EXHIBIT 10.17 SEVERANCE AGREEMENT This Agreement effective as of this 6th day of February, 1997 by and between W. Todd Bratton and Daniel Industries, Inc. 1. In consideration of W. Todd Bratton accepting employment with Daniel Industries, Inc, if W....

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                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.17


                              SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

This Agreement effective as of this 6th day of February, 1997 by and between W.
Xxxx Xxxxxxx and Xxxxxx Industries, Inc.

         1.      In consideration of W. Xxxx Xxxxxxx accepting employment with
Xxxxxx Industries, Inc, if W. Xxxx Xxxxxxx'x employment is terminated for any
reason other than criminal misconduct, he shall be paid upon termination, one
year's salary less required withholding taxes.  Xxxxxx Industries, Inc. will
pay the cost of continuation of Xx.  Xxxxxxx'x present medical insurance
program for one year from the date of termination.



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X. Xxxx Xxxxxxx


XXXXXX INDUSTRIES




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Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxx