From: Meryl Lanson [meryll~aksi.net]

Sent: Friday, September 29, 2000 1:06 PM

To: Ray Ferrero

Subject: RE: Florida Lawyers Mutual/Florida Bar

Importance: High

Dear Mr. Ferrero,

Thank you for your visiting my website and your response to me. Unfortunately, I don't understand what you mean by "no further action on my part is necessary at this time."

Are you saying that there is no conflict of interest in Mr. Harkness being the Executive Director of The Florida Bar as well as being on the Board of Directors of Florida Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, The Florida Bar's created malpractice insurance company, when it is The Florida Bar which responds to claims of ethical violations, the response to which is often the basis for malpractice claims against attorneys insured by The Florlda Bar's sponsored and created malpractice insurance company, Florida Lawyers Mutual?

Are you saying that there is no appearance of impropriety in Mr. Harkness' aforesaid activity?

Are you saying you will wait to see what is going to happen, but that you, as an attorney and member of The Florida Bar, have no ethical obligation to report a violation of the Rules of Ethics as it may pertain to Mr. Harkness?

Are you saying that claims of ethical wrongdoing against an attorney who works for, and is insured by Florida Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company should be addressed by a Florida Bar which is headed up by the same person who is on the Board of Directors of that very same insurance company?

I really don't understand what you are saying. Would you please write to me again and clearly and simply explain what you meant by "no further action on my part is necessary at this time."

I have been given to understand, from everyone with whom I have spoken, that you are an honorable and honest attorney. This is why I wrote to you. Your honorable and honest response is sincerely appreciated.

Very truly yours,

Meryl M. Lanson