Exhibit 16.1

January 11, 2001

Securities and Exchange Commission

450 Fifth Street, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20549

Commissioners:

We have read the statements made by Stage Stores, Inc. (copy attached), which we understand will be filed with the Commission, pursuant to Item 4 of Form 8-K, as part of the Company's Form 8-K report dated January 4, 2001. We agree with the statements concerning our Firm in such Form 8-K.

Very truly yours,

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

31150-132/454388_1