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CONFIRMING STATEMENT



This Statement confirms that the undersigned has authorized and designated Gregory B.  Nevers, Darrell D. Martin, Richard R. Whitt, III, Linda S. Rotz, or Kathy Robinson (each an "Authorized Signer") to execute and file (in any permitted format) on the undersigned's behalf all forms 3, 4 and 5 (including any amendments thereto) that the undersigned may be required to file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission as a result of the undersigned's ownership of, or transactions in, securities of Markel Corporation.  Each Authorized Signer is authorized to obtain CIK codes and take all such other actions as may be necessary or desirable to permit electronic filings of such forms.  The authority of each Authorized Signer under this Statement shall continue until the undersigned is no longer required to file forms 3, 4 or 5 with regard to the undersigned's ownership of, or transactions in, securities of Markel Corporation, unless earlier revoked in writing.  The undersigned acknowledges that none of the Authorized Signers or Markel Corporation are assuming any of the undersigned's responsibilities to comply with Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.


Date: November 19, 2002				/s/ Alan I. Kirshner
							Signature

							Alan I. Kirshner
							Print Name