<DOCUMENT>
<TYPE>EX-24
<SEQUENCE>2
<FILENAME>merkadeauconfstmt_021709.txt
<DESCRIPTION>EDGAR SUPPORTING DOCUMENT
<TEXT>
CONFIRMING STATEMENT

I confirm that I have authorized and designated Henry I. Feir and Jean B.
Vernet to execute and file on my behalf all Forms 3, 4 and 5 (including any
amendments thereto) that I may be required to file with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission as a result of my ownership of or transactions in
securities of the Company. The authority of the above-designated individuals
shall continue until I am no longer required to file Forms 3, 4 and 5 with
regard to my ownership of or transactions in securities of the Company,
unless earlier revoked in writing. I acknowledge that the Company and the
above-designated individuals, and each of them, are not assuming any of my
responsibilities to comply with Section 16 of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended.

/s/Stuart L. Merkadeau

Dated: February 17, 2009
</TEXT>
</DOCUMENT>
