or standby letters of
credit with identified  loss exposure and an additional  allowance is maintained
based upon the size, quality, and concentration characteristics of the remaining
loan  portfolio  using both  historical  quantitative  trends and the  Company's
evaluation  of  qualitative  factors  including  future  economic  and  industry
outlooks. The determination by the Company of the appropriate level of allowance
amount was $702,927 at December 31, 1995.

                                       34
<PAGE>

     The allowance for credit losses is based on estimates,  and ultimate losses
will vary from current  estimates.  These estimates are reviewed  monthly and as
adjustments,  either positive or negative, become necessary they are reported in
earnings in the periods in which they become known. The following table presents
a detailed  analysis of the  Company's  allowance for credit losses for the year
ended December 31, 1995 and for the years ended December 31, 1994,  1993,  1992,
and 1991:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                         December 31,
                                                                         ------------
                                            1995             1994             1993             1992              1991
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
<S>                                    <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>              <C>
Beginning balance ..................   $    697,948     $    401,227     $    324,728     $    343,206     $    276,473
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
Charge-offs:
  Commercial loans .................        (13,151)         (41,537)         (48,681)        (202,777)         (71,000)
  Installment loans ................       (104,295)        (163,669)        (179,713)        (287,113)        (179,140)
  Real estate loans ................           --             (5,350)            --               --               --
  Insurance premium finance ........           --             (1,710)         (19,380)        (182,423)        (231,000)
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
Total charge-offs ..................       (117,446)        (212,266)        (247,774)        (672,313)        (481,140)
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------

Recoveries:
  Commercial loans .................          1,012           15,698            1,412           30,081            4,000
  Installment loans ................         37,366           43,070           88,511           89,005           50,000
  Real estate loans ................         13,288             --               --               --             15,373
  Insurance premium finance ........           --              2,488           71,790          235,194           12,000
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
Total recoveries ...................         51,666           61,256          161,713          354,280           81,373
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------  
Net charge-offs ....................        (65,780)        (151,010)         (86,061)        (318,033)        (399,767)

Bank acquisition ...................         10,759          340,832           71,976             --               --

Provision for credit losses ........         60,000          106,899           90,584          299,555          466,500
                                       ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------     ------------
Ending balance .....................   $    702,927     $    697,948     $    401,227     $    324,728     $    343,206
                                       ============     ============     ============     ============     ============
Period end total loans, net of
  unearned interest ................   $ 67,102,239     $ 64,663,350     $ 31,626,262     $ 19,493,620     $ 19,199,387
                                       ============     ============     ============     ============     ============
Average loans ......................   $ 67,884,258     $ 40,136,926     $ 26,008,833     $ 20,496,380     $ 17,496,528
                                       ============     ============     ============     ============     ============

Ratio of net charge-offs to
  average loans ....................            0.1%             0.4%             0.3%             1.6%             2.3%
                                                ===              ===              ===              ===              === 
Ratio of provision for credit losses
to average loans ...................            0.1%             0.3%             0.4%             1.5%             2.7%
                                                ===              ===              ===              ===              === 
Ratio of allowance for credit losses
to ending total loans ..............            1.1%             1.1%             1.3%             1.7%             1.8%
                                                ===              ===              ===              ===              === 
Ratio of allowance for credit losses
to total nonperforming loans .......          996.1%           574.8%           425.8%           201.1%            74.8%
                                              =====            =====            =====            =====             ==== 
Ratio of allowance for credit losses
   to total nonperforming assets ...          453.2%           287.5%           311.2%           148.5%            60.5%
                                              =====            =====            =====            =====             ==== 
</TABLE>

                                       35
<PAGE>

          The  following  table sets forth an  allocation  of the  allowance for
credit  losses among  categories  as of December 31, 1995 and 1994.  The Company
believes that any allocation of the allowance for credit losses into  categories
lends an appearance of precision which does not exist. The allowance is utilized
as a  single  unallocated  allowance  available  for all  loans.  The  following
allocation  table should not be  interpreted  as an  indication  of the specific
amounts or the relative  proportion of future charges to the  allowance.  Such a
table is merely a convenient  device for assessing the adequacy of the allowance
as a whole.  The  following  allocation  table has been  derived  by  applying a
general allowance to the portfolio as a whole, in addition to specific allowance
amounts for internally classified loans. In retrospect,  the specific allocation
in any particular  category may prove  excessive or inadequate and  consequently
may be  reallocated  in the  future  to  reflect  the  then  current  condition.
Accordingly, the entire allowance is available to absorb losses in any category.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                    December 31, 1995              December 31, 1994
                                    -----------------              -----------------
                                         Percent of Allowance            Percent of Allowance
                                            by Category to                   by Category to
                                            Loans, Net of                    Loans, Net of
                                 Amount    Unearned Income        Amount    Unearned Income
                                --------   ---------------       --------   ---------------
<S>                             <C>        <C>                   <C>        <C>   
Insurance premium
  financing loans ..............$154,644        22.0%            $136,326        19.5%

Commercial loans ............... 179,246        25.5%             181,669        26.0%

Installment loans .............. 222,828        31.7%             224,697        32.2%

Real estate loans .............. 146,209        20.8%             155,256        22.3%
                                --------       -----             --------       ----- 
        Total ..................$702,927       100.0%            $697,948       100.0%
                                ========       =====             ========       =====
</TABLE>

Investment Activities
- ---------------------

          The  investment  portfolio,  which was 21.8% of the Company's  earning
asset base as of December 31, 1995, is being  managed to minimize  interest rate
risk, maintain sufficient liquidity and maximize return.  Investment  securities
which are  classified  as  held-to-maturity  are  purchased  with the intent and
ability  of the  Company to hold them to  maturity  as  evidenced  by the strong
capital position of the Company and short maturity of the portfolio.  Securities
classified as  held-to-maturity  are carried at historical  cost.  The Company's
financial  planning  anticipates  income  streams  based on normal  maturity and
reinvestment.  The short duration of the portfolio  provides adequate  liquidity
through    normal    maturities.    Investment    securities    classified    as
available-for-sale  are  purchased  with the intent to provide  liquidity and to
increase returns. The securities classified as available-for-sale are carried at
fair value. The Company does not have any securities classified as trading.

          As of December 31, 1995,  $13.8 million in investment  securities were
classified   as   held-to-maturity   and  $10.1   million  were   classified  as
available-for-sale.  On  December  8,  1994,  the  Bank's  investment  portfolio
increased  by  $14.6  million  as a  result  of the  acquisition  of the bank in
Whitesboro.  The  securities  added  to the  investment  portfolio  through  the
acquisition  increased  the size of the  investment  portfolio by  approximately
301%.  This large  increase  resulted in a need to  restructure  the  investment
portfolio  in an effort to address  capital  budgeting  needs and to address the
Bank's investment objectives.  During the first quarter of 1995, $4.7 million in
available-for-sale  securities were sold for gross realized gains of $100 and no
gross recognized losses. As of December 31, 1995,  proceeds from the maturity of
held-to-maturity   securities   were   $2.8   million   and  the   maturity   of
available-for-sale  securities were $2.7 million.  Purchases of held-to-maturity
securities were $7.0 million and purchases of available-for-sale securities were
$7.4 million.

                                       36
<PAGE>

          Prior to the  acquisition  of the bank in  Whitesboro,  all investment
securities were classified as held-to-maturity with the exception of the Federal
Reserve Bank stock which was classified as available-for-sale.  During 1994, the
Bank's  investment  portfolio  increased  by $14.6  million  as a result  of the
acquisition of the bank in Whitesboro. At the time of acquisition,  $4.7 million
was  classified  as   held-to-maturity   and  $9.8  million  was  classified  as
available-for-sale.  As of December 31,  1994,  the net  unrealized  loss on the
available-for-sale    securities   was   $4,301.    Proceeds   from   sales   of
held-to-maturity  investment  securities during the twelve months ended December
31, 1994 were $500,000.  These  securities  were sold within 90 days of the call
date and were expected to be called.

          The amortized cost of the held-to-maturity securities was $9.5 million
as compared  with their  estimated  market value of $9.4 million on December 31,
1994. The unrealized  loss on the  held-to-maturity  securities was $189,970 and
has not been realized because the Company has the intent and the ability to hold
these  securities  to maturity.  The  securities  within the  available-for-sale
classification  had an amortized  cost of $10.0 million and an estimated  market
value  of $10.0  million  on  December  31,  1994.  The  unrealized  loss in the
available-for-sale  securities  was  $4,301  as  of  December  31,  1994.  These
unrealized  losses are the result of  interest  rate  movements  during 1994 and
other market forces, and would be realized in part or in whole if some or all of
the  available-for-sale  securities  were sold and no changes in the  respective
market values occurred.

          The mortgage-backed securities held by the Bank include $486,302 fixed
rate  and  no   variable   rate  as   held-to-maturity.   The   held-to-maturity
mortgage-backed  securities  are stated at cost,  adjusted for  amortization  of
premiums and accretion of fees and discounts using a method that  approximates a
level yield. The available-for-sale mortgage-backed securities includes $219,926
fixed rate  mortgage-backed  securities  and no  variable  rate  mortgage-backed
securities. The available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value.

          The following  tables describe the composition of investments by major
category and maturity at December 31, 1995:

                                                  Held-to-     Available- 
                                                 Maturity       for-Sale
                                                 --------       --------
 
       U.S. Treasury notes .................          --     $   497,969
       U.S. Government agencies ............   $ 8,563,315     8,724,930
       State and County Municipal securities     4,730,921       404,257
       Mortgage backed securities ..........       486,302       219,926
       Other investments ...................          --         281,075
                                               -----------   -----------
                          Total ............   $13,780,538   $10,128,157
                                               ===========   ===========


                                       37
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Maturing or Repricing
                                                               ---------------------
                                                        After 1 Year but       After 5 Years but
                                  Within 1 Year          Within 5 Years         Within 10 Years       Other Securities
                                  -------------          --------------         ---------------       ----------------
                                Amount      Yield       Amount      Yield       Amount      Yield       Amount    Yield
                              ----------    -----     ----------    -----     ----------    -----     ----------  -----
<S>                           <C>           <C>       <C>           <C>       <C>           <C>       <C>         <C> 
Held-to-Maturity
- ----------------
U.S. Treasury notes
U.S. Government agencies ..   $1,000,000     6.1%     $5,466,274     6.1%     $2,097,041     7.4%           --      --
Municipals ................      335,960     5.4%      1,841,738     6.3%      2,553,223     6.4%           --      --
Mortgage-backed  securities         --        --            --        --            --        --      $  486,302   5.9%
                              ----------    -----     ----------    -----     ----------    -----     ----------  -----
           Total .........   $1,335,960               $7,308,012              $4,650,264              $  486,302 
                             ==========               ==========              ==========              ========== 

Available-for-Sale
- ------------------

U.S. Treasury notes .......   $  298,813     7.0%     $  199,156     7.6%           --        --            --      --
U.S. Government agencies ..    1,202,414     6.1%      3,480,656     7.8%     $4,041,860     7.0%           --      --
Mortgage-backed securities          --        --            --        --            --        --      $  219,926   7.8%
Federal Reserve Bank stock          --        --            --        --            --        --         261,150   N/A
Municipals ................         --        --            --        --         404,257     4.7%           --      --
Other investments .........         --        --            --        --            --        --          19,925   N/A
                              ----------              ----------              ----------              ----------
            Total .........   $1,501,227              $3,679,812              $4,446,117              $  501,001   
                              ==========              ==========              ==========              ==========      
</TABLE>

Deposit Activities
- ------------------

          Deposits  are  attracted  through the  offering of a broad  variety of
deposit instruments, including checking accounts, money market accounts, regular
savings accounts,  term certificate  accounts (including "jumbo" certificates in
denominations of $100,000 or more), and retirement  savings plans. The Company's
average  balance of total deposits was  $96,198,295  for the year ended December
31, 1995,  representing  an increase of  $41,886,584  or 77.1% compared with the
average  balance of total  deposits for the year ended  December  31, 1994.  The
Company's  average  balance of total deposits was $54,311,711 for the year ended
1994, an increase of $13,136,055  or 31.9% compared with the average  balance of
total deposits  outstanding for 1993 of $41,175,656,  an increase of $14,706,499
or 55.6%  compared with the average  balance of total deposits  outstanding  for
1992 of $26,469,157.  The increases in deposits are due to both acquisitions and
internally generated growth.



                                       38
<PAGE>


          The  following  table sets forth  certain  information  regarding  the
Bank's average deposits as of December 31, 1995 and 1994:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                               December 31, 1995                           December 31, 1994
                                               -----------------                           -----------------

                                      Average       Percent      Average        Average        Percent       Average
                                       Amount       of Total    Rate Paid        Amount        of Total       Rate Paid
                                       ------       --------    ---------        ------        --------       ---------
<S>                                 <C>             <C>         <C>           <C>              <C>            <C>
Noninterest-bearing demand 
  deposits                          $12,889,281       13.4%         N/A       $ 7,996,860        14.7%         N/A
Interest-bearing demand
  deposits                           23,106,404       24.0%        2.9%        14,680,300        27.0%        1.8%
Savings deposits                      5,329,462        5.5%        2.4%         3,104,155         5.7%        2.5%
Time deposits                        54,873,148       57.1%        5.0%        28,530,396        52.6%        4.0%
                                    -----------      ------        ----       -----------       ------        ---- 
  Total average deposits            $96,198,295      100.0%        4.4%       $54,311,711       100.0%        3.2%
                                    ===========      ======        ====       ===========       ======        ==== 
</TABLE>

          As of December 31, 1995,  non-brokered  time  deposits  over  $100,000
represented 14.1% of total deposits,  compared with 8.6% of total deposits as of
December 31, 1994,  12.9% as of December 31, 1993,  and 16.2% as of December 31,
1992.  As of December  31,  1995,  jumbo  certificates  of deposits in excess of
$100,000  accounted  for  $15,472,674  of the Bank's  deposits.  Of this amount,
$13,868,982  had a maturity of one year or less. The Bank does not have and does
not solicit brokered deposits.

          The  following  table sets  forth the  remaining  maturities  for time
deposits of $100,000 or more at December 31, 1995 and 1994:

    Maturity Range              December 31, 1995    December 31, 1994
    --------------              -----------------    -----------------

Three months or less ...........   $ 6,679,584         $ 3,054,111

Three through six months .......     3,368,061           1,562,924

Six through twelve months ......     3,821,337           3,125,847

Over twelve months .............     1,603,692             200,000
                                   -----------         -----------
                           Total   $15,472,674         $ 7,942,882
                                   ===========         ===========

Return on Equity and Assets
- ---------------------------

The following are various ratios for the Company for the year ended December 31,
1995 and the year ended December 31, 1994:

                                     For the Year ended    For the Year Ended
                                        December 31,          December 31,
                                           1995                   1994
                                           ----                   ----
Return on average assets ..............    0.8%                   0.8%

Return on average equity ..............    9.5%                   7.4%

Average equity to
average assets ........................    8.7%                  10.5%

                                       39
<PAGE>

Liquidity
- ---------

          The Bank's investment  securities  portfolio,  including federal funds
sold,  and its cash and due from  bank  deposit  balances  serve as the  primary
sources of liquidity. At December 31, 1995, 14.1% of the Bank's interest-bearing
liabilities   were  in  the  form  of  time   deposits  of  $100,000  and  over.
Substantially  all of such large  deposits  were obtained from the Bank's market
area, and none were obtained through brokers. Management believes these deposits
to be a stable  source  of  funds.  However,  if a large  number  of these  time
deposits matured at approximately the same time and were not renewed, the Bank's
liquidity could be adversely affected.  Currently,  the maturities of the Bank's
large time  deposits are spread  throughout  the year,  with 43% maturing in the
first quarter of 1996,  22% maturing in the second quarter of 1996, 25% maturing
in the second half of 1996, and the remaining 10% maturing thereafter.  The Bank
monitors  those  maturities  in an  effort to  minimize  any  adverse  effect on
liquidity.  The  Bank is  limited  through  regulatory  commitments  from  using
brokered funds without prior approval.

          The Company raised $1.2 million during 1995, $2.3 million during 1994,
$852,000  during 1993, and $779,000  during 1992 through the sale, in registered
offerings,  private  offerings  and  incentive  stock option  exercises,  of the
Company's  Common  Stock.  Management  anticipates  that future  registered  and
private  offerings of the Company's Common Stock may be used to raise additional
capital,   in  connection  with  acquisitions  or  if  the  regulatory   capital
requirements  with  which the Bank must  comply  necessitate  the  injection  of
additional  capital  by the  Company  into  the  Bank.  Failure  to  raise  such
additional  capital could  adversely  impact the growth of the Bank or result in
its failure to comply with applicable  regulatory  capital  requirements,  which
could  necessitate a reduction in the volume of assets and deposits of the Bank.
Such reductions  could adversely  affect the Bank's earnings and liquidity.  See
"Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation - Capital Adequacy Guidelines ".

     In the longer  term,  the  liquidity of the Company and its ability to meet
its cash obligations will depend  substantially on its receipt of dividends from
the Bank,  which are limited by banking  statutes and  regulations  See "Item 1.
Business - Supervision and Regulation".

Capital Resources
- -----------------

          The  Company's  shareholders'  equity at  December  31, 1995 was $10.3
million,  compared with $8.1 million at December 31, 1994.  The growth in equity
has been the result of the sale of Common Stock by the Company and the retention
of earnings.  The Company had consolidated income of $886,886 for the year ended
December  31, 1995.  There can be no assurance  that the Company can continue to
operate  profitably in the future and failure to operate profitably would have a
material adverse effect on the Company.

          The Bank is expected  to meet a minimum  risk-based  capital  ratio to
risk-weighted  assets ratio of 8%, of which at least one-half (or 4%) must be in
the form of Tier I (core) capital.  The remaining one-half (or 4%) may be either
in the form of Tier I (core) or Tier II (supplementary)  capital.  The amount of
loan loss  allowance  that may be  included  in  capital  is limited to 1.25% of
risk-weighted assets. The ratio of Tier I (core) and the combined amount of Tier
I (core) and Tier II  (supplementary)  capital to  risk-weighted  assets for the
Bank were 10.76% and 11.72%, respectively,  at December 31, 1995, and 10.13% and
11.17%,  respectively,  at December 31, 1994. The Bank is currently, and expects
to continue to be, in compliance with these guidelines. See "Item 1.
Business - Supervision and Regulation - Capital Adequacy Guidelines."

          While the Company believes it has sufficient financing for its working
capital needs until the end of its 1995 fiscal year,  the Company is considering
acquiring additional banks. There can be no assurance that the Company's present
capital  and  financing  will  be  sufficient  to  finance   future   operations
thereafter.  If the Company  sells  additional  shares of Common  Stock to raise
funds,  the terms and  conditions of the  issuances and any dilutive  effect may
have an adverse  impact on the existing  shareholders.  If additional  financing
becomes necessary, there can be no assurance that such financing can be obtained
on satisfactory  terms. In this event, the Company could be required to restrict
its operations.

                                       40
<PAGE>

          The Board of  Governors  of the  Federal  Reserve  System  ("FRB") has
announced a policy  sometimes  known as the "source of strength  doctrine"  that
requires a bank holding company to serve as a source of financial and managerial
strength to its subsidiary  banks.  The FRB has interpreted  this requirement to
require that a bank  holding  company,  such as the Company,  stand ready to use
available  resources to provide  adequate  capital funds to its subsidiary banks
during  periods of  financial  stress or  adversity.  The FRB has stated that it
would  generally view a failure to assist a troubled or failing  subsidiary bank
in these  circumstances  as an unsound or unsafe banking practice or a violation
of  Regulation  Y or  both,  justifying  a  cease  and  desist  order  or  other
enforcement action,  particularly if appropriate  resources are available to the
bank holding company on a reasonable  basis. The requirement that a bank holding
company,  such as the  Company,  make its assets and  resources  available  to a
failing  subsidiary  bank could have an adverse  effect upon the Company and its
shareholders.

          The  following  table sets  forth an  analysis  of the Bank's  capital
ratios:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                           Minimum       Well-
                                                                                           Capital    Capitalized  
                                                     December 31,                          Ratios        Ratios 
                                 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    1995            1994          1993         1992
                                 ----------      ----------    ----------   ----------
   <S>                           <C>             <C>           <C>          <C>             <C>           <C> 
   Tier I risk-based capital     $7,964,000      $6,790,000    $3,821,000   $2,978,000
   Tier II risk-based capital       703,000         698,000       401,000      258,000
   Total capital                  8,667,000       7,488,000     4,222,000    3,236,000
   Risk-weighted assets          73,983,000      67,011,000    33,594,000   20,622,000
   Capital ratios <F1>:
     Tier I risk-based capital       10.76%          10.13%        11.37%       14.44%      4.00%         6.00%
     Tier II risk-based capital      11.72%          11.17%        12.57%       15.69%      8.00%         10.00%
     Leverage ratio                   6.88%           5.56%         9.96%       11.92%      4.00%         5.00%
 
<FN>
<F1> As a national  bank,  the Bank is subject  to  certain  minimum  risk-based
     capital standards established by the OCC.
</FN>
</TABLE>

Accounting Matters
- ------------------

          In March  1995,  the FASB issued  Statement  of  Financial  Accounting
Standards No. 121,  "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived  Assets and for
Long-Lived  Assets to be Disposed of." This Statement  requires that  long-lived
assets and  certain  identifiable  intangibles  be held and used by an entity be
reviewed for impairment  whenever  events or changes in  circumstances  indicate
that the carrying amount of an asset may not be  recoverable.  Measurement of an
impairment  loss for  long-lived  assets and  identifiable  intangibles  that an
entity  expects  to hold and use should be based on the fair value of the asset.
This Statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995.


                                       41
<PAGE>

          In October  1995,  the FASB issued  Statement of Financial  Accounting
Standards No. 123,  "Accounting  for Stock-Based  Compensation."  This Statement
defines a fair value based method of accounting  for an employee stock option or
similar  equity  instrument  and encourages all entities to adopt that method of
accounting for all employee stock compensation plans. However, it also allows an
entity to  continue  to  measure  compensation  cost for those  plans  using the
intrinsic  value based method of  accounting  prescribed  by APB Opinion No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." Entities electing to continue to use
the method of accounting specified in Opinion 25 must make pro forma disclosures
of net income and, if presented, earnings per share, as if the fair value method
of accounting  defined in this  Statement had been  applied.  This  Statement is
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995.

          Management believes that the adoption of these pronouncements will not
have a material impact on the financial statements of the Company.

Impact of Inflation, Changing Prices and Monetary Policies
- ----------------------------------------------------------

          The financial statements and related financial data have been prepared
in accordance with generally accepted accounting  principles,  which require the
measurement of financial  position and operating  results in terms of historical
dollars without  considering  changes in the relative  purchasing power of money
over time due to inflation. The primary effect of inflation on the operations of
the Company is reflected in increased  operating  costs.  Unlike most industrial
companies,   virtually  all  of  the  assets  and  liabilities  of  a  financial
institution are monetary in nature. As a result,  changes in interest rates have
a more significant effect on the performance of a financial  institution than do
the effects of changes in the general rate of  inflation  and changes in prices.
Interest  rates do not  necessarily  move in the same  direction  or in the same
magnitude  as the  prices  of goods and  services.  Interest  rates  are  highly
sensitive  to many factors  which are beyond the control of the Bank,  including
the influence of domestic and foreign  economic  conditions and the monetary and
fiscal  policies  of  the  United  States   government  and  federal   agencies,
particularly  the FRB.  The FRB  implements  national  monetary  policy  such as
seeking to curb inflation and combat recession by its open market  operations in
United States government securities,  control of the discount rate applicable to
borrowing  by banks and  establishment  of  reserve  requirements  against  bank
deposits.  The  actions of the FRB in these areas  influence  the growth of bank
loans,  investments and deposits, and affect the interest rates charged on loans
and paid on  deposits.  The nature,  timing and impact of any future  changes in
federal  monetary and fiscal  policies on the Bank and its results of operations
are not predictable.

Related Party Transactions
- --------------------------

          In the ordinary course of business,  the Bank has loans,  deposits and
other transactions with its executive officers and directors and businesses with
which such  persons are  associated.  It is the  Company's  policy that all such
transactions  are  entered  into  on  substantially  the  same  terms  as  those
prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated third parties.
During  1995,  the Bank  extended  loans in the  total  amount  of  $105,000  to
director-related companies.

Subsequent Events
- -----------------

          On February 28, 1996,  the Company  completed a primary and  secondary
offering of its Common Stock.  The offering was underwritten by Hoefer & Arnett,
Incorporated,  a San  Francisco  investment  banking  firm. A total of 2,388,759
shares of Common  Stock were sold in the offering at a price of $3.75 per share,
including 288,759 shares of Common Stock sold as on  over-allotment  and 174,939
shares of Common Stock held by a shareholder  of the Company.  The proceeds from
this  offering  were used by the  Company to finance  the  acquisition  of First
National Bank, Midlothian,  Texas, to retire the Company's outstanding bank debt
and for general corporate purposes.

                                       42
<PAGE>

     On  February  29,  1996 the  Company  completed  the  acquisition  of First
National Bank, Midlothian,  Texas ("First National"),  through the consolidation
of First  National and the Bank. In connection  with the  transaction,  the Bank
changed  its  main  office  to the  former  main  office  of First  National  in
Midlothian, Texas, and operates its own former main office in Lufkin, Texas as a
branch.  With the  completion  of this  acquisition,  the Bank has increased its
asset size by  approximately  42%. As of December 31, 1995,  First  National had
total  assets of  $51,253,000,  and the Bank's  total assets as of the same date
were $121,262,000. In the transaction, a subsidiary of the Bank was first merged
with  and  into  First  National's  parent  holding  company,  First  Midlothian
Corporation ("First  Midlothian"),  pursuant to which merger the shareholders of
First Midlothian  received cash in exchange for their shares of capital stock of
First Midlothian in an amount equal to  approximately  one hundred fifty percent
(150%) of the book value of First  National.  Immediately  following the merger,
First National and the Bank consolidated under the charter of the Bank.

     On March 15, 1996, the Bank completed the acquisition of Providers  Funding
Corporation  ("PFC"),  a Dallas-based  medical  claims  servicing  company.  The
acquisition  was  accomplished  through the  purchase of certain  assets and the
assumption of certain liabilities of PFC by the Bank. The Bank used cash on hand
to fund this purchase. The Bank will operate PFC as a division titled "Providers
Funding a division  of Surety  Bank,  N.A."  PFC's  former  president,  Barry T.
Carroll, has joined the Bank to head up the division.


ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

     The financial  statements and supplementary data required to be included in
this Item 8 are set forth in Item 14 of this Report.

ITEM 9.  CHANGES  IN  AND  DISAGREEMENTS  WITH  ACCOUNTANTS  ON  ACCOUNTING  AND
         FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

     The Company has had no changes in  accountants  or  disagreements  with its
accountants on accounting and disclosure to report under this Item 9.

                                       43
<PAGE>

                                    PART III

ITEM 10.      DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT.

              This  information is  incorporated by reference from the Company's
     definitive  Proxy  Statement for the Company's  1996 annual meeting for the
     fiscal year ended  December 31,  1995,  to be filed no later than April 29,
     1996.

ITEM 11.      EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

              This  information is  incorporated by reference from the Company's
     definitive  Proxy  Statement for the Company's  1996 annual meeting for the
     fiscal year ended  December 31,  1995,  to be filed no later than April 29,
     1996.

ITEM 12.      SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.

              This  information is  incorporated by reference from the Company's
     definitive  Proxy  Statement for the Company's  1996 annual meeting for the
     fiscal year ended  December 31,  1995,  to be filed no later than April 29,
     1996.

ITEM 13.      CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.

              This  information is  incorporated by reference from the Company's
     definitive  Proxy  Statement for the Company's  1996 annual meeting for the
     fiscal year ended  December 31,  1995,  to be filed no later than April 29,
     1996.



                                       44
<PAGE>

                                     PART IV

ITEM 14.      EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

(a)  Documents filed as part of Report.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

     1.   Financial Statements                                                    Page
          --------------------                                                    ----
          
          The  following  financial  statements  of the  Company  required to be
          included in Item 8 are filed under Item 14 at the page indicated:
          <S>                                                                     <C>
          Report of Independent Accountants                                        F-1

          Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1995 and 1994                F-2

          Consolidated  Statements  of Income for the years ended  December  31,
          1995, 1994 and 1993                                                      F-3

          Consolidated  Statements of  Shareholders'  Equity for the years ended
          December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993                                         F-4

          Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
          1995, 1994 and 1993                                                      F-5

          Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                               F-7
</TABLE>

     2.   Financial Statement Schedules
          -----------------------------

          No  schedules  are  required  because  they  are  inapplicable  or the
          information  is otherwise  shown in the financial  statements or notes
          thereto.

     3.   Exhibits
          --------

          2.01 Reorganization Agreement by and between Bancwell Financial Corp.;
               Dan W. Brent, Jody Pearson and Joe M. Pearson;  Texas Bank, N.A.;
               and Surety Capital Corporation dated July 23, 1992; and Agreement
               to Merge Bank of East Texas with and into Texas Bank,  N.A. under
               the  Charter  of Texas  Bank,  N.A.  and under the Title of Texas
               Bank, N.A., dated July 23, 1992. (4)

          2.02 Reorganization Agreement by and between Newell Bancshares,  Inc.;
               Dan W. Brent, Jody Pearson and Joe M. Pearson;  Texas Bank, N.A.;
               and Surety Capital Corporation dated July 23, 1992; and Agreement
               to Merge First State Bank with and into Texas  Bank,  N.A.  under
               the  Charter  of Texas  Bank,  N.A.  and under the Title of Texas
               Bank, N.A., dated July 23, 1992. (4)

          2.03 Reorganization  Agreement  by and between  The  Farmers  Guaranty
               State Bank of Kennard;  Dr.  Frank A. Smith,  III;  Surety  Bank,
               National  Association;  and  Surety  Capital  Corporation,  dated
               February 4, 1994;  and  Agreement  to Merge The Farmers  Guaranty
               State  Bank of  Kennard  with  and  into  Surety  Bank,  National
               Association   under  the   Charter  of  Surety   Bank,   National
               Association  and  under  the  title  of  Surety  Bank,   National
               Association, dated February 4, 1994. (6)

                                       45
<PAGE>

          2.04 Reorganization  Agreement  by and between  First  National  Bank;
               Lloyd W. Butts, D. C. Degan,  Norman Denton,  Murriel  Gilbreath,
               Robert S. Light,  and Joe B.  Turner,  Jr. (the  "Shareholders");
               Surety   Bank,   National   Association;   and   Surety   Capital
               Corporation,  dated May 24, 1994;  and Agreement to Merge between
               Surety Bank, National Association, First National Bank and joined
               in by the Shareholders and Surety Capital Corporation,  dated May
               24, 1994. (7)

          2.05 Reorganization   Agreement  by  and  between   First   Midlothian
               Corporation; First National Bank; certain individual shareholders
               and directors of First Midlothian  Corporation and First National
               Bank;  Surety  Bank,  National  Association;  and Surety  Capital
               Corporation, dated October 17, 1995. (10)

          2.06 Amendment Number One to Reorganization  Agreement,  dated January
               16, 1996. (11)

          2.07 Amendment Number Two to Reorganization Agreement,  dated February
               29, 1996. (11)

          2.08 Agreement  to Merge SCC  Acquisition,  Inc.  with and into  First
               Midlothian  Corporation  Under the  Charter  of First  Midlothian
               Corporation and Under the Title of First  Midlothian  Corporation
               between First Midlothian  Corporation and SCC Acquisition,  Inc.,
               and  joined  in by  Surety  Bank,  National  Association  and the
               directors  of First  Midlothian  Corporation  and First  National
               Bank, dated October 17, 1995. (10)

          2.09 Amendment Number One to Agreement to Merge SCC Acquisition,  Inc.
               with and into First Midlothian  Corporation  Under the Charter of
               First  Midlothian  Corporation  and  Under  the  Title  of  First
               Midlothian Corporation, dated February 29, 1996. (11)

          2.10 Agreement to  Consolidate  First  National  Bank and Surety Bank,
               National  Association under the Charter of Surety Bank,  National
               Association  and  Under  the  Title  of  Surety  Bank,   National
               Association between Surety Bank,  National  Association and First
               National Bank, and joined in by SCC Acquisition,  Inc. and Surety
               Capital Corporation, dated January 16, 1996. (10)

          3.01 Certificate of Incorporation. (1)

          3.02 Certificate  of Amendment of  Certificate  of  Incorporation,  as
               filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on April 8, 1987. (2)

          3.03 Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation,  as
               filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on April 4, 1988. (3)

          3.04 Certificate  of  Designations  Establishing  Series  of Shares of
               Preferred Stock, as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on
               April 4, 1988. (3)

          3.05 Certification  of  Elimination  of Series of Shares of  Preferred
               Stock,  as filed with the Delaware  Secretary of State on January
               31, 1992. (5)

          3.06 Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation,  as
               filed with Delaware Secretary of State on June 14, 1993. (6)

          3.07 Form of Common Stock certificate (specimen). (6)

          3.08 Restated Bylaws of the Company. (8)

                                       46
<PAGE>

          10.01 Pledge  Agreement by and between Surety Capital  Corporation and
                Overton Bank and Trust, N.A., dated December 9, 1994. (9)

          10.02 Guaranty  Agreement entered  into by C. Jack  Bean with  Overton
                Bank and Trust,  N.A.  with  respect to the repayment  by Surety
                Capital Corporation  of loan from Overton Bank and Trust,  N.A.,
                dated December 9, 1994. (9)

          10.03 Uniform Commercial Code Financing Statement UCC-1 completed with
                respect to Overton Bank & Trust, N.A.'s security interest in the
                Shares of Stock of Surety  Bank, National  Association  owned by
                Surety Capital Corporation. (9)

          10.04 Promissory  Note in the original  principal  amount of  $500,000
                with Surety Capital Corporation as borrower and Overton Bank and
                Trust,  N.A. as lender, dated June 23, 1995 with a maturity date
                of January 23, 1996; and related Security  Agreement (Collateral
                Pledge Agreement) dated June 23, 1995. (10)

          10.05 Surety Capital Corporation 1988 Incentive Stock Option Plan. (5)

          10.06 Form of Change in Control  Agreement entered into between Surety
                Capital Corporation and C. Jack Bean, Bobby W. Hackler and G. M.
                Heinzelmann, III, dated August 16, 1994. (8)

          10.07 Lease agreement between Precinct Campus,  Inc., as landlord,  
                Surety Capital Corporation, as tenant, regarding offices located
                in Hurst, Texas, dated February 14, 1994. (6)

          10.08 Surety Capital Corporation 1995 Incentive Stock Option Plan. (8)

          10.09 Form of Executive Deferred  Compensation  Agreements and related
               Adoption  Agreements with Designation of  Beneficiaries  entered
               into between Surety Capital Corporation and Bobby W. Hackler and
               G. M. Heinzelmann, III, dated August 15, 1995. (10)

          10.10 Form of Letter Agreements between Surety Capital Corporation and
                Bobby W. Hackler and G. M. Heinzelmann,   regarding  provision
                by Surety Capital  Corporation  of term life insurance coverage,
                dated August 15, 1995. (10)

          10.11 Change in Control  Agreement entered into between Surety Capital
                Corporation and B. J. Curley, dated February 9, 1996. *

          10.12 Asset  Purchase  Agreement  by and among  Surety  Bank, National
                Association,  Surety  Capital  Corporation,   Providers  Funding
                Corporation, and Lawrence C. Blanton,  Barry T. Carroll and Bill
                M.  Ward;   Employment,   Non-Competition  and   Confidentiality
                Agreement  by and  between Surety  Bank,  National  Association,
                Surety Capital Corporation, and Barry T. Carroll;Non-Competition
                and  Confidentiality  Agreement  by  and  between  Surety  Bank,
                National Association, Surety Capital Corporation, and Lawrence C
                Blanton;and Non-Competition and Confidentiality Agreement by and
                between Surety  Bank,  National   Association,   Surety  Capital
                Corporation, and Bill M. Ward; all dated March 15, 1996. *

          21    Subsidiaries of the Registrant. *

          23    Consent of Coopers & Lybrand, L.L.P. *

                                       47
<PAGE>

          24   Special Power of Attorney. *

          27   Financial Data Schedule. *

                             NOTES TO EXHIBIT INDEX

(1)  Filed with Registration  Statement No. 33-1983 on Form S-1 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(2)  Filed with the Company's Form 10-K dated October 31, 1987 and  incorporated
     by reference herein.

(3)  Filed with the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 1988 and
     incorporated by reference herein.

(4)  Filed with Registration Statement No. 33-44893 on Form S-3 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(5)  Filed with the Company's Form 10-K dated December 31, 1991 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(6)  Filed with the Company's Form 10-K dated December 31, 1993 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(7)  Filed with the Company's Form 8-K dated  December 8, 1994 and  incorporated
     by reference herein.

(8)  Filed with the Company's Form 10-K dated December 31, 1994 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(9)  Filed with Registration Statement No. 33-89264 on Form S-2 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(10) Filed with Registration Statement No. 33-64789 on Form S-1 and incorporated
     by reference herein.

(11) Filed with the Company's Form 8-K dated February 29, 1996 and  incorporated
     by reference herein.

*    Filed herewith.


(b)  Reports on Form 8-K.
- -------------------------

     On October 13, 1995 the  Company  filed a current  report for Form 8-K with
the  Securities  and  Exchange  Commission  to  report  that as of the  close of
business on  September  28, 1995 the Company and its  subsidiary,  Surety  Bank,
National Association,  had consummated the acquisition of certain assets and the
assumption of certain liabilities by Surety Bank, National  Association relating
to the branch of Bank One, Texas,  National  Association  located in Waxahachie,
Texas.

(c)  Exhibits Required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.
- -----------------------------------------------------

     The  exhibits  listed in Part IV,  Item  14(a)(3) of this  report,  and not
incorporated  by reference to a separate file, are included after  "Signatures,"
below.

(d)  Financial  Statement  Schedules Required by Regulation S-X. (Included under
     Part IV, Item 14(a)(2)).
- -----------------------------

     All schedules are omitted  because they are not required,  inapplicable  or
the information is otherwise shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.



                                       48
<PAGE>

                                   SIGNATURES

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

                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION



Date:  March 28, 1996                  By: /s/ C. Jack Bean
                                           C. Jack Bean, Chairman of the Board


         Pursuant to the  requirements  of the  Securities  and  Exchange Act of
1934,  this  report  has been  signed  below  by the  following  persons  in the
capacities indicated on this 28th day of March, 1996.

       Signature                                Capacity
       ---------                                --------

/s/ C. Jack Bean                          Chairman of the Board and Director
C. Jack Bean                              (Principal Executive Officer)

/s/ G. M. Heinzelmann, III                President and Director
G. M. Heinzelmann, III

/s/ Bobby W. Hackler                      Senior Vice President,
Bobby W. Hackler                          Secretary and Director

/s/ B. J. Curley                          Vice President and Chief Financial
B. J. Curley                              Officer (Principal Financial Officer
                                          and Chief Accounting Officer)

*                                         Director
- ----------------
Cullen W. Turner

*                                         Director
- ----------------
Michael L. Milam

*                                         Director
- ----------------
Joseph S. Hardin

*                                         Director
- ----------------
William B. Byrd

*                                         Director
- ----------------
Garrett Morris

*  By: /s/ C. Jack Bean
       C. Jack Bean, as Attorney-in-Fact for each of the persons indicated



                                       49
<PAGE>


                        REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


Board of Directors and Shareholders
Surety Capital Corporation
Fort Worth, Texas


We have audited the accompanying  consolidated  balance sheets of Surety Capital
Corporation  as of  December  31, 1995 and 1994,  and the  related  consolidated
statements of income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three
years in the period ended December 31, 1995. 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.

In our opinion,  the financial  statements  referred to above present fairly, in
all material  respects,  the consolidated  financial  position of Surety Capital
Corporation  as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and the  consolidated  results of
operations  and its cash flows for each of the three  years in the period  ended
December 31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

As discussed in Note 2 to the financial  statements,  Surety Capital Corporation
changed its method of accounting for  investment  securities and income taxes in
1994 and 1993, respectively.


/s/Coopers & Lybrand, L.L.P.
Fort Worth, Texas
January 22, 1996,  except for the first  paragraph of Note 18, which the date is
     February  28,  1996,  the second  paragraph  of Note 18,  which the date is
     February  29, 1996,  and the third  paragraph of Note 18, which the date is
     March 15, 1996



                                      F-1
<PAGE>


                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                           December 31, 1995 and 1994
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                     ASSETS
                                                                                       December 31,        December 31,
                                                                                           1995                1994
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
<S>                                                                                   <C>                 <C>
Assets:
      Cash and due from banks                                                             $4,727,018         $  3,929,360
      Federal funds sold                                                                  18,490,000            7,265,000
      Interest bearing deposits in financial institutions                                  1,046,297            1,524,188
      Investment securities
           Available-for-sale                                                             10,128,157            9,963,209
           Held-to-maturity                                                               13,780,538            9,541,045
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
                Total investment securities                                               23,908,695           19,504,254

      Loans                                                                               68,991,700           66,170,193
      Less:  Unearned interest                                                           (1,889,461)          (1,506,843)
                Allowance for credit losses                                                (702,927)            (697,948)
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
      Net loans                                                                           66,399,312           63,965,402

      Premises and equipment, net                                                          2,775,688            2,393,601
      Accrued interest receivable                                                            781,031              623,737
      Other real estate and repossessed assets                                                85,528              121,359
      Other assets                                                                           467,147              451,891
      Excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired, net of
        accumulated amortization of $359,572 and $175,240 at
        December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively                                           2,658,557            2,515,519
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
            Total assets                                                                $121,339,273         $102,294,311
                                                                                      ===============     ================
Liabilities and shareholders equity:
      Demand deposits                                                                    $13,182,888         $ 12,191,183
      Savings, NOW and money markets                                                      30,612,855           29,875,481
      Time deposits, $100,000 and over                                                    15,472,674            7,942,882
      Other time deposits                                                                 50,330,085           42,017,576
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
            Total deposits                                                               109,598,502           92,027,122

      Note payable                                                                           375,000            1,750,000
      Accrued interest payable and other liabilities                                       1,071,299              451,508
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
            Total liabilities                                                            111,044,801           94,228,630
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Notes 9 & 14)

Shareholders' equity:
       Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares  authorized,
          none issued at December 31, 1995 and 1994                                                -                    -
      Common stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized,
        3,516,595 and 3,040,829 shares issued at December 31, 1995 and
        1994, respectively, and 3,506,429 and 3,040,829 outstanding at
        December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively                                              35,166               30,408
      Additional paid-in capital                                                           9,356,469            8,113,214
      Retained earnings/(deficit)                                                            811,784             (75,102)
      Treasury stock, 10,166 shares carried at cost                                         (50,830)                    -
      Unrealized gain/(loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax                    141,883              (2,839)
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
            Total shareholders' equity                                                    10,294,472            8,065,681
                                                                                      ---------------     ----------------
            Total liabilities and shareholders' equity                                  $121,339,273         $102,294,311
                                                                                      ===============     ================
</TABLE>

The  accompanying  notes  are an  integral  part of the  consolidated  financial
statements.

                                      F-2
<PAGE>

                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                        CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                           1995             1994             1993
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------
<S>                                                                    <C>              <C> 
Interest income:
  Commercial and real estate loans                                     $  3,664,124     $  1,422,911     $  1,034,793
  Consumer loans                                                          1,198,632        1,059,188          966,458
  Insurance premium financing                                             2,739,060        2,172,038        1,302,854
  Federal funds sold                                                        657,809          302,621          162,830
  Investment securities
    Taxable                                                                 905,046          338,286          507,273
    Tax-exempt                                                              268,702           23,792                -
  Interest bearing deposits                                                 101,408           68,173           20,853
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------
      Total interest income                                               9,534,781        5,387,009        3,995,061
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

Interest expense:
  Savings, NOW and money market                                             805,514          353,123          306,899
  Time deposits, $100,000 and over                                          792,098          362,700          198,151
  Other time deposits                                                     1,957,288          760,833          618,534
  Other interest expense                                                    122,579           11,075                -
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------
      Total interest expense                                              3,677,479        1,487,731        1,123,584
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

        Net interest income before provision for credit losses            5,857,302        3,899,278        2,871,477

Provision for credit losses                                                  60,000          106,899           90,584
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

        Net interest income                                               5,797,302        3,792,379        2,780,893
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

Noninterest income                                                        1,419,067        1,160,007        1,181,808
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

Noninterest expense:
  Salaries and employee benefits                                          2,923,118        2,201,188        1,715,952
  Occupancy and equipment                                                   907,286          669,936          495,055
  General and administrative                                              2,048,148        1,590,814        1,380,971
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------
      Total noninterest expense                                           5,878,552        4,461,938        3,591,978
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

        Income before income taxes                                        1,337,817          490,448          370,723

Income tax expenses:
    Current                                                                 263,007           36,697
    Deferred                                                                187,924          (19,009)
                                                                       -------------    -------------    -------------

      Net income                                                           $886,886        $ 472,760       $  370,723
                                                                       =============    =============    =============

Net income per share of common stock                                           $.27             $.20             $.19
                                                                       =============    =============    =============
Weighted average shares outstanding                                       3,279,448        2,393,841        2,001,689
                                                                       =============    =============    =============
</TABLE>

The  accompanying  notes  are an  integral  part of the  consolidated  financial
statements.

                                      F-3
<PAGE>



                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                                    Unrealized
                                                                                                       Gain/
                                                                       Accumulate                    (Loss) on
                                     Common Stock       Additional      Retained                     Available-
                                 ---------------------
                                               Par        Paid-in      Earnings/      Treasury       for-Sale         Total
                                   Shares     Value       Capital      (Deficit)        Stock       Securities       Equity
                                 ----------- ---------  ------------  ------------- -------------- --------------  ------------
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>             <C>  
Balance at December 31, 1992     $1,981,447   $19,814    $4,957,133     $(918,585)              -              -    $4,058,362

Sale of common stock                292,040     2,920       848,983                                                    851,903

Net income                                                                 370,723                                     370,723
                                 ----------- ---------  ------------  ------------- -------------- --------------  ------------

Balance at December 31, 1993      2,273,487    22,734     5,806,116      (547,862)              -              -     5,280,988

Sale of Common Stock                767,342     7,674     2,307,098                                                  2,314,772

Net Income                                                                 472,760                                     472,760

Unrealized loss on available-
   for-sale securities, net of
   income taxes                                                                                         $(2,839)       (2,839)
                                 ----------- ---------  ------------  ------------- -------------- --------------  ------------

Balance at December 31, 1994      3,040,829    30,408     8,113,214       (75,102)              -        (2,839)     8,065,681
                                 ----------- ---------  ------------  ------------- -------------- --------------  ------------

Sale of Common Stock                459,500     4,595     1,192,587                                                  1,197,182

Purchase of Treasury Stock                                                              $(50,830)                     (50,830)

Net Income                                                                 886,886                                     886,886

Exercise of stock options            16,266       163        50,668                                                     50,831

Change in unrealized
gain/(losses)
   on available-for-sale
securities,
   net of income taxes                                                                                   144,722       144,722
                                 ----------- ---------  ------------  ------------- -------------- --------------  ------------

 Balance at December 31, 1995     3,516,595   $35,166    $9,356,469       $811,784      $(50,830)       $141,883   $10,294,472
                                 =========== =========  ============  ============= ============== ==============  ============


</TABLE>



The  accompanying  notes  are an  integral  part of the  consolidated  financial
statements.

                                      F-4
<PAGE>

                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                      December 31,
                                                                 --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       1995                1994               1993
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------
<S>                                                              <C>                  <C>                <C>           
Cash flows from operating activities:
   Net income                                                            $886,886           $472,760            $370,723
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
       cash provided by operating activities:
           Provision for credit losses                                     60,000            106,899              90,584
           Provision for depreciation                                     500,725            330,644             211,934
           Amortization of intangible assets                              184,332             51,201              35,567
           Gain on sale or disposal of assets                             (8,477)           (15,508)            (99,049)
           Net increase in unearned interest on loans                     382,618            136,614             162,760
           Net increase in other assets                                 (353,503)          (220,707)             216,152
           Net increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable
              an other liabilities                                        411,209          (122,438)             (2,424)
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

                    Net cash provided by operating activities           2,063,790            739,465             986,247
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

Cash flows from investing activities:
   Net increase in loans                                              (1,486,861)        (7,760,672)         (8,611,152)
   Payments received on purchased medical claims receivables           15,716,784         12,290,141          11,585,316
   Purchases of medical claims receivables                           (16,688,775)       (11,229,044)        (12,564,026)
   Purchases of available-for-sale securities                         (7,356,633)
   Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities                 4,736,638
   Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities            2,670,121            169,971
   Purchases of held-to-maturity securities                           (7,048,483)          (316,276)
   Proceeds from maturities of held-to-maturity securities              2,808,990          4,556,981           2,799,980
   Purchases of interest bearing deposits in financial                   (99,081)            500,000           6,084,844
institutions
   Proceeds from maturities of interest bearing deposits in
      financial institutions                                              576,972            712,743
   Purchases of investment securities                                                                        (3,532,926)
   Purchases of bank premises and equipment                             (609,135)          (420,487)           (560,529)
   Proceeds from sales of bank premises and equipment                     513,208             16,308
   Direct cost incurred for bank acquisition                             (48,858)          (115,039)
   Net cash acquired through purchase of bank                          15,418,983          2,624,200           1,441,254
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

            Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities         9,103,870          1,028,826         (3,357,239)
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

Cash flows from financing activities:
   Net increase (decrease) in deposits                                  1,032,815        (1,525,190)         (1,298,634)
   Proceeds from issuance of note payable                                                  1,750,000
   Principal payments on notes payable                                (1,375,000)
   Payments to purchase of treasury stock                                (50,830)
   Proceeds from the sale of stock                                      1,248,013          2,314,772             851,903
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

            Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities           854,998          2,539,582           (446,731)
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

Net increase in cash                                                   12,022,658          4,307,873         (2,817,723)

Beginning cash and cash equivalents                                    11,194,360          6,886,487           9,704,210
                                                                 -----------------    ---------------    ----------------

Ending cash and cash equivalents                                      $23,217,018        $11,194,360          $6,886,487
                                                                 =================    ===============    ================

</TABLE>
The  accompanying  notes  are an  integral  part of the  consolidated  financial
statements.

                                      F-5
<PAGE>

                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                    December 31,
                                                               --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     1995                1994                1993
                                                               ------------------   ----------------    ---------------
<S>                                                                   <C>           <C>                  <C>  
Supplemental disclosure:
   Cash paid during the period for interest                           $3,421,225         $1,339,223         $1,074,507
   Cash paid during the period for federal income taxes                  $22,733            $12,000                  -

Supplemental schedule of noncash investing and financing activities:
       Transfers of Repossessed collateral to other assets              $457,483           $241,189           $149,991
       Additions to loans to facilitate the sale of OREO
       and other assets                                                                    $162,385

Supplemental schedule of investing activities:

   Interest bearing deposits in financial institutions                                 $  1,588,931       $    198,000
   Investment securities                                                                 16,196,901         13,335,164
   Net loans                                                      $      875,159         26,363,109          2,869,616
   Premises and equipment, net                                           273,677            999,713             92,972
   Other assets                                                            6,569            474,002            152,533
   Excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired                 102,507          2,124,132             61,308
   Deposits                                                         (16,538,565)       (49,956,393)       (18,054,279)
   Other liabilities                                                   (138,330)          (414,595)           (96,568)
                                                               ------------------   ----------------    ---------------

Net cash acquired through purchase of banks                        $(15,418,983)       $(2,624,200)       $(1,441,254)
                                                               ==================   ================    ===============

</TABLE>

The  accompanying  notes  are an  integral  part of the  consolidated  financial
statements.

                                      F-6
<PAGE>
                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


1.   BASIS OF PRESENTATION:
     
     The accompanying  consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
     the Company and its subsidiary, Surety Bank, National Association ("Bank"),
     which was acquired on December 30, 1989 and as of December 31, 1995 was 99%
     owned  by  the  Company.   All   significant   intercompany   accounts  and
     transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation.


2.   SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
     
     Cash and Cash Equivalents
     -------------------------

     For purposes of reporting  cash flows,  cash and cash  equivalents  include
     cash on hand,  amounts due from banks,  and federal funds sold.  Generally,
     federal funds are sold for one day periods.

     Investment Securities
     ---------------------

     Effective  January 1, 1994,  the Company  adopted  Statement  of  Financial
     Accounting  Standards No. 115,  "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt
     and  Equity  Securities"   ("SFAS  115").  This  statement   addresses  the
     accounting  and reporting for  investments in equity  securities  that have
     readily determined fair values for all investments in debt securities.

     Management  determines the appropriate  classification of securities at the
     time of purchase.  If the securities are purchased with the positive intent
     and the ability to hold the securities until maturity,  they are classified
     as   held-to-maturity   and  carried  at  historical  cost,   adjusted  for
     amortization of premiums and accretion of fees and discounts using a method
     that approximates the interest method. Securities to be held for indefinite
     periods of time are  classified as  available-for-sale  and carried at fair
     value. Securities purchased and held principally for the purpose of selling
     them in the  near  term are  classified  as  trading.  The  Company  had no
     securities  classified as trading as of December 31, 1995 or 1994. The cost
     of securities sold is based on the specific identification method.

     Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses
     -------------------------------------

     Loans are stated at the  amount of unpaid  principal,  reduced by  unearned
     interest and an  allowance  for credit  losses.  The  allowance  for credit
     losses is established through a provision for credit losses charged against
     current earnings. Loans are charged against the allowance for credit losses
     when  management  believes  that the  collectibility  of the  principal  is
     unlikely.  The  allowance  for credit  losses is an amount that  management
     believes will be adequate to absorb  possible losses on existing loans that
     may become  uncollectible,  based upon evaluation of the  collectibility of
     loans  and  prior  loan  loss   experience.   The  evaluations   take  into
     consideration  such factors as changes in the nature and volume of the loan
     portfolio, overall portfolio quality, review of specific problem loans, and
     current economic conditions that may affect the borrowers' ability to pay.

     Interest income on insurance  premium financing loans and installment loans
     is recognized by a method which approximates the interest method.  Interest
     income on  commercial  and real estate loans is accrued daily on the amount
     of outstanding  principal.  Accrual of interest is  discontinued  on a loan
     when  management   believes,   after  considering   economic  and  business
     conditions and collection efforts, that a borrower's financial condition is
     such that  collection  of interest and  principal  is doubtful.  Management
     evaluates the book value (including  accrued interest) and collateral value
     on loans placed on nonaccrual  status and provides  specific  allowance for
     credit losses as deemed appropriate.

                                      F-7
<PAGE>

2.   SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

     Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses, continued:
     -------------------------------------------------

     Certain  fees and  costs  associated  with  the  origination  of loans  are
     deferred and recognized over the estimated lives of the related loans as an
     adjustment to yield.
 
     Premises and Equipment
     ----------------------

     Premises and  equipment are stated at cost less  accumulated  depreciation.
     Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method at rates sufficient
     to amortize the cost over the estimated  lives of the assets.  Expenditures
     for repairs and  maintenance  are  expensed as  incurred,  and renewals and
     betterments  that  extend  the lives of assets  are  capitalized.  Cost and
     accumulated  depreciation  are eliminated from the accounts when assets are
     sold or retired and any  resulting  gain or loss is reflected in operations
     in the year of disposition.

     Other Real Estate and Repossessed Assets
     ----------------------------------------

     Foreclosed  real estate and other  assets are  recorded at the lower of the
     unpaid  balance  of the  related  loan  or the  fair  market  value  of the
     property. Any write down to fair market value at the date of acquisition is
     charged against the allowance for credit losses. Any subsequent write downs
     are reflected in operations.

     Income Per Share
     ----------------

     Net income per share of common  stock is computed  based upon the  weighted
     average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the years ended
     December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993.

     Income Taxes
     ------------

     During  1993,  the  Company  adopted  Statement  of  Financial   Accounting
     Standards No. 109,  "Accounting  for Income Taxes" ("SFAS 109") whereby the
     method of  accounting  for income  taxes  utilized  an asset and  liability
     approach for  financial  statement  purposes.  Under SFAS 109, the types of
     differences  between  the tax bases of  assets  and  liabilities  and their
     financial  reporting  amounts  that give rise to  significant  portions  of
     deferred income tax liabilities or assets include:  allowances for possible
     credit  losses,  property  and  equipment,  investment  securities  and net
     operating  loss  carryforwards.  The change in  accounting  did not have an
     effect on the  Company's  consolidated  financial  position  or  results of
     operations.

     Purchase Method of Accounting
     -----------------------------

     Net assets  acquired in purchase  transactions  are  recorded at their fair
     value at the date of  acquisition.  The excess of purchase  price over fair
     value  of  net  assets  acquired  is  amortized  on a  straight-line  basis
     generally over a 15-year period. The Company  continually  re-evaluates the
     propriety  of the carrying  amount of such  intangible  assets,  as well as
     their  amortization   period,  to  determine  whether  current  events  and
     circumstances  warrant  adjustments  to the carrying  value and/or  revised
     estimates of the period of benefit. At this time, the Company believes that
     no significant  impairment of such intangible  assets has occurred and that
     no reduction of amortization period is warranted.

     Reclassifications
     -----------------

     Certain  balances  for the year ended  December 31, 1994 and 1993 have been
     reclassified  to conform  to the  presentation  adopted  for the year ended
     December 31,  1995.  These  reclassifications  had no effect on net income,
     total assets,  total  liabilities,  or  shareholders'  equity as previously
     reported.


                                      F-8
<PAGE>

2.   SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:
     
     Use of Estimates
     ----------------

     The  preparation  of financial  statements  in  conformity  with  generally
     accepted  accounting  principles  requires management to make estimates and
     assumptions  that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
     disclosure  of  contingent  assets  and  liabilities  at  the  date  of the
     financial  statements  and the  reported  amounts of revenues  and expenses
     during  the  reporting  period.  Actual  results  could  differ  from those
     estimates.

     Recent Accounting Pronouncements
     --------------------------------

     In March 1995, the Financial  Accounting  Standards  Board ("FASB")  issued
     Statement of Financial  Accounting  Standards No. 121,  "Accounting for the
     Impairment of Long-Lived  Assets and for  Long-Lived  Assets to be Disposed
     Of" ("SFAS  121").  SFAS 121 requires that  long-lived  assets and certain
     identifiable  intangibles  to be held and used by an entity be reviewed for
     impairment  whenever events or changes in  circumstances  indicate that the
     carrying  amount  of an asset  may not be  recoverable.  Measurement  of an
     impairment loss for long-lived assets and identifiable  intangibles that an
     entity  expects  to hold and use  should be based on the fair  value of the
     asset.  SFAS 121 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15,
     1995.

     In  October  1995,  the  FASB  issued  Statement  of  Financial  Accounting
     Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based  Compensation" ("SFAS 123").
     SFAS 123 defines a fair value based  method of  accounting  for an employee
     stock option or similar  equity  instrument  and encourages all entities to
     adopt that method of accounting for all employee stock compensation  plans.
     However, it also allows an entity to continue to measure  compensation cost
     for those  plans  using the  intrinsic  value  based  method of  accounting
     prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.
     Entities electing to remain with the accounting method specified in Opinion
     25 must  make pro  forma  disclosures  of net  income  and,  if  presented,
     earnings per share,  as if the fair value method of  accounting  defined in
     SFAS 123 had been applied. SFAS 123 is effective for fiscal years beginning
     after December 15, 1995.

     Management believes that the adoption of these pronouncements will not have
     a material impact on the financial statements of the Company.


3.   ACQUISITIONS:

     First National Bank, Whitesboro, Texas
     --------------------------------------

     On December 8, 1994,  Surety Bank acquired  First National Bank, a national
     banking  association  located in  Whitesboro,  Texas  through the merger of
     First  National  Bank with and into  Surety  Bank.  Pursuant to the merger,
     Surety Bank paid  $6,000,000 to the  shareholders of First National Bank in
     exchange  for all of the issued and  outstanding  shares of common stock of
     First  National  Bank.  The purchase price of $30.00 per share was based on
     approximately  150% of the book value of First National Bank as of December
     31,  1993.  As a result of the earnings of First  National  Bank during the
     fiscal  year  1994,  the  purchase  price of $30.00  per share  represented
     approximately  130% of the book value of First National Bank as of the date
     of consummation of the merger.

     In connection with the merger,  Surety Bank purchased all of the assets and
     assumed  all of the  obligations  of First  National  Bank.  To finance the
     merger,  Surety Bank received a $4,000,000  capital  contribution  from the
     Company.  The Company  raised  $2,169,050  under a limited  offering of its
     shares of common stock,  pursuant to which it sold 667,400 shares of common
     stock at $3.25 per share and the Company obtained a $1,750,000, 90-day note
     payable to Overton Bank and Trust,  N.A.  After the note matured on June 7,
     1995,  the Company  reduced  the balance of the note to $500,000  and a new
     note was obtained for the remaining  balance with a maturity of January 23,
     1996. As of December 31, 1995, the note bore interest at eleven and

                                      F-9
<PAGE>

3.   ACQUISITIONS CONTINUED:

     one-half  percent  (11.50%),  had a balance of  $375,000,  and provided for
     quarterly interest payments and one principal payment at maturity.

     The  acquisition  has been accounted for as a purchase in the  accompanying
     consolidated  financial  statements and the assets and liabilities of First
     National Bank were recorded at their fair values as of November 30, 1994.

     The  consolidated  results of  operations  include the  operations of First
     National Bank  subsequent to December 1, 1994. The information for the year
     ended  December 31, 1995 and the  unaudited pro forma  information  for the
     year ended December 31, 1994,  presented below,  reflect the acquisition of
     First  National Bank, as if it had been acquired as of January 1, 1994. Pro
     forma  adjustments  consisting of a provision for income taxes and interest
     expense  have been made to reflect  the  unaudited  pro forma  information.
     Interest  expense on  short-term  debt of  $1,750,000 is included as if the
     short-term debt had been incurred on January 1, 1994.

                                                 Year ended        Year ended
                                                 December 31,      December 31,
                                                    1995              1994
                                                 ----------        ----------
Interest income ................................ $9,534,781        $5,387,009
Net income .....................................    886,886           472,760
Net income per share of common stock ........... $     0.27        $     0.20


     Bank One, Texas, National Association Branch in Waxahachie, Texas
     -----------------------------------------------------------------

     On September 28, 1995,  Surety Bank acquired  certain  assets  (principally
     cash) and  assumed  certain  liabilities  (principally  customer  deposits)
     relating  to one branch of Bank One,  Texas,  National  Association  ("Bank
     One") located in Waxahachie,  Texas.  Surety Bank financed the  acquisition
     through the use of internally-generated funds.

     At the closing, Surety Bank assumed deposits and other liabilities totaling
     approximately $16,539,000.  In addition, Surety Bank acquired certain small
     business and consumer loans totaling approximately  $875,000,  certain real
     property, furniture and equipment related to the Waxahachie Branch totaling
     approximately  $274,000,  and cash and other assets totaling  approximately
     $15,426,000.  After  paying a deposit  premium of two  percent  (2%) on the
     deposits  assumed  totaling  approximately  $331,000,  Surety Bank received
     approximately  $15,419,000 in cash from Bank One as  consideration  for the
     net  deposit  liabilities  assumed.  The  Waxahachie  branch  and  deposits
     acquired in the  acquisition  have been  incorporated  into  Surety  Bank's
     existing branch network.


                                      F-10
<PAGE>

4.   INVESTMENT SECURITIES:

     Investment  securities  consisted of the following at December 31, 1995 and
     1994:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

December 31, 1995:                                                         Gross         Gross      Estimated
                                                          Amortized     Unrealized    Unrealized       Fair
                                                             Cost          Gains        Losses         Value
                                                             ----          -----        ------         -----
    <S>                                                  <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
    AVAILABLE FOR SALE:
      U.S. Treasury ..................................   $   485,991   $    11,978                 $   497,969
     Obligations of other U.S. .......................
       Government agencies and
       corporations ..................................     8,525,194       199,736                   8,724,930
    Mortgage-backed securities .......................       209,529        10,397                     219,926
    State and county municipals ......................       411,394           338         7,475       404,257
    Other investment securities ......................       281,075                                   281,075
                                                         -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
             Total available-for-sale ................   $ 9,913,183   $   222,449   $     7,475   $10,128,157
                                                         ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========


    HELD-TO-MATURITY:
     U.S. Treasury
     Obligations of other U.S. .......................
       Government agencies and
       corporations ..................................   $ 8,563,315   $    59,020   $     3,882     8,618,453
     Mortgage-backed securities ......................       486,302           325         3,811       482,816
     State and county municipals .....................     4,730,921       245,828                   4,976,749
                                                         -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------

             Total held-to-maturity ..................   $13,780,538   $   305,173   $     7,693   $14,078,018
                                                         ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========

</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


December 31, 1994:                                                         Gross         Gross     Estimated
                                                          Amortized     Unrealized    Unrealized      Fair
                                                             Cost          Gains        Losses        Value
                                                             ----          -----        ------        -----
    <S>                                                  <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
    AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:
      U.S. Treasury ..................................   $ 1,964,627                 $     4,854   $ 1,959,773
      Obligations of other U.S. ......................
        Government agencies and
        corporations .................................     7,384,004   $     5,257                   7,389,261
      Mortgage-backed securities .....................       318,104                       4,704       313,400
      Other investment securities ....................       300,775                                   300,775
                                                         -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------

             Total available-for-sale ................   $ 9,967,510   $     5,257   $     9,558   $ 9,963,209
                                                         ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========


    HELD-TO-MATURITY:
      U.S. Treasury ..................................   $ 2,123,659                 $    19,105   $ 2,104,554
      Obligations of other U.S. ......................
        Government agencies and
        corporations .................................     1,000,000                      86,250       913,750
      Mortgage-backed securities .....................     1,668,466                      84,615     1,583,851
      State and county municipals ....................     4,748,920                                 4,748,920
                                                         -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------

             Total held-to-maturity ..................   $ 9,541,045                 $   189,970   $ 9,351,075
                                                         ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========
</TABLE>

                                      F-11
<PAGE>

4.   INVESTMENT SECURITIES, CONTINUED:

     The amortized cost and estimated  market value of investment  securities at
     December  31,  1995 by  contractual  maturity,  are shown  below.  Expected
     maturities will differ from contractual  maturities  because  borrowers may
     have the  right  to call or  prepay  obligations  with or  without  call or
     prepayment penalties.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                Estimated
December 31, 1995:                                              Amortized         Market
                                                                  Cost            Value
                                                                  ----            -----
<S>                                                           <C>            <C> 
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE:
    Due within one year                                        $1,497,277     $ 1,501,227
    Due after one year through five years                       3,549,969       3,679,812
    Due after five years through ten years                      4,375,333       4,446,117
    Mortgage-backed securities                                    209,529         219,926
    Other securities                                              281,075         281,075
                                                              -----------    ------------
           Total available-for-sale                            $9,913,183     $10,128,157
                                                              ===========    ============

HELD-TO-MATURITY:
    Due within one year                                        $1,335,960     $ 1,345,911
    Due after one year through five years                       7,308,012       7,416,528
    Due after five years through ten years                      4,650,264       4,832,763
    Mortgage-backed securities                                    486,302         482,816
                                                             ------------    ------------

           Total held-to-maturity                             $13,780,538     $14,078,018
                                                             =============   ============
</TABLE>

     Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale  investment securities during the
     year ended December 31, 1995 were $4,736,638 with gross recognized gains of
     $100 and no losses.

     Proceeds from sales of  held-to-maturity  investment  securities during the
     twelve  months ended  December 31, 1994 were  $500,000  with no  recognized
     gains or losses. These securities were sold within 90 days of the call date
     and were expected to be called.

     Proceeds from sales of investment securities during the twelve months ended
     December 31, 1993 were $6,084,844 with gross recognized gains and losses of
     $93,859 and $3,096, respectively.  During the year ended December 31, 1992,
     there were no sales of investment securities.

     At December 31, 1995 and 1994 the carrying  values of Federal  Reserve Bank
     stock were $261,150, and $280,850,  respectively.  The Federal Reserve Bank
     stock's  market value was estimated to be the same as its carrying value at
     all dates.

     At  December  31,  1995 and  1994,  securities  with a  carrying  amount of
     $10,734,351 and $12,871,040,  respectively,  were pledged as collateral for
     public deposits, as required or permitted by law.

     The effect at December 31, 1995 was an increase in stockholders'  equity of
     $144,722  (net of  $74,554  of  deferred  income  tax) to  reflect  the net
     unrealized  holding gain on  available-for-sale  securities.  The effect at
     December 31, 1994 was a decrease in stockholders'  equity of $2,839 (net of
     $1,462 of deferred  income tax) to reflect the net unrealized  holding loss
     on available-for-sale  securities.  The  available-for-sale  classification
     includes  securities  which were acquired  through the  acquisition  of the
     First  National Bank of  Whitesboro,  which were marked to market as of the
     acquisition date at December 8, 1994.


                                      F-12
<PAGE>

5.   NET LOANS:

     At  December  31, 1995 and 1994,  the loan  portfolio  was  composed of the
     following:

                              December 31,    December 31,
                                   1995            1994
                              ------------    ------------
Insurance premium financing   $ 22,409,356    $ 20,931,642
Commercial loans ..........     16,301,840      13,205,698
Installment loans .........     10,645,406      12,029,243
Real estate loans .........     16,281,558      17,297,636
Medical claims receivable .      3,353,540       2,705,974
                              ------------    ------------

       Total gross loans ..     68,991,700      66,170,193

Unearned interest .........     (1,889,461)     (1,506,843)
Allowance for credit losses       (702,927)       (697,948)
                              ------------    ------------

       Net loans ..........   $ 66,399,312    $ 63,965,402
                              ============    ============


     Activity in the allowance  for credit  losses for years ended  December 31,
     1995, 1994 and 1993 were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                               December 31, December 31, December 31,
                                                   1995         1994         1993
                                               ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                                             <C>          <C>          <C>
Beginning balance ...........................   $ 697,948    $ 401,227    $ 324,728
Provision for credit losses .................      60,000      106,899       90,584
Bank acquisition ............................      10,759      340,832       71,976
Loans charged off ...........................    (117,446)    (212,266)    (247,774)
Recoveries ..................................      51,666       61,256      161,713
                                                ---------    ---------    ---------  

Ending balance ..............................   $ 702,927    $ 697,948    $ 401,227
                                                =========    =========    =========
</TABLE>

     Loans on which the accrual of interest  has been  discontinued  amounted to
     approximately  $31,000,  $83,000 and $48,000 at December 31, 1995, 1994 and
     1993,  respectively.  Included  in  commercial  and  installment  loans  at
     December  31, 1995 and 1994,  are  approximately  $428,000,  and  $388,000,
     respectively,  of loans to employees,  officers, and/or directors, or their
     interest.

6.   PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT:

     Premises  and  equipment at December  31, 1995 and 1994 are  summarized  as
     follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                          Estimated Useful
                                               Lives           1995            1994
                                          --------------  ------------    -----------
        <S>                               <C>             <C>             <C>
        Building ........................   5 - 30 years     1,397,245      1,183,960
        Furniture, fixtures and computers   3 - 10 years     2,148,112      1,666,434
        Automobiles .....................   3 - 5 years        264,709        225,282
        Leasehold improvements ..........   3 - 5 years         93,840         92,118
                                                           -----------    -----------
                                                             3,903,906      3,167,794

        Less accumulated depreciation ...                   (1,346,747)      (919,309)

        Land ............................                  $   218,529    $   145,116
                                                           -----------    -----------
        Net premises and equipment ......                  $ 2,775,688    $ 2,393,601
                                                           ===========    ===========
</TABLE>

                                      F-13
<PAGE>

7.   SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:

     During the year ended  December 31, 1995,  459,500  shares of the Company's
     common stock were sold in a private offering for a total consideration, net
     of expenses,  of  $1,197,182.  During the twelve months ended  December 31,
     1994,  767,342  shares of the  Company's  common stock were sold in private
     placements  for a total  consideration,  net of  expenses,  of  $2,314,772.
     During the year ended  December 31, 1993,  292,040  shares of the Company's
     common stock were sold in private placements for total  consideration,  net
     of expenses, of $851,903.  During the year ended December 31, 1992, 214,385
     shares of the Company's  common stock were sold in private  placements  for
     total consideration, net of expenses, of $779,143.

     On April 22, 1993, the Company's Board of Directors  approved a one-for-ten
     reverse split of the Company's common stock. The reverse split was approved
     by the  shareholders  of the Company on May 27,  1993.  This action  became
     effective on June 14, 1993 for  shareholders of record as of June 11, 1993.
     A total of  $178,331  was  reclassified  from par value of common  stock to
     additional  paid-in capital in connection with the reverse stock split. The
     par value of common stock  remains  unchanged.  All per share  amounts have
     been adjusted to reflect the reverse stock split on a retroactive basis.

8.   STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS:

     Under the Company's 1988 Incentive Stock Option Plan (the "1988 Plan"),  up
     to 100,000  shares of the  Company's  common  stock have been  reserved for
     issuance to key  employees  pursuant to the  exercise  of  incentive  stock
     options granted to such key employees under the 1988 Plan.  Options granted
     under the 1988 Plan vest  immediately  on the date of grant and have a term
     of five  years,  subject  to earlier  termination  upon the  occurrence  of
     certain events related to  termination of employment.  All options  granted
     under the 1988 Plan were granted at 100% to 110% of fair market  value.  No
     additional options may be granted under the 1988 Plan.

                                       Shares              Price
                                        Under               Per
                                       Option              Share
                                       ------         --------------
Outstanding at December 31, 1992       18,553         $2.34 to $7.22
Granted during 1993 ............       10,000         $5.00 to $5.50
Exercised during 1993 ..........         --
Canceled during 1993 ...........       (1,840)        $         5.94
                                       ------

Outstanding at December 31, 1993       26,713         $2.34 to $7.22
Granted during 1994 ............       10,000         $4.50 to $4.95
Exercised during 1994 ..........         --
Canceled during 1994 ...........       (5,000)        $3.44 to $5.47
                                       ------

Outstanding at December 31, 1994       31,713         $2.34 to $7.22
Granted during 1995 ............       39,769         $         3.13
Exercised during 1995 ..........      (16,266)        $         3.13
Canceled during 1995 ...........         --
                                       ------

Outstanding at December 31, 1995       55,216         $2.34 to $7.22
                                       ======



     During the year ended December 31, 1995, stock options  representing 16,266
     shares were exercised  under grants from an incentive  stock option plan at
     $3.13 per share,  such  exercise  price being not less than market value at
     the dates the options were granted.  No options were  exercised  during the
     year ended December 31, 1994 and 1993.

                                      F-14
<PAGE>


8.   STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS CONTINUED:

     On February 21, 1995 the Board of Directors of the Company adopted the 1995
     Incentive  Stock  Option  Plan (the "1995  Plan"),  pursuant to which up to
     100,000  shares  of the  Company's  common  stock  have been  reserved  for
     issuance to key  employees  pursuant to the  exercise  of  incentive  stock
     options  granted to such key employees  under the 1995 Plan.  The 1995 Plan
     was approved by the shareholders of the Company on April 28, 1995.  Options
     granted  under  the 1995  Plan vest on the date of grant and have a term of
     ten years,  subject to earlier  termination  upon the occurrence of certain
     events related to  termination  of  employment.  As of December 31, 1995 no
     options have been granted under the 1995 Plan.

     On April 1, 1994, the Company issued 4 warrants for the purchase of 355,000
     shares of the  Company's  common  stock at an  exercise  price of $4.50 per
     share. These warrants expired on March 31, 1995. These warrants were issued
     in connection with the private placement completed in 1993.

     On June 17, 1994,  the Company  issued 1 warrant for the purchase of 35,500
     shares of the  Company's  common  stock at an  exercise  price of $4.50 per
     share.  This warrant  expired on June 16, 1995.  This warrant was issued in
     connection with the private placement completed in 1993.

     As of December 31, 1995, there were no warrants outstanding.

9.   FINANCIAL  INSTRUMENTS  WITH  OFF-BALANCE-SHEET  RISK AND  CONCENTRATION OF
     CREDIT RISK:

     The  Company's  subsidiary  Bank is party  to  financial  instruments  with
     off-balance-sheet  risk,  entered into in the normal  course of business to
     meet the financing  needs of its  customers.  These  financial  instruments
     include loan commitments and letters of credit. The instruments involve, to
     varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the
     amount recognized in the financial statements.

     The   subsidiary   Bank's   exposure   to  credit  loss  in  the  event  of
     nonperformance  by counterparties to loan commitments and letters of credit
     is  represented  by  the  contractual  amount  of  those  instruments.  The
     subsidiary  Bank uses the same credit  policies in making  commitments  and
     conditional  obligations  as are  used  in  underwriting  on-balance  sheet
     instruments.

     The total amounts of financial  instruments with off-balance  sheet risk at
     December 31, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:

                                               December 31,
                                        --------------------------
                                           1995            1994
                                           ----            ----
Unfunded loan commitments               $3,289,000      $1,833,000
Letters of Credit                          409,000         182,000
Credit card lines                                          339,000

     Since many of the loan commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the
     total  commitment  amount  does  not  necessarily   represent  future  cash
     requirements.  Loans  are  made in  accordance  with  formal  written  loan
     policies.  The subsidiary Bank evaluates each customer's  credit worthiness
     on a case by case  basis.  The  amount of  collateral  obtained,  if deemed
     necessary  by the  subsidiary  Bank,  upon  extension of credit is based on
     management's  evaluation of the counterparty.  Collateral held varies,  but
     may include cash, accounts receivable,  inventory,  property, equipment and
     real estate.

     The credit risk involved in issuing  letters of credit is  essentially  the
     same as that  involved in  extending  loan  facilities  to  customers.  The
     subsidiary Bank had certificates of deposit, or other deposit accounts,  in
     the  amount  of  $230,500  and  $254,400  at  December  31,  1995 and 1994,
     respectively,  as collateral  supporting those letter of credit commitments
     for which  collateral is deemed  necessary.  Credit card lines available at
     December 31, 1994 were  collaterialized  by deposits  held at the Company's
     subsidiary  Bank. There were no credit card lines available at December 31,
     1995.

                                      F-15
<PAGE>


9.   FINANCIAL  INSTRUMENTS  WITH  OFF-BALANCE-SHEET  RISK AND  CONCENTRATION OF
     CREDIT RISK CONTINUED:

     The subsidiary Bank sold $18,490,000,  $7,265,000 and $4,450,000 in federal
     funds at  December  31,  1995,  1994 and 1993,  respectively.  These  funds
     represent  uncollateralized  loans made by the Bank, in varying amounts, to
     commercial   banks  with  whom  the  subsidiary   Bank  has   correspondent
     relationships.  The subsidiary Bank maintains deposits with other financial
     institutions in amounts which exceed FDIC insurance coverage.

     The subsidiary  Bank has geographic  concentrations  of credit in its three
     principal trade areas, Grayson County,  Angelina County and Tarrant County,
     Texas. Additionally, the subsidiary Bank has a significant concentration of
     credit,  based  upon like  collateral,  in its  insurance  premium  finance
     portfolio. Insurance premium finance comprises approximately $21,900,000 or
     33% and  $20,500,000  or 32% of  consolidated  total  loans net of unearned
     interest as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively.


10.  RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

     In the ordinary  course of  business,  loans have been granted to directors
     and  executive  officers,  employees  and  their  interest.  Loans to these
     related parties total approximately  $428,000,  and $388,000 as of December
     31, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

     The Company has engaged in medical  receivables  factoring  since 1990 with
     Providers Funding  Corporation.  Providers Funding  Corporation is the sole
     company which locates  medical  receivables for the Company and the Company
     is the sole funding source for Providers Funding Corporation.


11.  NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:

     Net income per common share for the year ended December 31, 1995, 1994, and
     1993 was based upon 3,279,448,  2,393,841, and 2,001,689,  shares of common
     stock  outstanding,  respectively.  The  effects of the  exercise  of stock
     options and warrants are not material and have not been  considered  in the
     calculation of income per common share.


12.  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN:

     Effective  October 1, 1993, the Company adopted the Surety Bank 401(k) Plan
     ("Plan"). All full-time employees are eligible for participation. Under the
     terms of the Plan,  eligible  employees are allowed to contribute up to 10%
     of their  base pay.  The  Company  contributes  amounts  equal to 5% of the
     employee's  contribution to a maximum of 5% of the employee's pay,  subject
     to statutory limits.  The expense for the Plan for the years ended December
     31,  1995,  1994 and 1993 was  $18,180,  $13,650 and $2,889,  respectively.
     Contributions to the plan during 1995, 1994 and 1993 were $35,000,  $30,000
     and $25,000, respectively.



                                      F-16
<PAGE>

13.  FEDERAL INCOME TAX:

     Effective  January 1, 1993,  the Company  adopted  Statement  of  Financial
     Accounting  Standards No. 109,  "Accounting  for Income Taxes" ("SFAS 10").
     (In accordance  with the provisions of SFAS 109, the Company elected not to
     restate  prior  years  and has  determined  that the  cumulative  effect of
     implementation  was not  significant.  The  components  of the net deferred
     asset/(liability) recognized at December 31, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:

                                             December 31,        December 31,
                                                1995                 1994
                                             ----------           ---------
Deferred tax liability:
  Depreciation and amortization              $(299,557)           $(350,066)
  Securities                                   (34,286)             (34,286)
  Deferred loan costs                          (46,819)             (18,700)
  Other                                        (52,750)             (58,604)
  Net unrealized gain on available-for-sale
    investment securities                      (73,091)                  -
                                             ----------           ----------
                                              (506,503)             (461,656)

Deferred tax asset:
  Tax net operating losses                      40,373               163,366
  Depreciation                                  31,620                55,988
  Allowance for credit losses                  145,080               128,080
  Securities                                    50,088               224,238
  Other                                         27,397                25,758
                                             ----------           ----------
                                               294,558               597,430
                                             ----------           ----------
          Net deferred tax asset/(liability)  (211,945)             $135,774
                                             ==========           ==========


     The Company's effective tax rate on income before income taxes differs from
     the U.S. statutory tax rate as follows:

                                             December 31,
                                      -------------------------
                                       1995     1994     1993
                                       ----     ----     ----
U.S. statutory rate (benefit) .......  34.0%    34.0%    34.0%
Other ...............................   1.7       --     (2.9)
Goodwill ............................   4.2       --       --
Valuation allowance .................    --    (33.0)   (31.1)
Tax-exempt interest .................  (6.2)    (1.1)      --
                                       -----   ------   ------ 
Effective tax rate ..................  33.7%     (.1)%    -0-
                                       =====   ======   ======

     As of December 31, 1995, the Company has a net operating loss  carryforward
     of approximately  $118,000 for income tax reporting purposes which expires,
     if not used, in 2002 through 2004.  The  utilization  of this net operating
     loss carryforward is limited by Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code to
     approximately $15,000 annually until its expiration.


                                      F-17
<PAGE>

13.  FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONTINUED:

     The  comprehensive  provision for federal  income taxes for the years ended
     December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                              December 31,
                                                   ---------------------------------
                                                      1995         1994       1993
                                                      ----         ----       ----
<S>                                                <C>          <C>          <C> 
Current:
   Federal .....................................   $ 247,359    $  18,430    $  0
   State .......................................      15,648       18,267
                                                   ---------    ---------    -------
                                                     263,007       36,697
                                                   ---------    ---------    -------

Deferred:
   Federal .....................................     187,924      (19,009)   
   State
                                                   ---------    ---------    -------
                                                     187,924      (19,009)
                                                   ---------    ---------    -------

Provision for tax expense charged to results
   of operations ...............................     450,931       17,688    $  0
Tax expense charged to goodwill ................      86,706
Tax on unrealized gain on available-for-sale
   securities ..................................      73,092
                                                   ---------    ---------    -------

Comprehensive provision for federal income taxes   $ 610,729    $  17,688    $  0
                                                   =========    =========    =======

</TABLE>

14.  OTHER NONINTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE:

     Other  noninterest  income for years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
     was composed of the following:

                                       1995         1994         1993
                                    ----------   ----------   ----------
Noninterest Income:
   Nonsufficient fund charges ...   $  291,954   $  263,315   $  248,890
   Late fee charges .............      501,960      426,476      304,354
   Service charges ..............      220,086      163,336      120,143
   Collection fees ..............      115,478       96,162       71,760
   Credit life insurance ........       75,435       44,402       49,777
   Premium finance servicing ....         --           --        161,310
   Secured credit card annual fee        6,561       15,905       36,968
   Other ........................      207,493      150,411       97,843
   Gain on sale of investment ...          100         --         90,763
                                    ----------   ----------   ----------
     Total ......................   $1,419,067   $1,160,007   $1,181,808
                                    ==========   ==========   ==========


                                      F-18
<PAGE>

14.  OTHER NONINTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE CONTINUED:

     Other  noninterest  expense for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and
     1993 was composed of the following:


                                                1995         1994         1993
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------

    General and administrative expense:
       Professional fees ..............   $  416,006   $  315,434   $  362,571
       Office supplies ................      253,542      201,028      165,416
       Travel and entertainment .......       68,987       60,162       62,184
       Telephone ......................      166,858      128,407      103,921
       Advertising ....................      104,499       54,683       60,302
       Postage ........................      230,807      133,887      125,092
       Amortization of intangibles ....      184,332       51,201       35,567
       Dues and subscriptions .........       49,331       54,609       26,707
       Insurance ......................      130,335       97,473       59,882
       Credit cards ...................       19,868       59,573       63,298
       Bank service charge ............       57,196       25,808       29,018
       FDIC assessment ................      123,310      133,112       71,003
       Credit reports .................       40,105       17,714       48,495
       Other ..........................      202,972      257,723      167,515
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------

                                          $2,048,148   $1,590,814   $1,380,971
                                          ==========   ==========   ==========

15.  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

     As of December 31, 1995 the Company leased its office space in Hurst, Texas
     under a  noncancellable  operating  lease.  The lease expires  December 31,
     1999. Future minimum lease payments are as follows:

                                 1996   $109,324
                                 1997    114,253
                                 1998    114,253
                                 1999    119,181
                                        --------
                                Total   $457,011
                                        ========


     Rent expense was $94,713 for the year ended December 31, 1995,  $83,062 for
     the year ended  December  31, 1994 and $56,982 for the year ended  December
     31, 1993.

     The  Company  adopted an  agreement  which  compensates  certain  executive
     officers  at a rate of three  times  their  annual  salary  for a change in
     control of approximately 20%.

     The Bank is a defendant in two related  cases:  Tennessee  Ex Rel.  Douglas
     Sizemore,   Commissioner  of  Commerce  and  Insurance  for  the  State  of
     Tennessee,  et al. vs. Surety Bank, N.A., filed in June 1995 in the Federal
     District Court for the Northern  District of Texas,  Dallas,  Division (the
     "Anchorage Case"), and United Shortline Inc.  Assurance  Services,  N.A. et
     al. vs. MacGregor General Insurance  Company,  Ltd., et al., now pending in
     the 141st Judicial District Court of Tarrant County,  Texas (the "MacGregor
     Case").


                                      F-19
<PAGE>

15.  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES CONTINUED:

     The claimant in the Anchorage Case is a liquidator (the "Liquidator"),  the
     Tennessee Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance, appointed by the Chancery
     Court for the State of Tennessee,  Twentieth  Judicial  District,  Davidson
     County,  to  liquidate   Anchorage  Fire  and  Casualty  Insurance  Company
     ("Anchorage").  The Liquidator  seeks to recover  compensatory and punitive
     damages on various alleged causes of action,  including violation of orders
     issued by a Tennessee court, fraudulent and preferential transfers,  common
     law conversion, fraud, negligence, and bad faith, all of which are based on
     the same underlying facts and course of conduct.

     The  plaintiff in the  MacGregor  Case,  United  Shortline  Inc.  Assurance
     Services,  N.A. ("United  Shortline"),  is the holder of a Florida judgment
     against MacGregor General Insurance Company,  Ltd.  ("MacGregor") and seeks
     to recover funds  allegedly  belonging to MacGregor  which were held by the
     Bank.  Both cases arise out of the Bank's alleged  exercise of control over
     funds held in  accounts at the Bank under  agreements  with  Anchorage  and
     MacGregor.  The exercise of control  included  the setoff of  approximately
     $570,000,  and the  interpleader,  in the MacGregor Case, of  approximately
     $600,000. The Bank asserts that it had a right to exercise control over the
     funds, in the first instance under contractual  agreements between the Bank
     and the respective  insurance companies or the Bank and the policy holders,
     and in the  second  instance  in order to  protect  the  Bank  against  the
     possibility of inconsistent orders regarding the same funds. The Liquidator
     also seeks to recover funds allegedly transferred from  Anchorage/MacGregor
     accounts at the Bank during an approximate four month period in 1993, which
     exceed $2.6 million in the  aggregate.  The Bank  believes  that the claims
     lack merit and intends to defend the cases vigorously.

16.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:

     Fair values for  investment  securities  are based on quoted market prices,
     where available. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are
     based on quoted market prices of comparable instruments.

     For variable-rate  loans that reprice frequently with no significant change
     in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying  values.  The fair values
     of other loans are estimated  using  discounted  cash flow analysis,  which
     utilize interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms
     to borrowers of similar credit quality.

     The fair values of noninterest and interest-bearing demand deposits are, by
     definition,  equal to the amount  payable on demand,  i.e.,  their carrying
     amount.  The fair values of  interest-bearing  time  deposits are estimated
     using a  discounted  cash flow  calculation  that  applies  interest  rates
     currently being offered on certificates of similar maturities.

     The  carrying  amounts  for cash and due from  banks,  federal  funds sold,
     accrued  interest  receivable,  notes payable and accrued  interest payable
     approximate the fair values of such assets and liabilities.

     Fair values for the Company's off-balance sheet instruments,  which consist
     of lending  commitments  and standby  letters of credit,  are based on fees
     currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the
     remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties'  credit standing.
     Management  believes the value of these  off-balance  sheet instruments are
     not materially different from the commitment amount.


                                      F-20
<PAGE>

16.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CONTINUED:

                                            At December 31, 1995
                                           -----------------------
                                           Carrying     Estimated
                                            Amount      Fair Value
                                            ------      ----------
                                               (in Thousands)
Financial Assets:
   Cash and interest bearing liabilities   $  5,773      $  5,773
   Federal funds sold                        18,490        18,490
   Available-for-sale securities             10,128        10,128
   Held-to-maturity securities               13,781        14,078
   Loans receivable                          66,399        66,499
   Accrued interest receivable                  781           781


Financial Liabilities:
   Noninterest bearing deposits              13,183        13,183
   Interest bearing deposits                 96,416        96,444
   Other short-term borrowings                  375           375
   Accrued interest payable                     520           520
   
   Off-balance sheet instruments              3,698            37


                                      F-21
<PAGE>

17.  PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION:


                          Condensed Parent Company Only
                             Statements of Condition
                        as of December 31, 1995 and 1994
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                             December 31,    December 31,
                                                                                  1995           1994
                                                                             ------------    ------------
<S>                                                                          <C>             <C>
Assets:
   Cash ..................................................................   $     59,525    $    324,658
   Interest bearing deposits in financial institutions ...................           --              --
   Receivable from subsidiary ............................................         67,998         242,493
   Investment in Subsidiary, at equity ...................................     10,493,698       9,211,212
   Other assets ..........................................................        107,057          51,232
                                                                             ------------    ------------
      Total assets .......................................................   $ 10,728,278    $  9,829,595
                                                                             ============    ============

Liabilities:
   Note payable ..........................................................   $    375,000    $  1,750,000
   Accrued liabilities ...................................................         58,806          13,914
                                                                             ------------    ------------     
      Total liabilities ..................................................        433,806       1,763,914
                                                                             ------------    ------------
Shareholders' equity:
   Common stock ..........................................................         35,166          30,408
   Additional paid-in capital ............................................      9,356,469       8,113,214
   Retained earnings (deficit) ...........................................        811,784         (75,102)
   Treasury stock ........................................................        (50,830)           --
   Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities ...............        141,883          (2,839)
                                                                             ------------    ------------  
      Total shareholders' equity .........................................     10,294,472       8,065,681
                                                                             ------------    ------------
         Total liabilities and  shareholders' equity .....................   $ 10,728,278    $  9,829,595
                                                                             ============    ============
</TABLE>

                                      F-22
<PAGE>

17.  PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION, CONTINUED:



                          Condensed Parent Company Only
                              Statements of Income
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                    December 31,
                                                     -----------------------------------------
                                                         1995           1994           1993
                                                     -----------    -----------    -----------
<S>                                                  <C>            <C>            <C>
Interest income .................................... $     7,395    $    24,685    $    12,813
Interest expense ...................................    (122,579)       (11,075)
                                                     -----------    -----------    -----------
   Net interest income (expense) before
      provision for loan loss ......................    (115,184)        13,610         12,813
Recovery on loan loss ..............................                      3,101         64,416
                                                     -----------    -----------    -----------
   Net interest income .............................    (115,184)        16,711         77,229
Noninterest expense ................................    (230,252)      (207,473)      (255,999)
Equity in net income of subsidiary .................   1,140,603        390,797        549,493
                                                     -----------    -----------    -----------
      Net income before income taxes ...............     795,167        200,035        370,723
Income tax expense (benefit):
   Current .........................................    (120,612)      (242,493)
   Deferred ........................................      28,893        (30,232)
                                                     -----------    -----------    -----------
      Net income ....................................$   886,886    $   472,760    $   370,723
                                                     ===========    ===========    ===========

</TABLE>

                                      F-23
<PAGE>

17.  PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION, CONTINUED:


                          Condensed Parent Company Only
                            Statements of Cash Flows
              for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           December 31,
                                                            -----------------------------------------
                                                                1995           1994           1993
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------
<S>                                                         <C>            <C>            <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income ............................................   $   886,886    $   472,760    $   370,723
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to
    net cash used in operating activities:
       Net increase in receivable from subsidiary .......       (64,507)      (242,493)
       Equity in net income of subsidiary ...............    (1,159,784)      (393,636)      (549,493)
       Net decreae (increase) in deferred tax asset .....        30,232        (30,232)
       Recovery on credit losses ........................                                     (64,416)
       Net increase in other assets .....................      (114,950)       (21,000)
       Net increase in federal income tax payable .......       289,915
       Net increase in accrued liabilities ..............        44,892         13,914
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------
         Net cash provided (used) in operating activities       (87,316)      (200,687)      (243,186)
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------

Cash flows from investing activities:
   Proceeds from the maturity of interest ...............                      450,000         50,000
   Investment in subsidiary .............................                   (5,000,000)
   Net decrease in loans ................................                                     207,582
   Direct cost incurred for bank acquisitions ...........                                      71,935
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------
         Net cash (used) provided in investing activities                   (4,550,000)       329,517
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------


Cash flows from financing activities:
   Sale of common stock .................................     1,248,013      2,314,772        851,903
   Advances for short-term debt .........................                    1,750,000
   Payments on borrowings ...............................    (1,375,000)
   Purchase of treasury stock ...........................       (50,830)
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------
         Net cash provided in financing activities ......      (177,817)     4,064,772        851,903

Net (decrease) increase in cash .........................      (265,133)      (685,915)       938,234
Beginning cash and cash equivalents .....................       324,658      1,010,573         72,339
                                                            -----------    -----------    -----------
Ending cash and cash equivalents ........................   $    59,525    $   324,658    $ 1,010,573
                                                            ===========    ===========    ===========
</TABLE>

                                      F-24
<PAGE>

18.  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:

     On  February  28,  1996,  the Company  completed  a primary  and  secondary
     offering of its Common  Stock.  The offering was  underwritten  by Hoefer &
     Arnett,  Incorporated,  a San Francisco investment banking firm. A total of
     2,388,759  shares of Common  Stock were sold in the  offering at a price of
     $3.75 per  share,  including  288,759  shares of  Common  Stock  sold as on
     over-allotment  and 174,939 shares of Common Stock held by a shareholder of
     the Company.  The proceeds  from this  offering were used by the Company to
     finance the  acquisition  of First  National Bank,  Midlothian,  Texas,  to
     retire  the  Company's  outstanding  bank  debt and for  general  corporate
     purposes.

     On  February  29,  1996 the  Company  completed  the  acquisition  of First
     National  Bank,   Midlothian,   Texas  ("First   National"),   through  the
     consolidation  of First  National  and the  Bank.  In  connection  with the
     transaction,  the Bank changed its main office to the former main office of
     First  National in  Midlothian,  Texas,  and  operates  its own former main
     office  in  Lufkin,  Texas  as  a  branch.  With  the  completion  of  this
     acquisition, the Bank has increased its asset size by approximately 42%. As
     of December 31, 1995,  First National had total assets of $51,253,000,  and
     the  Bank's  total  assets as of the same date  were  $121,262,000.  In the
     transaction,  a subsidiary of the Bank was first merged with and into First
     National's  parent holding company,  First Midlothian  Corporation  ("First
     Midlothian"), pursuant to which merger the shareholders of First Midlothian
     received  cash in  exchange  for  their  shares of  capital  stock of First
     Midlothian  in an  amount  equal to  approximately  one  hundred  and fifty
     percent (150%) of the book value of First National.  Immediately  following
     the merger,  First National and the Bank consolidated  under the charter of
     the Bank.

     On March 15, 1996, the Bank completed the acquisition of Providers  Funding
     Corporation  ("PFC"), a Dallas-based  medical claims servicing company. The
     acquisition was accomplished through the purchase of certain assets and the
     assumption of certain liabilities of PFC by the Bank. The Bank used cash on
     hand to fund this purchase.  The Bank will operate PFC as a division titled
     "Providers Funding a division of Surety Bank, N.A".


                                      F-25
<PAGE>
                                  EXHIBIT INDEX

                                                                              
EXHIBIT                                                              


10.11        Change in Control  Agreement  entered into between  Surety  Capital
             Corporation and B.J. Curley, Dated February 9, 1996

10.12        Asset  Purchase  Agreement  by  and  among  Surety  Bank,  National
             Association,   Surety  Capital   Corporation,   Providers   Funding
             Corporation,  and Lawrence C. Blanton, Barry T. Carroll and Bill M.
             Ward; Employment,  Non-Competition and Confidentiality Agreement by
             and between  Surety  Bank,  National  Association,  Surety  Capital
             Corporation,  and  Lawrence C.  Blanton;  and  Non-Competition  and
             Confidentiality  Agreement  by and between  Surety  Bank,  National
             Association,  Surety  Capital  Corporation,  and Bill M. Ward;  all
             dated March 15, 1996.

21           Subsidiaries of the Company.                  

23           Consent of Coopers & Lybrand, L.L.P.       

24           Power of Attorney.                  

27           Financial Data Schedule.              


<PAGE>

                                                              EXHIBIT 10.11


                           SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION
                       1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                               Hurst, Texas 76054


                           CHANGE IN CONTROL AGREEMENT


                                February 9, 1996


Mr. B. J. Curley
1765 Northridge
Hurst, Texas  76054

Dear Bud:

         Surety Capital  Corporation  (the "Company")  considers it essential to
the best interests of the Company and its  stockholders  to foster the continued
employment  of key  management  personnel.  In this  connection,  the  Board  of
Directors of the Company (the  "Board")  recognizes  that the  possibility  of a
Change  in  Control  of  the  Company  (defined  below)  exists  and  that  such
possibility, and the uncertainty and questions which it necessarily raises among
management,  may result in the departure or distraction of management  personnel
to the  detriment  of the  Company and its  stockholders  in a period when their
undivided  attention and commitment to the best interests of the Company and its
stockholders are particularly important.

         Accordingly,  the Board has determined that appropriate steps should be
taken to reinforce  and encourage  the  continued  attention  and  dedication of
members of the  Company's  management,  including  yourself,  to their  assigned
duties without distraction in the face of potentially  disturbing  circumstances
arising from the possibility of a Change in Control of the Company.

         In order to  induce  you to remain in the  employ of the  Company,  the
Company  agrees  that you shall  receive the  benefits  set forth in this letter
agreement ("Agreement") in the event of a Change in Control of the Company under
the circumstances described below.


1.   DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have
     the meanings set forth below:

     (a)  "Cause"  shall  mean any act that is  materially  adverse  to the best
          interests  of the Company and  constitutes,  on your part,  common law
          fraud, a felony or other gross malfeasance of duty.

     (b)  A "Change in Control of the Company"  shall be deemed to have occurred
          if (A) any "person" (as such term is used in Sections  13(d) and 14(d)
          of the  Securities  Exchange Act of 1934,  as amended,  the  "Exchange
          Act"),  other than a trustee  or other  fiduciary  holding  securities
          under an  employee  benefit  plan of the  Company,  is or becomes  the
          "beneficial  owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act),
          directly or  indirectly,  of  securities  of the Company  representing
          twenty  percent  (20%)  or more of the  combined  voting  power of the
          Company's then outstanding voting securities; or (B) during any period
          of two (2)  consecutive  years  during  the  term  of this  Agreement,
          individuals  who at the beginning of such period  constitute the Board
          cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof, unless
          the election of each  director who was not a director at the beginning
          of such period has been approved in advance by directors  representing
          at least two-thirds  (2/3rds) of the directors then in office who were
          directors at the beginning of the period.

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 1
<PAGE>

     (c)  "Change in Control  Payment" shall mean either the Lump Sum Payment or
          the  Stock  Payment  provided  for in  Section  3(c)  or  (d) of  this
          Agreement.

     (d)  "Common  Stock" shall mean the common stock,  $0.01 par value,  of the
          Company.

     (e)  "Date of Termination"  shall mean the last day of employment as stated
          in the Notice of Termination.

     (f)  "Good Reason" shall mean:

          (1)  a material reduction of your duties,  responsibilities and status
               with the Company as they existed immediately before the effective
               date of a Change in Control of the Company;

          (2)  a reduction  of your base salary from that in effect  immediately
               before the effective  date of a Change in Control of the Company;
               or

          (3)  your  relocation  to offices of the Company more that thirty (30)
               miles from your office location  immediately before the effective
               date of a Change in Control of the Company.

     (g)  "Lump Sum Payment" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(c) of
          this Agreement.

     (h)  "Market Value of the Common Stock" shall mean: (A) if the Common Stock
          is listed on a national  securities  exchange  or quoted on the NASDAQ
          National  Market System,  the closing price of the Common Stock on the
          relevant  date,  as reported on the  composite  tape or by  NASDAQ/NMS
          System Statistics,  as the case may be; (B) if the Common Stock is not
          listed on a  national  securities  exchange  or  quoted on the  NASDAQ
          National Market System, but is traded in the over-the-counter  market,
          the  average of the bid and asked  prices for the Common  Stock on the
          relevant  date,  or the  most  recent  preceding  day for  which  such
          quotations are reported by NASDAQ; and (C) if the fair market value of
          the Common  Stock cannot be  determined  pursuant to clause (A) or (B)
          above, such price as the Board shall in good faith determine.

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 2
<PAGE>

     (i)  "Notice of  Termination"  shall have the  meaning set forth in Section
          3(b) of this Agreement.

     (j)  "Stock  Payment"  shall have the meaning set forth in Section  3(d) of
          this Agreement.

2.   TERM OF AGREEMENT.  This  Agreement  shall  commence on the date hereof and
     shall continue in effect through September 1, 1997; provided, however, that
     commencing  on  September  1,  1997,  and the first  day of each  September
     thereafter,  the term of this Agreement shall automatically be extended for
     one (1) additional year unless, not later than December 31 of the preceding
     year,  the Company  shall have given notice to you that it does not wish to
     extend this Agreement;  provided,  further,  that  notwithstanding any such
     notice by the Company not to extend,  if a Change in Control of the Company
     shall have occurred during the original or extended term of this Agreement,
     this  Agreement  shall  continue  in  effect  until all  payments,  if any,
     required to be made by the Company or otherwise to you under this Agreement
     shall have been paid in full.

3.   Compensation Following Change of Control.

     (a)  Change in Control Payment. Subject to the terms and conditions of this
          Agreement, if, during the period commencing on the effective date of a
          Change in Control of the Company and ending two (2) years thereafter:

          (1)  your employment with the Company is terminated by the Company for
               any reason other than for Cause; or

          (2)  you terminate your  employment with the Company with Good Reason,
               you  shall  be  entitled  to  receive  from the  Company  (or its
               successor, as the case may be) a Change in Control Payment which,
               at your  election,  shall  be in  either  the  form of a Lump Sum
               Payment or a Stock  Payment,  as provided in Section 3(c) or (d),
               below.

     (b)  Notice of  Termination.  Any  termination  of your  employment  by the
          Company or by you shall be communicated by written notice to the other
          party ("Notice of  Termination").  The Notice of Termination shall set
          forth in  reasonable  detail  the facts and  circumstances  claimed to
          provide a basis for the termination of your employment,  together with
          the Date of  Termination  (subject  to the other  party  selecting  an
          earlier Date of  Termination  in accordance  with this  Agreement,  in
          which event such earlier date shall control).

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 3
<PAGE>

     (c)  Lump Sum Payment.  The Lump Sum Payment  shall  consist of a certified
          check  in an  amount  equal  to your  annual  base  salary  rate  (but
          excluding  all  other  compensation,   including  bonuses  and  fringe
          benefits)  in effect  immediately  before  the  effective  date of the
          Change in Control of the  Company,  multiplied  by three (3). The Lump
          Sum  Payment  shall  be  reduced  by any  deductions  or  withholdings
          required under applicable law.

     (d)  Stock  Payment.  The Stock  Payment  shall consist of shares of Common
          Stock of the  Company  in an amount  equal to the result  obtained  by
          dividing  the Lump Sum Payment by the Market Value of the Common Stock
          on the effective date of the Change in Control of the Company, rounded
          to the nearest whole share.

     (e)  Election.  Within  thirty  (30)  days  after  the Date of  Termination
          following  the  effective  date of a Change in Control of the Company,
          you shall  notify the  Company in writing of your  election to receive
          the Change in Control Payment in either the form of a Lump Sum Payment
          or a Stock  Payment.  Within ten (10) days  following  receipt of such
          notice,  the Company  shall issue and deliver to you, or your designee
          or other legal representative, either a certified check payable to you
          in  the  amount  of the  Lump  Sum  Payment  or  stock  certificate(s)
          evidencing the Common Stock subject to the Stock Payment,  as the case
          may be.

     (f)  Other  Compensation and Benefits.  The Change in Control Payment shall
          be in addition to your base salary  through the Date of Termination at
          the  rate in  effect  as of the  Date  of  Termination  and any  other
          payments  you would  otherwise be entitled to receive from the Company
          as a result  of the  termination  of your  employment,  including  any
          benefits payable under any employee  benefit plan then in effect.  The
          Company shall also pay to you all legal fees and expenses  incurred by
          you in seeking to obtain or enforce  any right or benefit  provided by
          this Agreement.

     (g)  Nature of Change in Control Payment. The benefits payable to you under
          this Agreement shall be considered  severance pay in  consideration of
          your  past  service  and your  continued  service  after the date this
          Agreement.  You shall not be required  to  mitigate  the amount of any
          payment  provided for in this Section 3 by seeking other employment or
          otherwise, nor shall the amount of any payment or benefit provided for
          in this Section 3 be reduced by any compensation  earned by you as the
          result of  employment by another  employer or by  retirement  benefits
          after the date of termination, or otherwise.

4.   ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE STOCK PAYMENT.

     (a)  All stock certificates representing any shares of Common Stock subject
          to the  Stock  Payment  shall  have  endorsed  thereon  the  following
          legends:

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 4
<PAGE>

          (1)  "THESE  SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED  UNDER THE SECURITIES
               ACT OF 1933. THEY MAY NOT BE SOLD,  OFFERED FOR SALE,  PLEDGED OR
               HYPOTHECATED   IN  THE  ABSENCE  OF  AN  EFFECTIVE   REGISTRATION
               STATEMENT  AS TO THE  SECURITIES  UNDER SAID ACT OR AN OPINION OF
               COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE CORPORATION THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS
               NOT REQUIRED."

          (2)  Any  legend  required  to  be  placed  thereon  by  the  Delaware
               Secretary of State or required by applicable blue sky laws of any
               state.

     (b)  Registration  Statement;  Warranties and Representations.  The Company
          agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to register the Common Stock
          you receive under the  Securities  Act of 1933, as amended,  on a Form
          S-8 registration  statement, or other appropriate form of registration
          statement. For these purposes, the Company shall be considered to have
          used its reasonable best efforts if the registration occurs within one
          hundred  twenty (120) days after the election  under  Section 3(e). If
          for any  reason  the  Company  is unable to or does not  register  the
          Common Stock you receive,  such Common Stock will not be  transferable
          except in  accordance  with  appropriate  securities  law  exemptions.
          Accordingly,  in connection with your receipt of Common Stock pursuant
          to the Stock  Payment,  the Company may require you to  represent  and
          warrant at the time you receive the Common Stock pursuant to the Stock
          Payment  that the Common  Stock is being  acquired by you for your own
          account for  investment and without an intention to sell or distribute
          such Common Stock if, in the opinion of counsel for the Company,  such
          a representation is required by applicable law.

     (c)  Rights  as  a  Shareholder.  You  shall  not  have  any  rights  as  a
          shareholder  with  respect  to the Common  Stock  subject to the Stock
          Payment until your  election to receive the Change in Control  Payment
          in the form of a Stock Payment in accordance with Section 3(e) of this
          Agreement and until the stock certificates representing such shares of
          Common Stock have actually been issued and delivered to you.

5.   SUCCESSORS.  The Company  will  require any  successor  (whether  direct or
     indirect,  by  purchase,  merger,  consolidation  or  otherwise)  to all or
     substantially  all of the business  and/or  assets of the Company to assume
     expressly  and agree to perform this  Agreement.  Failure of the Company to
     obtain such assumption and agreement prior to the effectiveness of any such
     succession  shall be a breach of this  Agreement  and shall  entitle you to
     compensation  from the  Company in the same amount and on the same terms as
     you  would be  entitled  hereunder  following  a Change in  Control  of the
     Company,  except that for purposes of implementing the foregoing,  the date
     on which any such succession  becomes effective shall be deemed the date on
     which you become entitled to such compensation from the Company. As used in
     this Agreement, "Company" shall mean the Company as hereinabove defined and
     any successor to its business  and/or assets as aforesaid which assumes and
     agrees to perform this Agreement by operation of law, or otherwise.

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 5
<PAGE>

6.   BINDING  AGREEMENT.  This  Agreement  shall  inure to the benefit of and be
     enforceable   by  your  personal  or  legal   representatives,   executors,
     administrators,  successors, heirs, distributees, devisees and legatees. If
     you should die while any amount would still be payable to you  hereunder if
     you had continued to live,  all such  amounts,  unless  otherwise  provided
     herein,  shall be paid in  accordance  with the terms of this  Agreement to
     your devisee,  legatee or other  designee or, if there is no such designee,
     to your estate.

7.   NOTICE.  Any notice  required or permitted  by any party to this  Agreement
     shall be in writing  and may be  delivered  personally  to the party  being
     given  notice or to the person in charge of the  office of the party  being
     given such notice or by certified mail,  return receipt  requested,  at the
     party's  address  indicated  below,  and any notice will be effective  upon
     delivery in the case of  personal  delivery  and upon  deposit in the mail,
     postage  prepaid,  in the case of delivery by mail.  The  addresses  of the
     parties are as follows:

                  COMPANY:          Surety Capital Corporation
                                    1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                                    Hurst, Texas  76054
                                    Attn: C. Jack Bean, Chairman

                  CURLEY:           Mr. B. J. Curley
                                    1765 Northridge
                                    Hurst, Texas  76054

     The names and  addresses  of persons  to  receive  notice as stated in this
     Section 7 may be changed by notice given in accordance with this Section.

8.   MISCELLANEOUS.  No provision of this  Agreement may be modified,  waived or
     discharged  unless such waiver,  modification  or discharge is agreed to in
     writing  and  signed  by you  and  such  officer  as  may  be  specifically
     designated  by the Board.  No waiver by either  party hereto at any time of
     any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance  with, any condition
     or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be
     deemed a waiver of similar or  dissimilar  provisions  or conditions at the
     same or at any prior or subsequent time. No agreements or  representations,
     oral or otherwise,  express or implied,  with respect to the subject matter
     hereof have been made by either party which are not  expressly set forth in
     this Agreement. The validity, interpretation,  construction and performance
     of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas.

                               Exhibit 10.11 - 6
<PAGE>

9.   VALIDITY.  The  invalidity  or  unenforceability  of any  provision of this
     Agreement  shall not affect the  validity  or  enforceability  of any other
     provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

10.  COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each
     of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which  together  will
     constitute one and the same instrument.

          If this letter sets forth our agreement on the subject  matter hereof,
     kindly  sign and return to the  Company  the  enclosed  copy of this letter
     which will then constitute our agreement on this subject.

                                        Sincerely,

                                        SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ C. Jack Bean
                                            C. Jack Bean, Chairman of the Board


         AGREED TO this 18th day of March, 1996.



                                            /s/ B. J. Curley
                                            B. J. Curley


                               Exhibit 10.11 - 7
<PAGE>
                                                                 EXHIBIT 10.12
                            ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT



         This Agreement is made this 15th day of March, 1996 by and among Surety
Bank, National Association, a national banking association (the "Buyer"), Surety
Capital  Corporation,  a  Delaware  corporation  ("Surety  Capital"),  Providers
Funding  Corporation,  a Texas  corporation  (the  "Seller"),  and  Lawrence  C.
Blanton, Barry T. Carroll and Bill M. Ward, constituting all of the shareholders
of   the   Seller   (individually   a   "Shareholder"   and   collectively   the
"Shareholders").  The Buyer,  the Seller and the  Shareholders  are  hereinafter
sometimes  referred  to  individually  as a  "Party"  and  collectively  as  the
"Parties."

         WHEREAS,  the Seller desires to sell and transfer to the Buyer, and the
Buyer  desires to purchase and receive  from the Seller,  all of the assets (and
assume certain of the liabilities) of the Seller for the  consideration and upon
the terms and conditions set out in this Agreement.

         In  consideration of the mutual  agreements  contained herein and other
valuable consideration, IT IS AGREED as follows:

ARTICLE 1 - DEFINITIONS.

         "ACQUIRED ASSETS" means all right,  title and interest in and to all of
the assets of the Seller,  including all of its (a) tangible  personal  property
(such as equipment,  supplies and  furniture),  (b) the  Intellectual  Property,
goodwill  associated  therewith,  licenses and sublicenses  granted and obtained
with respect thereto,  and rights  thereunder,  remedies  against  infringements
thereof,  and rights to  protection  of interests  therein under the laws of all
jurisdictions,  (c) all leases,  subleases, and rights thereunder, to the extent
the Buyer elects to assume same and advises the Seller to such effect in writing
on or before  the  Closing,  (d) all  agreements,  contracts  and other  similar
arrangements,  and rights  thereunder,  to the extent the Buyer elects to assume
same and advises the Seller to such effect in writing on or before the  Closing,
(e)  accounts,   notes,  and  other  receivables,   (f)  all  claims,  deposits,
prepayments,  refunds,  causes of action,  choses in action, rights of recovery,
rights of set off,  and rights of  recoupment,  (g) all  franchises,  approvals,
permits, licenses, orders, registrations,  certificates,  variances, and similar
rights  obtained from  governments  and  governmental  agencies,  (h) all books,
records, ledgers, files, documents,  correspondence,  lists, creative materials,
advertising and promotional  materials,  studies,  reports, and other printed or
written materials (provided the Seller and the Shareholders shall have access to
such items for tax and other  business  purposes),  (i) the following  telephone
numbers:  214-991-3439;  214-991-7325;  and  800-856-2536;  and  (j)  all  cash;
provided,  however, that the Acquired Assets shall not include (i) the corporate
charter,   qualifications   to  conduct  business  as  a  foreign   corporation,
arrangements with registered agents relating to foreign qualifications, taxpayer
and other  identification  numbers,  seals,  minute books, stock transfer books,
blank stock  certificates,  and other  documents  relating to the  organization,
maintenance,  and  existence  of the Buyer as a  corporation  or (ii) any of the
rights of the Buyer under this Agreement.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 1
<PAGE>

         "ASSUMED  LIABILITIES"  means the obligations  payable by the Seller to
Blank, Rome, Comisky & McCauley,  but in no event in excess of $50,000,  and any
obligation  under leases and  agreements of the Seller which the Buyer elects to
assume by  advising  the  Seller  to such  effect in  writing  on or before  the
Closing.

         "BUYER" has the meaning set forth in the preface above.

         "CLOSING" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03.

         "CLOSING DATE" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03.

         "FINANCIAL STATEMENTS" has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(f).

         "INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY" means (a) all trademarks, service marks, logos,
trade names and corporate names,  together with all  translations,  adaptations,
derivations  and  combinations  thereof and  including  all goodwill  associated
therewith,  and all  applications,  registrations  and  renewals  in  connection
therewith,  including,  but not limited to, "Providers Funding  Corporation" and
all derivations and  combinations  thereof,  (b) all  copyrightable  works,  all
copyrights  and all  applications,  registrations  and  renewals  in  connection
therewith,   (c)  all  trade  secrets  and  confidential   business  information
(including   ideas,   research   and   development,    formulas,   compositions,
manufacturing and production processes and techniques,  technical data, designs,
drawings,  specifications,   customer  and  supplier  lists,  pricing  and  cost
information,  and business and marketing plans and proposals),  (d) all computer
software (including data and related  documentation),  (e) all other proprietary
rights, and (f) all copies and tangible embodiments thereof (in whatever form or
medium).

         "KNOWLEDGE" means actual knowledge after reasonable investigation.

         "LIABILITY"  means any  liability  (whether  known or unknown,  whether
asserted or  unasserted,  whether  absolute or  contingent,  whether  accrued or
unaccrued,  whether  liquidated  or  unliquidated,  and whether due or to become
due), including any liability for Taxes.

         "MOST RECENT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS" has the meaning set forth in Section
 4.01(f).

         "MOST RECENT FISCAL MONTH END" has the  meaning set  forth  in  Section
 4.01(f).

         "MOST  RECENT  FISCAL  YEAR END" has the  meaning  set forth in Section
 4.01(f).

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 2
<PAGE>

         "ORDINARY  COURSE OF BUSINESS"  means the  ordinary  course of business
consistent with past custom and practice (including with respect to quantity and
frequency).

         "PARTIES" has the meaning set forth in the preface above.

         "PERSON"  means  an  individual,  a  partnership,  a  corporation,   an
association,  a joint stock company, a trust, a joint venture, an unincorporated
organization,  or a governmental entity (or any department,  agency or political
subdivision thereof).

         "PURCHASE PRICE" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.04.

         "SECURITY  INTEREST"  means any mortgage,  pledge,  lien,  encumbrance,
charge or other security interest.

         "SELLER" has the meaning set forth in the preface above.

         "SHAREHOLDER(S)" has the meaning set forth in the preface above.

         "TAX" or "TAXES"  means any federal,  state,  local or foreign  income,
gross  receipts,  license,  payroll,   employment,   excise,  severance,  stamp,
occupation,  premium, windfall profits,  environmental,  customs duties, capital
stock,   franchise,   profits,   withholding,   social  security  (or  similar),
unemployment,   disability,   real  property,  personal  property,  sales,  use,
transfer,  registration,  value added, alternative or add-on minimum, estimated,
or other tax of any kind whatsoever, including any interest, penalty or addition
thereto, whether disputed or not.

         "TAX RETURN" means any return, declaration, report, claim for refund or
information  return or statement  relating to Taxes,  including  any schedule or
attachment thereto, and including any amendment thereof.

ARTICLE 2 - SUBJECT MATTER AND GENERAL TERMS OF SALE.

     SECTION 2.01.  SALE OF ASSETS.  Subject to the terms and conditions of this
          Agreement,  the Buyer shall  purchase from the Seller,  and the Seller
          shall  sell,  transfer,  convey and  deliver to the Buyer,  all of the
          Acquired Assets at the Closing for the Purchase Price.

     SECTION  2.02.  ASSUMPTION  OF  LIABILITIES.   Subject  to  the  terms  and
          conditions  of this  Agreement,  the Buyer agrees to assume and become
          responsible  for the  Assumed  Liabilities.  Except  for  the  Assumed
          Liabilities,  the Buyer  shall not  assume or be liable  for any other
          Liability or obligation of the Seller.

     SECTION 2.03.  CLOSING AND EFFECTIVE  DATE.  The closing called for by this
          Agreement (the "Closing")  shall be closed at the offices of the Buyer
          at 10:00 a.m.  on March 15, 1996 or on such 2other date as the Parties
          may mutually agree upon (the "Closing Date").

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 3
<PAGE>

     SECTION 2.04.  PURCHASE PRICE. The purchase price (the "Purchase Price") to
          be paid by the Buyer to the Seller for the  Acquired  Assets  shall be
          One Million and No/100 Dollars ($1,000,000) payable as follows:

          (a)  Cancellation  of  the  outstanding   principal  of,  and  accrued
               interest on, that certain promissory note dated January 26, 1996,
               executed and  delivered by the Seller and payable to the Buyer in
               the original principal amount of $700,000.

          (b)  The balance of the Purchase  Price shall be paid by wire transfer
               or delivery of other immediately available funds.

     SECTION 2.05.  ALLOCATION OF PURCHASE PRICE.  The parties agree to allocate
          the  Purchase  Price  among  the  Acquired  Assets  for  all  purposes
          (including  financial  accounting and tax purposes) in accordance with
          Schedule A attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof.

ARTICLE 3 - CLOSING.

     SECTION 3.01. DELIVERY BY THE SELLER.

     (1)  At the Closing the Seller  shall  deliver or cause to be  delivered to
          the Buyer the  following,  properly  executed and  acknowledged  where
          required:

          (a)  A good and sufficient bill of sale and assignment, with covenants
               of  general   warranty  and   otherwise  in  form  and  substance
               satisfactory  to the Buyer,  transferring to the Buyer all of the
               Acquired  Assets  (including  the  Intellectual  Property and the
               agreements and contracts); and

          (b)  A copy of resolutions  adopted by the Seller's board of directors
               and shareholders  authorizing the sale and execution and delivery
               of this Agreement and all  instruments  required of the Seller by
               this  Agreement  and  the  performance  of all  of  the  Seller's
               obligations thereunder,  certified by a Secretary or an Assistant
               Secretary of the Seller.

     (2)  All of the items  called for by Section  3.01(1)  shall be in form and
          substance satisfactory to the Buyer.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 4
<PAGE>

     SECTION 3.02. DELIVERY BY THE BUYER.

     (1)  At the Closing the Buyer shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the
          Seller  the  following,   properly  executed  and  acknowledged  where
          required:

          (a)  That part of the purchase price payable in cash at the Closing;

          (b)  An assumption  agreement,  in form and substance  satisfactory to
               the  Seller,  pursuant  to which the Buyer  assumes  the  Assumed
               Liabilities;

          (c)  A copy of  resolutions  adopted by the Buyer's board of directors
               authorizing  or ratifying the execution of this Agreement and all
               instruments  required  of the  Buyer  by this  Agreement  and the
               performance  of  all  of  the  Buyer's  obligations   thereunder,
               certified by a Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Buyer.

     (2)  All of the items  called for by Section  3.02(1)  shall be in form and
          substance satisfactory to the Seller.

     SECTION 3.03.  WAIVER OF  DELIVERY.  Either the Buyer or the Seller may, in
          such  party's  discretion,  waive  delivery  of any item  required  by
          Section 3.01 or Section  3.02 and proceed  with the Closing.  Any item
          thus waived shall,  nevertheless,  be furnished as promptly  after the
          Closing as possible.

     SECTION 3.04. POSSESSION AND FURTHER ASSISTANCE.

     (1)  Upon the Closing the Seller  shall take such steps as may be necessary
          to put the Buyer in actual  possession,  operation  and control of the
          Acquired Assets.

     (2)  From time to time the Seller and the  Shareholders  shall  execute and
          deliver to the Buyer such other instruments of conveyance and transfer
          and take such  other  action as the Buyer may  reasonably  require  to
          effectively  convey,  transfer to, and put the Buyer in  possession of
          any of the Acquired Assets.

     SECTION 3.05.  CHANGE OF CORPORATE  NAME.  Promptly after the Closing,  the
          Seller shall change its  corporate  name to a new name not  containing
          the words "Providers,"  "Funding,"  "Providers  Funding," or any other
          word or derivation or abbreviation  thereof, or having a similar sound
          or connotation  as any word in the present name of the Seller,  unless
          the Seller limits its  operations  after the Closing to winding up its
          business  activities and dissolves within two (2) months following the
          Closing  Date,  in which event the Seller  shall not be  obligated  to
          change  its  corporate  name.  From and after the  Closing  the Seller
          consents to the use by the Buyer or the  Buyer's  designee of the name
          "Providers  Funding  Corporation," or any variation  thereof,  and the
          Seller will execute and deliver  such further  letters and consents as
          the Buyer shall  reasonably  request to assist the Buyer in  utilizing
          and registering such name.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 5
<PAGE>

     SECTION 3.06.  CONDITIONS  OF THE  BUYER'S  CLOSING.  The Buyer will not be
          obligated to close the purchase of the Acquired Assets:

          (a)  If the  Seller  fails to keep or perform  any of its  obligations
               under this Agreement;

          (b)  If the  Buyer  discovers  any  material  error,  misstatement  or
               omission in the warranties,  representations  or covenants of the
               Seller or the  Shareholders  contained  in this  Agreement or any
               circumstance  which would,  if the sale were closed,  result in a
               breach of any of the warranties,  representations or covenants of
               the Seller or the Shareholders which under Section 4.03 are to be
               deemed made by the Seller or the Shareholders at the Closing;

          (c)  If the Buyer shall not have received a certificate of the Seller,
               executed by the President of the Seller,  dated the Closing Date,
               in form and substance  satisfactory to the Buyer, with respect to
               the matters set forth in Sections 3.06(a) and (b);

          (d)  If Barry T. Carroll  shall not have  entered into an  employment,
               non-competition and confidentiality  agreement with Buyer in form
               and substance satisfactory to the Buyer;

          (e)  If Bill M. Ward shall not have entered into a non-competition and
               confidentiality agreement with Buyer in substantially the form of
               Exhibit A attached hereto and by reference made a part hereof;

          (f)  If  Lawrence  C.   Blanton   shall  not  have   entered   into  a
               non-competition  and  confidentiality  agreement  with  Buyer  in
               substantially  the  form of  Exhibit  B  attached  hereto  and by
               reference made a part hereof;

          (g)  If the accounts  receivable of Seller on the Closing  Date,  less
               any adequate reserve for bad debt, are less than $800,000.00; or

          (h)  If there occurs any loss,  destruction  or damage to any material
               part of the Acquired Assets.

     SECTION 3.07.  CONDITIONS OF THE SELLER'S  CLOSING.  The Seller will not be
          obligated to close the sale of the Acquired Assets:

          (a)  If the  Buyer  fails to keep or  perform  any of its  obligations
               under this Agreement; or

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 6
<PAGE>

          (b)  If the Seller  discovers  any  material  error,  misstatement  or
               omission  in the  warranties  or  representations  of  the  Buyer
               contained in this Agreement or any  circumstance  which would, if
               the sale were closed, result in a breach of any of the warranties
               or  representations  of the Buyer which under Section 4.03 are to
               be deemed made by the Buyer at the Closing.

ARTICLE 4 - REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS.

     SECTION  4.01.   THE  SELLER'S  AND  THE   SHAREHOLDERS'   REPRESENTATIONS,
          WARRANTIES  AND  COVENANTS.  For the reliance of the Buyer in entering
          into this Agreement and purchasing the Acquired Assets, the Seller and
          the  Shareholders,  jointly  and  severally,  represent,  warrant  and
          covenant  to the  Buyer  the  following,  in  addition  to  the  other
          warranties, representations and covenants contained in this Agreement:

          (a)  Organization.  The Seller is a corporation duly  incorporated and
               organized  and is  validly  existing  as a  corporation  in  good
               standing under the laws of the state of Texas.

          (b)  Authorization;  Noncontravention.  The  Seller has full power and
               authority  to own its  properties  and assets and to carry on its
               business  as now  conducted  in all states  where the Seller does
               business  and to enter into this  Agreement  and to  perform  its
               obligations  under this  Agreement.  The Seller's  execution  and
               delivery  to the  Buyer  of this  Agreement  and all  instruments
               required  of  the  Seller  by  this   Agreement  have  been  duly
               authorized and this Agreement,  upon execution and delivery,  and
               all instruments  required of the Seller by this Agreement are and
               will  be  the  valid  and  binding   obligation  of  the  Seller,
               enforceable  against  the  Seller  according  to their  terms and
               provisions,  and execution and delivery of this  Agreement by the
               Seller and  consummation  of the sale will not result in a breach
               or violation of any agreement or  undertaking to which the Seller
               is a party or by which it or any of its properties are bound.

          (c)  Brokers'  Fees.  The Seller has no Liability or obligation to pay
               any fees or  commissions  to any  broker,  finder  or agent  with
               respect to the purchase and sale  contemplated  by this Agreement
               for which the Buyer could become liable or obligated.

          (d)  Title to Assets.  The Seller has good and marketable title to, or
               a valid leasehold  interest in, the properties and assets used by
               it,  free  and  clear  of  all  Security  Interests,  except  for
               properties  and  assets  disposed  of in the  Ordinary  Course of
               Business since the date of the Most Recent Financial  Statements.
               Seller  has good  and  marketable  title  to all of the  Acquired
               Assets, free and clear of any Security Interest or restriction on
               transfer.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 7
<PAGE>

          (e)  Subsidiaries. The Seller has no subsidiaries.

          (f)  Financial  Statements.  Attached  hereto  as  Schedule  B and  by
               reference  made  a  part  hereof  are  the  following   financial
               statements   (collectively  the  "Financial   Statements"):   (i)
               unaudited  balance  sheet and  statement  of  income,  changes in
               stockholders' equity, and cash flow as of and for the fiscal year
               ended  December 31, 1995 (the "Most Recent  Fiscal Year End") for
               the Seller;  and (ii)  unaudited  balance  sheet and statement of
               income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flow (the "Most
               Recent  Financial  Statements")  as of and for the two (2) months
               ended  February 29, 1996 (the "Most Recent Fiscal Month End") for
               the  Seller.  The  Financial  Statements   (including  the  notes
               thereto) have been prepared in accordance  with GAAP applied on a
               consistent basis throughout the periods covered thereby,  present
               fairly the financial condition of the Seller as of such dates and
               the results of  operations  of the Seller for such  periods,  are
               correct  and  complete,  and are  consistent  with the  books and
               records of the Seller  (which  books and  records are correct and
               complete);  provided,  however,  that the Most  Recent  Financial
               Statements are subject to normal year-end adjustments (which will
               not be  material  individually  or in  the  aggregate)  and  lack
               footnotes and other presentation items.

          (g)  Events  Subsequent  to Most  Recent  Fiscal  Year End.  Except as
               otherwise  disclosed to the Buyer by the Seller in writing  prior
               to the Closing,  since the Most Recent Fiscal Year End, there has
               not been any material  adverse change in the business,  financial
               condition, operations, results of operations, or future prospects
               of the Seller.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
               since that date:

               (i)  the Seller has not sold,  leased,  transferred,  or assigned
                    any of its assets, tangible or intangible,  other than for a
                    fair consideration in the Ordinary Course of Business;

               (ii) the Seller has not  entered  into any  agreement,  contract,
                    lease  or  license   (or   series  of  related   agreements,
                    contracts,  leases or licenses)  either  involving more than
                    $5,000 or outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 8
<PAGE>

               (iii)no party has accelerated,  terminated, modified or cancelled
                    any  agreement,  contract,  lease or  license  (or series of
                    related agreements, contracts, leases or licenses) involving
                    more than  $5,000 to which the Seller is a party or by which
                    it is bound;

               (iv) the Seller has not imposed any Security Interest upon any of
                    its assets, tangible or intangible;

               (v)  the Seller has not made any capital  expenditure  (or series
                    of related capital  expenditures) either involving more than
                    $5,000 or outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

               (vi) the Seller has not made any capital  investment in, any loan
                    to, or any  acquisition  of the securities or assets of, any
                    other  Person  (or series of  related  capital  investments,
                    loans or acquisitions)  either involving more than $5,000 or
                    outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

               (vii)the  Seller  has not  issued  any note,  bond or other  debt
                    security or created,  incurred,  assumed or  guaranteed  any
                    indebtedness   for  borrowed  money  or  capitalized   lease
                    obligation  either  involving more than $1,000,  singly,  or
                    $5,000, in the aggregate;

               (viii) the Seller has not  delayed or  postponed  the  payment of
                    accounts payable and other Liabilities  outside the Ordinary
                    Course of Business;

               (ix) the  Seller  has  not  cancelled,   compromised,  waived  or
                    released any right or claim (or series of related  rights or
                    claims)  either  involving  more than  $5,000 or outside the
                    Ordinary Course of Business;

               (x)  the Seller has not granted any license or  sublicense of any
                    rights under or with respect to any Intellectual Property;

               (xi) the Seller has not  experienced  any damage,  destruction or
                    loss (whether or not covered by insurance) to its property;

               (xii)the  Seller  has not made any loan to, or  entered  into any
                    other  transaction  with, any of its directors,  officers or
                    employees outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

               (xiii) the Seller has not entered into any employment contract or
                    collective  bargaining   agreement,   written  or  oral,  or
                    modified  the  terms  of  any  such  existing   contract  or
                    agreement;

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 9
<PAGE>

               (xiv)the  Seller  has  not  granted  any  increase  in  the  base
                    compensation of any of its directors,  officers or employees
                    outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

               (xv) the Seller has not adopted,  amended, modified or terminated
                    any bonus,  profit-sharing,  incentive,  severance  or other
                    plan,  contract or commitment  for the benefit of any of its
                    directors,  officers or employees  (or taken any such action
                    with respect to any other employee benefit plan);

               (xvi)the  Seller  has not made any  other  change  in  employment
                    terms  for  any  of its  directors,  officers  or  employees
                    outside the Ordinary Course of Business; and

               (xvii) there has not been any other material  occurrence,  event,
                    incident,  action, failure to act or transaction outside the
                    Ordinary Course of Business involving the Seller.

          (h)  Undisclosed  Liabilities.  Except as  otherwise  disclosed by the
               Seller to the Buyer in writing  prior to the Closing,  the Seller
               does not  have  any  Liability  (and  there  is no basis  for any
               present   or   future   action,   suit,   proceeding,    hearing,
               investigation,  charge,  complaint,  claim or demand  against  it
               giving rise to any  Liability),  except for (i)  Liabilities  set
               forth on the face of the Most  Recent  Financial  Statements  and
               (ii)  Liabilities  which have arisen after the Most Recent Fiscal
               Month  End in the  Ordinary  Course  of  Business  (none of which
               results from,  arises out of, relates to, is in the nature of, or
               was caused by any breach of contract,  breach of warranty,  tort,
               infringement or violation of law).

          (i)  Legal  Compliance.  The Seller has complied  with all  applicable
               laws (including rules,  regulations,  codes, plans,  injunctions,
               judgments,  orders,  decrees,  rulings and charges thereunder) of
               federal,  state, local and foreign  governments (and all agencies
               thereof),   and   no   action,   suit,    proceeding,    hearing,
               investigation,  charge,  complaint,  claim,  demand or notice has
               been filed or commenced  against the Seller  alleging any failure
               so to comply.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 10
<PAGE>

          (j)  Tax Matters.

               (i)  The Seller has filed all Tax Returns that it was required to
                    file.  All such Tax Returns were correct and complete in all
                    respects. All Taxes owed by the Seller (whether or not shown
                    on any Tax Return)  have been paid.  The Seller is currently
                    not the beneficiary of any extension of time within which to
                    file any Tax  Return.  No claim  has  ever  been  made by an
                    authority in a  jurisdiction  where the Seller does not file
                    Tax Returns that it is or may be subject to taxation by that
                    jurisdiction.  There are no Security Interests on any of the
                    assets  of the  Seller  that  arose in  connection  with any
                    failure (or alleged failure) to pay any Tax.

               (ii) The Seller has withheld and paid all Taxes  required to have
                    been  withheld and paid in  connection  with amounts paid or
                    owing to any  employee,  independent  contractor,  creditor,
                    shareholder or other third party.

               (iii)No   Shareholder   or  director  or  officer  (or   employee
                    responsible  for Tax  matters)  of the  Seller  expects  any
                    authority to assess any additional  Taxes for any period for
                    which Tax Returns  have been filed.  There exists no dispute
                    or claim  concerning  any Tax Liability of the Seller either
                    (A) claimed or raised by any  authority in writing or (B) as
                    to  which  any of the  Shareholders  and the  directors  and
                    officers (and employees  responsible for Tax matters) of the
                    Seller has Knowledge  based upon  personal  contact with any
                    agent of such authority.

               (iv) The  Seller has not waived  any  statute of  limitations  in
                    respect  of Taxes or  agreed to any  extension  of time with
                    respect to a Tax assessment or deficiency.

          (k)  Intellectual Property.

               (i)  The  Seller  owns  or has the  right  to use  pursuant  to a
                    license,    sublicense,    agreement   or   permission   all
                    Intellectual  Property  necessary  for the  operation of the
                    business of the Seller as presently conducted.  Each item of
                    Intellectual   Property   owned   or  used  by  the   Seller
                    immediately  prior to the Closing hereunder will be owned or
                    available  for  use by the  Buyer  on  identical  terms  and
                    conditions immediately subsequent to the Closing hereunder.

               (ii) The  Seller  has  not  interfered   with,   infringed  upon,
                    misappropriated  or otherwise  come into  conflict  with any
                    Intellectual  Property rights of third parties,  and none of
                    the   Shareholders  and  the  directors  and  officers  (and
                    employees  with  responsibility  for  Intellectual  Property
                    matters)  of  the  Seller  has  ever  received  any  charge,
                    complaint,   claim,  demand  or  notice  alleging  any  such
                    interference,  infringement,  misappropriation  or violation
                    (including any claim that the Seller must license or refrain
                    from  using any  Intellectual  Property  rights of any third
                    party). No third party has interfered with,  infringed upon,
                    misappropriated  or otherwise  come into  conflict  with any
                    Intellectual Property rights of the Seller.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 11
<PAGE>

               (iii)Schedule C  identifies  each  license,  agreement,  or other
                    permission  which the Seller has  granted to any third party
                    with respect to any of its Intellectual  Property  (together
                    with any exceptions).  The Seller has delivered to the Buyer
                    correct and complete copies of all such licenses, agreements
                    and  permissions (as amended to date) and has made available
                    to the  Buyer  correct  and  complete  copies  of all  other
                    written  documentation  evidencing ownership and prosecution
                    (if   applicable)  of  each  such  item.   Schedule  C  also
                    identifies each trade name or unregistered trademark used by
                    the  Seller in  connection  with  each item of  Intellectual
                    Property  required  to be  identified  in  Schedule  C. With
                    respect to each item of Intellectual  Property identified on
                    Schedule C:

                    (A)  the Seller  possesses all right,  title and interest in
                         and  to the  item,  free  and  clear  of  any  Security
                         Interest, license or other restriction;

                    (B)  the item is not subject to any outstanding  injunction,
                         judgment, order, decree, ruling or charge;

                    (C)  no action, suit,  proceeding,  hearing,  investigation,
                         charge,  complaint,  claim or demand is  pending  or is
                         threatened  which  challenges  the legality,  validity,
                         enforceability, use or ownership of the item; and

                    (D)  the  Seller  has  never  agreed  to  any  infringement,
                         misappropriation  or other conflict with respect to the
                         item.

               (iv) Schedule D  identifies  each item of  Intellectual  Property
                    that any third party owns and that the Seller uses  pursuant
                    to a  license,  sublicense,  agreement  or  permission.  The
                    Seller  has  delivered  to the Buyer  correct  and  complete
                    copies of all such  licenses,  sublicenses,  agreements  and
                    permissions (as amended to date).  With respect to each item
                    of Intellectual Property identified in Schedule D:

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 12
<PAGE>

                    (A)  the  license,   sublicense,   agreement  or  permission
                         covering the item is legal, valid, binding, enforceable
                         and in full force and effect;

                    (B)  the license,  sublicense,  agreement or permission will
                         continue to be legal, valid,  binding,  enforceable and
                         in full force and effect on identical  terms  following
                         the  consummation  of  the  transactions   contemplated
                         hereby  (including  the  assignments   referred  to  in
                         Section 3.01(1)(a));

                    (C)  no  party  to the  license,  sublicense,  agreement  or
                         permission  is in breach or  default,  and no event has
                         occurred  which  with  notice of default  would  permit
                         termination, modification or acceleration thereunder;

                    (D)  no  party  to the  license,  sublicense,  agreement  or
                         permission has repudiated any provision thereof;

                    (E)  with respect to each  sublicense,  the  representations
                         and  warranties  set  forth in  Section  4.01(k)(iv)(A)
                         through  (D) are true and correct  with  respect to the
                         underlying license;

                    (F)  the  underlying  item of  Intellectual  Property is not
                         subject to any outstanding injunction, judgment, order,
                         decree, ruling or charge;

                    (G)  no action, suit,  proceeding,  hearing,  investigation,
                         charge,  complaint,  claim or demand is  pending  or is
                         threatened which  challenges the legality,  validity or
                         enforceability  of the underlying  item of Intellectual
                         Property; and

                    (H)  the Seller has not  granted any  sublicense  or similar
                         right  with   respect  to  the   license,   sublicense,
                         agreement or permission.

               (v)  The  Seller  will  not  interfere   with,   infringe   upon,
                    misappropriate  or otherwise  come into conflict  with,  any
                    Intellectual Property rights of third parties as a result of
                    the  continued  operation  of its  businesses  as  presently
                    conducted.

          (l)  Tangible  Assets.  The  Seller  owns  or  leases  all  buildings,
               machinery,  equipment and other tangible assets necessary for the
               conduct  of  its  business  as  presently  conducted.  Each  such
               tangible asset is free from defects (patent and latent), has been
               maintained in accordance  with normal  industry  practice,  is in
               good operating  condition and repair  (subject to normal wear and
               tear), and is suitable for the purposes for which it presently is
               used.  All of the Acquired  Assets on hand on the date hereof are
               still on hand,  except for supplies and other  inventory  used or
               consumed in the ordinary course of business,  and since that date
               there has been no loss,  destruction  or  damage of any  material
               part of the  Acquired  Assets.  All of the  Acquired  Assets  are
               assignable,  and none is subject to any agreement or  restriction
               requiring  any  consent for its  transfer to the Buyer  except as
               otherwise noted in Schedule A.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 13
<PAGE>

          (m)  Contracts.  Schedule E lists the  following  contracts  and other
               agreements to which the Seller is a party:

               (i)  any agreement (or group of related agreements) for the lease
                    of personal property to or from any Person;

               (ii) any  agreement  (or  group of  related  agreements)  for the
                    purchase or sale of raw  materials,  commodities,  supplies,
                    products or other personal  property,  or for the furnishing
                    or receipt of services;

               (iii)any agreement for the providing of medical claims  factoring
                    services to health care providers and other parties;

               (iv) any agreement concerning a partnership or joint venture;

               (v)  any agreement (or group of related  agreements)  under which
                    the Seller has created,  incurred, assumed or guaranteed any
                    indebtedness  for borrowed money,  or any capitalized  lease
                    obligation;

               (vi) any agreement concerning confidentiality or noncompetition;

               (vii)any agreement  involving any of the  Shareholders  and their
                    affiliates;

               (viii) any profit sharing,  stock option,  stock purchase,  stock
                    appreciation, deferred compensation, severance or other plan
                    for the benefit of the directors,  officers and employees of
                    the Seller;

               (ix) any collective bargaining agreement;

               (x)  any  agreement  for the  employment  of any  individual on a
                    full-time, part-time, consulting or other basis or providing
                    severance benefits;

               (xi) any agreement  under which the Seller has advanced or loaned
                    any amount to any of its  directors,  officers or  employees
                    outside the Ordinary Course of Business;

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 14
<PAGE>

               (xii)any agreement  under which the  consequences of a default or
                    termination  could  have a  material  adverse  effect on the
                    business,  financial  condition,   operations,   results  of
                    operations or future prospects of the Seller; or

               (xiii) any other  agreement (or group of related  agreements) the
                    performance  of which  involves  consideration  in excess of
                    $5,000.

         Seller has  delivered to the Buyer a correct and complete  copy of each
         written  agreement  listed in Schedule E and a written  summary setting
         forth the terms and  conditions  of each  oral  agreement  referred  to
         Schedule E. With respect to each such  agreement:  (A) the agreement is
         legal,  valid,  binding,  enforceable and in full force and effect; (B)
         the agreement will continue to be legal, valid, binding and enforceable
         as to  and by the  Buyer  upon  the  consummation  of the  transactions
         contemplated  hereby (including the assignments  referred to in Section
         3.01(1)(a));  (C) no event has  occurred  which with notice or lapse of
         time  would  constitute  a breach or  default,  or permit  termination,
         modification or acceleration, under the agreement; and (D) no party has
         repudiated  any  provision  of the  agreement.  Anything  herein to the
         contrary notwithstanding,  with respect to that certain agreement dated
         March 13, 1990 by and between Surety Bank (formerly  Texas Bank,  N.A.)
         and PFC (the "Old  Agreement"),  no event of default has occurred which
         with  notice or lapse of time would  constitute  a breach or default by
         Seller of its  obligations  under the Old Agreement.  The Parties agree
         that such Old  Agreement  will  terminate  effective  as of the Closing
         Date; however, the indemnification  provisions set forth in paragraph 4
         of the Agreement shall survive the termination of the Old Agreement and
         shall remain in full force and effect.

          (n)  Notes and Accounts Receivable.  All notes and accounts receivable
               of the Seller are reflected properly on its books and records.

          (o)  Litigation.  Schedule  F sets forth  each  instance  in which the
               Seller (i) is subject to any  outstanding  injunction,  judgment,
               order,  decree,  ruling  or  charge or (ii) is a party or, to the
               Knowledge  of any of  the  Shareholders  and  the  directors  and
               officers  (and  employees  with   responsibility  for  litigation
               matters) of the Seller,  is  threatened to be made a party to any
               action,  suit,  proceeding,  hearing or  investigation  of, in or
               before any court or quasi-judicial  or  administrative  agency of
               any federal, state, local or foreign jurisdiction,  or before any
               arbitrator. None of the actions, suits proceedings,  hearings and
               investigations  set  forth  in  Schedule  F could  result  in any
               material  adverse  change in the business,  financial  condition,
               operations,  results of  operations  or future  prospects  of the
               Seller.  None of the  Shareholders and the directors and officers
               (and employees with responsibility for litigation matters) of the
               Seller  has any  reason to believe  that any such  action,  suit,
               proceeding, hearing or investigation may be brought or threatened
               against the Seller.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 15
<PAGE>

          (p)  Employees.  Except as  otherwise  disclosed  by the Seller to the
               Buyer in writing prior to the Closing, to the Knowledge of any of
               the  Shareholders  and the directors and officers (and  employees
               with  responsibility  for employment  matters) of the Seller,  no
               executive,  key employee,  or group of employees has any plans to
               terminate  employment with the Seller.  The Seller is not a party
               to or bound by any collective  bargaining  agreement,  nor has it
               experienced  any  strikes,  grievances,  claims of  unfair  labor
               practices,  or other collective  bargaining disputes.  The Seller
               has  not  committed  any  unfair  labor  practice.  None  of  the
               Shareholders  and the directors and officers (and  employees with
               responsibility  for  employment  matters)  of the  Seller has any
               Knowledge of any  organizational  effort  presently being made or
               threatened  by or on behalf of any labor  union  with  respect to
               employees of the Seller.

          (q)  Employee Benefits. Except as otherwise disclosed by the Seller to
               the Buyer in writing  prior to the  Closing,  the Seller does not
               contribute to any employee benefit plans.

          (r)  Certain Business  Relationships.  None of the  Shareholders  have
               been involved in any business  arrangements or relationships with
               the Seller  within the past twelve (12)  months,  and none of the
               Shareholders  or their  affiliates  owns any assets,  tangible or
               intangible, which is used in the business of the Seller.

          (s)  Guaranties. The Seller is not a guarantor or otherwise liable for
               any Liability or obligation (including indebtedness) of any other
               Person.

          (t)  Disclosure.  The representations and warranties contained in this
               Article 4 do not contain any untrue  statement of a material fact
               or omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the
               statements  and  information  contained  in  this  Article  4 not
               misleading.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 16
<PAGE>

     SECTION 4.02. THE BUYER'S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.  For the reliance
          of the Seller in entering into this Agreement and selling the Acquired
          Assets, the Buyer represents and warrants to the Seller as follows:

          (a)  The  Buyer is a  national  banking  association  duly  organized,
               validly  existing  and in good  standing  under  the  laws of the
               United States of America.

          (b)  The  Buyer  has full  power  and  authority  to enter  into  this
               Agreement,  to execute and deliver all instruments required of it
               by this  Agreement,  to  purchase  the  Acquired  Assets from the
               Seller and to perform all of its obligations under this Agreement
               and all  instruments  executed by and pursuant to this Agreement,
               and all of these  actions have been duly  authorized  or prior to
               the Closing  shall be duly  authorized  by the  Buyer's  board of
               directors.

     SECTION 4.03.  REPRESENTATIONS  AND  WARRANTIES AT THE CLOSING.  All of the
          representations and warranties of each Party to this Agreement are not
          only true and correct as of the date of this  Agreement but also shall
          be true and correct as of the  Closing  with the same force and effect
          as though made on and as of the Closing Date.

     SECTION 4.04. ACTION PRIOR TO CLOSING.  From the date of this Agreement and
          until the Closing each Party to this  Agreement  shall take all action
          necessary so that all of the Party's  warranties  and  representations
          will be true and  correct  as of the  Closing  with the same force and
          effect as though made on and as of the Closing Date.

     SECTION 4.05. SURVIVAL OF WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS. All of
          the warranties, representations,  covenants and agreements made by the
          Parties in this Agreement or in any schedule,  exhibit,  list or other
          instrument  delivered pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement
          shall survive the Closing and shall remain operative and in full force
          and effect  regardless of any  investigation at any time made by or on
          behalf of the Party to whom or with whom the warranty, representation,
          covenant or agreement is made, and shall not be deemed merged into any
          document or instrument executed or delivered at Closing.

     SECTION 4.06. INDEMNIFICATION, OFFSET AND LIEN BY THE BUYER.

     (1)  The  Seller  and  the  Shareholders,   jointly  and  severally,  shall
          indemnify  and hold the Buyer  harmless  from and  against any and all
          claims, demands,  losses,  damages, suits, judgments,  settlements and
          expenses of any description whatever (including without limitation all
          costs  and   expenses,   including   attorneys'   fees,   incurred  in
          investigating  into or  defending  against any such  claim,  demand or
          suit) which the Buyer may at any time suffer, sustain or have asserted
          against it, including  without  limitation acts which could constitute
          negligence  by the Buyer,  and which in any manner arises out of or in
          connection with any of the following:

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 17
<PAGE>

          (a)  Any claim by another of any  interest in or claim  against any of
               the Acquired Assets; or

          (b)  Any breach by the  Seller or the  Shareholders  of any  warranty,
               representation, covenant or agreement contained in this Agreement
               or in any instrument given pursuant to this Agreement, other than
               the agreements provided for in Section 3.06(d),  (e) and (f), but
               including  those deemed  under  Section 4.03 to have been made on
               the Closing Date, or any breach by the Seller or the Shareholders
               or any  failure  of the  Seller  or the  Shareholders  to keep or
               perform  any of the  Seller's  or  the  Shareholders'  covenants,
               agreements or undertakings  contained in this Agreement or in any
               instrument  given by the Seller or the  Shareholders  pursuant to
               this Agreement, other than the agreements provided for in Section
               3.06(d), (e) and (f).

     (2)  If any  warranty,  representation,  covenant or agreement  made by the
          Seller or the  Shareholders  in this  Agreement  or in any  instrument
          given  pursuant to this  Agreement  shall be  determined to be untrue,
          then the Seller and the Shareholders  shall pay to the Buyer an amount
          equal to the amount  which it would  cost,  at the time the untruth is
          discovered,  to put the Buyer in the position  that it would have been
          in had the warranty, representation, covenant or agreement been true.

     SECTION 4.07. RISK OF LOSS.

     (1)  Prior to the Closing, the risk of loss, destruction,  disappearance or
          damage of any of the Acquired Assets will be on the Seller.

     (2)  Until the  Closing,  the Seller  shall  maintain  all of the  Acquired
          Assets properly insured.

     (3)  In the event of the loss, destruction,  disappearance or damage of any
          material  part of the Acquired  Assets,  the Buyer may, at its option,
          either terminate this Agreement  without any further  liability on the
          part of any Party or it may  proceed  with the  Closing.  If the Buyer
          elects to proceed with the Closing,  all  insurance  proceeds  paid or
          payable  as a result of the loss or other  casualty  will  become  the
          property of the Buyer and, if received by the Seller, shall be held in
          trust  for the  benefit  of the Buyer  and  promptly  paid over to the
          Buyer.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 18
<PAGE>

     SECTION 4.08.  EXPENSES.  Each  Party  shall  pay all  expenses  (including
          accounting  and  attorneys'  fees) incurred by the Party in connection
          with the transaction called for by this Agreement.

     SECTION 4.09.  COMMISSIONS.  The Seller and the  Shareholders,  jointly and
          severally,  shall indemnify the Buyer and hold the Buyer harmless from
          and against any  commission,  brokerage  or finder's  fee  incurred or
          alleged to be incurred by the Seller  relative to this  Agreement  and
          the  transactions  called  for by  this  Agreement.  The  Buyer  shall
          indemnify the Seller and the  Shareholders and hold the Seller and the
          Shareholders  harmless from and against any  commission,  brokerage or
          finder's  fee  incurred or alleged to have been  incurred by the Buyer
          relative  to this  Agreement  or the  transactions  called for by this
          Agreement.

     SECTION 4.10.  CONTINUED  OPERATION.  From the date of this  Agreement  and
          until the Closing, the Seller and the Shareholders  covenant and agree
          as follows:

          (a)  The Seller  shall  continue  its usual  business  operations  and
               maintain in effect its insurance coverage.

          (b)  The Seller shall not incur any liability  except in the usual and
               Ordinary  Course of Business  regarding  the Acquired  Assets and
               shall in no event enter into any material contract  regarding the
               Acquired Assets without the Buyer's prior written approval.

          (c)  The  Seller  shall not sell or  otherwise  dispose  of any of the
               Acquired  Assets  except  those used or consumed in the usual and
               Ordinary Course of its Business.

          (d)  The Seller shall keep complete and accurate  business  records in
               conformity with its past practices and on a basis consistent with
               the  Financial  Statements,  and the Buyer may have access to and
               examine and copy the  records at times which do not  unreasonably
               interfere with the Seller's operation.

          (e)  The  Seller  shall  properly  prepare  and file by not later than
               March 15,  1996 the  Seller's  federal  income tax return for the
               year 1995, or a request for an extension of time for such filing,
               in which  latter event the Seller shall file no later than by the
               end of such  extension  period the  Seller's  federal  income tax
               return for the year 1995.

          (f)  The Seller shall replace all supplies and other inventory used or
               consumed  with  goods of like  kind  and  quantity  so that  upon
               Closing  the  supplies  and   inventory  on  hand  shall  not  be
               materially less than those on hand on that date.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 19
<PAGE>

ARTICLE 5 - GENERAL PROVISIONS.

     SECTION 5.01. NOTICE.

     (1)  Any notice  required or permitted by any Party to this Agreement shall
          be in writing and may be delivered personally to the Party being given
          notice or to the  person in  charge of the  office of the Party  being
          given such notice or by certified mail, return receipt  requested,  at
          the Party's address  indicated below, and any notice will be effective
          upon delivery in the case of personal delivery and upon deposit in the
          mail,  postage  prepaid in the case of delivery by mail. The addresses
          of the Parties are as follows:

         BUYER:          Surety Bank, National Association
                         Attention: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                         1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                         Hurst, Texas 76054

         SURETY CAPITAL: Surety Capital Corporation
                         Attention: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                         1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                         Hurst, Texas 76054

         With copy to:   Margaret E. Holland
                         Tracy & Holland, L.L.P.
                         306 West Seventh Street, Suite 500
                         Fort Worth, Texas 76102

         SELLER:         Providers Funding Corporation
                         Attention: Mr. Barry T. Carroll
                         5340 Alpha Road
                         Dallas, Texas  75240

         SHAREHOLDERS:   Mr. Lawrence C. Blanton
                         5334 Mercedes Avenue
                         Dallas, Texas  75206

                         Mr. Barry T. Carroll
                         13635 Peyton Drive
                         Dallas, Texas  75240

                         Mr. Bill M. Ward
                         950 Galiceno
                         Wylie, Texas  75098

     (2)  The names and  addresses  of persons  to  receive  notice as stated in
          Section  5.01(1)  may be changed by notice  given in  accordance  with
          Section 5.01(1).

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 20
<PAGE>

     SECTION 5.02. CONSTRUCTION AND INTERPRETATION.

     (1)  Article and section  headings used in this  Agreement are intended for
          convenience  only and not  necessarily  to describe  the contents of a
          particular article or section and, therefore, shall not be interpreted
          as limiting or  modifying  the effect any  provision  otherwise  would
          have.

     (2)  References  to articles  and  sections are to articles and sections of
          this Agreement unless otherwise indicated.

     (3)  Unless context  otherwise  requires,  (i) words in the singular number
          include the plural and in the plural  include the  singular,  and (ii)
          words of the masculine  gender include the feminine and neuter genders
          and words of the neuter gender refer to any gender.

     SECTION 5.03. TERMINATION.

     (1)  Anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary  notwithstanding,
          this  Agreement may be terminated  and the  transactions  contemplated
          herein abandoned at any time prior to the Closing:

          (a)  By mutual written consent signed by the Parties;

          (b)  By the Buyer, if any condition to its obligations as set forth in
               this Agreement has not been met and has not been waived;

          (c)  By the Seller,  if any condition to its  obligations as set forth
               in this Agreement has not been met and has not been waived; or

          (d)  In the  event of any  material  loss or  damage  to the  Acquired
               Assets  prior to  Closing,  the Buyer  may  elect to  cancel  and
               terminate  this  Agreement by written notice to the Seller within
               ten  (10)  days  after  receipt  of  notice  of  such  damage  or
               destruction from the Seller.

     (2)  In the event of the  termination  of this  Agreement  pursuant  to the
          provisions  hereof,  this Agreement shall immediately  become void and
          have no effect, without any liability on the part of any Party hereto,
          and all expenses  related hereto shall be borne by the Party incurring
          them.

     SECTION 5.04.  BINDING  NATURE.  The terms and conditions of this Agreement
          shall  inure to the  benefit  of and be  binding  upon the  respective
          heirs,  legal  representatives,  successors and assigns of the Parties
          hereto.

     SECTION 5.05. NO ASSIGNMENT.  This Agreement and the rights and obligations
          hereunder  shall  not be  assignable  by any Party  without  the prior
          written  approval  of the  other  Party.  Nothing  in this  Agreement,
          express or implied, is intended to confer upon any Person,  other than
          the Parties hereto, and their respective heirs, legal representatives,
          successors  and  assigns,   any  rights,   remedies,   obligations  or
          liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 21
<PAGE>

     SECTION 5.06. SEVERABILITY.  Should any phrase, clause, sentence or section
          of this Agreement be judicially declared to be invalid,  unenforceable
          or void,  such  decision will not have the effect of  invalidating  or
          voiding  the  remainder  of  this  Agreement,  and  such  part of this
          Agreement  will be  deemed  to have  been  stricken  herefrom  and the
          remainder will have the same force and effect as if such part or parts
          had never been included herein.

     SECTION 5.07. MULTIPLE COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in any
          number  of  counterparts,  each of  which  shall  be  deemed  to be an
          original,  but all of which together shall constitute one and the same
          instrument.

     SECTION 5.08. SPECIFIC  PERFORMANCE.  Each of the Parties  acknowledges and
          agrees that the other Party would be damaged  irreparably in the event
          any  of  the  provisions  of  this  Agreement  are  not  performed  in
          accordance  with  their  specific  terms or  otherwise  are  breached.
          Accordingly,  each of the Parties agrees that the other Party shall be
          entitled to an injunction or  injunctions  to prevent  breaches of the
          provisions  of  this  Agreement  and  to  enforce   specifically  this
          Agreement and the terms and provisions hereof in any action instituted
          in any  court  of  the  United  States  or any  state  thereof  having
          jurisdiction over the Parties and the matter, in addition to any other
          remedy to which it may be entitled, at law or in equity.

     SECTION 5.09. GOVERNING LAW. THE AGREEMENT SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE
          WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS, WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO CONFLICT
          OF LAWS.

     SECTION 5.10.  FURTHER  ACTIONS.  At any time and from  time to time,  each
          Party agrees, without further consideration,  to take such actions and
          to execute and deliver such  documents as may be reasonably  necessary
          to effect the purposes of this Agreement.

     SECTION 5.11.  INCORPORATION  BY  REFERENCE.  All  attachments,  schedules,
          exhibits or annexes  referred to and  attached to this  Agreement  are
          incorporated  by  reference  herein  and  made a part  hereof  for all
          purposes, the same as if written in full in this Agreement.

     SECTION 5.12.  REMEDIES  CUMULATIVE.  The remedies provided herein shall be
          cumulative and shall not preclude  assertion by any Party of any other
          rights.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 22
<PAGE>

     SECTION 5.13. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement (together with the exhibits,
          financial  statements,  schedules  and  other  documents  referred  to
          herein) constitutes the entire contract and understanding  between the
          Parties hereto and supersedes all prior  agreements,  arrangements and
          understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.

     SECTION 5.14. AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS. No amendment of any provision of this
          Agreement  shall be valid  unless  the same  shall be in  writing  and
          signed by the Buyer, the Seller and the Shareholders. No waiver by any
          Party of any  default,  misrepresentation  or  breach of  warranty  or
          covenant  hereunder,  whether  intentional  or not, shall be deemed to
          extend to any prior or subsequent default, misrepresentation or breach
          of  warranty or  covenant  hereunder,  or affect in any way any rights
          arising by virtue of any prior or subsequent occurrence.

         EXECUTED in multiple originals on the date first above written.

BUYER:                        SURETY BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, President

SURETY CAPITAL:               SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, Senior Vice
                                  President and Secretary

SELLER:                       PROVIDERS FUNDING CORPORATION



                              By: /s/ Barry T. Carroll
                                  Barry T. Carroll, President



SHAREHOLDERS:                     /s/ Lawrence C. Blanton
                                  Lawrence C. Blanton



                                  /s/ Barry T. Carroll
                                  Barry T. Carroll



                                  /s/ Bill M. Ward
                                  Bill M. Ward


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 23
<PAGE>

List of exhibits and schedules to Asset  Purchase  Agreement by and among Surety
Bank,  National  Association,  Surety  Capital  Corporation,  Providers  Funding
Corporation,  and Lawrence C. Blanton,  Barry T. Carroll and Bill M. Ward, dated
March 15, 1996, which are not filed herewith:

Exhibit   Description
- -------   ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     A    Non-Competition  and  Confidentiality  Agreement by and between Surety
          Bank, National  Association,  Surety Capital Corporation,  and Bill M.
          Ward, dated March 15, 1996

     B    Non-Competition  and  Confidentiality  Agreement by and between Surety
          Bank, National Association,  Surety Capital Corporation,  and Lawrence
          C. Blanton, dated March 15, 1996


Schedule  Description
- --------  ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     A    Allocation of Purchase Price

     B    Financial Statements

     C    Licenses,  agreements or other permission which the Seller has granted
          to any third party with respect to any of its Intellectual Property

     D    Intellectual  Property  that any third  party owns and that the Seller
          uses pursuant to a license, sublicense, agreement or permission

     E    Contracts

     F    Litigation


The  registrant  will furnish  supplementally  a copy of any omitted  exhibit or
schedule to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 24
<PAGE>


                           EMPLOYMENT, NON-COMPETITION
                          AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

         This  Employment,   Non-Competition   and   Confidentiality   Agreement
("Agreement")  is  entered  into this 15th day of March,  1996,  by and  between
Surety Bank,  National  Association,  a national  banking  association  ("Surety
Bank") with its principal offices located at 1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100,
Hurst, Texas 76054, Surety Capital Corporation,  a Delaware corporation ("Surety
Capital") with its principal  offices located at 1845 Precinct Line Road,  Suite
100,  Hurst,  Texas  76054,  and Barry T. Carroll  ("Employee")  of 13635 Peyton
Drive, Dallas, Texas 75240.

         WHEREAS,  Surety  Bank  and  Providers  Funding  Corporation,  a  Texas
corporation  ("PFC")  entered into an agreement dated March 15, 1996 (the "Asset
Agreement"),  pursuant to which Surety Bank agreed to purchase all of the assets
and assume  certain of the  liabilities  of PFC on the terms and  conditions set
forth in the Asset Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Employee is an officer, director and shareholder of PFC; and

         WHEREAS, Employee has substantial experience in the business of medical
claims factoring; and

         WHEREAS,  the execution and delivery of this Agreement by Employee,  as
provided  in the Asset  Agreement,  and the  promise of  Employee to perform his
obligations hereunder,  is a condition to Surety Bank's obligation to consummate
the transactions  contemplated by the Asset Agreement, and Surety Bank would not
consummate  the  transactions  contemplated  by the Asset  Agreement  absent the
execution and delivery by Employee of this Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Surety  Bank and Employee  desire to  set forth  herein  their
understandings and agreements;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements
herein contained, the parties agree as follows:

     1.   Definitions.

          (a)  "Business"  means  the  business  of  medical  claims  factoring,
               including   but  not  limited  to  such  related   activities  as
               electronic filings of claims and billing and collection services.

          (b)  "Ending  Date"  means  the  date of  termination  of the  Term of
               Employment  of  Employee  pursuant to  Paragraph 6 hereof,  which
               shall be upon the earliest to occur of:

               (i)  the third anniversary of the date hereof;

               (ii) the date set forth in the  notice of the party  electing  to
                    terminate this Agreement pursuant to Paragraph 6 hereof; and


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 25
<PAGE>


               (iii) the occurrence of an Event With Cause.

          (c)  "Event  With  Cause"  shall  mean  the  occurrence  of any of the
               following events:

               (i)  the  commission  by  Employee  of  an  act   constituting  a
                    dishonest  or  other  act  of  material  misconduct,   or  a
                    fraudulent act or a felony under the laws of any state or of
                    the  United  States  to which  Surety  Bank or  Employee  is
                    subject; or

               (ii) the death of Employee; or

               (iii)the  inability of Employee to perform his duties  hereunder,
                    whether by reason of injury (physical or mental), illness or
                    otherwise,   incapacitating  him  for  a  continuous  period
                    exceeding  one (1)  month,  excluding  any leaves of absence
                    approved by Surety Bank; or

               (iv) the resignation of Employee without Good Reason.

          (d)  "Good Reason"  shall mean the  occurrence of any of the following
               events:

               (i)  the assignment by Surety Bank to Employee of duties that are
                    materially inconsistent with Employee's position with Surety
                    Bank at the  time  of such  assignment,  or the  removal  by
                    Surety  Bank from  Employee  of a material  portion of those
                    duties  usually  appertaining  to  Employee's  position with
                    Surety Bank at the time of such removal; or

               (ii) a material change by Surety Bank,  without  Employee's prior
                    written consent,  in Employee's  responsibilities  to Surety
                    Bank,   as  such   responsibilities   are   ordinarily   and
                    customarily  required  from  time  to  time  of a head  of a
                    division of an entity engaged in the Business; or

               (iii)any  removal  of  Employee  from  the  position   stated  in
                    Paragraph 3; or

               (iv) a reduction by Surety Bank in the amount of Employee's  base
                    salary as determined under this Agreement, or the failure of
                    Surety  Bank to pay such base salary to Employee at the time
                    and in the manner specified in Paragraph 4; or

               (v)  the relocation, without Employee's prior written consent, of
                    Surety Bank's  principal  operating  offices relating to the
                    Business  to a location  more than forty (40) miles from the
                    location  of such  offices at the time of the  execution  of
                    this Agreement,  other than the  contemplated  relocation of
                    such  offices  from the location at the time of execution of
                    this Agreement to Hurst, Texas within three (3) months after
                    the Closing.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 26
<PAGE>


          (e)  "Term  of  Employment"  shall  have  the  meaning  set  forth  in
               Paragraph 6.

     2.   Employment. Subject to the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth,
          Surety Bank hereby  agrees to employ  Employee,  and  Employee  hereby
          agrees  to serve  Surety  Bank,  in the  capacity  and for the Term of
          Employment specified herein.

     3.   Scope of Employment. During the Term of Employment hereunder, Employee
          will serve as head of Surety Bank's  medical  factoring  division.  In
          that connection, Employee will:

          (a)  devote his full time,  attention and energies to the Business and
               will diligently and to the best of his ability perform all duties
               incident to his employment hereunder;

          (b)  use his best  efforts to promote the  interests  and  goodwill of
               Surety Bank; and

          (c)  perform  such other  duties  commensurate  with his office as the
               Board of Directors of Surety Bank may from time to time assign to
               him.

The  foregoing  shall  not be  construed  as  preventing  Employee  from  making
investments in other businesses or enterprises  provided such investments do not
require the provision of  substantial  services by Employee to the operations or
the affairs of such  businesses or enterprises  such that the provision  thereof
would  interfere  in any  respect  with the  performance  of  Employee's  duties
hereunder.

     4.   Compensation.

          (a)  In  consideration  of the covenants and agreements of Employee in
               this  Agreement  and  the   consummation   of  the   transactions
               contemplated by the Asset Agreement, Surety Bank shall during the
               Term  of  Employment  pay  Employee,  subject  to the  terms  and
               conditions  of this  Agreement,  a base salary at the rate of not
               less than  $6,250.00 per month,  payable in  accordance  with the
               normal payroll practices of Surety Bank.

          (b)  In further  consideration  of the  covenants  and  agreements  of
               Employee  in  this   Agreement  and  the   consummation   of  the
               transactions contemplated by the Asset Agreement,  Surety Capital
               shall  within  thirty  (30)  days of the date of this  Agreement,
               grant to Employee,  on the terms and conditions set forth in this
               Agreement,  shares of common  stock,  $0.01 par value,  of Surety
               Capital (the  "Stock"),  in such amount as set forth in Paragraph
               4(c).  The  certificate  or  certificates  for the Stock shall be
               registered in the name of Employee.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 27
<PAGE>

          (c)  The amount of Stock shall be determined by dividing $33,333.00 by
               the closing price of Surety  Capital common stock on the American
               Stock  Exchange,  Inc.  as of the  close of  business  on the day
               immediately preceding the Closing Date.

     5.   Benefits.

          (a)  Vacation.  During  the  Term  of  Employment  Employee  shall  be
               entitled to sick leave,  holidays  and annual  vacations,  all in
               accordance  with the regular policy of Surety Bank,  during which
               time his compensation  shall be paid in full.  Vacations shall be
               taken by Employee at such times as may be mutually agreed upon by
               Employee and Surety Bank.

          (b)  Other Employee Benefits.  During the Term of Employment  Employee
               shall,  upon  satisfaction of any eligibility  requirements  with
               respect  thereto,  be entitled  to  participate  in all  employee
               benefit plans of Surety Bank,  including without limitation those
               health, dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and long term
               disability  plans of Surety Bank now or  hereafter in effect that
               are made available to employees of Surety Bank.

     6.   Term.  The term of employment of Employee  under this  Agreement  (the
          "Term  of  Employment")  shall  mean a period  commencing  on the date
          hereof and  ending on the third  anniversary  of such date;  provided,
          however,  either  party to this  Agreement  may upon at least five (5)
          day's  prior  written  notice  to the  other  party to this  Agreement
          terminate  this Agreement for any reason  whatsoever,  whether with or
          without cause,  in which event the Term of Employment  shall terminate
          on the date stated in such notice.  Additionally,  anything  herein to
          the contrary notwithstanding, the occurrence of an Event With Cause at
          any time during the Term of  Employment  shall result in the immediate
          termination  of the Term of  Employment,  but shall not  result in the
          termination of this Agreement.

     7.   Adjustments Upon Termination of Employment.

          (a)  In the event of the  termination of the Term of Employment at any
               time during the period  commencing  on the date hereof and ending
               on the second  anniversary of such date for any reason other than
               pursuant to an Event With  Cause,  Surety Bank shall for a period
               of one hundred twenty (120) days immediately following the Ending
               Date continue to pay the amounts  specified under Paragraph 4(a).
               Surety Bank shall not be obligated to make any other  payments to
               Employee  during such one hundred  twenty  (120) day period or at
               any time thereafter.

          (b)  In the event of the  termination of the Term of Employment at any
               time during the Term of  Employment  as a result of an Event With
               Cause or at any time  after the  second  anniversary  of the date
               hereof for any reason  whatsoever,  whether or not as a result of
               an Event With Cause,  Surety Bank shall no longer be obligated to
               make the payments  specified  under  Paragraph 4(a) or to provide
               the benefits under Paragraph 5; provided,  however,  any payments
               payable under Paragraph 4(a) which shall have been earned but not
               yet paid shall be paid by Surety Bank to Employee  within  thirty
               (30) days of the Ending Date.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 28
<PAGE>

     8.   Expenses.  Surety Bank agrees  that during the Term of  Employment  it
          will reimburse Employee for out-of-pocket expenses reasonably incurred
          by him in connection  with the  performance  of his service  hereunder
          upon the  presentation  by Employee of an itemized  accounting of such
          expenditures, including receipts where required for federal income tax
          regulations.

     9.   Non-Competition Agreement.

          (a)  Employee  agrees that during the period  commencing upon the date
               hereof and ending on the third  anniversary  of the date  hereof,
               unless extended pursuant to the terms hereof,  Employee will not,
               directly  or  indirectly,   either  as  an  employee,   employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               engage or participate in or otherwise become  affiliated with any
               company or other entity (other than Surety Bank) which has not as
               of the date hereof been engaged continuously for at least two (2)
               years  immediately prior to the date hereof in a business that is
               competitive  with the  Business  within any state in which PFC is
               conducting  or has  conducted,  within two (2) years  immediately
               preceding the date hereof, the Business;  provided, however, that
               nothing herein shall prevent  Employee from being an employee of,
               or  consultant  to, a company or other  entity  (other  than PFC)
               which has carried on a medical claims  factoring  business for at
               least two (2) years immediately preceding the date hereof.

          (b)  Employee  further agrees that during the period  commencing  upon
               the date hereof and ending on the third  anniversary  of the date
               hereof,  unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Employee
               will  not,  directly  or  indirectly,   either  as  an  employee,
               employer,  consultant,  agent, principal,  partner,  shareholder,
               officer,  director,  or in any other individual or representative
               capacity,  (i) make known to any person,  firm or corporation the
               names and  addresses  of any of the  customers of the Business or
               contacts  of PFC within  the  Business  or any other  information
               pertaining to such persons or (ii) call on, solicit or take away,
               or attempt to call on, solicit or take away, any customers of the
               Business,  including  actively sought prospective  customers,  on
               whom Employee called on or with whom Employee  became  acquainted
               during  Employee's  association with PFC, whether for Employee or
               for, any other person, firm or corporation.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 29
<PAGE>

          (c)  Employee  further agrees that during the period  commencing  upon
               the date hereof and ending on the third  anniversary  of the date
               hereof,  unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Employee
               will  not,  directly  or  indirectly,   either  as  an  employee,
               employer,  consultant,  agent, principal,  partner,  shareholder,
               officer,  director,  or in any other individual or representative
               capacity,  recruit  or  hire,  or  attempt  to  recruit  or hire,
               directly  or by  assisting  others,  any  employee  of PFC who is
               employed  by PFC in the  Business  on the date  hereof or who has
               been  employed by PFC in the  Business at any time within one (1)
               year prior to the date hereof.

          (d)  Employee  agrees that a breach or violation of this  covenant not
               to compete by such  Employee  shall  entitle  Surety  Bank,  as a
               matter  of  right,  to an  injunction  issued  by  any  court  of
               competent  jurisdiction,  restraining  any  further or  continued
               breach or violation of this covenant. Such right to an injunction
               shall be  cumulative  and in addition to, and not in lieu of, any
               other  remedies  to which  Surety  Bank may  show  itself  justly
               entitled.  Further,  during  any period in which  Employee  is in
               breach of this  covenant not to compete,  the time period of this
               covenant shall be extended for an amount of time that Employee is
               in breach  hereof,  provided  that Surety Bank seeks  enforcement
               promptly after discovery of the violation.

          (e)  The  representations  and covenants contained in this Paragraph 9
               on the part of Employee  will be  construed  as  ancillary to and
               independent  of any other  provision of this  Agreement,  and the
               existence  of any claim or cause of action  of  Employee  against
               Surety Bank or any  officer,  director or  shareholder  of Surety
               Bank,  whether  predicated on this Agreement or otherwise,  shall
               not constitute a defense to the enforcement by Surety Bank of the
               covenants of Employee contained in this Paragraph 9. In addition,
               the  provisions of this  Paragraph 9 shall continue to be binding
               upon Employee in accordance with their terms, notwithstanding the
               termination of the Term of Employment of Employee.

          (f)  The  parties  to  this  Agreement   agree  that  the  limitations
               contained in this  Paragraph 9 with respect to  geographic  area,
               duration and scope of activity are  reasonable.  However,  if any
               court shall determine that the geographic area, duration or scope
               of activity of any  restriction  contained in this Paragraph 9 is
               unenforceable,  it is the  intention  of the  parties  that  such
               restriction  set forth herein shall not thereby be terminated but
               shall be deemed amended to the extent required to render it valid
               and enforceable.

          (g)  Employee  represents to Surety Bank that the  enforcement  of the
               restrictions  contained  in this  Paragraph 9 would not be unduly
               burdensome to Employee and that in order to induce Surety Bank to
               consummate the  transactions  contemplated by the Asset Agreement
               and  to  employ  Employee,   Employee   further   represents  and
               acknowledges  that  Employee  is  willing  and able to compete in
               other geographical areas not prohibited by this Paragraph 9.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 30
<PAGE>

     10.  Disclosure  of  Confidential  Information.   Employee  recognizes  and
          acknowledges   that  Employee  had  access  to  certain   confidential
          information  of PFC or of  certain  corporations  affiliated  with PFC
          related  to the  Business,  and  that all  such  information  has been
          acquired by Surety Bank and constitutes  valuable,  special and unique
          property of Surety Bank and its affiliates. Employee agrees that for a
          period of three (3) years after the date  hereof,  Employee  will not,
          without  the  prior  written  consent  of  Surety  Bank,  disclose  or
          authorize or permit  anyone under his  direction to disclose to anyone
          not properly  entitled thereto any of such  confidential  information.
          For purposes of the immediately  preceding sentence,  persons properly
          entitled to such  information  shall be (i) the Board of  Directors of
          Surety Bank and such officers,  employees and agents of Surety Bank or
          any  affiliate  thereof to whom such  information  is furnished in the
          normal  course of  business  under  established  policies  approved by
          Surety Bank and (ii) such outside  parties as are legally  entitled to
          or are  customarily  furnished such  information,  including  banking,
          lending,  collection,  accounting and data processing  institutions or
          agencies  who or which are  provided  such  information  in the normal
          course of business of Surety Bank.  Employee  further agrees that upon
          the  consummation  of  the  transactions  contemplated  by  the  Asset
          Agreement,  Employee  will not take with him or  retain,  without  the
          prior written authorization of Surety Bank, any papers,  procedural or
          technical   manuals,   customer  lists,   customer   account  analyses
          (including,  without limitation,  accounts receivable agings, customer
          payment histories and customer account activity reports), price books,
          files or other  documents or copies  thereof of PFC acquired by Surety
          Bank, or any  materials,  supplies,  equipment or  furnishings  of PFC
          acquired by Surety Bank, or any other confidential  information of any
          kind. In the event of a breach or threatened breach by Employee of the
          provisions of this  Paragraph 10, Surety Bank and Employee  agree that
          the remedy at law available to Surety Bank and its affiliates would be
          inadequate and Surety Bank and its affiliates  shall be entitled to an
          injunction,   without  the   necessity  of  posting   bond   therefor,
          restraining  Employee  from  disclosing,  in whole  or in  part,  such
          confidential  information.   Nothing  herein  shall  be  construed  as
          prohibiting  Surety Bank and its  affiliates  from  pursuing any other
          remedies,  in addition to the injunctive  relief  available under this
          Paragraph  10, for such breach or  threatened  breach,  including  the
          recovery of damages from Employee.

     11.  Representations  and Warranties of Employee.  Employee  represents and
          warrants to Surety Bank and Surety Capital as follows:

          (a)  Authorization.  Employee  has full power and  authority  to enter
               into this  Agreement and this  Agreement  constitutes a valid and
               legally binding obligation of Employee.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 31
<PAGE>

          (b)  Purchase  Entirely For Own Account.  This  Agreement is made with
               Employee in reliance  upon  Employee's  representation  to Surety
               Bank and Surety  Capital,  which by Employee's  execution of this
               Agreement  Employee  hereby  confirms,  that  the  Stock  will be
               acquired for  investment  for  Employee's  own account,  not as a
               nominee  or  agent,  and  not  with  a  view  to  the  resale  or
               distribution  of any part  thereof,  and  Employee has no present
               intention of selling, granting any participation in, or otherwise
               distributing  the same,  except  in  compliance  with  applicable
               federal and state  securities  laws.  Employee  does not have any
               contract,  undertaking,  agreement or arrangement with any person
               to sell,  transfer  or grant  participations  to such person with
               respect to any of the Stock.

          (c)  Reliance Upon Employee's Representations. At the time of issuance
               the Stock may not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933,
               as amended (the  "Securities  Act"), on the grounds that the sale
               provided  for in this  Agreement  and the  issuance  of the Stock
               hereunder is exempt from  registration  under the  Securities Act
               pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof,  and Surety Capital's  reliance
               on such exemption is predicated on Employee's representations set
               forth herein.

          (d)  Receipt of  Information.  Employee  believes that he has received
               all the information  Employee considers  necessary or appropriate
               for determining whether to acquire the Stock. Employee has had an
               opportunity to ask questions of, and receive answers from, Surety
               Bank and  Surety  Capital  regarding  the  business,  properties,
               prospects  and  financial  condition  of Surety  Bank and  Surety
               Capital  and to  obtain  additional  information  (to the  extent
               Surety Bank and Surety  Capital  possessed  such  information  or
               could  acquire  it  without   unreasonable   effort  or  expense)
               necessary to verify the accuracy of any information  furnished to
               Employee or to which Employee had access.

          (e)  Investment  Experience  and Counsel.  Employee is  experienced in
               evaluating  and investing in securities of banks and bank holding
               companies,  is  represented by legal and/or  investment  advisory
               counsel with regard to this Agreement or has voluntarily  elected
               to  forego  such  counsel,  can  bear  the  economic  risk of his
               investment in the Stock, and has such knowledge and experience in
               financial  and business  matters that he is capable of evaluating
               the merits and risks of the investment in the Stock.

          (f)  Restricted Securities.  The Stock may not be sold, transferred or
               otherwise  disposed of without  registration under the Securities
               Act  or  an  exemption  therefrom,  and,  in  the  absence  of an
               effective   registration  statement  covering  the  Stock  or  an
               available  exemption from registration  under the Securities Act,
               the Stock must be held indefinitely.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 32
<PAGE>

          (g)  Legends.  Each certificate  evidencing the Stock will be endorsed
               with the legend set forth below:

         "THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK  REPRESENTED BY THIS  CERTIFICATE  HAVE NOT
         BEEN  REGISTERED  UNDER THE  SECURITIES  ACT OF 1933,  AS AMENDED  (THE
         "ACT"),  OR  ANY  APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAW  AND  MAY  NOT  BE
         TRANSFERRED  UNTIL (A) A REGISTRATION  STATEMENT  UNDER THE ACT OR SUCH
         APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAWS SHALL HAVE  BECOME  EFFECTIVE  WITH
         REGARD  THERETO,  OR (B) IN THE  OPINION OF COUNSEL  ACCEPTABLE  TO THE
         COMPANY,   REGISTRATION   UNDER  SUCH  ACT  OR  SUCH  APPLICABLE  STATE
         SECURITIES  LAWS IS NOT  REQUIRED  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  SUCH  PROPOSED
         TRANSFER."

     12.  Registration Rights.

          (a)  If Surety Capital shall propose to file a registration  statement
               with respect to any of its common stock,  $0.01 par value,  other
               than a registration  relating solely to employee benefit plans or
               a registration  relating to a corporate  reorganization  or other
               transaction under Rule 145, or a registration on any registration
               form that does not permit  secondary  sales,  it will give prompt
               notice in writing to such  effect to the  Employee,  and,  at the
               written  request of the  Employee,  made within ten (10) calendar
               days  after  the  receipt  of such  notice,  will use  reasonable
               efforts  to  include  therein  such of the Stock as the  Employee
               shall  request;  provided,  however,  that if the offering  being
               registered by Surety  Capital is  underwritten  (i) the rights of
               the Employee to registration  hereunder shall be conditioned upon
               such  Employee   entering  into  an  underwriting   agreement  in
               customary form with the underwriter and (ii) Surety Capital shall
               be  required  to  include  in the  offering  only that  number of
               securities, including the Stock, which the underwriters determine
               in their sole  discretion  will not jeopardize the success of the
               offering.  The  Employee  shall pay for all  costs  and  expenses
               incurred by the Employee in connection with such registration.

          (b)  Surety  Capital's  obligations  under  Paragraph  12(a) above are
               further  expressly  conditioned  upon the Employee  furnishing to
               Surety  Capital  in  writing  such  information   concerning  the
               Employee  and the terms of the  Employee's  proposed  offering as
               Surety  Capital shall  request for inclusion in the  registration
               statement.

          (c)  If any  registration  statement  including  any of the  Stock  is
               filed,  the Employee shall indemnify  Surety Capital (and each of
               its  officers  and  directors  who has signed  such  registration
               statement,  each  director,  each  person,  if any,  who controls
               Surety  Capital  within the meaning of the  Securities  Act, each
               underwriter  for Surety  Capital  and each  person,  if any,  who
               controls such  underwriter  within the meaning of the  Securities
               Act) against any loss,  claim,  damage or liability  arising from
               any  statement  or  omission  which  was  made in  reliance  upon
               information  furnished  in  writing  to  Surety  Capital  by  the
               Employee for use in connection with such registration statement.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 33
<PAGE>

     Each party  entitled to  indemnification  under this  Paragraph  12(c) (the
     "Indemnified  Party") shall give notice to the Employee promptly after such
     Indemnified  Party has actual  knowledge of any claim as to which indemnity
     may be sought,  and shall permit the Employee to assume the defense of such
     claim or any litigation resulting therefrom,  provided that counsel for the
     Employee,  who shall  conduct the  defense of such claim or any  litigation
     resulting  therefrom,  shall be approved by the Indemnified  Party, and the
     Indemnified  Party may  participate  in such  defense  at such  Indemnified
     Party's  expense,  and provided further that the failure of any Indemnified
     Party to give notice as provided  herein  shall not relieve the Employee of
     his obligations  under this Paragraph  12(c), to the extent such failure is
     not  prejudicial.  The  Employee,  in the  defense  of any  such  claim  or
     litigation,  shall not, except with the consent of each Indemnified  Party,
     consent to entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not
     include as an  unconditional  term  thereof  the giving by the  claimant or
     plaintiff  to such  Indemnified  Party of a release  from all  liability in
     respect to such claim or litigation.  Each Indemnified  Party shall furnish
     such information  regarding itself or the claim in question as the Employee
     may  reasonably  request in writing and as shall be reasonably  required in
     connection with defense of such claim and litigation therefrom.

     If the  indemnification  provided for in this Paragraph  12(c) is held by a
     court of competent  jurisdiction to be unavailable to an Indemnified  Party
     with respect to any loss,  liability,  claim, damage or expense referred to
     therein,  then the Employee, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Party
     hereunder,  shall  contribute  to  the  amount  paid  or  payable  by  such
     Indemnified  Party as a result of such loss,  liability,  claim,  damage or
     expense in such  proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault
     of the Employee on the one hand and of the  Indemnified  Party on the other
     in connection  with the statements or omissions that resulted in such loss,
     liability, claim, damage or expense as well as any other relevant equitable
     considerations.  The relative fault of the Employee and of the  Indemnified
     Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things,  whether the
     untrue or alleged  untrue  statement of a material  fact or the omission to
     state a material fact relates to information supplied by the Employee or by
     the Indemnified Party and the parties' relative intent,  knowledge,  access
     to  information,  and  opportunity  to correct or prevent such statement or
     omission.

     Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  to the  extent  that  the  provisions  on
     indemnification  and contribution  contained in the underwriting  agreement
     entered into in connection  with any  underwritten  public  offering are in
     conflict with the foregoing provisions,  the provisions in the underwriting
     agreement shall control.

          (d)  The rights of the  Employee to cause  Surety  Capital to register
               the Stock granted to the Employee are not assignable.

          (e)  The  rights  of  the   Employee  to  request   inclusion  in  any
               registration  shall  terminate on the second  anniversary  of the
               date hereof,  provided the stock may then be sold by the Employee
               pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities  Act upon  satisfaction
               of all of the requirements of Rule 144.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 34
<PAGE>

     13.  Miscellaneous.

          (a)  Notice.  Any notice  required or  permitted  by any party to this
               Agreement shall be in writing and may be delivered  personally to
               the party  being  given  notice or to the person in charge of the
               office of the party being given such notice or by certified mail,
               return receipt requested, at the party's address indicated below.
               Any  notice  will  be  effective  upon  delivery  in the  case of
               personal delivery and upon deposit in the mail,  postage prepaid,
               in the case of delivery by mail. The addresses of the parties are
               as follows:

         Surety Bank:         Surety Bank, National Association
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         Surety Capital:      Surety Capital Corporation
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         With Copy to:        Tracy & Holland, L.L.P.
                              Attn: Ms. Margaret E. Holland
                              306 West Seventh Street, Suite 500
                              Fort Worth, Texas 76102

         Employee:            Mr. Barry T. Carroll
                              13635 Peyton Drive
                              Dallas, Texas  75240

The names and addresses of persons to receive notice as stated in this Paragraph
13(a) may be changed by notice given in accordance with this Paragraph 13(a).

          (b)  No Right to Continued Contractual Relationship. The Stock granted
               pursuant to this  Agreement  shall not confer upon  Employee  any
               right  with  respect  to  the   continuance  of  any  contractual
               relationship  between  Surety  Bank and  Employee,  nor  shall it
               interfere  in any way with the right,  if any,  of Surety Bank to
               terminate any such contractual relationship at any time.

          (c)  Further  Actions.  At any time and from time to time,  each party
               agrees, without further  consideration,  to take such actions and
               to  execute  and  deliver  such  documents  as may be  reasonably
               necessary to effect the purposes of this Agreement.

          (d)  Modification.  This  Agreement  shall  not  be  varied,  altered,
               modified,  changed or in any way amended  except by an instrument
               in writing executed by all parties hereto.

          (e)  Entire Agreement.  This Agreement constitutes the whole agreement
               of the parties  and  supersedes  any  commitment,  memorandum  or
               previous  understanding  made by the parties  with respect to the
               subject matter of this Agreement.


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 35
<PAGE>

          (f)  Counterparts.   This   Agreement  may  be  executed  in  multiple
               counterparts,  each of which  shall  constitute  one and the same
               instrument.  The  counterpart  executed  and held by Surety  Bank
               shall  control  in  the  event  of any  dispute  or in  cases  of
               differences between the counterparts.

          (g)  Application  of  Texas  Law.  The  validity  and  effect  of this
               Agreement  shall be governed  by and  construed  and  enforced in
               accordance with the laws of the state of Texas (without reference
               to the laws of another  jurisdiction).  The venue for all actions
               relating to this Agreement shall be in Tarrant County, Texas.

         EXECUTED on the date first above written.

SURETY BANK:                  SURETY BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, President


SURETY CAPITAL:               SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, Senior Vice
                                  President and Secretary



EMPLOYEE:                         /s/ Barry T. Carroll
                                  Barry T. Carroll



                               Exhibit 10.12 - 36
<PAGE>

                                 NON-COMPETITION
                          AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

         This  Non-Competition  and Confidentiality  Agreement  ("Agreement") is
entered into this 15th day of March,  1996 by and between Surety Bank,  National
Association,  a national banking association  ("Surety Bank") with its principal
offices  located at 1845  Precinct  Line Road,  Suite 100,  Hurst,  Texas 76054,
Surety Capital  Corporation,  a Delaware corporation ("Surety Capital") with its
principal  offices located at 1845 Precinct Line Road,  Suite 100, Hurst,  Texas
76054, and Lawrence C. Blanton  ("Shareholder") of 5334 Mercedes Avenue, Dallas,
Texas 75206.

         WHEREAS,  Surety  Bank  and  Providers  Funding  Corporation,  a  Texas
corporation  ("PFC")  entered into an agreement dated March 15, 1996 (the "Asset
Agreement"),  pursuant to which Surety Bank agreed to purchase all of the assets
and assume  certain of the  liabilities  of PFC on the terms and  conditions set
forth in the Asset Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Shareholder is an officer,  director and  shareholder  of PFC;
and

         WHEREAS, Shareholder  has substantial  experience in  the  business  of
medical claims factoring; and

         WHEREAS,  the execution and delivery of this Agreement by  Shareholder,
as provided in the Asset  Agreement,  and the promise of  Shareholder to perform
his  obligations  hereunder,  is a  condition  to Surety  Bank's  obligation  to
consummate the transactions contemplated by the Asset Agreement, and Surety Bank
would not consummate the transactions contemplated by the Asset Agreement absent
the execution and delivery by Shareholder of this Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Surety Bank  and Shareholder desire to set forth  herein their
understandings and agreements;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements
herein contained, the parties agree as follows:

     1.   Definitions.

          (a)  "Business"  means  the  business  of  medical  claims  factoring,
               including   but  not  limited  to  such  related   activities  as
               electronic filings of claims and billing and collection services.

     2.   Compensation.

          (a)  In  consideration  of the covenants and agreements of Shareholder
               in  this  Agreement  and  the  consummation  of the  transactions
               contemplated by the Asset Agreement,  Surety Capital shall within
               thirty  (30)  days  of the  date  of  this  Agreement,  grant  to
               Shareholder,  on the  terms  and  conditions  set  forth  in this
               Agreement,  shares of common  stock,  $0.01 par value,  of Surety
               Capital (the  "Stock"),  in such amount as set forth in Paragraph
               2(b).  The  certificate  or  certificates  for the Stock shall be
               registered in the name of Shareholder.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 37
<PAGE>

          (b)  The amount of Stock shall be determined by dividing $33,333.00 by
               the closing price of Surety  Capital common stock on the American
               Stock  Exchange,  Inc.  as of the  close of  business  on the day
               immediately preceding the Closing Date.

     3.   Non-Competition Agreement.

          (a)  Shareholder  agrees  that for a period  commencing  upon the date
               hereof and ending upon the third anniversary date thereof, unless
               extended  pursuant  to the terms  hereof,  Shareholder  will not,
               directly  or  indirectly,   either  as  an  employee,   employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               engage or participate in or otherwise become  affiliated with any
               company or other  entity which has not as of the date hereof been
               engaged continuously for at least two (2) years immediately prior
               to the date  hereof in a business  that is  competitive  with the
               Business  within  any  state in which  PFC is  conducting  or has
               conducted,  within two (2) years  immediately  preceding the date
               hereof,  the Business;  provided,  however,  that nothing  herein
               shall  prevent   Shareholder   from  being  an  employee  of,  or
               consultant  to, a company or other entity  (other than PFC) which
               has carried on a medical claims  factoring  business for at least
               two (2) years immediately preceding the date hereof.

          (b)  Shareholder  further agrees that for a period commencing upon the
               date hereof and ending upon the third  anniversary  date thereof,
               unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Shareholder  will
               not,  directly or  indirectly,  either as an employee,  employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               (i) make known to any person,  firm or corporation  the names and
               addresses of any of the  customers of the Business or contacts of
               PFC within the Business or any other  information  pertaining  to
               such persons or (ii) call on, solicit or take away, or attempt to
               call on,  solicit or take away,  any  customers of the  Business,
               including   actively  sought  prospective   customers,   on  whom
               Shareholder  called on or with whom Shareholder became acquainted
               during   Shareholder's   association   with  PFC,   whether   for
               Shareholder or for any other person, firm or corporation.

          (c)  Shareholder  further agrees that for a period commencing upon the
               date hereof and ending upon the third  anniversary  date thereof,
               unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Shareholder  will
               not,  directly or  indirectly,  either as an employee,  employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               recruit or hire,  or attempt to recruit or hire,  directly  or by
               assisting  others,  any employee of PFC who is employed by PFC in
               the Business on the date hereof Date or who has been  employed by
               PFC in the  Business at any time within one (1) year prior to the
               date hereof.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 38
<PAGE>

          (d)  Shareholder  agrees that a breach or violation  of this  covenant
               not to compete by such Shareholder  shall entitle Surety Bank, as
               a matter  of  right,  to an  injunction  issued  by any  court of
               competent  jurisdiction,  restraining  any  further or  continued
               breach or violation of this covenant. Such right to an injunction
               shall be  cumulative  and in addition to, and not in lieu of, any
               other  remedies  to which  Surety  Bank may  show  itself  justly
               entitled.  Further,  during any period in which Shareholder is in
               breach of this  covenant not to compete,  the time period of this
               covenant shall be extended for an amount of time that Shareholder
               is in breach hereof,  provided that Surety Bank seeks enforcement
               promptly after discovery of the violation.

          (e)  The  representations  and covenants contained in this Paragraph 3
               on the part of Shareholder  will be construed as ancillary to and
               independent  of any other  provision of this  Agreement,  and the
               existence of any claim or cause of action of Shareholder  against
               Surety Bank or any  officer,  director or  shareholder  of Surety
               Bank,  whether  predicated on this Agreement or otherwise,  shall
               not constitute a defense to the enforcement by Surety Bank of the
               covenants of Shareholder contained in this Paragraph 3.

          (f)  The  parties  to  this  Agreement   agree  that  the  limitations
               contained in this  Paragraph 3 with respect to  geographic  area,
               duration and scope of activity are  reasonable.  However,  if any
               court shall determine that the geographic area, duration or scope
               of activity of any  restriction  contained in this Paragraph 3 is
               unenforceable,  it is the  intention  of the  parties  that  such
               restriction  set forth herein shall not thereby be terminated but
               shall be deemed amended to the extent required to render it valid
               and enforceable.

          (g)  Shareholder represents to Surety Bank that the enforcement of the
               restrictions  contained  in this  Paragraph 3 would not be unduly
               burdensome to Shareholder and that in order to induce Surety Bank
               to  consummate  the   transactions   contemplated  by  the  Asset
               Agreement,  Shareholder  further represents and acknowledges that
               Shareholder is willing and able to compete in other  geographical
               areas not prohibited by this Paragraph 3.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 39
<PAGE>

     4.   Disclosure of  Confidential  Information.  Shareholder  recognizes and
          acknowledges  that  Shareholder  had  access to  certain  confidential
          information  of PFC or of  certain  corporations  affiliated  with PFC
          related  to the  Business,  and  that all  such  information  has been
          acquired by Surety Bank and constitutes  valuable,  special and unique
          property of Surety Bank and its  affiliates.  Shareholder  agrees that
          for a period  of three (3) years  after the date  hereof,  Shareholder
          will not,  without the prior written consent of Surety Bank,  disclose
          or  authorize  or permit  anyone  under his  direction  to disclose to
          anyone  not  properly   entitled  thereto  any  of  such  confidential
          information.  For  purposes  of the  immediately  preceding  sentence,
          persons properly  entitled to such information  shall be (i) the Board
          of Directors of Surety Bank and such officers, employees and agents of
          Surety  Bank or any  affiliate  thereof  to whom such  information  is
          furnished in the normal course of business under established  policies
          approved by Surety Bank and (ii) such  outside  parties as are legally
          entitled to or are customarily  furnished such information,  including
          banking,   lending,   collection,   accounting  and  data   processing
          institutions or agencies who or which are provided such information in
          the normal  course of business  of Surety  Bank.  Shareholder  further
          agrees that upon the consummation of the transactions  contemplated by
          the Asset  Agreement  Shareholder  will not take  with him or  retain,
          without the prior written  authorization  of Surety Bank,  any papers,
          procedural or technical  manuals,  customer  lists,  customer  account
          analyses (including,  without limitation,  accounts receivable agings,
          customer payment  histories and customer  account  activity  reports),
          price  books,  files or  other  documents  or  copies  thereof  of PFC
          acquired by Surety  Bank,  or any  materials,  supplies,  equipment or
          furnishings of PFC acquired by Surety Bank, or any other  confidential
          information of any kind of PFC. In the event of a breach or threatened
          breach by  Shareholder  of the  provisions of this Paragraph 4, Surety
          Bank and Shareholder  agree that the remedy at law available to Surety
          Bank and its  affiliates  would be inadequate  and Surety Bank and its
          affiliates  shall be entitled to an injunction,  without the necessity
          of posting bond therefor,  restraining Shareholder from disclosing, in
          whole or in part, such confidential information.  Nothing herein shall
          be  construed  as  prohibiting  Surety  Bank and its  affiliates  from
          pursuing  any other  remedies,  in addition to the  injunctive  relief
          available  under  this  Paragraph  4, for such  breach  or  threatened
          breach, including the recovery of damages from Shareholder.

     5.   Representations and Warranties of Shareholder.  Shareholder represents
          and   warrants  to  Surety   Bank  and  Surety   Capital  as  follows:

          (a)  Authorization.  Shareholder has full power and authority to enter
               into this  Agreement and this  Agreement  constitutes a valid and
               legally binding obligation of Shareholder.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 40
<PAGE>

          (b)  Purchase  Entirely For Own Account.  This  Agreement is made with
               Shareholder  in reliance  upon  Shareholder's  representation  to
               Surety Bank and Surety Capital, which by Shareholder's  execution
               of this Agreement  Shareholder  hereby  confirms,  that the Stock
               will be acquired for  investment for  Shareholder's  own account,
               not as a nominee  or agent,  and not with a view to the resale or
               distribution of any part thereof,  and Shareholder has no present
               intention of selling, granting any participation in, or otherwise
               distributing  the same,  except  in  compliance  with  applicable
               federal and state securities laws.  Shareholder does not have any
               contract,  undertaking,  agreement or arrangement with any person
               to sell,  transfer  or grant  participations  to such person with
               respect to any of the Stock.

          (c)  Reliance  Upon  Shareholder's  Representations.  At the  time  of
               issuance the Stock may not be registered under the Securities Act
               of 1933, as amended (the  "Securities  Act"), on the grounds that
               the sale  provided for in this  Agreement and the issuance of the
               Stock hereunder is exempt from registration  under the Securities
               Act  pursuant  to Section  4(2)  thereof,  and  Surety  Capital's
               reliance  on  such  exemption  is  predicated  on   Shareholder's
               representations set forth herein.

          (d)  Receipt of Information. Shareholder believes that he has received
               all  the   information   Shareholder   considers   necessary   or
               appropriate  for  determining   whether  to  acquire  the  Stock.
               Shareholder  has had an  opportunity  to ask  questions  of,  and
               receive  answers from,  Surety Bank and Surety Capital  regarding
               the business,  properties,  prospects and financial  condition of
               Surety  Bank  and  Surety   Capital  and  to  obtain   additional
               information  (to  the  extent  Surety  Bank  and  Surety  Capital
               possessed   such   information   or  could   acquire  it  without
               unreasonable  effort or expense) necessary to verify the accuracy
               of  any   information   furnished  to  Shareholder  or  to  which
               Shareholder had access.

          (e)  Investment Experience and Counsel.  Shareholder is experienced in
               evaluating  and investing in securities of banks and bank holding
               companies,  is  represented by legal and/or  investment  advisory
               counsel with regard to this Agreement or has voluntarily  elected
               to  forego  such  counsel,  can  bear  the  economic  risk of his
               investment in the Stock, and has such knowledge and experience in
               financial  and business  matters that he is capable of evaluating
               the merits and risks of the investment in the Stock.

          (f)  Restricted Securities.  The Stock may not be sold, transferred or
               otherwise  disposed of without  registration under the Securities
               Act  or  an  exemption  therefrom,  and,  in  the  absence  of an
               effective   registration  statement  covering  the  Stock  or  an
               available  exemption from registration  under the Securities Act,
               the Stock must be held indefinitely.

          (g)  Legends.  Each certificate  evidencing the Stock will be endorsed
               with the legend set forth below:

         "THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK  REPRESENTED BY THIS  CERTIFICATE  HAVE NOT
         BEEN  REGISTERED  UNDER THE  SECURITIES  ACT OF 1933,  AS AMENDED  (THE
         "ACT"),  OR  ANY  APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAW  AND  MAY  NOT  BE
         TRANSFERRED  UNTIL (A) A REGISTRATION  STATEMENT  UNDER THE ACT OR SUCH
         APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAWS SHALL HAVE  BECOME  EFFECTIVE  WITH
         REGARD  THERETO,  OR (B) IN THE  OPINION OF COUNSEL  ACCEPTABLE  TO THE
         COMPANY,   REGISTRATION   UNDER  SUCH  ACT  OR  SUCH  APPLICABLE  STATE
         SECURITIES  LAWS IS NOT  REQUIRED  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  SUCH  PROPOSED
         TRANSFER."

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 41
<PAGE>

     6.   Registration Rights.

          (a)  If Surety Capital shall propose to file a registration  statement
               with respect to any of its common stock,  $0.01 par value,  other
               than a registration  relating solely to employee benefit plans or
               a registration  relating to a corporate  reorganization  or other
               transaction under Rule 145, or a registration on any registration
               form that does not permit  secondary  sales,  it will give prompt
               notice in writing to such effect to the Shareholder,  and, at the
               written request of the Shareholder, made within ten (10) calendar
               days  after  the  receipt  of such  notice,  will use  reasonable
               efforts to include  therein such of the Stock as the  Shareholder
               shall  request;  provided,  however,  that if the offering  being
               registered by Surety  Capital is  underwritten  (i) the rights of
               the  Shareholder to  registration  hereunder shall be conditioned
               upon such Shareholder entering into an underwriting  agreement in
               customary form with the underwriter and (ii) Surety Capital shall
               be  required  to  include  in the  offering  only that  number of
               securities, including the Stock, which the underwriters determine
               in their sole  discretion  will not jeopardize the success of the
               offering.  The  Shareholder  shall pay for all costs and expenses
               incurred by the Shareholder in connection with such registration.

          (b)  Surety  Capital's  obligations  under  Paragraph  6(a)  above are
               further expressly conditioned upon the Shareholder  furnishing to
               Surety  Capital  in  writing  such  information   concerning  the
               Shareholder and the terms of the Shareholder's  proposed offering
               as Surety Capital shall request for inclusion in the registration
               statement.

          (c)  If any  registration  statement  including  any of the  Stock  is
               filed,  the Shareholder  shall indemnify Surety Capital (and each
               of its officers and  directors  who has signed such  registration
               statement,  each  director,  each  person,  if any,  who controls
               Surety  Capital  within the meaning of the  Securities  Act, each
               underwriter  for Surety  Capital  and each  person,  if any,  who
               controls such  underwriter  within the meaning of the  Securities
               Act) against any loss,  claim,  damage or liability  arising from
               any  statement  or  omission  which  was  made in  reliance  upon
               information  furnished  in  writing  to  Surety  Capital  by  the
               Shareholder  for  use  in  connection   with  such   registration
               statement.

               Each party entitled to indemnification  under this Paragraph 6(c)
               (the  "Indemnified  Party") shall give notice to the  Shareholder
               promptly after such Indemnified Party has actual knowledge of any
               claim as to which  indemnity may be sought,  and shall permit the
               Shareholder to assume the defense of such claim or any litigation
               resulting  therefrom,  provided that counsel for the Shareholder,
               who shall  conduct  the  defense of such claim or any  litigation
               resulting therefrom,  shall be approved by the Indemnified Party,
               and the Indemnified Party may participate in such defense at such
               Indemnified  Party's  expense,  and  provided  further  that  the
               failure  of any  Indemnified  Party to give  notice  as  provided
               herein shall not relieve the Shareholder of his obligations under
               this   Paragraph   6(c),  to  the  extent  such  failure  is  not
               prejudicial. The Shareholder, in the defense of any such claim or
               litigation,   shall  not,   except   with  the  consent  of  each
               Indemnified Party, consent to entry of any judgment or enter into
               any  settlement  that does not include as an  unconditional  term
               thereof  the  giving  by  the   claimant  or  plaintiff  to  such
               Indemnified  Party of a release from all  liability in respect to
               such claim or litigation.  Each  Indemnified  Party shall furnish
               such information regarding itself or the claim in question as the
               Shareholder  may  reasonably  request in writing  and as shall be
               reasonably  required in connection with defense of such claim and
               litigation therefrom.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 42
<PAGE>

               If the  indemnification  provided for in this  Paragraph  6(c) is
               held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unavailable to an
               Indemnified  Party with  respect to any loss,  liability,  claim,
               damage or expense referred to therein,  then the Shareholder,  in
               lieu of indemnifying  such  Indemnified  Party  hereunder,  shall
               contribute  to the amount  paid or  payable  by such  Indemnified
               Party as a result  of such  loss,  liability,  claim,  damage  or
               expense in such  proportion  as is  appropriate  to  reflect  the
               relative  fault  of the  Shareholder  on the one  hand and of the
               Indemnified  Party on the other in connection with the statements
               or omissions that resulted in such loss, liability, claim, damage
               or   expense   as   well   as  any   other   relevant   equitable
               considerations.  The relative fault of the Shareholder and of the
               Indemnified  Party shall be  determined  by  reference  to, among
               other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a
               material fact or the omission to state a material fact relates to
               information  supplied by the  Shareholder  or by the  Indemnified
               Party and the  parties'  relative  intent,  knowledge,  access to
               information, and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement
               or omission.

               Notwithstanding the foregoing,  to the extent that the provisions
               on indemnification and contribution contained in the underwriting
               agreement entered into in connection with any underwritten public
               offering  are in  conflict  with the  foregoing  provisions,  the
               provisions in the underwriting agreement shall control.

          (d)  The rights of the Shareholder to cause Surety Capital to register
               the Stock granted to the Shareholder are not assignable.

          (e)  The  rights  of  the  Shareholder  to  request  inclusion  in any
               registration  shall  terminate on the second  anniversary  of the
               date  hereof,  provided  the  stock  may  then  be  sold  by  the
               Shareholder  pursuant to Rule 144 under the  Securities  Act upon
               satisfaction of all of the requirements of Rule 144.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 43
<PAGE>

     7.   Miscellaneous.

          (a)  Notice.  Any notice  required or  permitted  by any party to this
               Agreement shall be in writing and may be delivered  personally to
               the party  being  given  notice or to the person in charge of the
               office of the party being given such notice or by certified mail,
               return receipt requested, at the party's address indicated below.
               Any  notice  will  be  effective  upon  delivery  in the  case of
               personal delivery and upon deposit in the mail,  postage prepaid,
               in the case of delivery by mail. The addresses of the parties are
               as follows:

         Surety Bank:         Bank, National Association
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         Surety Capital:      Surety Capital Corporation
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         With Copy to:        Tracy & Holland, L.L.P.
                              Attn: Ms. Margaret E. Holland
                              306 West Seventh Street, Suite 500
                              Fort Worth, Texas 76102

         Shareholder:         Mr. Lawrence C. Blanton
                              5334 Mercedes Avenue
                              Dallas, Texas  75206

The names and addresses of persons to receive notice as stated in this Paragraph
7(a) may be changed by notice given in accordance with this Paragraph 7(a).

          (b)  No Right to Continued Contractual Relationship. The Stock granted
               pursuant to this Agreement shall not confer upon  Shareholder any
               right  with  respect  to  the   continuance  of  any  contractual
               relationship  between Surety Bank and  Shareholder,  nor shall it
               interfere  in any way with the right,  if any,  of Surety Bank to
               terminate any such contractual relationship at any time.

          (c)  Further  Actions.  At any time and from time to time,  each party
               agrees, without further  consideration,  to take such actions and
               to  execute  and  deliver  such  documents  as may be  reasonably
               necessary to effect the purposes of this Agreement.

          (d)  Modification.  This  Agreement  shall  not  be  varied,  altered,
               modified,  changed or in any way amended  except by an instrument
               in writing executed by all parties hereto.

          (e)  Entire Agreement.  This Agreement constitutes the whole agreement
               of the parties  and  supersedes  any  commitment,  memorandum  or
               previous  understanding  made by the parties  with respect to the
               subject matter of this Agreement.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 44
<PAGE>

          (f)  Counterparts.   This   Agreement  may  be  executed  in  multiple
               counterparts,  each of which  shall  constitute  one and the same
               instrument.  The  counterpart  executed  and held by Surety  Bank
               shall  control  in  the  event  of any  dispute  or in  cases  of
               differences between the counterparts.

          (g)  Application  of  Texas  Law.  The  validity  and  effect  of this
               Agreement  shall be governed  by and  construed  and  enforced in
               accordance with the laws of the state of Texas (without reference
               to the laws of another  jurisdiction).  The venue for all actions
               relating to this Agreement shall be in Tarrant County, Texas.

         EXECUTED on the date first above written.

SURETY BANK:             SURETY BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION



                         By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                             Bobby W. Hackler, President

SURETY CAPITAL:          SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION



                         By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                             Bobby W. Hackler, Senior Vice
                             President and Secretary

SHAREHOLDER:                 /s/ Lawrence C. Blanton
                             Lawrence C. Blanton


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 45
<PAGE>

                                 NON-COMPETITION
                          AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT


         This  Non-Competition  and Confidentiality  Agreement  ("Agreement") is
entered into this 15th day of March,  1996 by and between Surety Bank,  National
Association,  a national banking association  ("Surety Bank") with its principal
offices  located at 1845  Precinct  Line Road,  Suite 100,  Hurst,  Texas 76054,
Surety Capital  Corporation,  a Delaware corporation ("Surety Capital") with its
principal  offices located at 1845 Precinct Line Road,  Suite 100, Hurst,  Texas
76054, and Bill M. Ward ("Shareholder") of 950 Galiceno, Wylie, Texas 75098.

         WHEREAS,  Surety  Bank  and  Providers  Funding  Corporation,  a  Texas
corporation  ("PFC")  entered into an agreement dated March 15, 1996 (the "Asset
Agreement"),  pursuant to which Surety Bank agreed to purchase all of the assets
and assume  certain of the  liabilities  of PFC on the terms and  conditions set
forth in the Asset Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Shareholder is an officer, director and shareholder of PFC;
and

         WHEREAS, Shareholder  has  substantial  experience  in the  business of
medical claims factoring; and

         WHEREAS,  the execution and delivery of this Agreement by  Shareholder,
as provided in the Asset  Agreement,  and the promise of  Shareholder to perform
his  obligations  hereunder,  is a  condition  to Surety  Bank's  obligation  to
consummate the transactions contemplated by the Asset Agreement, and Surety Bank
would not consummate the transactions contemplated by the Asset Agreement absent
the execution and delivery by Shareholder of this Agreement; and

         WHEREAS, Surety  Bank and Shareholder desire  to set forth herein their
understandings and agreements;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements
herein contained, the parties agree as follows:

     1.   Definitions.

          (a)  "Business"  means  the  business  of  medical  claims  factoring,
               including   but  not  limited  to  such  related   activities  as
               electronic filings of claims and billing and collection services.

     2.   Compensation.

          (a)  In  consideration  of the covenants and agreements of Shareholder
               in  this  Agreement  and  the  consummation  of the  transactions
               contemplated by the Asset Agreement,  Surety Capital shall within
               thirty  (30)  days  of the  date  of  this  Agreement,  grant  to
               Shareholder,  on the  terms  and  conditions  set  forth  in this
               Agreement,  shares of common  stock,  $0.01 par value,  of Surety
               Capital (the  "Stock"),  in such amount as set forth in Paragraph
               2(b).  The  certificate  or  certificates  for the Stock shall be
               registered in the name of Shareholder.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 46
<PAGE>

          (b)  The amount of Stock shall be determined by dividing $33,333.00 by
               the closing price of Surety  Capital common stock on the American
               Stock  Exchange,  Inc.  as of the  close of  business  on the day
               immediately preceding the Closing Date.

     3.   Non-Competition Agreement.

          (a)  Shareholder  agrees  that for a period  commencing  upon the date
               hereof and ending upon the third anniversary date thereof, unless
               extended  pursuant  to the terms  hereof,  Shareholder  will not,
               directly  or  indirectly,   either  as  an  employee,   employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               engage or participate in or otherwise become  affiliated with any
               company or other  entity which has not as of the date hereof been
               engaged continuously for at least two (2) years immediately prior
               to the date  hereof in a business  that is  competitive  with the
               Business  within  any  state in which  PFC is  conducting  or has
               conducted,  within two (2) years  immediately  preceding the date
               hereof,  the Business;  provided,  however,  that nothing  herein
               shall  prevent   Shareholder   from  being  an  employee  of,  or
               consultant  to, a company or other entity  (other than PFC) which
               has carried on a medical claims  factoring  business for at least
               two (2) years immediately preceding the date hereof.

          (b)  Shareholder  further agrees that for a period commencing upon the
               date hereof and ending upon the third  anniversary  date thereof,
               unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Shareholder  will
               not,  directly or  indirectly,  either as an employee,  employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               (i) make known to any person,  firm or corporation  the names and
               addresses of any of the  customers of the Business or contacts of
               PFC within the Business or any other  information  pertaining  to
               such persons or (ii) call on, solicit or take away, or attempt to
               call on,  solicit or take away,  any  customers of the  Business,
               including   actively  sought  prospective   customers,   on  whom
               Shareholder  called on or with whom Shareholder became acquainted
               during   Shareholder's   association   with  PFC,   whether   for
               Shareholder or for any other person, firm or corporation.

          (c)  Shareholder  further agrees that for a period commencing upon the
               date hereof and ending upon the third  anniversary  date thereof,
               unless extended  pursuant to the terms hereof,  Shareholder  will
               not,  directly or  indirectly,  either as an employee,  employer,
               consultant,  agent,  principal,  partner,  shareholder,  officer,
               director, or in any other individual or representative  capacity,
               recruit or hire,  or attempt to recruit or hire,  directly  or by
               assisting  others,  any employee of PFC who is employed by PFC in
               the Business on the date hereof Date or who has been  employed by
               PFC in the  Business at any time within one (1) year prior to the
               date hereof.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 47
<PAGE>

          (d)  Shareholder  agrees that a breach or violation  of this  covenant
               not to compete by such Shareholder  shall entitle Surety Bank, as
               a matter  of  right,  to an  injunction  issued  by any  court of
               competent  jurisdiction,  restraining  any  further or  continued
               breach or violation of this covenant. Such right to an injunction
               shall be  cumulative  and in addition to, and not in lieu of, any
               other  remedies  to which  Surety  Bank may  show  itself  justly
               entitled.  Further,  during any period in which Shareholder is in
               breach of this  covenant not to compete,  the time period of this
               covenant shall be extended for an amount of time that Shareholder
               is in breach hereof,  provided that Surety Bank seeks enforcement
               promptly after discovery of the violation.

          (e)  The  representations  and covenants contained in this Paragraph 3
               on the part of Shareholder  will be construed as ancillary to and
               independent  of any other  provision of this  Agreement,  and the
               existence of any claim or cause of action of Shareholder  against
               Surety Bank or any  officer,  director or  shareholder  of Surety
               Bank,  whether  predicated on this Agreement or otherwise,  shall
               not constitute a defense to the enforcement by Surety Bank of the
               covenants of Shareholder contained in this Paragraph 3.

          (f)  The  parties  to  this  Agreement   agree  that  the  limitations
               contained in this  Paragraph 3 with respect to  geographic  area,
               duration and scope of activity are  reasonable.  However,  if any
               court shall determine that the geographic area, duration or scope
               of activity of any  restriction  contained in this Paragraph 3 is
               unenforceable,  it is the  intention  of the  parties  that  such
               restriction  set forth herein shall not thereby be terminated but
               shall be deemed amended to the extent required to render it valid
               and enforceable.

          (g)  Shareholder represents to Surety Bank that the enforcement of the
               restrictions  contained  in this  Paragraph 3 would not be unduly
               burdensome to Shareholder and that in order to induce Surety Bank
               to  consummate  the   transactions   contemplated  by  the  Asset
               Agreement,  Shareholder  further represents and acknowledges that
               Shareholder is willing and able to compete in other  geographical
               areas not prohibited by this Paragraph 3.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 48
<PAGE>

     4.   Disclosure of  Confidential  Information.  Shareholder  recognizes and
          acknowledges  that  Shareholder  had  access to  certain  confidential
          information  of PFC or of  certain  corporations  affiliated  with PFC
          related  to the  Business,  and  that all  such  information  has been
          acquired by Surety Bank and constitutes  valuable,  special and unique
          property of Surety Bank and its  affiliates.  Shareholder  agrees that
          for a period  of three (3) years  after the date  hereof,  Shareholder
          will not,  without the prior written consent of Surety Bank,  disclose
          or  authorize  or permit  anyone  under his  direction  to disclose to
          anyone  not  properly   entitled  thereto  any  of  such  confidential
          information.  For  purposes  of the  immediately  preceding  sentence,
          persons properly  entitled to such information  shall be (i) the Board
          of Directors of Surety Bank and such officers, employees and agents of
          Surety  Bank or any  affiliate  thereof  to whom such  information  is
          furnished in the normal course of business under established  policies
          approved by Surety Bank and (ii) such  outside  parties as are legally
          entitled to or are customarily  furnished such information,  including
          banking,   lending,   collection,   accounting  and  data   processing
          institutions or agencies who or which are provided such information in
          the normal  course of business  of Surety  Bank.  Shareholder  further
          agrees that upon the consummation of the transactions  contemplated by
          the Asset  Agreement  Shareholder  will not take  with him or  retain,
          without the prior written  authorization  of Surety Bank,  any papers,
          procedural or technical  manuals,  customer  lists,  customer  account
          analyses (including,  without limitation,  accounts receivable agings,
          customer payment  histories and customer  account  activity  reports),
          price  books,  files or  other  documents  or  copies  thereof  of PFC
          acquired by Surety  Bank,  or any  materials,  supplies,  equipment or
          furnishings of PFC acquired by Surety Bank, or any other  confidential
          information of any kind of PFC. In the event of a breach or threatened
          breach by  Shareholder  of the  provisions of this Paragraph 4, Surety
          Bank and Shareholder  agree that the remedy at law available to Surety
          Bank and its  affiliates  would be inadequate  and Surety Bank and its
          affiliates  shall be entitled to an injunction,  without the necessity
          of posting bond therefor,  restraining Shareholder from disclosing, in
          whole or in part, such confidential information.  Nothing herein shall
          be  construed  as  prohibiting  Surety  Bank and its  affiliates  from
          pursuing  any other  remedies,  in addition to the  injunctive  relief
          available  under  this  Paragraph  4, for such  breach  or  threatened
          breach, including the recovery of damages from Shareholder.

     5.   Representations and Warranties of Shareholder.  Shareholder represents
          and   warrants  to  Surety   Bank  and  Surety   Capital  as  follows:

          (a)  Authorization.  Shareholder has full power and authority to enter
               into this  Agreement and this  Agreement  constitutes a valid and
               legally binding obligation of Shareholder.

          (b)  Purchase  Entirely For Own Account.  This  Agreement is made with
               Shareholder  in reliance  upon  Shareholder's  representation  to
               Surety Bank and Surety Capital, which by Shareholder's  execution
               of this Agreement  Shareholder  hereby  confirms,  that the Stock
               will be acquired for  investment for  Shareholder's  own account,
               not as a nominee  or agent,  and not with a view to the resale or
               distribution of any part thereof,  and Shareholder has no present
               intention of selling, granting any participation in, or otherwise
               distributing  the same,  except  in  compliance  with  applicable
               federal and state securities laws.  Shareholder does not have any
               contract,  undertaking,  agreement or arrangement with any person
               to sell,  transfer  or grant  participations  to such person with
               respect to any of the Stock.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 49
<PAGE>

          (c)  Reliance  Upon  Shareholder's  Representations.  At the  time  of
               issuance the Stock may not be registered under the Securities Act
               of 1933, as amended (the  "Securities  Act"), on the grounds that
               the sale  provided for in this  Agreement and the issuance of the
               Stock hereunder is exempt from registration  under the Securities
               Act  pursuant  to Section  4(2)  thereof,  and  Surety  Capital's
               reliance  on  such  exemption  is  predicated  on   Shareholder's
               representations set forth herein.

          (d)  Receipt of Information. Shareholder believes that he has received
               all  the   information   Shareholder   considers   necessary   or
               appropriate  for  determining   whether  to  acquire  the  Stock.
               Shareholder  has had an  opportunity  to ask  questions  of,  and
               receive  answers from,  Surety Bank and Surety Capital  regarding
               the business,  properties,  prospects and financial  condition of
               Surety  Bank  and  Surety   Capital  and  to  obtain   additional
               information  (to  the  extent  Surety  Bank  and  Surety  Capital
               possessed   such   information   or  could   acquire  it  without
               unreasonable  effort or expense) necessary to verify the accuracy
               of  any   information   furnished  to  Shareholder  or  to  which
               Shareholder had access.

          (e)  Investment Experience and Counsel.  Shareholder is experienced in
               evaluating  and investing in securities of banks and bank holding
               companies,  is  represented by legal and/or  investment  advisory
               counsel with regard to this Agreement or has voluntarily  elected
               to  forego  such  counsel,  can  bear  the  economic  risk of his
               investment in the Stock, and has such knowledge and experience in
               financial  and business  matters that he is capable of evaluating
               the merits and risks of the investment in the Stock.

          (f)  Restricted Securities.  The Stock may not be sold, transferred or
               otherwise  disposed of without  registration under the Securities
               Act  or  an  exemption  therefrom,  and,  in  the  absence  of an
               effective   registration  statement  covering  the  Stock  or  an
               available  exemption from registration  under the Securities Act,
               the Stock must be held indefinitely.

          (g)  Legends.  Each certificate  evidencing the Stock will be endorsed
               with the legend set forth below:

         "THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK  REPRESENTED BY THIS  CERTIFICATE  HAVE NOT
         BEEN  REGISTERED  UNDER THE  SECURITIES  ACT OF 1933,  AS AMENDED  (THE
         "ACT"),  OR  ANY  APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAW  AND  MAY  NOT  BE
         TRANSFERRED  UNTIL (A) A REGISTRATION  STATEMENT  UNDER THE ACT OR SUCH
         APPLICABLE  STATE  SECURITIES  LAWS SHALL HAVE  BECOME  EFFECTIVE  WITH
         REGARD  THERETO,  OR (B) IN THE  OPINION OF COUNSEL  ACCEPTABLE  TO THE
         COMPANY,   REGISTRATION   UNDER  SUCH  ACT  OR  SUCH  APPLICABLE  STATE
         SECURITIES  LAWS IS NOT  REQUIRED  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  SUCH  PROPOSED
         TRANSFER."

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 50
<PAGE>

     6.   Registration Rights.

          (a)  If Surety Capital shall propose to file a registration  statement
               with respect to any of its common stock,  $0.01 par value,  other
               than a registration  relating solely to employee benefit plans or
               a registration  relating to a corporate  reorganization  or other
               transaction under Rule 145, or a registration on any registration
               form that does not permit  secondary  sales,  it will give prompt
               notice in writing to such effect to the Shareholder,  and, at the
               written request of the Shareholder, made within ten (10) calendar
               days  after  the  receipt  of such  notice,  will use  reasonable
               efforts to include  therein such of the Stock as the  Shareholder
               shall  request;  provided,  however,  that if the offering  being
               registered by Surety  Capital is  underwritten  (i) the rights of
               the  Shareholder to  registration  hereunder shall be conditioned
               upon such Shareholder entering into an underwriting  agreement in
               customary form with the underwriter and (ii) Surety Capital shall
               be  required  to  include  in the  offering  only that  number of
               securities, including the Stock, which the underwriters determine
               in their sole  discretion  will not jeopardize the success of the
               offering.  The  Shareholder  shall pay for all costs and expenses
               incurred by the Shareholder in connection with such registration.

          (b)  Surety  Capital's  obligations  under  Paragraph  6(a)  above are
               further expressly conditioned upon the Shareholder  furnishing to
               Surety  Capital  in  writing  such  information   concerning  the
               Shareholder and the terms of the Shareholder's  proposed offering
               as Surety Capital shall request for inclusion in the registration
               statement.

          (c)  If any  registration  statement  including  any of the  Stock  is
               filed,  the Shareholder  shall indemnify Surety Capital (and each
               of its officers and  directors  who has signed such  registration
               statement,  each  director,  each  person,  if any,  who controls
               Surety  Capital  within the meaning of the  Securities  Act, each
               underwriter  for Surety  Capital  and each  person,  if any,  who
               controls such  underwriter  within the meaning of the  Securities
               Act) against any loss,  claim,  damage or liability  arising from
               any  statement  or  omission  which  was  made in  reliance  upon
               information  furnished  in  writing  to  Surety  Capital  by  the
               Shareholder  for  use  in  connection   with  such   registration
               statement.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 51
<PAGE>

               Each party entitled to indemnification  under this Paragraph 6(c)
               (the  "Indemnified  Party") shall give notice to the  Shareholder
               promptly after such Indemnified Party has actual knowledge of any
               claim as to which  indemnity may be sought,  and shall permit the
               Shareholder to assume the defense of such claim or any litigation
               resulting  therefrom,  provided that counsel for the Shareholder,
               who shall  conduct  the  defense of such claim or any  litigation
               resulting therefrom,  shall be approved by the Indemnified Party,
               and the Indemnified Party may participate in such defense at such
               Indemnified  Party's  expense,  and  provided  further  that  the
               failure  of any  Indemnified  Party to give  notice  as  provided
               herein shall not relieve the Shareholder of his obligations under
               this   Paragraph   6(c),  to  the  extent  such  failure  is  not
               prejudicial. The Shareholder, in the defense of any such claim or
               litigation,   shall  not,   except   with  the  consent  of  each
               Indemnified Party, consent to entry of any judgment or enter into
               any  settlement  that does not include as an  unconditional  term
               thereof  the  giving  by  the   claimant  or  plaintiff  to  such
               Indemnified  Party of a release from all  liability in respect to
               such claim or litigation.  Each  Indemnified  Party shall furnish
               such information regarding itself or the claim in question as the
               Shareholder  may  reasonably  request in writing  and as shall be
               reasonably  required in connection with defense of such claim and
               litigation therefrom.

               If the  indemnification  provided for in this  Paragraph  6(c) is
               held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unavailable to an
               Indemnified  Party with  respect to any loss,  liability,  claim,
               damage or expense referred to therein,  then the Shareholder,  in
               lieu of indemnifying  such  Indemnified  Party  hereunder,  shall
               contribute  to the amount  paid or  payable  by such  Indemnified
               Party as a result  of such  loss,  liability,  claim,  damage  or
               expense in such  proportion  as is  appropriate  to  reflect  the
               relative  fault  of the  Shareholder  on the one  hand and of the
               Indemnified  Party on the other in connection with the statements
               or omissions that resulted in such loss, liability, claim, damage
               or   expense   as   well   as  any   other   relevant   equitable
               considerations.  The relative fault of the Shareholder and of the
               Indemnified  Party shall be  determined  by  reference  to, among
               other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a
               material fact or the omission to state a material fact relates to
               information  supplied by the  Shareholder  or by the  Indemnified
               Party and the  parties'  relative  intent,  knowledge,  access to
               information, and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement
               or omission.

               Notwithstanding the foregoing,  to the extent that the provisions
               on indemnification and contribution contained in the underwriting
               agreement entered into in connection with any underwritten public
               offering  are in  conflict  with the  foregoing  provisions,  the
               provisions in the underwriting agreement shall control.

          (d)  The rights of the Shareholder to cause Surety Capital to register
               the Stock granted to the Shareholder are not assignable.

          (e)  The  rights  of  the  Shareholder  to  request  inclusion  in any
               registration  shall  terminate on the second  anniversary  of the
               date  hereof,  provided  the  stock  may  then  be  sold  by  the
               Shareholder  pursuant to Rule 144 under the  Securities  Act upon
               satisfaction of all of the requirements of Rule 144.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 52
<PAGE>

     7.   Miscellaneous.

          (a)  Notice.  Any notice  required or  permitted  by any party to this
               Agreement shall be in writing and may be delivered  personally to
               the party  being  given  notice or to the person in charge of the
               office of the party being given such notice or by certified mail,
               return receipt requested, at the party's address indicated below.
               Any  notice  will  be  effective  upon  delivery  in the  case of
               personal delivery and upon deposit in the mail,  postage prepaid,
               in the case of delivery by mail. The addresses of the parties are
               as follows:

         Surety Bank:         Surety Bank, National Association
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         Surety Capital:      Surety Capital Corporation
                              Attn: Mr. Bobby W. Hackler
                              1845 Precinct Line Road, Suite 100
                              Hurst, Texas 76054

         With Copy to:        Tracy & Holland, L.L.P.
                              Attn: Ms. Margaret E. Holland
                              306 West Seventh Street, Suite 500
                              Fort Worth, Texas 76102

         Shareholder:         Mr. Bill M. Ward
                              950 Galiceno
                              Wylie, Texas  75098

The names and addresses of persons to receive notice as stated in this Paragraph
7(a) may be changed by notice given in accordance with this Paragraph 7(a).

          (b)  No Right to Continued Contractual Relationship. The Stock granted
               pursuant to this Agreement shall not confer upon  Shareholder any
               right  with  respect  to  the   continuance  of  any  contractual
               relationship  between Surety Bank and  Shareholder,  nor shall it
               interfere  in any way with the right,  if any,  of Surety Bank to
               terminate any such contractual relationship at any time.

          (c)  Further  Actions.  At any time and from time to time,  each party
               agrees, without further  consideration,  to take such actions and
               to  execute  and  deliver  such  documents  as may be  reasonably
               necessary to effect the purposes of this Agreement.

          (d)  Modification.  This  Agreement  shall  not  be  varied,  altered,
               modified,  changed or in any way amended  except by an instrument
               in writing executed by all parties hereto.

          (e)  Entire Agreement.  This Agreement constitutes the whole agreement
               of the parties  and  supersedes  any  commitment,  memorandum  or
               previous  understanding  made by the parties  with respect to the
               subject matter of this Agreement.

                               Exhibit 10.12 - 53
<PAGE>

          (f)  Counterparts.   This   Agreement  may  be  executed  in  multiple
               counterparts,  each of which  shall  constitute  one and the same
               instrument.  The  counterpart  executed  and held by Surety  Bank
               shall  control  in  the  event  of any  dispute  or in  cases  of
               differences between the counterparts.

          (g)  Application  of  Texas  Law.  The  validity  and  effect  of this
               Agreement  shall be governed  by and  construed  and  enforced in
               accordance with the laws of the state of Texas (without reference
               to the laws of another  jurisdiction).  The venue for all actions
               relating to this Agreement shall be in Tarrant County, Texas.

         EXECUTED on the date first above written.

SURETY BANK:                  SURETY BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, President

SURETY CAPITAL:               SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION



                              By: /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                  Bobby W. Hackler, Senior Vice
                                  President and Secretary

SHAREHOLDER:

                                  /s/ Bill M. Ward
                                  Bill M. Ward


                               Exhibit 10.12 - 54
<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 21

                   SUBSIDIARIES OF SURETY CAPITAL CORPORATION

                                                       Jurisdiction
           Subsidiary                                 of Organization
           ----------                                 ---------------
Surety Bank, National Association               National Banking Association


                                 Exhibit 21 - 1
<PAGE>
                                                                 EXHIBIT 23

                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the  incorporation by reference in the  registration  statement of
Surety Capital  Corporation  on Form S-3 (File No.  33-89264) and Form S-3 (File
No.  33-44893)  of our  report  dated  January  22,  1996,  except for the first
paragraph of Note 18, which the date is February 28, 1996, the second  paragraph
of Note 18, which the date is February 29, 1996, and the third paragraph of Note
18, which the date is March 15, 1996 on our audits of the consolidated financial
statements of Surety  Capital  Corporation as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and
for the years ended December 31, 1995,  1994 and 1993,  which report is included
in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended  December 31, 1995. We also
consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts."


/s/Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.
Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.

Fort Worth, Texas
March 29, 1996


              
                                 Exhibit 23 - 1

<PAGE>

                                                                 EXHIBIT 24

                           SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY

     The undersigned hereby appoint C. Jack Bean and Bobby W. Hackler,  and each
of them severally, as attorneys and agents for the undersigned,  with full power
of substitution,  for and in the name,  place and stead of the  undersigned,  to
sign and file with the Securities  and Exchange  Commission the Annual Report on
Form 10-K of Surety  Capital  Corporation  (the "Form 10-K") for the fiscal year
ended  December 31, 1995,  with said attorneys and agents to have full power and
authority  to do and  perform  in the name of and on behalf of the  undersigned,
every act whatsoever  necessary or advisable to be done in the premises as fully
and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned  might or could do in person,
such power to extend to the execution of any amendment to the Form 10-K.

     Executed this 26th day of March, 1996.


                                   /s/ C. Jack Bean
                                   C. Jack Bean

                                   
                                   /s/ William B. Byrd
                                   William B. Byrd


                                   /s/ Bobby W. Hackler
                                   Bobby W. Hackler


                                   /s/ Joseph S. Hardin
                                   Joseph S. Hardin


                                   /s/ G.M. Heinzelmann, III
                                   G.M. Heinzelmann, III


                                   /s/ Michael L. Milam
                                   Michael L. Milam


                                   /s/ Garrett Morris
                                   Garrett Morris


                                   /s/ Cullen W. Turner
                                   Cullen W. Turner                

                                 Exhibit 24 - 1
<PAGE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 9
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1995
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1995
<CASH>                                       4,727,018
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>                       1,046,297
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                            18,490,000
<TRADING-ASSETS>                                     0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>                 10,128,157
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>                      13,780,538
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>                        14,078,018
<LOANS>                                     67,102,239
<ALLOWANCE>                                    702,927
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                             121,339,273
<DEPOSITS>                                 109,598,502
<SHORT-TERM>                                   375,000
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                          1,071,299
<LONG-TERM>                                          0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                        35,166
<OTHER-SE>                                  10,259,306
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>             121,339,273
<INTEREST-LOAN>                              7,601,816
<INTEREST-INVEST>                            1,173,748
<INTEREST-OTHER>                               759,217
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                             9,534,781
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                           3,554,900
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                           3,677,479
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>                        5,857,302
<LOAN-LOSSES>                                   60,000
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                                 100
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                              5,878,552
<INCOME-PRETAX>                              1,337,817
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>                     886,886
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                   886,886
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .27
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .27
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                                     6.1
<LOANS-NON>                                     31,000
<LOANS-PAST>                                         0
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                                     0
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                                      0
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                               697,948
<CHARGE-OFFS>                                  117,446
<RECOVERIES>                                    51,666
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                              702,927
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>                           681,045
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                                  0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>                         21,882
        



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