10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended August 1, 2004

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER

1-15321

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

200 Commerce Street

Smithfield, Virginia 23430

(757) 365-3000

Virginia	52-0845861
(State of Incorporation)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  x    No  ¨

At August 31, 2004, 110,993,459 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock ($.50 per value per share) were outstanding.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONTENTS

		PAGE
PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements		3
	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income – 13 Weeks Ended August 1, 2004 and July 27, 2003	3
	Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets – August 1, 2004 and May 2, 2004	4
	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows – 13 Weeks Ended August 1, 2004 and July 27, 2003	5
	Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements	6
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		10
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		14
Item 4. Controls and Procedures		14
PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings		15
Item 2. Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities		15
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities		15
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders		15
Item 5. Other Information		15
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K		16
SIGNATURES		17

2

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in millions, except per share data)

	13 Weeks Ended
	August 1, 2004		July 27, 2003
	(Unaudited)
Sales	$	2,651.7	$	1,981.6
Cost of sales		2,393.7		1,805.7
Gross profit		258.0		175.9
Selling, general and administrative expenses		147.2		122.0
Interest expense		27.6		27.5
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		83.2		26.4
Income taxes		28.3		8.8
Income from continuing operations		54.9		17.6
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax		—		4.5
Net income	$	54.9	$	22.1
Income per share:
Basic:
Continuing operations	$	.49	$	.16
Discontinued operations		—		.04
Net income	$	.49	$	.20
Diluted:
Continuing operations	$	.49	$	.16
Discontinued operations		—		.04
Net income	$	.49	$	.20
Weighted average shares:
Weighted average basic shares		111.1		109.5
Effect of dilutive stock options		1.2		1.3
Weighted average diluted shares		112.3		110.8

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

3

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(in millions, except share data)

	August 1, 2004			May 2, 2004
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	62.7		$	74.3
Accounts receivable, net		552.1			498.2
Inventories		1,348.0			1,328.8
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		138.2			122.3
Total current assets		2,101.0			2,023.6
Property, plant and equipment		2,783.2			2,700.9
Accumulated depreciation		(985.5	)		(939.9	)
Property, plant and equipment, net		1,797.7			1,761.0
Goodwill		518.2			499.8
Investments		211.2			194.7
Other		291.2			306.5
Total assets	$	4,919.3		$	4,785.6
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Notes payable	$	36.5		$	26.7
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations		84.6			78.0
Accounts payable		473.4			461.0
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		352.7			401.3
Total current liabilities		947.2			967.0
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations		1,842.4			1,696.8
Other long-term liabilities		506.5			509.7
Total liabilities		3,296.1			3,173.5
Minority interests		13.7			13.2
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 1,000,000 authorized shares		—			—
Common stock, $.50 par value, 200,000,000 authorized shares; 110,983,459 and 110,978,291 issued and outstanding		55.5			55.5
Additional paid-in capital		494.5			494.5
Retained earnings		1,144.0			1,089.1
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(84.5	)		(40.2	)
Total shareholders’ equity		1,609.5			1,598.9
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	4,919.3		$	4,785.6

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

4

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in millions)

	13 Weeks Ended
	August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003
	(Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Income from continuing operations	$	54.9		$	17.6
Adjustments to reconcile net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		47.5			39.5
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions and discontinued operations		(186.8	)		(70.0	)
Net cash flows from operating activities		(84.4	)		(12.9	)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(35.3	)		(29.9	)
Business acquisitions, net of cash		(33.6	)		(0.6	)
Other		(3.2	)		(50.7	)
Net cash flows from investing activities		(72.1	)		(81.2	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt		31.8			360.4
Net borrowings (repayments) on revolving credit facility		120.0			(270.0	)
Principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations		(6.8	)		(8.7	)
Other		—			9.6
Net cash flows from financing activities		145.0			91.3
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash		(0.1	)		0.4
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		(11.6	)		(2.4	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		74.3			64.8
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	62.7		$	62.4

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

5

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1: General

Smithfield Foods, Inc., together with its subsidiaries (the Company), is the largest hog producer and pork processor in the world and the fifth largest beef processor in the United States (U.S.). The Company conducts its business through four reporting segments, Pork, Beef, Hog Production Group (HPG) and Other, each of which is comprised of a number of subsidiaries. Prior to the second quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company had an International segment that, following the sale of Schneider Corporation (Schneider), was replaced by the Other segment.

These statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes, which are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 2, 2004. The interim consolidated condensed financial information furnished herein is unaudited. The information reflects all adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments) which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the periods included in the report.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year presentations.

Note 2: Acquisitions and Disposition

In July of fiscal 2005, the Company acquired Jean Caby S.A. (Jean Caby) and related companies for approximately €27.4 million ($33.6 million) plus the assumption of certain liabilities. Jean Caby, established in France in 1919, produces and markets cured and cooked processed meats including deli cooked hams, dry sausages, cocktail sausages and hot dogs. The preliminary balance of the purchase price in excess of the fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of the acquisition was recorded as goodwill totaling $13.7 million.

In March of fiscal 2004, the Company acquired a 70% stake in Agrotorvis SRL (Agrotorvis), for approximately €19 million ($23.8 million). Agrotorvis has hog production and pork processing assets in Romania.

In October of fiscal 2004, the Company completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Farmland Foods, Inc. (Farmland Foods), the pork production and processing business of Farmland Industries, Inc., for approximately $377.4 million in cash, plus the assumption of certain Farmland Foods liabilities. The assumed liabilities include a $67.4 million pension obligation, net of associated assets. The Company recorded the fair value of trademarks totaling $100.0 million. The preliminary balance of the purchase price in excess of the fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed was recorded as goodwill totaling $35.2 million. Had the acquisition of Farmland Foods occurred at the beginning of the preceeding fiscal year, sales, net income and net income per diluted share would have been $2,366.6 million, $22.8 million and $.21, respectively, for the 13 weeks ended July 27, 2003.

In September of fiscal 2004, the Company acquired 90% of the outstanding shares of Cumberland Gap Provision Company (Cumberland Gap) for approximately $54.8 million plus assumed debt. Cumberland Gap is a processor of premium-branded smoked hams, sausages and other specialty pork products. The preliminary balance of the purchase price in excess of the fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of the acquisition was recorded as goodwill totaling $30.9 million.

In September of fiscal 2004, the Company acquired Alliance Farms Cooperative Association (Alliance) for approximately $23.1 million. Alliance is a farrow to nursery operation producing weened pigs that are finished at other company-owned facilities, thereby providing approximately 500,000 market hogs annually.

These acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly, the accompanying financial statements include the financial position and the results of operations from the dates of acquisition.

Had the acquisitions of Jean Caby, Agrotorvis, Cumberland Gap and Alliance occurred at the beginning of the preceding fiscal year, there would not have been a material effect on sales, net income or net income per diluted share or on the Company’s financial position for the 13 weeks ended August 1, 2004 or July 27, 2003.

In April of fiscal 2004, the Company completed the sale of all of the outstanding stock of Schneider to Maple Leaf Foods Inc. for approximately $279.4 million, subject to closing adjustments, including the assumption of Schneider’s outstanding debt. Schneider’s results of operations and cash flows have been reflected in the consolidated condensed financial statements and notes as discontinued operations. Sales and income before income taxes of Schneider were $224.6 million and $7.0 million, respectively, for the 13 weeks ended July 27, 2003.

6

Note 3: Investment in Campofrío

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company purchased 8,008,294 shares of Campofrío Alimentación S.A. (Campofrío) for approximately $87.9 million. This investment represented a 15% ownership interest. The Company did not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the management of Campofrío and, therefore, the investment was carried as available for sale securities in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, in two separate transactions, the Company purchased a total of 3,787,265 additional shares of Campofrío for approximately $48.8 million. The Company currently holds 11,795,559 shares, or 22% of the outstanding shares of Campofrío. In accordance with Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock” (APB 18), the Company determined that it had the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of Campofrío and determined that the additional investment triggered a change in accounting for the investment from the cost method to the equity method, which the Company adopted in the first quarter of fiscal 2005. As required by APB 18, the Company evaluated whether the investment and results of operations for the prior periods presented were material so as to warrant retroactive adjustment. The Company determined that the change was immaterial to the consolidated results of operations and has not restated its fiscal 2004 consolidated statement of income to reflect the application of the equity method. The Company determined that the change was material to the consolidated balance sheet and has, therefore, reclassified $116.1 million of marketable equity securities from other long-term assets to investments and $18.3 million of gains on marketable securities (net of $9.8 million of deferred tax liabilities) from accumulated other comprehensive loss to investments in partnerships on its May 2, 2004 consolidated balance sheet to reflect the application of the equity method.

Note 4: Inventories

Inventories consist of the following:

(In millions)	August 1, 2004		May 2, 2004
Fresh and processed meats	$	563.9	$	532.7
Live hogs		521.3		504.3
Live cattle		105.0		100.2
Manufacturing supplies		59.0		58.9
Other		98.6		76.8
Fair value derivative instrument adjustment		0.2		55.9
Total inventories	$	1,348.0	$	1,328.8

Note 5: Debt Issuances

In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company issued $400.0 million of 7-year, 7% senior unsecured notes. Net proceeds of the sale of these notes were used to repay indebtedness under the Company’s primary revolving credit facility (facility). The Company expects to use the availability under the facility, together with internally generated funds, for capital expenditures and general corporate purposes, including expansion of its processed meats business and strategic acquisitions.

Note 6: Guarantees

As of end of the first quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company has provided, guarantees for the financial obligations of certain unconsolidated joint ventures and hog farmers. The financial obligations are: $66.0 million of debt borrowed by one of the Company’s Mexican joint ventures, Agroindustrial del Noroeste; up to $6.0 million of loans obtained by strategically important farmers under contract to the HPG segment; up to $3.5 million of liabilities with respect to currency swaps executed by another of the Company’s Mexican joint ventures, Granjas Carroll de Mexico; and $1.3 million with respect to debt borrowed by one of the Company’s Brazilian joint ventures, Carroll’s Foods do Brasil S.A. During the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company increased its guarantee of Carroll’s Foods do Brasil S.A. debt to $2.5 million.

7

Note 7: Pension and Postretirement Benefits

The following table presents the components of the net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs for the periods indicated.

	Pension Cost						Postretirement Cost
	13 Weeks Ended						13 Weeks Ended
(In millions)	August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003			August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	$	5.7		$	3.0		$	—		$	0.1
Interest cost		13.9			6.0			0.1			0.2
Expected return on plan assets		(14.7	)		(4.7	)		—			—
Net amortization		2.2			3.1			(0.1	)		—
Net periodic cost	$	7.1		$	7.4		$	—		$	0.3

Note 8: Stock Options

The Company uses the fair value method to account for stock options granted after fiscal 2002. The Company records compensation expense for stock options based on their fair value as determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and weighted average assumptions. For the 13 weeks ended August 1, 2004 and July 27, 2003, the impact of recording compensation expense for stock options granted was less than one cent per diluted share.

Stock options granted prior to fiscal 2003 continue to be accounted for under APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (APB 25) until they are modified or vested. Under APB 25, no compensation expense is recorded. Had the Company used the fair value method to determine compensation expense for its stock options granted prior to fiscal 2003, net income and net income per basic and diluted share would have been as follows:

	13 Weeks Ended
(In millions)	August 1, 2004		July 27, 2003
Net income, as reported	$	54.9	$	22.1
Pro forma net income	$	54.1	$	21.3
Net income per share, as reported:
Basic	$	.49	$	.20
Diluted	$	.49	$	.20
Pro forma net income per share:
Basic	$	.49	$	.19
Diluted	$	.48	$	.19

Note 9: Comprehensive Income

The components of comprehensive income, net of tax, consist of:

	13 Weeks Ended
(In millions)	August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003
Net income	$	54.9		$	22.1
Hedge accounting		(46.3	)		(3.6	)
Unrealized gain on securities		—			1.7
Foreign currency translation		2.0			9.4
Total comprehensive income	$	10.6		$	29.6

Note 10: Derivatives and Hedging Activities

The fair value gain (loss) of the Company’s open derivative financial instruments consist of:

(In millions)	August 1, 2004			May 2, 2004
Livestock	$	(6.4	)	$	(64.8	)
Grains		(38.2	)		6.3
Interest rates		(6.0	)		(6.2	)
Foreign currency		0.9			(1.2	)

8

Note 11: Segment Data

The Company conducts its business through four reporting segments, Pork, Beef, HPG and Other, each of which is comprised of a number of subsidiaries. Prior to the second quarter of 2004, the Company had an International segment that, following the sale of Schneider, was replaced by the Other segment.

	13 Weeks Ended
(In millions)	August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003
Segment Profit Information
Sales:
Segment sales -
Pork	$	1,763.4		$	1,133.0
Beef		594.7			605.4
HPG		527.2			335.7
Other		218.7			173.5
Total segment sales		3,104.0			2,247.6
Intersegment sales -
Pork	$	(6.6	)	$	(10.3	)
Beef		(3.4	)		(5.0	)
HPG		(434.0	)		(245.7	)
Other		(8.3	)		(5.0	)
Total intersegment sales		(452.3	)		(266.0	)
Consolidated sales	$	2,651.7		$	1,981.6
Operating profit:
Pork	$	21.8		$	(17.6	)
Beef		1.8			31.9
HPG		99.6			58.1
Other		7.9			(3.7	)
Corporate		(20.3	)		(14.8	)
Consolidated operating profit	$	110.8		$	53.9

The following table shows the change in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment for the fiscal period ended August 1, 2004:

(In millions)	Pork		Beef		HPG		Other		Total
Balance, May 2, 2004	$	99.7	$	118.2	$	165.4	$	116.5	$	499.8
Goodwill from acquisitions during the year		—		—		—		13.7		13.7
Other goodwill adjustments(1)		0.8		—		—		3.9		4.7
Balance, August 1, 2004	$	100.5	$	118.2	$	165.4	$	134.1	$	518.2

(1) Other goodwill adjustments include deferred tax, foreign currency translation and purchase price adjustments.

9

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

GENERAL

Smithfield Foods, Inc. (the Company) conducts its business through four reporting segments, Pork, Beef, Hog Production Group (HPG) and Other, each of which is comprised of a number of subsidiaries. The Pork segment consists primarily of eight wholly- or majority-owned United States (U.S.) fresh pork and processed meats subsidiaries. The Beef segment is composed primarily of two U.S. beef processing subsidiaries and the Other segment is comprised of the Company’s international meat processing operations, primarily in Poland and France, together with the Company’s turkey production operations and its interests in turkey processing operations. The HPG segment consists primarily of hog production operations located in the U.S. and Poland. Each of the segments have certain joint ventures and other investments in addition to their primary operations.

Prior to the second quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company had an International segment which, following the sale of Schneider Corporation (Schneider), was replaced by the Other segment.

The Company has reclassified the segment information for fiscal 2004 to conform to the fiscal 2005 presentation.

RESULTS OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Overview

General Factors Affecting the Results of Continuing Operations

Fiscal 2005 hog prices increased over low levels in fiscal 2004. This increased both the sales of the HPG segment and the raw materials cost at the Pork segment. Despite the higher raw material costs, the Pork segment improved due to strong consumer and export demand for fresh pork.

Export markets for U.S. beef products remain closed following the discovery of a case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in the State of Washington in December 2003, negatively affecting beef margins which were also impacted by higher cattle prices.

In October of fiscal 2004, the Company completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Farmland Foods, Inc. (Farmland Foods), the pork production and processing business of Farmland Industries, Inc.

Facility Closure

Despite the Company’s efforts to build a viable business in the Beef segment at the Showcase Foods, Inc. (Showcase Foods) facility, Showcase Foods has continued to incur operating losses and the Company has decided to cease operations there. During the first quarter of fiscal 2005, Showcase Foods incurred losses of $2.8 million. In addition to recurring operating losses at the facility, the Company expects to record pre-tax charges of $6 million to $8 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2005 in connection with closing the facility.

Investment in Campofrío

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company purchased 8,008,294 shares of Campofrío Alimentación S.A. (Campofrío) for approximately $87.9 million. This investment represented a 15% ownership interest. The Company did not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the management of Campofrío and, therefore, the investment was carried as available for sale securities in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, in two separate transactions, the Company purchased a total of 3,787,265 additional shares of Campofrío for approximately $48.8 million. The Company currently holds 11,795,559 shares, or 22% of the outstanding shares of Campofrío. In accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock” (APB 18), the Company determined that it had the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of Campofrío and determined that the additional investment triggered a change in accounting for the investment from the cost method to the equity method, which the Company adopted in the first quarter of fiscal 2005. As required by APB 18, the Company evaluated whether the investment and results of operations for the prior periods presented were material so as to warrant retroactive adjustment. The Company determined that the change was immaterial to the consolidated results of operations and has not restated its fiscal 2004

10

consolidated income statement to reflect the application of the equity method. The Company determined that the change was material to the consolidated balance sheet and has, therefore, reclassified its May 2, 2004 consolidated balance sheet to reflect the application of the equity method.

Results of Continuing Operations for the Thirteen Weeks ended August 1, 2004 and July 27, 2003

Sales increased $670.1 million, or 34%, to $2,651.7 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 from $1,981.6 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. Sales increases of $630.4 million at the Pork segment, $191.5 million at the HPG segment, and $45.2 million at the Other segment were partially offset by a sales decrease of $10.7 million at the Beef segment and increased intersegment sales eliminations of $186.3 million.

Gross profit increased $82.1 million, or 47%, to $258.0 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 from $175.9 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. The increase was mainly the result of substantially higher margins in the HPG segment on a 29% increase in live market hog prices and the inclusion of the results of Farmland Foods, both of which were partially offset by higher raw material costs in the Pork segment.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $25.2 million, or 21%, to $147.2 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 from $122.0 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. The increase was due to the inclusion of $25.3 million of expenses of Farmland Foods.

Operating profit increased $56.9 million to $110.8 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 from $53.9 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. Increases in operating profit of $41.5 million at the HPG segment, $39.4 million at the Pork segment and $11.6 million at the Other segment were partially offset by a decrease of $30.1 million at the Beef segment and an increase in corporate expenses of $5.5 million.

Interest expense was $27.6 million for the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 and $27.5 million for the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. Increased borrowings in the current period were offset by a reduction of higher cost fixed rate debt and lower interest on variable rate instruments.

The effective income tax rate increased to 34% during the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 as compared to 33% in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. The effective income tax rate for thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003 was slightly lower due to a greater impact of tax credits on sharply lower earnings.

Comparison of Segment Results for the Thirteen Weeks ended August 1, 2004 and July 27, 2003

The following table summarizes sales and operating profit by segment for the fiscal periods indicated (in millions):

	13 Weeks Ended
	August 1, 2004			July 27, 2003			$ Change			% Change
Sales:
Pork	$	1,763.4		$	1,133.0		$	630.4		56	%
Beef		594.7			605.4			(10.7	)	(2	)
HPG		527.2			335.7			191.5		57
Other		218.7			173.5			45.2		26
Segment sales		3,104.0			2,247.6			856.4		38
Intersegment sales		(452.3	)		(266.0	)		(186.3	)	(70	)
Total sales	$	2,651.7		$	1,981.6		$	670.1		34	%
Operating Profit:
Pork	$	21.8		$	(17.6	)	$	39.4		*	%
Beef		1.8			31.9			(30.1	)	(94	)
HPG		99.6			58.1			41.5		71
Other		7.9			(3.7	)		11.6		*
Corporate		(20.3	)		(14.8	)		(5.5	)	(37	)
Total operating profit	$	110.8		$	53.9		$	56.9		106	%

* —not meaningful

11

Pork Segment Results

The increase in Pork segment revenues was due in large part to the acquisition of Farmland Foods, which had revenues of $474.6 million for the thirteen week period ended August 1, 2004. Total fresh pork and processed meats volumes in the Pork segment, including acquisitions, increased 33% with fresh pork volumes increasing 35% and processed meats increasing 30%. Excluding acquisitions, volumes decreased two percent with fresh pork volumes decreasing two percent and processed meats decreasing one percent. Average unit selling prices in the Pork segment increased 18%, reflecting the ability to pass through higher raw material costs and a strong consumer demand for pork.

The Pork segment recorded operating profit in the current year fiscal quarter versus an operating loss in the prior year fiscal quarter. The increase was mainly due to a $27.0 million increase in fresh pork margins (excluding Farmland) resulting from strong demand for fresh pork as well as the inclusion of Farmland Foods operations, which had operating profit of $11.6 million.

Beef Segment Results

The decrease in Beef segment revenues was primarily due to a 19% decrease in total volumes, which resulted primarily from the continuing depressed market conditions as export markets remained closed to U.S. beef due to the discovery in December 2003 of a single case of BSE in the State of Washington, partially offset by a 7% increase in average unit selling prices for beef.

Factoring in a 19% increase in raw material costs along with the decreased volume, the Beef segment recorded decreased operating profit. The Beef segment includes $2.8 million of operating losses related to Showcase Foods. The Company previously announced that it intends to cease operations at this Philadelphia-based case ready meats facility and that it expects to record additional charges of $6 to $8 million in the first half of fiscal 2005 in connection with closing the facility. Additional operating losses, the closing of the facility and the related charges are expected to occur in the second quarter of fiscal 2005.

HPG Segment Results

The increase in HPG segment revenues was mainly due to a 29% increase in live market hog selling prices coupled with a 13% increase in head sold mainly due to the inclusion of acquired businesses and businesses consolidated in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 46R, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” in the current year period.

HPG segment operating profits increased substantially, mainly due to the increase in selling prices and head sold, partially offset by a four percent increase in raising costs. In addition, commodity futures contracts for live hogs reduced the HPG segment’s operating profit by $47 million for the quarter. These contracts were the result of the Company’s decision, earlier in the calendar year, to lock in profits in hog production before the unexpected increase in prices of live market hogs during the first quarter. During the same period, the HPG segment’s results benefitted by $28 million from favorable grain purchasing agreements, also entered into earlier in the year.

Other Segment Results

Revenues and operating profits in the Company’s Other segment grew due to strong results in its turkey operations, as well as improvements in Poland and France. Additionally, the Company recorded income in the current period from its investment in Campofrío.

Corporate Results

The Company’s Corporate expenses increased due to pension and other variable compensation.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company has available a variety of sources of liquidity and capital resources, both internal and external. These resources provide funds required for current operations, acquisitions, debt retirement and other capital requirements.

The meat processing industry is characterized by high sales volume and rapid turnover of inventories and accounts receivable. Because of the rapid turnover rate, the Company considers its meat inventories and accounts receivable highly liquid and readily convertible into cash. The HPG also has rapid turnover of accounts receivable. Although inventory turnover in the HPG is slower, mature hogs are readily convertible into cash. Borrowings under the Company’s credit facilities are used to finance increases in the levels of inventories and accounts receivable resulting from seasonal and other market-related fluctuations in raw material costs.

12

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash used in operations increased to $84.4 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 from $12.9 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. Increased working capital and commodity futures contract settlements in the current year period were the main drivers of the increase.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities was $72.1 million in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 compared to $81.2 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. In July of fiscal 2005, the Company acquired Jean Caby S.A. (Jean Caby) and related companies for approximately €27.4 million ($33.6 million) plus the assumption of certain liabilities. Capital expenditures in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 totaled $35.3 million, as compared to $29.9 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. Capital expenditures are mainly related to fresh pork and processed meats expansion, plant improvement projects and additional hog production facilities.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, in two separate transactions, the Company purchased a total of 3,787,265 additional shares of Campofrío for approximately $48.8 million. The Company currently holds 11,795,559 shares, or 22% of the outstanding shares of Campofrío.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

The Company’s financing activities in the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 provided $145.0 million in cash compared to $91.3 million in the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. The Company borrowed $120.0 million on its revolving credit facility during the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2004 and repaid $270.0 million on its primary revolving credit facility during the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003. During the thirteen weeks ended July 27, 2003, the Company issued $350.0 million of 7.75% senior unsecured notes.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company issued $400.0 million of 7-year, 7% senior unsecured notes. Net proceeds of the sale of these notes were used to repay indebtedness under the Company’s primary revolving credit facility (facility). The Company expects to use the availability under the facility, together with internally generated funds, for capital expenditures and general corporate purposes, including expansion of its processed meats business and strategic acquisitions.

In June of fiscal 2004, the Company filed a shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission to register sales of up to $750.0 million of its debt, stock and other securities from time to time. Net proceeds to the Company from the possible sale of these securities would be used for general corporate purposes, including an expansion of the Company’s processed meats business and strategic acquisitions.

The company has aggregate credit facilities totaling $938.5 million. As of August 1, 2004, the Company had unused capacity under these credit facilities of $295.4 million.

OUTLOOK

In the Beef segment, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, the Company announced that it intended to cease operations at Showcase Foods and that it expected to record additional charges of $6 to $8 million in the first half of fiscal 2005 in connection with closing the facility. Additional operating losses, the closing of the facility and the related charges are expected to occur in the second quarter of fiscal 2005.

In the HPG segment, the upcoming second quarter will include the adverse impact of approximately $35 million in live hog futures contracts, although hog production operations should continue to be profitable. This will be offset by $12-15 million from the favorable benefit of purchasing arrangements for grain, which will hold raising costs near $43 per hundredweight. The Company has no live hog futures contracts in place beyond its current fiscal second quarter.

13

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The forward-looking information includes statements concerning the Company’s outlook for the future, as well as other statements of beliefs, future plans and other strategies or anticipated events, and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Forward-looking information and statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. These risks and uncertainties include the availability and prices of live hogs and cattle, raw materials, fuel and supplies, food safety, livestock disease, live hog production costs, product pricing, the competitive environment and related market conditions, hedging risk, operating efficiencies, changes in interest rate and foreign currency exchange rates, access to capital, the investment performance of the Company’s pension plan assets and the availability of legislative relief, the cost of compliance with environmental and health standards, adverse results from on-going litigation, actions of domestic and foreign governments, the ability to make effective acquisitions and successfully integrate newly acquired businesses into existing operations and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2003. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because actual results may differ materially from those expressed, or implied, by the statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

For quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk affecting the Company, see Item 7A “Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 2, 2004. As the Company has fewer open futures positions as of August 1, 2004, the Company’s exposure to market risk has decreased slightly since May 2, 2004.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

The Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based upon their evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective. There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

14

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

IBP Litigation. In February 2003, the United States Department of Justice, Antitrust Division (DOJ), filed suit against the Company alleging that it had violated the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act in connection with its acquisition of IBP, inc. stock during the years 1998, 1999 and 2000. In the suit, DOJ alleges that the Company should have filed a premerger notification and report form with respect to these acquisitions and seeks a civil penalty of approximately $5.5 million as a result. The suit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia (the District Court). The Company moved to dismiss the case on the grounds that the District Court does not have jurisdiction over the Company. In the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the District Court ruled in favor of the Company and moved the case to the Eastern District of Virginia. The Company believes that it has complied with all applicable laws and intends to defend this suit vigorously, although there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful.

Item 2. Changes in Securities, Use of Proceeds and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Not applicable

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Not applicable

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable

15

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

A. Exhibits

Exhibit 3.1	-	Articles of Amendment effective August 29, 2001 to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, including the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended to date (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Amendment No. 1 to Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed with the SEC on September 12, 2001).
Exhibit 3.2	-	Amendment to the Bylaws adopted May 30, 2001, including the Bylaws of the Company, as amended to date (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed with the SEC on May 30, 2001).
Exhibit 4.1	-	Indenture between the Company and SunTrust Bank, as trustee, dated August 4, 2004 regarding the issuance by the Company of $400,000,000 senior notes (filed herewith).
Exhibit 4.2	-	Registration Rights Agreement dated as of August 4, 2004 among the Company and the Initial Purchasers named therein regarding the registration by the Company of $400,000,000 senior notes (filed herewith).
Exhibit 10.1	-	Smithfield Foods, Inc. 2004 Non-Employee Director Deferral Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 8, 2004).
Exhibit 31.1	-	Certification of Joseph W. Luter, III, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 31.2	-	Certification of Daniel G. Stevens, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 32.1	-	Certification of Joseph W. Luter, III, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 32.2	-	Certification of Daniel G. Stevens, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

B. Reports on Form 8-K.

The following reports on Form 8-K were filed with or furnished to the SEC by the Company since the beginning of the first quarter of fiscal 2005. The Forms 8-K listed below that were furnished to the SEC shall not be deemed filed for any purpose.

1.	A Current Report on Form 8-K was furnished to the SEC on June 9, 2004 to report, under Item 12, the Company’s issuance of a press release announcing its earnings for the fiscal year and fourth quarter ended May 2, 2004.
2.	A Current Report on Form 8-K was filed with the SEC on July 30, 2004 to report, under Items 5 and 7, the Company’s issuance of a press release announcing plans for an offering of Senior Notes.
3.	A Current Report on Form 8-K was furnished to the SEC on August 4, 2004 to report, under Item 12, the Company’s issuance of a press release commenting on its earnings for the first quarter of fiscal year ending May 1, 2005.
4.	A Current Report on Form 8-K was furnished to the SEC on September 1, 2004 to report, under Item 2.02, the Company’s issuance of a press release announcing its earnings for the first quarter of fiscal year ending May 1, 2005.
5.	A Current Report on Form 8-K was filed with the SEC on September 8, 2004 to report, under Item 1.01, the Board of Directors adopting the Smithfield Foods, Inc. 2004 Non-Employee Director Deferral Plan effective September 1, 2004.

16

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

/s/ DANIEL G. STEVENS

Daniel G. Stevens

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

/s/ JEFFREY A. DEEL

Jeffrey A. Deel

Corporate Controller

Date: September 10, 2004

17

EX-4.1

EXHIBIT 4.1

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

7% Senior Notes due 2011

INDENTURE

Dated as of August 4, 2004

SUNTRUST BANK

as Trustee

CROSS-REFERENCE TABLE

TIA Section	Indenture Section
310(a)(1)	7.10
(a)(2)	7.10
(a)(3)	N.A.
(a)(4)	N.A.
(b)	7.8; 7.10
(c)	N.A.
311(a)	7.11
(b)	7.11
(c)	N.A.
312(a)	2.5
(b)	10.3
(c)	10.3
313(a)	7.6
(b)(1)	N.A.
(b)(2)	7.6
(c)	7.6
(d)	7.6
314(a)	3.2; 3.22; 10.2
(b)	N.A.
(c)(1)	10.4
(c)(2)	10.4
(c)(3)	N.A.
(d)	N.A.
(e)	10.5
(f)	N.A.
315(a)	7.1
(b)	7.5; 10.2
(c)	7.1
(d)	7.1
(e)	6.11
316(a)(last sentence)	10.6
(a)(1)(A)	6.5
(a)(1)(B)	6.4
(a)(2)	N.A.
(b)	6.7
317(a)(1)	6.8
(a)(2)	6.9
(b)	2.4
318(a)	10.1
N.A. means Not Applicable.

Note: This Cross-Reference Table shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be part of the Indenture.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page
ARTICLE I Definitions and Incorporation by Reference		1
SECTION 1.1.	Definitions	1
SECTION 1.2.	Other Definitions	23
SECTION 1.3.	Incorporation by Reference of Trust Indenture Act	24
SECTION 1.4.	Rules of Construction	25
ARTICLE II The Securities		25
SECTION 2.1.	Form, Dating and Terms	25
SECTION 2.2.	Execution and Authentication	34
SECTION 2.3.	Registrar and Paying Agent	35
SECTION 2.4.	Paying Agent To Hold Money in Trust	36
SECTION 2.5.	Securityholder Lists	36
SECTION 2.6.	Transfer and Exchange	36
SECTION 2.7.	Form of Certificate to be Delivered in Connection with Transfers to Institutional Accredited Investors	39
SECTION 2.8.	Form of Certificate to be Delivered in Connection with Transfers Pursuant to Regulation S	41
SECTION 2.9.	Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost or Stolen Securities	42
SECTION 2.10.	Outstanding Securities	43
SECTION 2.11.	Temporary Securities	43
SECTION 2.12.	Cancellation	44
SECTION 2.13.	Payment of Interest; Defaulted Interest	44
SECTION 2.14.	Computation of Interest	45
SECTION 2.15.	CUSIP Numbers	45
ARTICLE III Covenants		46
SECTION 3.1.	Payment of Securities	46
SECTION 3.2.	SEC Reports	46
SECTION 3.3.	Limitation on Indebtedness	46
SECTION 3.4.	Limitation on Restricted Payments	49
SECTION 3.5.	Limitation on Sale/Leaseback Transactions	51
SECTION 3.6.	Limitation on Restrictions on Distributions from Restricted Subsidiaries	52
SECTION 3.7.	Limitation on Sales of Assets	52
SECTION 3.8.	Limitation on Transactions with Affiliates	55

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SECTION 3.9.	Change of Control	56
SECTION 3.10.	Limitation on the Sale or Issuance of Capital Stock of Restricted Subsidiaries	58
SECTION 3.11.	Limitation on Liens	58
SECTION 3.12.	Limitation on Issuances of Guarantees of Indebtedness by Restricted Subsidiaries	59
SECTION 3.13.	Limitation on Lines of Business	60
SECTION 3.14.	Effectiveness of Covenants	60
SECTION 3.15.	Maintenance of Office or Agency	60
SECTION 3.16.	Money for Security Payments to Be Held in Trust	61
SECTION 3.17.	Corporate Existence	62
SECTION 3.18.	Payment of Taxes and Other Claims	62
SECTION 3.19.	Maintenance of Properties	62
SECTION 3.20.	Insurance	63
SECTION 3.21.	Compliance with Laws	63
SECTION 3.22.	Compliance Certificate	63
SECTION 3.23.	Further Instruments and Acts	63
ARTICLE IV Successor Company and Successor Guarantor		64
SECTION 4.1.	When Company May Merge or Otherwise Dispose of Assets	64
SECTION 4.2.	When a Subsidiary Guarantor May Merge or Otherwise Dispose of Assets	65
ARTICLE V Redemption of Securities		66
SECTION 5.1.	Optional Redemption	66
SECTION 5.2.	Applicability of Article	66
SECTION 5.3.	Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee	67
SECTION 5.4.	Selection by Trustee of Securities to Be Redeemed	67
SECTION 5.5.	Notice of Redemption	67
SECTION 5.6.	Deposit of Redemption Price	68
SECTION 5.7.	Securities Payable on Redemption Date	68
SECTION 5.8.	Securities Redeemed in Part	69
ARTICLE VI Defaults and Remedies		69
SECTION 6.1.	Events of Default. An “Event of Default” occurs if:	69
SECTION 6.2.	Acceleration	71
SECTION 6.3.	Other Remedies	72
SECTION 6.4.	Waiver of Past Defaults	72

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SECTION 6.5.	Control by Majority	72
SECTION 6.6.	Limitation on Suits	72
SECTION 6.7.	Rights of Holders to Receive Payment	73
SECTION 6.8.	Collection Suit by Trustee	73
SECTION 6.9.	Trustee May File Proofs of Claim	73
SECTION 6.10.	Priorities	73
SECTION 6.11.	Undertaking for Costs	74
ARTICLE VII Trustee		74
SECTION 7.1.	Duties of Trustee	74
SECTION 7.2.	Rights of Trustee	75
SECTION 7.3.	Individual Rights of Trustee	76
SECTION 7.4.	Trustee’s Disclaimer	76
SECTION 7.5.	Notice of Defaults	76
SECTION 7.6.	Reports by Trustee to Holders	77
SECTION 7.7.	Compensation and Indemnity	77
SECTION 7.8.	Replacement of Trustee	78
SECTION 7.9.	Successor Trustee by Merger	79
SECTION 7.10.	Eligibility; Disqualification	79
SECTION 7.11.	Preferential Collection of Claims Against Company	79
ARTICLE VIII Discharge of Indenture; Defeasance		79
SECTION 8.1.	Discharge of Liability on Securities; Defeasance	79
SECTION 8.2.	Conditions to Defeasance	80
SECTION 8.3.	Application of Trust Money	82
SECTION 8.4.	Repayment to Company	82
SECTION 8.5.	Indemnity for U.S. Government Obligations	82
SECTION 8.6.	Reinstatement	82
ARTICLE IX Amendments		83
SECTION 9.1.	Without Consent of Holders	83
SECTION 9.2.	With Consent of Holders	84
SECTION 9.3.	Compliance with Trust Indenture Act	84
SECTION 9.4.	Revocation and Effect of Consents and Waivers	84
SECTION 9.5.	Notation on or Exchange of Securities	85
SECTION 9.6.	Trustee To Sign Amendments	85

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ARTICLE X Miscellaneous		85
SECTION 10.1.	Trust Indenture Act Controls	85
SECTION 10.2.	Notices	86
SECTION 10.3.	Communication by Holders with other Holders	86
SECTION 10.4.	Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent	87
SECTION 10.5.	Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion	87
SECTION 10.6.	When Securities Disregarded	87
SECTION 10.7.	Rules by Trustee, Paying Agent and Registrar	87
SECTION 10.8.	Legal Holidays	88
SECTION 10.9.	Governing Law	88
SECTION 10.10.	No Recourse Against Others	88
SECTION 10.11.	Successors	88
SECTION 10.12.	Multiple Originals	88
SECTION 10.13.	Variable Provisions	88
SECTION 10.14.	Qualification of Indenture	88
SECTION 10.15.	Table of Contents; Headings	88

EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT A	Form of the Series A Note
EXHIBIT B	Form of the Series B Note
EXHIBIT C	Form of Indenture Supplement to Add Subsidiary Guarantors

-iv-

INDENTURE dated as of August 4, 2004 among SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC., a Virginia corporation (the “Company”), and SunTrust Bank, a banking corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Georgia (the “Trustee”).

Recitals Of The Company

The Company has duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for the issuance of (i) $400,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011, issued on the date hereof (the “Initial Notes”), (ii) if and when issued, an unlimited principal amount of additional 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 in a non-registered offering or 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 in a registered offering of the Company that may be offered from time to time subsequent to the Issue Date (the “Additional Notes”) and (iii) if and when issued, the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 that may be issued from time to time in exchange for Initial Notes or any Additional Notes in an offer registered under the Securities Act as provided in the Registration Rights Agreement (as hereinafter defined) (the “Exchange Notes,” and together with the Initial Notes and Additional Notes, the “Securities”).

Each party agrees as follows for the benefit of the other parties and for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities:

ARTICLE I

Definitions and Incorporation by Reference

SECTION 1.1. Definitions.

“1998 Notes” means the Company’s 7 ⁵/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2008.

“2001 Senior Notes” means the Company’s 8% Senior Notes due 2009.

“2003 Senior Notes” means the Company’s 7 ³/4% Senior Notes due 2013.

“Acquired Indebtedness” means Indebtedness (i) of a Person or any of its Subsidiaries existing at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or (ii) assumed in connection with the acquisition of assets from such Person, in each case whether or not incurred by such Person in connection with, or in anticipation or contemplation of, such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or such acquisition. Acquired Indebtedness shall be deemed to have been incurred, with respect to clause (i) of the preceding sentence, on the date such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary and, with respect to clause (ii) of the preceding sentence, on the date of consummation of such acquisition of assets.

“Additional Assets” means: (i) any property or assets (other than Indebtedness and Capital Stock) to be used by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary in a Related Business, (ii) the Capital Stock of a Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of the acquisition of such Capital Stock by the Company or another Restricted Subsidiary or (iii) Capital Stock constituting a minority interest in any Person that at such time is or will

thereupon become a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that, in the case of clauses (ii) and (iii) of this definition, such Restricted Subsidiary is primarily engaged in a Related Business.

“Affiliate” of any specified Person means (i) any other Person, directly or indirectly, controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person, (ii) any Person who is a director or officer (a) of such Person, (b) of any Subsidiary of such Person or (c) of any Person described in clause (i) above and (iii) any beneficial owner of shares representing 5% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Stock (on a fully diluted basis) of the Company or of rights or warrants to purchase such Voting Stock (whether or not currently exercisable) and any Person who would be an Affiliate of any such beneficial owner pursuant to clauses (i) and (ii). For the purposes of this definition, “control” when used with respect to any Person means the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms “controlling” and “controlled” have meanings correlative to the foregoing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Person (other than the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company) in whom a Receivables Entity makes an Investment in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction shall be deemed to be an Affiliate of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries solely by reason of such Investment.

“Asset Disposition” means any sale, lease, transfer or other issuance or disposition (or series of related sales, leases, transfers, issuance or dispositions that are part of a common plan) of shares of Capital Stock of a Subsidiary (other than directors’ qualifying shares), property or other assets (each referred to for the purposes of this definition as a “disposition”) by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (including any disposition by means of a sale and leaseback, merger, consolidation or similar transaction, but excluding any disposition by means of any pledge of assets or stock by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries otherwise permitted under this Indenture, and any transaction or series of related transactions from which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries receives an aggregate consideration of less than $500,000) other than (i) a disposition by a Restricted Subsidiary to the Company or by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary to a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary, (ii) a disposition of assets held for resale in the ordinary course of business, (iii) the sale of Temporary Cash Investments in the ordinary course of business, (iv) the sale or other disposition of damaged, worn, unneeded or obsolete equipment in the ordinary course of business, (v) for purposes of Section 3.7 only, a disposition subject to Section 3.4, (vi) the sale of other assets so long as the fair market value of the assets disposed of pursuant to this clause (vi) does not exceed $2.0 million in the aggregate in any fiscal year and $10.0 million in the aggregate prior to August 1, 2011, (vii) any disposition of assets pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.9 and/or Article IV, (viii) sales or other dispositions of assets for consideration at least equal to the fair market value of the assets sold or disposed of, to the extent that the consideration received would constitute Additional Assets or an Investment in a Permitted Joint Venture that in each case complies with Section 3.4 and (ix) sales of accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of “Qualified Receivables Transaction” to a Receivables Entity for the fair market value thereof, including cash in an amount at least equal to 75% of the book value thereof as determined in accordance with GAAP.

2

“Attributable Debt” in respect of a Sale/Leaseback Transaction means, as at the time of determination, the present value (discounted at the interest rate assumed in making calculations in accordance with FAS 13) of the total obligations of the lessee for rental payments during the remaining term of the lease included in such Sale/Leaseback Transaction (including any period for which such lease has been extended).

“Average Life” means, as of the date of determination, with respect to any Indebtedness or Preferred Stock, the quotient obtained by dividing (i) the sum of the products of the numbers of years from the date of determination to the dates of each successive scheduled principal payment of such Indebtedness or redemption or similar payment with respect to such Preferred Stock multiplied by the amount of such payment by (ii) the sum of all such payments.

“Board of Directors” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee thereof duly authorized to act on behalf of such Board of Directors with respect to the relevant matter.

“Board Resolution” means a copy of a resolution certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of a company to have been duly adopted by the Board of Directors of such company and to be in full force and effect on the date of such certification, and delivered to the Trustee.

“Borrowing Base” means, as of the date of determination, an amount equal to the sum, without duplication of (i) 75% of the net book value of the Company’s and its Restricted Subsidiaries’ accounts receivable at such date and (ii) 75% of the net book value of the Company’s and its Restricted Subsidiaries’ inventories at such date. Net book value shall be determined in accordance with GAAP and shall be that reflected on the most recent available balance sheet (it being understood that the accounts receivable and inventories of an acquired business may be included if such acquisition has been completed on or prior to the date of determination).

“Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banking institutions are authorized or required by law to close in New York City or Atlanta, Georgia.

“Capital Stock” of any Person means (i) with respect to any Person that is a corporation, any and all shares, interests, rights to purchase, warrants, options, participations or other equivalents of or interests in (however designated) equity of such Person, including any Common Stock or Preferred Stock, and (ii) with respect to any Person that is not a corporation, any and all partnership or other equity interests of such Person but in each case excluding any debt securities convertible into such equity.

“Capitalized Lease Obligations” means an obligation that is required to be classified and accounted for as a capitalized lease for financial reporting purposes in accordance with GAAP, and the amount of Indebtedness represented by such obligation shall be the capitalized amount of such obligation determined in accordance with GAAP, and the Stated

3

Maturity thereof shall be the date of the last payment of rent or any other amount due under such lease.

“Cash Equivalents” means (i) securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the United States government or any agency or instrumentality thereof, (ii) certificates of deposit, time deposits and eurodollar time deposits with maturities of one year or less from the date of acquisition, bankers’ acceptances with maturities not exceeding one year and overnight bank deposits, in each case with any commercial bank having capital and surplus in excess of $500.0 million and the commercial paper of the holding company of which is rated at least “A-1” or the equivalent thereof by S&P or “P-1” or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s, (iii) repurchase obligations for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (i) and (ii) entered into with any financial institution meeting the qualifications specified in clause (ii) above, (iv) commercial paper rated “A-1” or the equivalent thereof by S&P or “P-1” or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s and in each case maturing within one year after the date of acquisition thereof, (v) investment funds investing 95% of their assets in securities of the type described in clauses (i)-(iv) above.

“Change of Control” means the occurrence of any of the following events:

(i) any sale, transfer or other conveyance, whether direct or indirect, of all or substantially all of the fair market value of the assets of the Company on a consolidated basis, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, to any Person or Persons other than the Company or one or more of its Restricted Subsidiaries;

(ii) any “person” or “group” (as such terms are used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act), other than one or more Permitted Holders, is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, except that a Person shall be deemed to have “beneficial ownership” of all shares that any such Person has the right to acquire within one year), directly or indirectly, of more than 50% of the Voting Stock of the Company (or its successor by merger, consolidation or purchase of all or substantially all of its assets);

(iii) during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors (together with any new directors whose election by such Board of Directors or whose nomination for election by the shareholders of the Company was approved by a vote of a majority of the directors of the Company then still in office who were either directors at the beginning of such period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors then in office; or

(iv) the adoption of a plan relating to the liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

“Clearstream” means Clearstream Banking, société anonyme, or any successor securities clearing agency.

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“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

“Common Stock” means with respect to any Person, any and all shares, interest or other participations in, and other equivalents (however designated and whether voting or nonvoting) of such Person’s common stock whether or not outstanding on the Issue Date, and includes, without limitation, all series and classes of such common stock.

“Company” means Smithfield Foods, Inc. until a successor replaces it and, thereafter, means such successor.

“Consolidated Coverage Ratio” as of any date of determination means the ratio of (i) the aggregate amount of EBITDA of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for the period of the most recent four consecutive fiscal quarters ending prior to the date of such determination for which consolidated financial statements of the Company are available to (ii) Consolidated Interest Expense of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such four consecutive fiscal quarters; provided, however, that (1) if the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary has Incurred any Indebtedness since the beginning of such period that remains outstanding on such date of determination or if the transaction giving rise to the need to calculate the Consolidated Coverage Ratio is an Incurrence of Indebtedness, EBITDA and Consolidated Interest Expense for such period shall be calculated after giving effect on a pro forma basis to such Indebtedness as if such Indebtedness had been Incurred on the first day of such period and the discharge of any other Indebtedness repaid, repurchased, defeased or otherwise discharged with the proceeds of such new Indebtedness as if such discharge had occurred on the first day of such period, (2) if since the beginning of such period the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary shall have made any Asset Disposition, the EBITDA for such period shall be reduced by an amount equal to the EBITDA (if positive) directly attributable to the assets that are the subject of such Asset Disposition for such period or increased by an amount equal to the EBITDA (if negative) directly attributable thereto for such period and Consolidated Interest Expense for such period shall be reduced by an amount equal to the Consolidated Interest Expense directly attributable to any Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary repaid, repurchased, defeased or otherwise discharged (to the extent the related commitment is permanently reduced) with respect to the Company and its continuing Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with such Asset Disposition for such period (or, if the Capital Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary is sold, the Consolidated Interest Expense for such period directly attributable to the Indebtedness of such Restricted Subsidiary to the extent the Company and its continuing Restricted Subsidiaries are no longer liable for such Indebtedness after such sale), (3) if since the beginning of such period the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary (by merger or otherwise) shall have made an Investment in any Restricted Subsidiary (or any Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary) or an acquisition of assets, including any Investment in a Restricted Subsidiary or any acquisition of assets occurring in connection with a transaction causing a calculation to be made hereunder, which constitutes all or substantially all of an operating unit of a business, EBITDA and Consolidated Interest Expense for such period shall be calculated after giving pro forma effect thereto (including the Incurrence of any Indebtedness and including the pro forma expenses and cost reductions calculated on a basis consistent with Regulation S-X of the Securities Act) as if such Investment or acquisition occurred on the first day of such period

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and without regard to clause (ii) of the definition of Consolidated Net Income and (4) if since the beginning of such period any Person (that subsequently became a Restricted Subsidiary or was merged with or into the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary since the beginning of such period) shall have made any Asset Disposition or any Investment or acquisition of assets that would have required an adjustment pursuant to clause (2) or (3) above if made by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary during such period, EBITDA and Consolidated Interest Expense for such period shall be calculated after giving pro forma effect thereto as if such Asset Disposition, Investment or acquisition of assets occurred on the first day of such period. For purposes of this definition, whenever pro forma effect is to be given to a transaction, the pro forma calculations shall be determined in good faith by a responsible financial or accounting Officer of the Company. If any Indebtedness bears a floating rate of interest and is being given pro forma effect, the interest expense on such Indebtedness shall be calculated as if the rate in effect on the date of determination had been the applicable rate for the entire period (taking into account any Interest Rate Agreement applicable to such Indebtedness if such Interest Rate Agreement has a remaining term as at the date of determination in excess of 12 months).

“Consolidated Interest Expense” means, for any period, the total consolidated cash and non-cash interest expense (excluding capitalized interest) of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, determined in accordance with GAAP, plus, to the extent incurred by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries in such period but not included in such interest expense, (i) interest expense attributable to Capitalized Lease Obligations and imputed interest with respect to Attributable Debt, (ii) amortization of debt discount and debt issuance cost (other than those debt discounts and debt issuance costs incurred with respect to the 2003 Senior Notes, the 2001 Senior Notes, the 1998 Notes and on the Issue Date), (iii) capitalized interest, (iv) non-cash interest expense, (v) commissions, discounts and other fees and charges attributable to letters of credit and bankers’ acceptance financing, (vi) interest actually paid by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary under any Guarantee of Indebtedness or other obligation of any other Person, (vii) net costs associated with Hedging Obligations (or minus net gains associated with Hedging Obligations), (viii) the product of (A) Preferred Stock dividends in respect of all Preferred Stock of Restricted Subsidiaries and Disqualified Stock of the Company held by Persons other than the Company or a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is one and the denominator of which is one minus the then current combined federal, state and local statutory tax rate of the Company, expressed as a decimal, in each case, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP; and (ix) the cash contributions to any employee stock ownership plan or similar trust to the extent such contributions are used by such plan or trust to pay interest or fees to any Person (other than the Company) in connection with Indebtedness Incurred by such plan or trust. For purposes of the foregoing, gross interest expense shall be determined after giving effect to any net payments made or received by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries with respect to Interest Rate Agreements.

“Consolidated Net Income” means, for any period, without duplication, the consolidated net income (loss) of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided, however, that there shall not be included in such Consolidated Net Income: (i) any net income (loss) of any Person if such Person is not a Restricted Subsidiary, except that (A) subject to the

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limitations contained in clauses (iii) through (vi) below, the Company’s equity in the net income of any such Person for such period shall be included in such Consolidated Net Income up to the aggregate amount of cash actually distributed by such Person during such period to the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary as a dividend or other distribution (subject, in the case of a dividend or other distribution to a Restricted Subsidiary, to the limitations contained in clause (ii) below) and (B) the Company’s equity in a net loss of any such Person for such period shall be included in determining such Consolidated Net Income, (ii) any net income (loss) of any Restricted Subsidiary if such Restricted Subsidiary is subject to restrictions, directly or indirectly, on the payment of dividends or the making of distributions by such Restricted Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, to the Company, except that (A) subject to the limitations contained in clauses (iii) through (vi) below, the Company’s equity in the net income of any such Restricted Subsidiary for such period shall be included in such Consolidated Net Income up to the aggregate amount of cash distributed by such Restricted Subsidiary during such period to the Company or another Restricted Subsidiary as a dividend (subject, in the case of a dividend that could have been made to another Restricted Subsidiary, to the limitation contained in this clause) and (B) the Company’s equity in a net loss of any such Person for such period shall be included in determining such Consolidated Net Income, (iii) any gain or loss realized upon the sale or other disposition of any asset of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries (including pursuant to any Sale/Leaseback Transaction) that is not sold or otherwise disposed of in the ordinary course of business and any gain (but not loss) realized upon the sale or other disposition of any Capital Stock of any Person, provided that this clause (iii) shall not be applicable with respect to calculating the amount of Consolidated Net Income in clause (3)(B) of Section 3.4(a), (iv) any extraordinary gain or loss, (v) the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles and (vi) for purposes of clause (3)(B) of Section 3.4(a), amounts otherwise included in Consolidated Net Income that have the effect of reducing the aggregate amount of Investments under clause (viii) of the definition of Permitted Investments.

“Currency Agreement” means in respect of a Person any foreign exchange contract, currency swap agreement or other similar agreement as to which such Person is a party or a beneficiary.

“Default” means any event or condition that is, or after notice or passage of time or both would be, an Event of Default.

“Defaulted Interest” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.13.

“Definitive Securities” means certificated securities.

“Depositary” means The Depository Trust Company, its nominees and their respective successors and assigns, or such other depository institution hereinafter appointed by the Company.

“Disqualified Stock” means, with respect to any Person, any Capital Stock of such Person that by its terms (or by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is exchangeable or exercisable) or upon the happening of any event (i) matures or is

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mandatorily redeemable pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, (ii) is convertible or exchangeable for Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or (iii) is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part, in each case on or prior to 123 days after the Stated Maturity of the Securities; provided, that any Capital Stock that would not constitute Disqualified Stock but for provisions thereof giving holders thereof the right to require such Person to repurchase or redeem such Capital Stock upon the occurrence of an “asset sale” or “change of control” occurring prior to the Stated Maturity of the Securities shall not constitute Disqualified Stock if the “asset sale” or “change of control” provisions applicable to such Capital Stock are no more favorable to the holders of such Capital Stock than the provisions contained in Sections 3.7 and 3.9 of this Indenture and such Capital Stock specifically provides that such Person will not repurchase or redeem any such stock pursuant to such provision prior to the Company’s repurchase of such Securities as are required to be repurchased pursuant to Sections 3.7 and 3.9 of this Indenture.

“EBITDA” means, for any period, the Consolidated Net Income for such period, plus, without duplication and to the extent deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income, (i) income tax expense, (ii) Consolidated Interest Expense, (iii) depreciation expense, (iv) amortization of intangibles and impairment charges recorded in connection with the application of Financial Accounting Standard No. 142 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles,” and (v) other non-cash charges or non-cash losses (other than non-cash charges to the extent they represent an accrual of or reserve for cash charges in any future period or amortization of a prepaid expense that was paid in a prior period), less, without duplication, non-cash items increasing Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period (excluding any items which represent the reversal of any accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges in any prior period); provided, that if any Restricted Subsidiary is not directly or indirectly owned 100% by the Company, EBITDA shall be reduced (to the extent not otherwise reduced in accordance with GAAP) by an amount equal to (A) the amount of the EBITDA attributable to such Restricted Subsidiary multiplied by (B) the quotient of (1) the number of shares of outstanding common Equity Interests of such Restricted Subsidiary not owned directly or indirectly by the Company on the last day of such period by the Company divided by (2) the total number of shares of outstanding common Equity Interests of such Restricted Subsidiary on the last day of such period.

“Equity Interests” means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

“Euroclear” means Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. or any successor securities clearing agency.

“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

“Exchange Offer” shall have the meaning set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement.

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“Fiscal Year” means the fiscal year of the Company ending on the Sunday closest to April 30 of each year or such other fiscal year as may be determined by the Company and the Board of Directors and of which the Trustee shall receive written notice pursuant to Section 3.22 hereof.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America as in effect on the Issue Date, including those set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession. All ratios and computations based on GAAP contained in this Indenture shall be computed in conformity with GAAP.

“Guarantee” means any obligation, contingent or otherwise, of any Person directly or indirectly guaranteeing any Indebtedness or other nonfinancial obligation of any other Person and any obligation, direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, of such Person (i) to purchase or pay (or advance or supply funds for the purchase or payment of) such Indebtedness or such other obligation of such other Person (whether arising by virtue of partnership arrangements, or by agreement to keep-well, to purchase assets, goods, securities or services, to take-or-pay, or to maintain financial statement conditions or otherwise) or (ii) entered into for purposes of assuring in any other manner the obligee of such Indebtedness or other obligation of the payment thereof or to protect such obligee against loss in respect thereof (in whole or in part); provided, however, that the term “Guarantee” shall not include endorsements for collection or deposit in the ordinary course of business. The term “Guarantee” used as a verb has a corresponding meaning.

“Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness” means, with respect to a Subsidiary Guarantor, any Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor (whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter Incurred) which is expressly subordinate in right of payment to the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee pursuant to a written agreement.

“Hedging Obligations” of any Person means the obligations of such Person pursuant to any Interest Rate Agreement or Currency Agreement.

“Holder” or “Securityholder” means the Person in whose name a Security is registered in the Note Register.

“Incur” means issue, assume, Guarantee, incur or otherwise become liable for; provided, however, that any Indebtedness or Capital Stock of a Person existing at the time such Person becomes a Subsidiary (whether by merger, consolidation, acquisition or otherwise) shall be deemed to be Incurred by such Subsidiary at the time it becomes a Subsidiary. Any Indebtedness issued at a discount (including Indebtedness on which interest is payable through the issuance of additional Indebtedness) shall be deemed Incurred at the time of original issuance of the Indebtedness at the initial accreted amount thereof.

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“Indebtedness” means, with respect to any Person on any date of determination (without duplication): (i) the principal of and premium (if any) in respect of indebtedness of such Person for borrowed money, (ii) the principal of and premium (if any) in respect of obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments, (iii) all obligations of such Person in respect of letters of credit or other similar instruments (including reimbursement obligations with respect thereto) (other than obligations with respect to letters of credit securing obligations (other than obligations described in clauses (i), (ii) and (v)) entered into in the ordinary course of business of such Person to the extent that such letters of credit are not drawn upon or, if and to the extent drawn upon, such drawing is reimbursed no later than the third Business Day following receipt by such Person of a demand for reimbursement following payment on the letter of credit), (iv) all obligations of such Person to pay the deferred and unpaid purchase price of property or services (except Trade Payables), which purchase price is due more than six months after the date of placing such property in final service or taking final delivery and title thereto or the completion of such services, (v) all Capitalized Lease Obligations and Attributable Debt of such Person, (vi) the redemption, repayment or other repurchase amount of such Person with respect to any Disqualified Stock or, with respect to any Subsidiary of the Company, any Preferred Stock (but excluding, in each case, any accrued dividends), (vii) all Indebtedness of other Persons secured by a Lien on any asset of such Person, whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person; provided, however, that the amount of Indebtedness of such Person shall be the lesser of (A) the fair market value of such asset at such date of determination and (B) the amount of such Indebtedness of such other Persons, (viii) all Indebtedness of other Persons to the extent Guaranteed by such Person and (ix) to the extent not otherwise included in this definition, net Hedging Obligations of such Person (such obligations to be equal at any time to the termination value of such agreement or arrangement giving rise to such Hedging Obligation that would be payable by such Person at such time).

“Indenture” means this Indenture as amended or supplemented from time to time.

“Interest Rate Agreement” means with respect to any Person any interest rate protection agreement, interest rate future agreement, interest rate option agreement, interest rate swap agreement, interest rate cap agreement, interest rate collar agreement, interest rate hedge agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement as to which such Person is party or a beneficiary.

“Investment” in any Person means any direct or indirect advance, loan (other than advances to customers in the ordinary course of business that are, in conformity with GAAP, recorded as accounts receivable on the balance sheet of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries) or other extension of credit (including by way of Guarantee or similar arrangement) or capital contribution to (by means of any transfer of cash or other property to others or any payment for property or services for the account or use of others), or any purchase or acquisition of Capital Stock, Indebtedness or other similar instruments issued by such Person. For purposes of the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary” and Section 3.4, (i) “Investment” shall include the portion (proportionate to the Company’s equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of any Subsidiary of the Company at the time that such Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon a redesignation of such

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Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, the Company shall be deemed to continue to have a permanent “Investment” in an Unrestricted Subsidiary in an amount (if positive) equal to (x) the Company’s “Investment” in such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation less (y) the portion (proportionate to the Company’s equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation; and (ii) any property transferred to or from an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its fair market value at the time of such transfer, in each case as determined in good faith either by the Board of Directors or Senior Management.

“Investment Grade Status,” with respect to the Company, shall occur when the Securities receive a rating of “BBB-”or higher from S&P and a rating of “Baa3” or higher from Moody’s.

“Issue Date” means August 4, 2004.

“Legal Holiday” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 10.8.

“Lien” means any mortgage, pledge, security interest, encumbrance, lien or charge of any kind (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement or lease in the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to sell, or any filing of, or any agreement to give any security interest).

“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., and its successors.

“Net Available Cash” from an Asset Disposition means cash payments received (including any cash payments received by way of deferred payment of principal pursuant to a note or installment receivable or otherwise, but only as and when received, but excluding any other consideration received in the form of assumption by the acquiring Person of Indebtedness or other obligations relating to the properties or assets that are the subject of such Asset Disposition or received in any other non-cash form) therefrom, in each case net of (i) all legal, title and recording tax expenses, commissions and other fees and expenses incurred (including fees and expenses of counsel, accountants and investment bankers), and all Federal, state, provincial, foreign and local taxes required to be paid or accrued as a liability under GAAP, as a consequence of such Asset Disposition, (ii) all payments made on any Indebtedness that is secured by any assets subject to such Asset Disposition, in accordance with the terms of any Lien upon such assets, or that must by its terms, or in order to obtain a necessary consent to such Asset Disposition, or by applicable law, be repaid out of the proceeds from such Asset Disposition, (iii) all distributions and other payments required to be made to minority interest holders in Subsidiaries or joint ventures as a result of such Asset Disposition, (iv) appropriate amounts to be provided by the seller as a reserve, in accordance with GAAP, against any liabilities associated with the assets disposed of in such Asset Disposition and retained by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary after such Asset Disposition and (v) any portion of the purchase price from an Asset Disposition placed in escrow (whether as a reserve for adjustment of the purchase price, or for satisfaction of indemnities in respect of such Asset Disposition);

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provided, however, that upon the termination of such escrow, Net Available Cash shall be increased by any portion of funds therein released to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary.

“Net Cash Proceeds” means, with respect to any issuance or sale of Capital Stock or Indebtedness, the cash proceeds of such issuance or sale net of attorneys’ fees, accountants’ fees, underwriters’ or placement agents’ fees, discounts or commissions and brokerage, consultant and other fees actually incurred in connection with such issuance or sale and net of taxes paid or payable as a result thereof.

“Non-Recourse Indebtedness” means Indebtedness (i) as to which neither the Company nor any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (a) provides credit support pursuant to any undertaking, agreement or instrument that would constitute Indebtedness or (b) is directly or indirectly liable and (ii) no default with respect to which would permit (upon notice, lapse of time or both) any holder of any other Indebtedness of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to declare a default on such Indebtedness or cause the payment thereof to be accelerated or payable prior to its Stated Maturity.

“Note Register” means the register of Securities, maintained by the Trustee, pursuant to Section 2.3.

“Officer” means any one of the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, any Vice President, the Treasurer, the Secretary or the Controller of the Company.

“Officers’ Certificate” means a certificate signed by two or more Officers; provided, however, that an Officers’ Certificate given pursuant to Section 3.22 shall be signed by any one of the principal executive officer, principal financial officer or principal accounting officer of the Company.

“Opinion of Counsel” means a written opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the Trustee. The counsel may be an employee of or counsel to the Company or the Trustee.

“Pari Passu Indebtedness” means Indebtedness that ranks equally in right of payment to the Securities.

“Permitted Employee Payments” means Restricted Payments by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in respect of (i) the repurchase of Capital Stock by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary from an employee of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary or their assigns, estates or heirs upon the death, retirement or termination of such employee or (ii) loans or advances to employees of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries made in the ordinary course of business.

“Permitted Holders” means Joseph W. Luter, III or any Person the majority of the equity interests of which is beneficially owned by Joseph W. Luter, III.

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“Permitted Investment” means an Investment by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in (i) a Restricted Subsidiary, the Company or a Person that will, upon the making of such Investment, become a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the primary business of such Restricted Subsidiary is a Related Business, (ii) another Person if as a result of such Investment such other Person is merged or consolidated with or into, or transfers or conveys all or substantially all its assets to, the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the primary business of such Person is a Related Business, (iii) Temporary Cash Investments, (iv) receivables owing to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, if created or acquired in the ordinary course of business and payable or dischargeable in accordance with customary trade terms; provided, however, that such trade terms may include such concessionary trade terms as the Company or any such Restricted Subsidiary deems reasonable under the circumstances, (v) securities received as consideration in Asset Dispositions made in compliance with Section 3.7 with the exception of securities received as consideration for Asset Dispositions of any property, plant, equipment or other facility closed and designated in accordance with clause (a)(ii) of Section 3.7, (vi) Investments in existence on the Issue Date (but not in excess of the amount of such Investments in existence on the Issue Date without giving effect to increases or decreases attributable to accounting for the net income of such Investments or subsequent changes in value), (vii) any Investment by the Company or a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary in a Receivables Entity or any Investment by a Receivables Entity in any other Person in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction; provided that any Investment in a Receivables Entity is in the form of a Purchase Money Note or an Equity Interest and (viii) additional Investments in a Related Business since the Issue Date having an aggregate fair market value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (viii) since the Issue Date that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed 15% of Total Assets at the time of such Investment (with the fair market value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value).

“Permitted Liens” means, with respect to any Person:

(1) Liens securing Indebtedness and other obligations of the Company under the Revolving Credit Facility and related Interest Rate Agreements and liens on assets of Restricted Subsidiaries securing Guarantees of Indebtedness and other obligations of the Company under the Revolving Credit Facility permitted to be incurred under this Indenture in an aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed the greater of (x) $900.0 million and (y) the Borrowing Base;

(2) pledges or deposits by such Person under workmen’s compensation laws, unemployment insurance laws or similar legislation, or good faith deposits in connection with bids, tenders, contracts (other than for the payment of Indebtedness) or leases to which such Person is a party, or deposits to secure public or statutory obligations of such Person or deposits or cash or United States government bonds to secure surety or appeal bonds to which such Person is a party, or deposits as security for contested taxes or import or customs duties or for the payment of rent, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business;

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(3) Liens imposed by law, including carriers’, warehousemen’s and mechanics’ Liens, in each case for sums not yet due or being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings if a reserve or other appropriate provisions, if any, as shall be required by GAAP shall have been made in respect thereof;

(4) Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges not yet subject to penalties for non-payment or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings provided appropriate reserves required pursuant to GAAP have been made in respect thereof;

(5) Liens in favor of issuers of surety or performance bonds or letters of credit or bankers’ acceptances issued pursuant to the request of and for the account of such Person in the ordinary course of its business; provided, however, that such letters of credit do not constitute Indebtedness;

(6) encumbrances, easements or reservations of, or rights of others for, licenses, rights of way, sewers, electric lines, telegraph and telephone lines and other similar purposes, or zoning or other restrictions as to the use of real properties or liens incidental to the conduct of the business of such Person or to the ownership of its properties which do not in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of said properties or materially impair their use in the operation of the business of such Person;

(7) Liens securing Hedging Obligations so long as the related Indebtedness is, and is permitted to be under the Indenture, secured by a Lien on the same property securing such Hedging Obligation;

(8) leases and subleases of real property which do not materially interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries;

(9) judgment Liens not giving rise to an Event of Default so long as such Lien is adequately bonded and any appropriate legal proceedings which may have been duly initiated for the review of such judgment have not been finally terminated or the period within which such proceedings may be initiated has not expired;

(10) Liens for the purpose of securing the payment of all or a part of the purchase price of, or Capitalized Lease Obligations with respect to, assets or property acquired or constructed in the ordinary course of business, provided that:

(a) the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness secured by such Liens is otherwise permitted to be Incurred under the Indenture and does not exceed the cost of the assets or property so acquired or constructed; and

(b) such Liens are created within 180 days of construction or acquisition of such assets or property and do not encumber any other assets or property of the

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Company or any Restricted Subsidiary other than such assets or property and assets affixed or appurtenant thereto;

(11) Liens arising solely by virtue of any statutory or common law provisions relating to banker’s Liens, rights of set-off or similar rights and remedies as to deposit accounts or other funds maintained with a depositary institution; provided that:

(a) such deposit account is not a dedicated cash collateral account and is not subject to restrictions against access by the Company in excess of those set forth by regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board; and

(b) such deposit account is not intended by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary to provide collateral to the depository institution;

(12) Liens arising from Uniform Commercial Code financing statement filings regarding operating leases entered into by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business;

(13) Liens existing on the Issue Date (excluding Liens permitted under clause (1));

(14) Liens on property or shares of stock of a Person at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that such Liens are not created, incurred or assumed in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary; provided further, however, that any such Lien may not extend to any other property owned by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary;

(15) Liens on property at the time the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary acquired the property, including any acquisition by means of a merger or consolidation with or into the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that such Liens are not created, incurred or assumed in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition; provided further, however, that such Liens may not extend to any other property owned by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary;

(16) Liens securing Indebtedness or other obligations of a Restricted Subsidiary owing to the Company or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary (other than a Receivables Entity);

(17) Liens securing the Securities and Subsidiary Guarantees;

(18) Liens securing Indebtedness incurred after the Issue Date and any Refinancing Indebtedness relating thereto (excluding any Liens securing any other Indebtedness Incurred after the Issue Date permitted under other clauses hereof) in an aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed 15% of Total Assets;

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(19) Liens securing Refinancing Indebtedness (other than Liens Incurred under clauses (1) and (18) above) incurred to refinance Indebtedness that was previously so secured, provided that any such Lien is limited to all or part of the same property or assets (plus improvements, accessions, proceeds or dividends or distributions in respect thereof) that secured (or, under the written arrangements under which the original Lien arose, could secure) the Indebtedness being refinanced or is in respect of property that is the security for a Permitted Lien hereunder; and

(20) Liens on assets transferred to a Receivables Entity or on assets of a Receivables Entity, in either case incurred in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction.

“Permitted Joint Venture” means any Person in which the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary owns, directly or indirectly, an ownership interest (other than a Subsidiary) and whose primary business is related, ancillary or complementary to any of the businesses of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries at the time of determination.

“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, government or any agency or political subdivision thereof or any other entity.

“Preferred Stock”, as applied to the Capital Stock of any corporation, means Capital Stock of any class or classes (however designated) that is preferred as to the payment of dividends, or as to the distribution of assets upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation or dissolution of such corporation, over shares of Capital Stock of any other class of such corporation.

“Public Equity Offering” means a public offering for cash by the Company of its Common Stock, or options, warrants or rights with respect to its Common Stock made pursuant to a registration statement that has been declared effective by the SEC, other than public offerings with respect to the Company’s Common Stock, or options, warrants or rights, registered on Form S-4 or S-8.

“Purchase Money Note” means a promissory note of a Receivables Entity evidencing a line of credit, which may be irrevocable, from the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction to a Receivables Entity, which note shall be repaid from cash available to the Receivables Entity, other than amounts required to be established as reserves pursuant to agreements, amounts paid to investors in respect of interest, principal and other amounts owing to such investors and amounts owing to such investors and amounts paid in connection with the purchase of newly generated receivables.

“QIB” means any “qualified institutional buyer” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act).

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“Qualified Receivables Transaction” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries pursuant to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries may sell, convey or otherwise transfer to (a) a Receivables Entity (in the case of a transfer by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries) and (b) any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a Receivables Entity), or may grant a security interest in, any accounts receivable (whether now existing or arising in the future) of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation, all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable, proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets which are customarily transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts receivable.

“Qualified Stock” means any Capital Stock that is not Disqualified Stock.

“Receivables Entity” means a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of the Company (or another Person in which the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company makes an Investment and to which the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company transfers accounts receivable and related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable and which is designated by the Board of Directors of the Company (as provided below) as a Receivables Entity, (a) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of, and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings or (iii) subjects any property or asset of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, (b) with which neither the Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding (except in connection with a Purchase Money Note or Qualified Receivables Transaction) other than on terms no less favorable to the Company or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of the Company, other than fees payable in the ordinary course of business in connection with servicing accounts receivable, and (c) to which neither the Company nor any Subsidiary of the Company has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results. Any such designation by the Board of Directors of the Company shall be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the Trustee a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of the Company giving effect to such designation and an Officers’ Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.

“Recourse Indebtedness” means Indebtedness that is not Non-Recourse Indebtedness.

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“Refinancing Indebtedness” means Indebtedness that is Incurred to refund, refinance, replace, renew, repay or extend (including pursuant to any defeasance or discharge mechanism) (collectively, “refinances”, and “refinanced” shall have a correlative meaning) any Indebtedness existing on the Issue Date or Incurred in compliance with the Indenture (including Indebtedness of the Company that refinances Indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary (to the extent permitted by the Indenture) and Indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness of another Restricted Subsidiary (except that a Subsidiary Guarantor shall not refinance Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Guarantor)) including Indebtedness that refinances Refinancing Indebtedness; provided, however, that (i) the Refinancing Indebtedness has a Stated Maturity no earlier than the Stated Maturity of the Indebtedness being refinanced, (ii) the Refinancing Indebtedness has an Average Life at the time such Refinancing Indebtedness is Incurred that is equal to or greater than the Average Life of the Indebtedness being refinanced, (iii) such Refinancing Indebtedness is Incurred in an aggregate principal amount (or if issued with original issue discount, an aggregate issue price) that is equal to or less than the aggregate principal amount (or if issued with original issue discount, the aggregate accreted value) then outstanding of the Indebtedness being refinanced, plus fees, underwriting discounts, premiums, unpaid accrued interest and other costs and expenses incurred in connection with such Refinancing Indebtedness and (iv) if the Indebtedness being refinanced is subordinated in right of payment to the Securities or a Subsidiary Guarantee, such Refinancing Indebtedness is subordinated in right of payment to the Securities or the Subsidiary Guarantee on terms at least as favorable to the holders of Securities as those contained in the documentation governing the Indebtedness being extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, defeased or refunded; provided further, however, that Refinancing Indebtedness shall not include (x) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness of the Company or (y) Indebtedness of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness of an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

“Registration Rights Agreement” means the Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 4, 2004, among the Company, J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co., Rabo Securities USA, Inc., Sun Trust Capital Markets, Inc., BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Harris Nesbitt Corp. and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, and with respect to any Additional Notes, one or more substantially similar registration rights agreements between the Company and the other parties thereto, as such agreement(s) may be amended, from time to time.

“Related Business” means any business which is the same as or related, complementary or ancillary to any of the businesses of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries on the Issue Date.

“Restricted Investment” means any Investment other than a Permitted Investment.

“Restricted Period” means, in relation to the Initial Notes, the 40 consecutive days beginning on and including the later of (A) the day on which the Initial Notes are offered to persons other than distributors (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) and (B) the Issue Date and, in relation to any Additional Notes that are Restricted Securities, it means the comparable period of 40 consecutive days.

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“Restricted Security” means a Security that constitutes a “restricted security” within the meaning of Rule 144(a)(3) under the Securities Act; provided, however, that the Trustee shall be entitled to request and conclusively rely on an opinion of counsel with respect to whether any Security constitutes a Restricted Security.

“Restricted Securities Legend” means the Private Placement Legend set forth in clause (A) of Section 2.1(d) or the Regulation S Legend set forth in clause (B) of Section 2.1(d), as applicable.

“Restricted Subsidiary” means any Subsidiary of the Company other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

“Revolving Credit Facility” means the Multi-Year Credit Agreement dated as of December 6, 2001 among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as Administrative Agent, as amended on June 6, 2002, November 13, 2002, April 4, 2003, September 29, 2003 and February 12, 2004 and as it may be amended, supplemented or modified from time to time and any renewal, increase, extension, refunding, restructuring, replacement or refinancing thereof (whether with the original administrative agent and lenders or another administrative agent or agents or one or more other lenders and whether provided under the original Revolving Credit Facility or one or more other credit or other agreements or indentures). The Multi-Year Credit Agreement dated as of December 6, 2001 replaced the Second Amended and Restated Multi-Year Credit Agreement dated as of December 3, 1999 among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as Administrative Agent.

“Sale/Leaseback Transaction” means any direct or indirect arrangement relating to property now owned or hereafter acquired by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary whereby the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary transfers such property to a Person and the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary leases it from such Person, other than leases between the Company and a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary or between Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries.

“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Secured Indebtedness” means any Indebtedness of the Company secured by a Lien.

“Securities” means the Securities issued under this Indenture.

“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

“Securities Custodian” means the custodian with respect to the Global Security (as appointed by the Depositary), or any successor Person thereto and shall initially be the Trustee.

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“Senior Management” means with respect to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, as the case may be, any one of the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President and the Chief Operating Officer or any combination of the foregoing.

“Senior Secured Notes” means collectively, the 8.41% Series B Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2006, the 8.34% Series C Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2003, the 9.80% Series D Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2003, the 10.75% Series E Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2005, the 8.52% Series F Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2006, the 9.85% Series G Senior Secured Notes Due November 1, 2006 and the 8.41% Series H Senior Secured Notes Due August 1, 2004, each issued pursuant to the Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1999, among the Company and each of the several purchasers named therein, as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the 7.89% Series I Senior Secured Notes due October 1, 2009, the Variable Rate Series J Senior Secured Notes due October 1, 2009, the 8.44% Series K Senior Secured Notes due October 1, 2009, the LIBOR Rate Series L Senior Secured Notes due October 1, 2009, each issued pursuant to the Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 27, 1999, among the Company and each of the several purchasers named therein, as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the 8.25% Series M Senior Secured Notes due March 2, 2006 issued pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 2, 2000, among the Company and each of the several purchasers named therein, as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (but not increased) from time to time, and the Reset Rate Series O 5/10 Year Senior Secured Notes and the Adjustable Rate Series P 5/10 Year Senior Secured Notes due July 31, 2011, each issued pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2001, among the Company and each of the secured purchasers named therein, as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified (but not increased) from time to time.

“Shelf Registration Statement” shall have the meaning set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement.

“Significant Subsidiary” means any Restricted Subsidiary that is a “Significant Subsidiary” of the Company within the meaning of Rule 1-02 under Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC.

“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Service, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and its successors.

“Standard Securitization Undertakings” means representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities entered into by the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company which are reasonably customary in an accounts receivable transaction.

“Stated Maturity” means, with respect to any security, the date specified in such security as the fixed date on which the payment of principal of such security is due and payable, including pursuant to any mandatory redemption provision (but excluding any provision providing for the repurchase of such security at the option of the holder thereof upon the

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happening of any contingency beyond the control of the issuer, unless such contingency has occurred).

“Subordinated Indebtedness” means any Indebtedness of the Company (whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter Incurred) which is subordinate or junior in right of payment to the Securities pursuant to a written agreement including, in all respects, the 1998 Notes.

“Subsidiary” of any Person means any corporation, association, partnership or other business entity of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock or other interests (including partnership or joint venture interests) entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by (i) such Person or (ii) one or more Subsidiaries of such Person.

“Subsidiary Guarantee” means any Guarantee of the Securities that may from time to time be executed and delivered by a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to Section 3.12.

“Subsidiary Guarantor” means any Subsidiary that has issued a Subsidiary Guarantee.

“Successor Company” shall have the meaning assigned thereto in clause (i) of Section 4.1.

“Successor Guarantor” shall have the meaning assigned thereto in clause (i) of Section 4.2.

“Temporary Cash Investments” means any of the following: (i) any Investment in direct obligations (x) of the United States of America or any agency thereof or obligations Guaranteed by the United States of America or any agency thereof or (y) of any foreign country recognized by the United States of America rated at least “A” by S&P or “A-1” by Moody’s, (ii) Investments in time deposit accounts, certificates of deposit and money market deposits maturing within 180 days of the date of acquisition thereof issued by a bank or trust company that is organized under the laws of the United States of America, any state thereof or any foreign country recognized by the United States of America having capital and surplus aggregating in excess of $250.0 million (or the foreign currency equivalent thereof) and whose long-term debt is rated “A” by S&P or “A-1” by Moody’s, (iii) repurchase obligations with a term of not more than 30 days for underlying securities of the types described in clause (i) or (ii) above entered into with a bank meeting the qualifications described in clause (ii) above, (iv) Investments in commercial paper, maturing not more than 270 days after the date of acquisition, issued by a corporation (other than an Affiliate of the Company) organized and in existence under the laws of the United States of America or any foreign country recognized by the United States of America with a rating at the time as of which any Investment therein is made of “P-1” (or higher) according to Moody’s or “A-1” (or higher) according to S&P, (v) Investments in securities with maturities of six months or less from the date of acquisition issued or fully guaranteed by any

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state, commonwealth or territory of the United States of America, or by any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof, and rated at least “A” by S&P or “A” by Moody’s and (vi) any money market deposit accounts issued or offered by a domestic commercial bank or a commercial bank organized and located in a country recognized by the United States of America, in each case, having capital and surplus in excess of $250.0 million (or the foreign currency equivalent thereof), or investments in money market funds complying with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 (or any short-term successor rule) of the SEC, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

“TIA” or “Trust Indenture Act” means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb), as in effect from time to time.

“Total Assets” means, with respect to any Person, the total consolidated assets of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as shown on the recent balance sheet of such Person.

“Trade Payables” means, with respect to any Person, any accounts payable or any indebtedness or monetary obligation to trade creditors created, assumed or Guaranteed by such Person arising in the ordinary course of business in connection with the acquisition of goods or services.

“Trustee” means the party named as such in this Indenture until a successor replaces it and, thereafter, means such successor.

“Trust Officer” means the Chairman of the Board, the President or any other officer or assistant officer of the Trustee assigned by the Trustee to administer this Indenture.

“Uniform Commercial Code” means the New York Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time.

“Unrestricted Subsidiary” means (i) any Subsidiary of the Company that at the time of determination shall be designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary by the Board of Directors in the manner provided below and (ii) any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary. The Board of Directors may designate any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company (including any newly acquired or newly formed Subsidiary of the Company) to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless such Subsidiary owns any Capital Stock of, or owns or holds any Lien on any property of, the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary (except a Restricted Subsidiary which upon such designation becomes an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with this Indenture); provided that (i) such designation would be permitted under Section 3.4, (ii) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligation (contingent or otherwise) of such Subsidiary (A) is Guaranteed by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, (B) is Recourse Indebtedness or (C) subjects any property or asset of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, and (iii) no default or event of default with respect to any Indebtedness of such Subsidiary would permit any holder of any Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary to declare such Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary due and payable prior to its maturity. The Board of

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Directors may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided, that immediately after giving effect to such designation (x) the Company could Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness under Section 3.3(a) and (y) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing. Any such designation by the Board of Directors shall be evidenced to the Trustee by promptly filing with the Trustee a copy of the Board Resolution giving effect to such designation and an Officers’ Certificate that such designation complied with the foregoing provisions.

“U.S. Government Obligations” means direct obligations (or certificates representing an ownership interest in such obligations) of the United States of America (including any agency or instrumentality thereof) for the payment of which the full faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged and which are not callable or redeemable at the issuer’s option.

“Voting Stock” of an entity means all classes of Capital Stock of such entity then outstanding and normally entitled to vote in the election of directors or all interests in such entity with the ability to control the management or actions of such entity.

“Wholly-Owned Subsidiary” means a Restricted Subsidiary, 80% or more of the Capital Stock of which (other than directors’ qualifying shares) is owned directly or indirectly by the Company.

SECTION 1.2. Other Definitions.

Term	Defined in Section
“Additional Notes”	Recitals
“Additional Restricted Securities”	2.1(b)
“Affiliate Transaction”	3.8
“Agent Members”	2.1(e)
“Authenticating Agent”	2.2
“Bankruptcy Law”	6.1
“Change of Control Offer”	3.9(c)
“Company Order”	2.2
“Corporate Trust Office”	3.15
“covenant defeasance option”	8.1(b)
“Custodian”	6.1
“Definitive Securities”	2.1(f)
“Event of Default”	6.1
“Exchange Notes”	Recitals
“Excess Proceeds”	3.7(b)
“Global Securities”	2.1(b)
“IAI”	2.1(b)
“Initial Notes”	Recitals
“Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note”	2.1(b)
“Institutional Accredited Investor Notes”	2.1(b)

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“legal defeasance option”	8.1(b)
“Offer”	3.7(b)
“Offer Amount”	3.7(c)
“Offer Period”	3.7(c)
“Pari Passu Offer”	3.7(b)
“Paying Agent”	2.3
“Private Placement Legend”	2.1(d)
“Purchase Agreement”	2.1(b)
“Purchase Date”	3.7(c)
“Redemption Date”	5.1
“Registrar”	2.3
“Regulation S”	2.1(b)
“Regulation S Global Note”	2.1(b)
“Regulation S Legend”	2.1(d)
“Regulation S Notes”	2.1(b)
“Resale Restriction Termination Date”	2.6
“Restricted Payment”	3.4(a)
“Rule 144A Global Note”	2.1(b)
“Rule 144A Note”	2.1(b)
“Securities”	Recitals
“Series B Global Note”	2.1(b)
“Special Interest Payment Date”	2.13(a)
“Special Record Date”	2.13(a)

SECTION 1.3. Incorporation by Reference of Trust Indenture Act. This Indenture is subject to the mandatory provisions of the TIA which are incorporated by reference in and made a part of this Indenture. The following TIA terms have the following meanings:

“Commission” means the SEC.

“indenture securities” means the Securities.

“indenture security holder” means a Securityholder.

“indenture to be qualified” means this Indenture.

“indenture trustee” or “institutional trustee” means the Trustee.

“obligor” on the indenture securities means the Company and any other obligor on the indenture securities.

All other TIA terms used in this Indenture that are defined by the TIA, defined by the TIA reference to another statute or defined by SEC rule have the meanings assigned to them by such definitions.

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SECTION 1.4. Rules of Construction. Unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) a term has the meaning assigned to it;

(2) an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with GAAP;

(3) “or” is not exclusive;

(4) “including” means including without limitation;

(5) words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular;

(6) unsecured Indebtedness shall not be deemed to be subordinate or junior to Secured Indebtedness merely by virtue of its nature as unsecured Indebtedness;

(7) the principal amount of any noninterest bearing or other discount security at any date shall be the principal amount thereof that would be shown on a balance sheet of the issuer dated such date prepared in accordance with GAAP; and

(8) the principal amount of any Preferred Stock shall be (i) the maximum liquidation value of such Preferred Stock or (ii) the maximum mandatory redemption or mandatory repurchase price with respect to such Preferred Stock, whichever is greater.

ARTICLE II

The Securities

SECTION 2.1. Form, Dating and Terms. (a) The aggregate principal amount of Securities that may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture is unlimited. The Initial Notes issued on the date hereof will be in an aggregate principal amount of $400,000,000. In addition, the Company may issue, from time to time in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture, including, without limitation, Section 3.3(a) hereof, Additional Notes and Exchange Notes. Furthermore, Securities may be authenticated and delivered upon registration or transfer, or in lieu of, other Securities pursuant to Section 2.6, 2.9, 2.11 or 9.5 or in connection with an Offer pursuant to Section 3.7 or a Change of Control Offer pursuant to Section 3.9.

The Initial Notes shall be known and designated as “7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011” of the Company. Additional Notes issued as Restricted Securities shall be known and designated as “7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011” of the Company. Additional Notes issued other than as Restricted Securities shall be known and designated as “7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011” of the Company, and Exchange Notes shall be known and designated as “7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011” of the Company.

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With respect to any Additional Notes, the Company shall set forth in (a) a Board Resolution and (b)(i) an Officers’ Certificate or (ii) one or more indentures supplemental hereto, the following information:

(i) the aggregate principal amount of such Additional Notes to be authenticated and delivered pursuant to this Indenture;

(ii) the issue price and the issue date of such Additional Notes; and

(iii) whether such Additional Notes shall be Restricted Securities issued in the form of Exhibit A hereto and/or shall be issued in the form of Exhibit B hereto.

The Initial Notes, the Additional Notes and the Exchange Notes shall be considered collectively as a single class for all purposes of this Indenture. Holders of the Initial Notes, the Additional Notes and the Exchange Notes will vote and consent together on all matters to which such Holders are entitled to vote or consent as one class, and none of the Holders of the Initial Notes, the Additional Notes or the Exchange Notes shall have the right to vote or consent as a separate class on any matter to which such Holders are entitled to vote or consent.

(b) The Initial Notes are being offered and sold by the Company pursuant to a Purchase Agreement, dated July 28, 2004, among the Company, J.P. Morgan Securities Inc.; Goldman, Sachs & Co., Rabo Securities USA, Inc., Sun Trust Capital Markets, Inc., BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Harris Nesbitt Corp. and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC (the “Purchase Agreement”). The Initial Notes and any Additional Notes (if issued as Restricted Securities) (“Additional Restricted Securities”) will be resold initially only to (A) QIBs and (B) Persons other than U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulations S under the Securities Act (“Regulation S”)) in reliance on Regulation S. Such Initial Notes and Additional Restricted Securities may thereafter be transferred to among others, QIBs, purchasers in reliance on Regulation S and institutional “accredited investors” (as defined in Rules 501(a)(1), (2), (3) and (7) under the Securities Act) who are not QIBs (“IAIs”) in accordance with Rule 501 of the Securities Act in accordance with the procedure described herein. Additional Notes offered after the date hereof may be offered and sold by the Company from time to time pursuant to one or more purchase agreements in accordance with applicable law.

Initial Notes and Additional Restricted Securities offered and sold to QIBs in the United States of America in reliance on Rule 144A (the “Rule 144A Notes”) shall be issued in the form of a permanent global Security substantially in the form of Exhibit A, which is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Indenture including appropriate legends as set forth in Section 2.1(d) (the “Rule 144A Global Note”), deposited with the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary, duly executed by the Company and authenticated by the Trustee as hereinafter provided. The Rule 144A Global Note may be represented by more than one certificate, if so required by the Depositary’s rules regarding the maximum principal amount to be represented by a single certificate. The aggregate principal amount of the Rule 144A Global

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Note may from time to time be increased or decreased by adjustments made on the records of the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary or its nominee, as hereinafter provided.

Initial Notes and any Additional Restricted Securities offered and sold outside the United States of America (the “Regulation S Notes”) in reliance on Regulation S shall initially be issued in the form of a permanent global Security substantially in the form of Exhibit A including appropriate legends as set forth in Section 2.1(d) (the “Regulation S Global Note”). The Regulation S Note will be deposited upon issuance with, or on behalf of, the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary in the manner described in this Article II for credit to the respective accounts of the purchasers (or to such other accounts as they may direct) at Euroclear or Clearstream. During the Restricted Period, interests in the Regulation S Global Note may only be held through Euroclear or Clearstream (as indirect participants in the Depositary) unless exchanged for interests in a Global Security in accordance with the transfer and certification requirements described herein.

Investors may hold their interests in the Regulation S Global Note directly through Euroclear or Clearstream, if they are participants in such systems, or indirectly through organizations which are participants in such systems. After the expiration of the Restricted Period (but not earlier), investors may also hold such interests through organizations other than Euroclear or Clearstream that are participants in the Depositary’s system. Euroclear and Clearstream will hold such interests in the Regulation S Global Note on behalf of their participants through customers’ securities accounts in their respective names on the books of their respective depositaries. Such depositaries, in turn, will hold such interests in the applicable Regulation S Global Note in customers’ securities accounts in the depositaries’ names on the books of the Depositary. The Regulation S Global Note may be represented by more than one certificate, if so required by the Depositary’s rules regarding the maximum principal amount to be represented by a single certificate. The aggregate principal amount of the Regulation S Global Note may from time to time be increased or decreased by adjustments made on the records of the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary or its nominee, as hereinafter provided.

Initial Notes and any Additional Restricted Securities resold to IAIs (the “Institutional Accredited Investor Notes”) in the United States of America shall be issued in the form of a permanent global Security substantially in the form of Exhibit A including appropriate legends as set forth in Section 2.1(d) (the “Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note”) deposited with the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary, duly executed by the Company and authenticated by the Trustee as hereinafter provided. The Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note may be represented by more than one certificate, if so required by the Depositary’s rules regarding the maximum principal amount to be represented by a single certificate. The aggregate principal amount of the Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note may from time to time be increased or decreased by adjustments made on the records of the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary or its nominee, as hereinafter provided.

Exchange Notes exchanged for interests in the Rule 144A Note, the Regulation S Note and the Institutional Accredited Investor Note will be issued in the form of a permanent global Note substantially in the form of Exhibit B hereto, which is hereby incorporated by

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reference and made a part of this Indenture, deposited with the Trustee as hereinafter provided, including the appropriate legend set forth in Section 2.1(d) hereof (the “Exchange Global Note”). The Exchange Global Note may be represented by more than one certificate, if so required by the Depositary’s rules regarding the maximum principal amount to be represented by a single certificate.

Any Additional Notes issued other than as Restricted Securities will be issued in the form of one or more permanent global Securities substantially in the form of Exhibit B (each, a “Series B Global Note”) deposited with the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary, duly executed by the Company and authenticated by the Trustee as hereinafter provided. A Series B Global Note may be represented by more than one certificate, if so required by the Depositary’s rules regarding the maximum principal amount to be represented by a single certificate. The aggregate principal amount of the Series B Global Notes may from time to time be increased or decreased by adjustments made on the records of the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary or its nominee, as hereinafter provided.

The Rule 144A Global Note, the Regulation S Global Note, the Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note, the Exchange Global Note, and the Series B Global Notes are sometimes collectively herein referred to as the “Global Securities.”

The principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on the Securities shall be payable at the office or agency of the Company maintained for such purpose in The City of New York, or at such other office or agency of the Company as may be maintained for such purpose pursuant to Section 2.3; provided, however, that, at the option of the Company, each installment of interest may be paid by (i) check mailed to addresses of the Persons entitled thereto as such addresses shall appear on the Note Register or (ii) wire transfer or to an account located in the United States maintained by the payee. Payments in respect of Securities represented by a Global Security (including principal, premium and interest) will be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the Depositary. Payments in respect of Securities represented by Definitive Securities (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) held by a Holder of at least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Securities represented by Definitive Securities will be made by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such Holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or the Paying Agent to such effect designating such account no later than 15 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

The Securities may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, stock exchange rule or usage, in addition to those set forth on Exhibits A and B and in Section 2.1(d). The Company and the Trustee shall approve the forms of the Securities and any notation, endorsement or legend on them. Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication. The terms of the Securities set forth in Exhibit A and Exhibit B are part of the terms of this Indenture and, to the extent applicable, the Company and the Trustee, by their execution and delivery of this Indenture, expressly agree to be bound by such terms.

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(c) Denominations. The Securities shall be issuable only in fully registered form, without coupons, and only in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.

(d) Restrictive Legends. Unless and until (i) an Initial Note or an Additional Note issued as a Restricted Security is sold under an effective registration statement or (ii) an Initial Note or an Additional Note issued as a Restricted Security is exchanged for an Exchange Note in connection with an effective registration statement, in each case pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, (A) such Rule 144A Global Note and the Institutional Accredited Investor Global Note shall bear the following legend (the “Private Placement Legend”) on the face thereof:

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION. NEITHER THIS SECURITY NOR ANY INTEREST OR PARTICIPATION HEREIN MAY BE REOFFERED, SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED, ENCUMBERED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR UNLESS SUCH TRANSACTION IS EXEMPT FROM, OR NOT SUBJECT TO, SUCH REGISTRATION.

THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY BY ITS ACCEPTANCE HEREOF AGREES, ON ITS OWN BEHALF AND ON BEHALF OF ANY INVESTOR ACCOUNT FOR WHICH IT HAS PURCHASED SECURITIES, TO OFFER, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER SUCH SECURITY, PRIOR TO THE DATE THAT IS TWO YEARS AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF AND THE LAST DATE ON WHICH THE COMPANY OR ANY AFFILIATE OF THE COMPANY WAS THE OWNER OF THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY) (THE “RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE”), ONLY (A) TO THE COMPANY, (B) PURSUANT TO A REGISTRATION STATEMENT THAT HAS BEEN DECLARED EFFECTIVE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) FOR SO LONG AS THE SECURITIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR RESALE PURSUANT TO RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, TO A PERSON IT REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT THAT PURCHASES FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER TO WHOM NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT THE TRANSFER IS BEING MADE IN RELIANCE ON RULE 144A, (D) PURSUANT TO OFFERS AND SALES THAT OCCUR OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (E) TO AN INSTITUTIONAL “ACCREDITED INVESTOR” WITHIN THE MEANING OF RULE 501(a)(1), (2), (3) OR (7) UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT THAT IS ACQUIRING THE SECURITY FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF SUCH AN INSTITUTIONAL ACCREDITED INVESTOR, IN EACH CASE IN A TRANSACTION INVOLVING A MINIMUM PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF SECURITIES OF $250,000, FOR INVESTMENT PURPOSES AND NOT WITH A

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VIEW TO OR FOR OFFER OR SALE IN CONNECTION WITH ANY DISTRIBUTION IN VIOLATION OF THE SECURITIES ACT, OR (F) PURSUANT TO ANY OTHER AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, SUBJECT TO THE COMPANY’S AND THE TRUSTEE’S RIGHT PRIOR TO ANY SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER (i) PURSUANT TO CLAUSES (D), (E) OR (F) TO REQUIRE THE DELIVERY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, CERTIFICATION AND/OR OTHER INFORMATION SATISFACTORY TO EACH OF THEM AND (ii) IN THE CASE OF THE FOREGOING CLAUSE (E), A CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER IN THE FORM APPEARING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS SECURITY IS COMPLETED AND DELIVERED BY THE TRANSFEROR TO THE TRUSTEE. THIS LEGEND WILL BE REMOVED UPON THE REQUEST OF THE HOLDER AFTER THE RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE.

BY ITS ACQUISITION OF THIS SECURITY THE HOLDER THEREOF WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE REPRESENTED AND WARRANTED THAT EITHER (I) NO PORTION OF THE ASSETS USED BY SUCH HOLDER TO ACQUIRE AND HOLD THIS SECURITY CONSTITUTES THE ASSETS OF AN EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN THAT IS SUBJECT TO TITLE I OF THE U.S. EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY ACT OF 1974, AS AMENDED (“ERISA”), OF PLANS, INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS OR OTHER ARRANGEMENTS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO SECTION 4975 OF THE U.S. INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED (THE “CODE”) OR PROVISIONS UNDER ANY FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, NON-U.S. OR OTHER LAWS OR REGULATIONS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO SUCH PROVISIONS OF ERISA OR THE CODE (“SIMILAR LAWS”), OR OF AN ENTITY WHOSE UNDERLYING ASSETS ARE CONSIDERED TO INCLUDE “PLAN ASSETS” OF SUCH PLANS, ACCOUNTS OR ARRANGEMENTS, OR (II) THE PURCHASE AND HOLDING OF THIS SECURITY WILL NOT CONSTITUTE A NON-EXEMPT PROHIBITED TRANSACTION UNDER SECTION 406 OF ERISA OR SECTION 4975 OF THE CODE OR A SIMILAR VIOLATION UNDER ANY APPLICABLE SIMILAR LAWS.”

(B) the Regulation S Global Note shall bear the following legend (the “Regulation S Legend”) on the face thereof:

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND, ACCORDINGLY, MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD WITHIN THE UNITED STATES OR TO OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, U.S. PERSONS EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE. BY ITS ACQUISITION HEREOF, THE HOLDER REPRESENTS THAT IT IS NOT A U.S. PERSON NOR IS IT PURCHASING FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A U.S. PERSON AND IS ACQUIRING THIS SECURITY IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT (“REGULATION S”). THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY, BY ITS ACCEPTANCE HEREOF, AGREES TO

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OFFER, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER SUCH SECURITY, PRIOR TO THE DATE THAT IS 40 DAYS AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF AND THE LAST DATE ON WHICH THE COMPANY OR ANY AFFILIATE OF THE COMPANY WAS THE OWNER OF THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY) (THE “RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE”), ONLY (A) TO THE COMPANY, (B) PURSUANT TO A REGISTRATION STATEMENT THAT HAS BEEN DECLARED EFFECTIVE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) FOR SO LONG AS THE SECURITIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR RESALE PURSUANT TO RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, TO A PERSON IT REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT THAT PURCHASES FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER TO WHOM NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT THE TRANSFER IS BEING MADE IN RELIANCE ON RULE 144A, (D) PURSUANT TO OFFERS AND SALES THAT OCCUR OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION S, (E) TO AN INSTITUTIONAL “ACCREDITED INVESTOR” WITHIN THE MEANING OF RULE 501(a)(1), (2), (3) OR (7) UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT THAT IS ACQUIRING THE SECURITY FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF SUCH AN INSTITUTIONAL ACCREDITED INVESTOR, IN EACH CASE IN A TRANSACTION INVOLVING A MINIMUM PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF THE SECURITIES OF $250,000, FOR INVESTMENT PURPOSES AND NOT WITH A VIEW TO OR FOR OFFER OR SALE IN CONNECTION WITH ANY DISTRIBUTION IN VIOLATION OF THE SECURITIES ACT, OR (F) PURSUANT TO ANY OTHER AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, SUBJECT TO THE COMPANY’S AND THE TRUSTEE’S RIGHT PRIOR TO ANY SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER (i) PURSUANT TO CLAUSE (D), (E) OR (F) TO REQUIRE THE DELIVERY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, CERTIFICATION AND/OR OTHER INFORMATION SATISFACTORY TO EACH OF THEM AND (ii) IN THE CASE OF THE FOREGOING CLAUSE (E), A CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER IN THE FORM APPEARING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS SECURITY IS COMPLETED AND DELIVERED BY THE TRANSFEROR TO THE COMPANY AND THE TRUSTEE. THIS LEGEND WILL BE REMOVED AFTER 40 CONSECUTIVE DAYS BEGINNING ON AND INCLUDING THE LATER OF (A) THE DAY ON WHICH THE SECURITIES ARE OFFERED TO PERSONS OTHER THAN DISTRIBUTORS (AS DEFINED IN REGULATION S) AND (B) THE DATE OF THE CLOSING OF THE ORIGINAL OFFERING. AS USED HEREIN, THE TERMS “OFFSHORE TRANSACTION”, “UNITED STATES” AND “U.S. PERSON” HAVE THE MEANINGS GIVEN TO THEM BY REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.

BY ITS ACQUISITION OF THIS SECURITY THE HOLDER THEREOF WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE REPRESENTED AND WARRANTED THAT EITHER (I) NO

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PORTION OF THE ASSETS USED BY SUCH HOLDER TO ACQUIRE AND HOLD THIS SECURITY CONSTITUTES THE ASSETS OF AN EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN THAT IS SUBJECT TO TITLE I OF THE U.S. EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY ACT OF 1974, AS AMENDED (“ERISA”), OF PLANS, INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS OR OTHER ARRANGEMENTS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO SECTION 4975 OF THE U.S. INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED (THE “CODE”) OR PROVISIONS UNDER ANY FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, NON-U.S. OR OTHER LAWS OR REGULATIONS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO SUCH PROVISIONS OF ERISA OR THE CODE (“SIMILAR LAWS”), OR OF AN ENTITY WHOSE UNDERLYING ASSETS ARE CONSIDERED TO INCLUDE ”PLAN ASSETS” OF SUCH PLANS, ACCOUNTS OR ARRANGEMENTS, OR (II) THE PURCHASE AND HOLDING OF THIS SECURITY WILL NOT CONSTITUTE A NON-EXEMPT PROHIBITED TRANSACTION UNDER SECTION 406 OF ERISA OR SECTION 4975 OF THE CODE OR A SIMILAR VIOLATION UNDER ANY APPLICABLE SIMILAR LAWS.”

The Global Securities, whether or not an Initial Note, shall bear the following legend on the face thereof:

“UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION (“DTC”), NEW YORK, NEW YORK, TO THE COMPANY OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR IN SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL IN AS MUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

TRANSFERS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS IN WHOLE, BUT NOT IN PART, TO DTC, TO NOMINEES OF DTC OR TO A SUCCESSOR THEREOF OR SUCH SUCCESSOR’S NOMINEE AND TRANSFERS OF PORTIONS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH IN THE INDENTURE REFERRED TO ON THE REVERSE HEREOF.”

(e) Book-Entry Provisions. (i) This Section 2.1(e) shall apply only to Global Securities deposited with the Trustee, as custodian for the Depositary.

(ii) Each Global Security initially shall (x) be registered in the name of the Depositary for such Global Security or the nominee of such Depositary, (y) be delivered to the Trustee as custodian for such Depositary and (z) bear legends as set forth in Section 2.1(d).

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(iii) Members of, or participants in, the Depositary (“Agent Members”) shall have no rights under this Indenture with respect to any Global Security held on their behalf by the Depositary or by the Trustee as the custodian of the Depositary or under such Global Security, and the Depositary may be treated by the Company, the Trustee and any agent of the Company or the Trustee as the absolute owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall prevent the Company, the Trustee or any agent of the Company or the Trustee from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by the Depositary or impair, as between the Depositary and its Agent Members, the operation of customary practices of the Depositary governing the exercise of the rights of a Holder of a beneficial interest in any Global Security.

(iv) The registered Holder of a Global Security may grant proxies and otherwise authorize any person, including Agent Members and persons that may hold interests through Agent Members, to take any action which a Holder is entitled to take under this Indenture or the Securities.

(v) In connection with any transfer of a portion of the beneficial interest in a Global Security pursuant to subsection (f) of this Section 2.1 to beneficial owners who are required to hold Definitive Securities, the Trustee shall reflect on its books and records the date and a decrease in the principal amount of such Global Security in an amount equal to the principal amount of the beneficial interest in the Global Security to be transferred, and the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, one or more Definitive Securities of like tenor and amount.

(vi) In connection with the transfer of an entire Global Security to beneficial owners pursuant to subsection (e) of this Section, such Global Security shall be deemed to be surrendered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, to each beneficial owner identified by the Depositary in exchange for its beneficial interest in such Global Security, an equal aggregate principal amount of Definitive Securities of authorized denominations.

(vii) Any Holder of a Global Security shall, by acceptance of such Global Security, agree that transfers of beneficial interests in such Global Security may be effected only through a book-entry system maintained by (a) the Holder of such Global Security (or its agent) or (b) any Holder of a beneficial interest in such Global Security, and that ownership of a beneficial interest in such Global Security shall be required to be reflected in a book entry.

(f) Definitive Securities. Except as provided below, owners of beneficial interests in Global Securities will not be entitled to receive Definitive Securities. If required to do so pursuant to any applicable law or regulation, beneficial owners may obtain Definitive Securities in exchange for their beneficial interests in a Global Security upon written request in accordance with the Depositary’s and the Registrar’s procedures. In addition, Definitive Securities shall be transferred to all beneficial owners in exchange for their beneficial interests in a Global Security if (i) the Depositary notifies the Company that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for such Global Security or the Depositary ceases to be a clearing agency

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registered under the Exchange Act, at a time when the Depositary is required to be so registered in order to act as Depositary, and in each case a successor depositary is not appointed by the Company within 90 days of such notice or, (ii) the Company executes and delivers to the Trustee and Registrar an Officers’ Certificate stating that such Global Security shall be so exchangeable or (iii) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and the Registrar has received a request from the Depositary.

(g) Any Definitive Security delivered in exchange for an interest in a Global Security pursuant to Section 2.1(e)(iv) or (v) shall, except as otherwise provided by paragraph (c) of Section 2.6, bear the applicable legend regarding transfer restrictions applicable to the Definitive Security set forth in Section 2.1(d).

(h) In connection with the exchange of a portion of a Definitive Security for a beneficial interest in a Global Security, the Trustee shall cancel such Definitive Security, and the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, to the transferring Holder a new Definitive Security representing the principal amount not so transferred.

SECTION 2.2. Execution and Authentication. Two Officers shall sign the Securities for the Company by manual or facsimile signature. If an Officer whose signature is on a Security no longer holds that office at the time the Trustee authenticates the Security, the Security shall be valid nevertheless.

A Security shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee manually authenticates the Security. The signature of the Trustee on a Security shall be conclusive evidence that such Security has been duly and validly authenticated and issued under this Indenture. A Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.

At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery: (1) Initial Notes for original issue on the Issue Date in an aggregate principal amount of $400,000,000, (2) subject to the terms of this Indenture Additional Notes for original issue in an unlimited principal amount and (3) Exchange Notes for issue only in an Exchange Offer pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement or upon resale under an effective Shelf Registration Statement, and only in exchange for Initial Notes or Additional Notes, as the case may be, of an equal principal amount, in each case upon a written order of the Company signed by two Officers or by an Officer and either an Assistant Treasurer or an Assistant Secretary of the Company (the “Company Order”). Such Company Order shall specify the amount of the Securities to be authenticated and the date on which the original issue of Securities is to be authenticated and whether the Securities are to be Initial Notes, Additional Notes or Exchange Notes.

The Trustee may appoint an agent (the “Authenticating Agent”) reasonably acceptable to the Company to authenticate the Securities. Unless limited by the terms of such appointment, any such Authenticating Agent may authenticate Securities whenever the Trustee may do so. Each reference in this Indenture to authentication by the Trustee includes authentication by such agent.

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In case the Company or any Subsidiary Guarantor (if any), pursuant to Article IV, shall be consolidated or merged with or into any other Person or shall convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of its properties and assets substantially as an entirety to any Person, and the successor Person resulting from such consolidation, or surviving such merger, or into which the Company or such Subsidiary Guarantor shall have been merged, or the Person which shall have received a conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition as aforesaid, shall have executed an indenture supplemental hereto with the Trustee pursuant to Article IV, any of the Securities authenticated or delivered prior to such consolidation, merger, conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition may, from time to time, at the request of the successor Person, be exchanged for other Securities executed in the name of the successor Person with such changes in phraseology and form as may be appropriate, but otherwise in substance of like tenor as the Securities surrendered for such exchange and of like principal amount; and the Trustee, upon Company Order of the successor Person, shall authenticate and deliver Securities as specified in such order for the purpose of such exchange. If Securities shall at any time be authenticated and delivered in any new name of a successor Person pursuant to this Section 2.2 in exchange or substitution for or upon registration of transfer of any Securities, such successor Person, at the option of the Holders but without expense to them, shall provide for the exchange of all Securities at the time outstanding for Securities authenticated and delivered in such new name.

SECTION 2.3. Registrar and Paying Agent. The Company shall maintain an office or agency where Securities may be presented for registration of transfer or for exchange (the “Registrar”) and an office or agency where Securities may be presented for payment (the “Paying Agent”). The Company shall cause each of the Registrar and the Paying Agent to maintain an office or agency in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York. The Registrar shall keep a register of the Securities and of their transfer and exchange (the “Note Register”). The Company may have one or more co-registrars and one or more additional paying agents. The term “Paying Agent” includes any additional paying agent and the term “Registrar” includes any co-registrar.

The Company shall enter into an appropriate agency agreement with any Registrar or Paying Agent not a party to this Indenture, which shall incorporate the terms of the TIA. The agreement shall implement the provisions of this Indenture that relate to such agent. The Company shall notify the Trustee of the name and address of each such agent. If the Company fails to maintain a Registrar or Paying Agent, the Trustee shall act as such and shall be entitled to appropriate compensation therefor pursuant to Section 7.7. The Company or any of its domestically incorporated Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent, Registrar or transfer agent.

The Company initially appoints the Trustee as Registrar and Paying Agent for the Securities. The Company may remove any Registrar or Paying Agent upon written notice to such Registrar or Paying Agent and to the Trustee; provided, however, that no such removal shall become effective until (i) acceptance of any appointment by a successor as evidenced by an appropriate agreement entered into by the Company and such successor Registrar or Paying Agent, as the case may be, and delivered to the Trustee or (ii) notification to the Trustee that the Trustee shall serve as Registrar or Paying Agent until the appointment of a successor in

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accordance with clause (i) above. The Registrar or Paying Agent may resign at any time upon written notice to the Company and the Trustee.

SECTION 2.4. Paying Agent To Hold Money in Trust. By at least 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the date on which any principal of or interest on any Security is due and payable, the Company shall deposit with the Paying Agent a sum sufficient in immediately available funds to pay such principal or interest when due. The Company shall require each Paying Agent (other than the Trustee) to agree in writing that such Paying Agent shall hold in trust for the benefit of Securityholders or the Trustee all money held by such Paying Agent for the payment of principal of or interest on the Securities and shall notify the Trustee in writing of any default by the Company in making any such payment. If the Company or a Subsidiary acts as Paying Agent, it shall segregate the money held by it as Paying Agent and hold it as a separate trust fund. The Company at any time may require a Paying Agent (other than the Trustee) to pay all money held by it to the Trustee and to account for any funds disbursed by such Paying Agent. Upon complying with this Section, the Paying Agent (if other than the Company or a Subsidiary) shall have no further liability for the money delivered to the Trustee. Upon any bankruptcy, reorganization or similar proceeding with respect to the Company, the Trustee shall serve as Paying Agent for the Securities.

SECTION 2.5. Securityholder Lists. The Trustee shall preserve in as current a form as is reasonably practicable the most recent list available to it of the names and addresses of Securityholders and shall otherwise comply with TIA § 312(a). If the Trustee is not the Registrar or to the extent otherwise required under the TIA, the Company shall furnish to the Trustee, in writing at least five Business Days before each interest payment date and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, a list in such form and as of such date as the Trustee may reasonably require of the names and addresses of Securityholders and the Company shall otherwise comply with TIA § 312(a).

SECTION 2.6. Transfer and Exchange.

(a) The following provisions shall apply with respect to any proposed transfer of a Rule 144A Note or an Institutional Accredited Investor Note prior to the date which is two years after the later of the date of its original issue and the last date on which the Company or any Affiliate of the Company was the owner of such Securities (or any predecessor thereto) (the “Resale Restriction Termination Date”):

(i) a transfer of a Rule 144A Note or an Institutional Accredited Investor Note or a beneficial interest therein to a QIB shall be made upon the representation of the transferee in the form as set forth on the reverse of the Security that it is purchasing the Security for its own account or an account with respect to which it exercises sole investment discretion and that it and any such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A, and is aware that the sale to it is being made in reliance on Rule 144A and acknowledges that it has received such information regarding the Company as it has requested pursuant to Rule 144A or has determined not to request

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such information and that it is aware that the transferor is relying upon its foregoing representations in order to claim the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A;

(ii) a transfer of a Rule 144A Note or an Institutional Accredited Investor Note or a beneficial interest therein to an IAI shall be made upon receipt by the Trustee or its agent of a certificate substantially in the form set forth in Section 2.7 hereof from the proposed transferee and, if requested by the Company or the Trustee, the delivery of an opinion of counsel, certification and/or other information satisfactory to each of them; and

(iii) a transfer of a Rule 144A Note or an Institutional Accredited Investor Note or a beneficial interest therein to a Non-U.S. Person shall be made upon receipt by the Trustee or its agent of a certificate substantially in the form set forth in Section 2.8 hereof from the proposed transferee and, if requested by the Company or the Trustee, the delivery of an opinion of counsel, certification and/or other information satisfactory to each of them.

(b) The following provisions shall apply with respect to any proposed transfer of a Regulation S Note prior to the expiration of the Restricted Period:

(i) a transfer of a Regulation S Note or a beneficial interest therein to a QIB shall be made upon the representation of the transferee, in the form of assignment on the reverse of the certificate, that it is purchasing the Security for its own account or an account with respect to which it exercises sole investment discretion and that it and any such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A, and is aware that the sale to it is being made in reliance on Rule 144A and acknowledges that it has received such information regarding the Company as the undersigned has requested pursuant to Rule 144A or has determined not to request such information and that it is aware that the transferor is relying upon its foregoing representations in order to claim the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A;

(ii) a transfer of a Regulation S Note or a beneficial interest therein to an IAI shall be made upon receipt by the Trustee or its agent of a certificate substantially in the form set forth in Section 2.7 hereof from the proposed transferee and, if requested by the Company or the Trustee, the delivery of an opinion of counsel, certification and/or other information satisfactory to each of them; and

(iii) a transfer of a Regulation S Note or a beneficial interest therein to a Non-U.S. Person shall be made upon receipt by the Trustee or its agent of a certificate substantially in the form set forth in Section 2.8 hereof from the proposed transferee and, if requested by the Company or the Trustee, receipt by the Trustee or its agent of an opinion of counsel, certification and/or other information satisfactory to each of them.

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After the expiration of the Restricted Period, interests in the Regulation S Note may be transferred in accordance with applicable law without requiring the certification set forth in Section 2.8 or any additional certification.

(c) Restricted Securities Legend. Upon the transfer, exchange or replacement of Securities not bearing a Restricted Securities Legend, the Registrar shall deliver Securities that do not bear a Restricted Securities Legend. Upon the transfer, exchange or replacement of Securities bearing a Restricted Securities Legend, the Registrar shall deliver only Securities that bear such Restricted Securities Legend unless (i) Initial Notes are being exchanged for Exchange Notes in a Exchange Offer in which case the Exchange Notes shall not bear a Restricted Securities Legend, (ii) an Initial Note is being transferred pursuant to an effective registration statement or (iii) there is delivered to the Registrar an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that neither such legend nor the related restrictions on transfer are required in order to maintain compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act. Any Additional Notes sold in a registered offering shall not be required to bear the Restricted Securities Legend.

(d) The Registrar shall retain copies of all letters, notices and other written communications received pursuant to Section 2.1 or this Section 2.6. The Company shall have the right to inspect and make copies of all such letters, notices or other written communications at any reasonable time upon the giving of reasonable written notice to the Registrar.

(e) Obligations with Respect to Transfers and Exchanges of Securities.

(i) To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Company shall, subject to the other terms and conditions of this Article II, execute and the Trustee shall authenticate Definitive Securities and Global Securities at the Registrar’s request.

(ii) No service charge shall be made to a Holder for any registration of transfer or exchange, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any transfer tax, assessments, or similar governmental charge payable in connection therewith (other than any such transfer taxes, assessments or similar governmental charges payable upon exchange or transfer pursuant to Sections 3.9 or 9.5).

(iii) The Registrar shall not be required to register the transfer of or exchange of any Security for a period beginning (1) 15 Business Days before the mailing of a notice of an offer to repurchase Securities and ending at the close of business on the day of such mailing or (2) 15 Business Days before an interest payment date and ending on such interest payment date.

(iv) Prior to the due presentation for registration of transfer of any Security, the Company, the Trustee, the Paying Agent or the Registrar may deem and treat the person in whose name a Security is registered as the absolute owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest on such Security and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and none of the

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Company, the Trustee, the Paying Agent or the Registrar shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

(v) All Securities issued upon any transfer or exchange pursuant to the terms of this Indenture shall evidence the same debt and shall be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as the Securities surrendered upon such transfer or exchange.

(f) No Obligation of the Trustee. (i) The Trustee shall have no responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner of a Global Security, a member of, or a participant in, the Depositary or other Person with respect to the accuracy of the records of the Depositary or its nominee or of any participant or member thereof, with respect to any ownership interest in the Securities or with respect to the delivery to any participant, member, beneficial owner or other Person (other than the Depositary) of any notice or the payment of any amount or delivery of any Securities (or other security or property) under or with respect to such Securities. All notices and communications to be given to the Holders and all payments to be made to Holders in respect of the Securities shall be given or made only to or upon the order of the registered Holders (which shall be the Depositary or its nominee in the case of a Global Security). The rights of beneficial owners in any Global Security shall be exercised only through the Depositary subject to the applicable rules and procedures of the Depositary. The Trustee may rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by the Depositary with respect to its members, participants and any beneficial owners.

(ii) The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Security (including any transfers between or among Depositary participants, members or beneficial owners in any Global Security) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by, the terms of this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

SECTION 2.7. Form of Certificate to be Delivered in Connection with Transfers to Institutional Accredited Investors.

[Date]

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

c/o SunTrust Bank

25 Park Place

24^th Floor

Atlanta, Georgia 30303-2900

Attention: Corporate Trust Department (mc 008)

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Dear Sirs:

This certificate is delivered to request a transfer of $             principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes due 2011 (the “Notes”) of Smithfield Foods, Inc. (the “Company”).

Upon transfer, the Notes would be registered in the name of the new beneficial owner as follows:

Name:                                                                                

Address:                                                                           

Taxpayer ID Number:                                                      

The undersigned represents and warrants to you that:

1. We are an institutional “accredited investor” (as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”)) purchasing for our own account or for the account of such an institutional “accredited investor” at least $250,000 principal amount of the Notes, and we are acquiring the Notes not with a view to, or for offer or sale in connection with, any distribution in violation of the Securities Act. We have such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risk of our investment in the Notes and we invest in or purchase securities similar to the Notes in the normal course of our business. We and any accounts for which we are acting are each able to bear the economic risk of our or its investment.

2. We understand that the Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act and, unless so registered, may not be sold except as permitted in the following sentence. We agree on our own behalf and on behalf of any investor account for which we are purchasing Notes to offer, sell or otherwise transfer such Notes prior to the date that is two years after the later of the date of original issue and the last date on which the Company or any affiliate of the Company was the owner of such Notes (or any predecessor thereto) (the “Resale Restriction Termination Date”) only (a) to the Company, (b) pursuant to a registration statement which has been declared effective under the Securities Act (“Rule 144A”), (c) in a transaction complying with the requirements of Rule 144A under the Securities Act, to a person we reasonably believe is a qualified institutional buyer under Rule 144A (a “QIB”) that purchases for its own account or for the account of a QIB and to whom notice is given that the transfer is being made in reliance on Rule 144A, (d) pursuant to offers and sales that occur outside the United States within the meaning of Regulation S under the Securities Act, (e) to an institutional “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act that is purchasing for its own account or for the account of such an institutional “accredited investor,” in each case in a minimum principal amount of Notes of $250,000 or (f) pursuant to any other available exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, subject in each of the foregoing cases to any requirement of law that the disposition of our property or the property of such investor account or accounts be at all times within our or their control and in compliance

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with any applicable state securities laws. The foregoing restrictions on resale will not apply subsequent to the Resale Restriction Termination Date. If any resale or other transfer of the Notes is proposed to be made pursuant to clause (e) above prior to the Resale Restriction Termination Date, the transferor shall deliver a letter from the transferee substantially in the form of this letter to the Company and the Trustee, which shall provide, among other things, that the transferee is an institutional “accredited investor” (within the meaning of Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act) and that it is acquiring such Notes for investment purposes and not for distribution in violation of the Securities Act. Each purchaser acknowledges that the Company and the Trustee reserve the right prior to any offer, sale or other transfer prior to the Resale Termination Date of the Notes pursuant to clauses (d), (e) or (f) above to require the delivery of an opinion of counsel, certifications and/or other information satisfactory to the Company and the Trustee.

TRANSFEREE:

BY

SECTION 2.8. Form of Certificate to be Delivered in Connection with Transfers Pursuant to Regulation S.

[Date]

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

c/o SunTrust Bank

25 Park Place

24^th Floor

Atlanta, Georgia 30303-2900

Attention: Corporate Trust Department (mc 008)

Re: Smithfield Foods, Inc.

7% Senior Notes due 2011 (the “Securities”)

Ladies and Gentlemen:

In connection with our proposed sale of $             aggregate principal amount of the Securities, we confirm that such sale has been effected pursuant to and in accordance with Regulation S under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and, accordingly, we represent that:

(a) the offer of the Securities was not made to a person in the United States;

(b) either (i) at the time the buy order was originated, the transferee was outside the United States or we and any person acting on our behalf reasonably believed that the

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transferee was outside the United States or (ii) the transaction was executed in, on or through the facilities of a designated off-shore securities market and neither we nor any person acting on our behalf knows that the transaction has been pre-arranged with a buyer in the United States;

(c) no directed selling efforts have been made in the United States in contravention of the requirements of Rule 903(a)(2) or Rule 904(a)(2) of Regulation S, as applicable; and

(d) the transaction is not part of a plan or scheme to evade the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

In addition, if the sale is made during a restricted period and the provisions of Rule 903(b)(2) or Rule 904(b)(1) of Regulation S are applicable thereto, we confirm that such sale has been made in accordance with the applicable provisions of Rule 903(b)(2) or Rule 904(b)(1), as the case may be.

You and the Company are entitled to rely upon this letter and are irrevocably authorized to produce this letter or a copy hereof to any interested party in any administrative or legal proceedings or official inquiry with respect to the matters covered hereby. Terms used in this certificate have the meanings set forth in Regulation S.

Very truly yours,
[Name of Transferor]
By:
	Authorized Signature

SECTION 2.9. Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost or Stolen Securities. If a mutilated Security is surrendered to the Registrar or if the Holder of a Security claims that the Security has been lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, the Company shall issue and the Trustee, upon Company Order, shall authenticate a replacement Security if the requirements of Section 8-405 of the Uniform Commercial Code are met such that the Securityholder (a) notifies the Company and the Trustee within a reasonable time after such Securityholder has notice of such loss, destruction or wrongful taking and the Registrar has not registered a transfer prior to receiving such notification, (b) makes such request to the Company prior to the Company having notice that the Security has been acquired by a protected purchaser as defined in Section 8-303 of the Uniform Commercial Code (a “protected purchaser”) and (c) satisfies any other reasonable requirements of the Company and the Trustee. If required by the Trustee or the Company, such Holder shall furnish an indemnity bond sufficient in the judgment of the Company and the Trustee to protect the Company, the Trustee, the Paying Agent and the Registrar from any loss which any of them may suffer if a Security is replaced, then, in the absence of notice to the Company, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee that such Security has been acquired by a protected purchaser, the Company shall execute and upon Company Order the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, in exchange for any such mutilated Security or in lieu of any such

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destroyed, lost or stolen Security, a new Security of like tenor and principal amount, bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding.

In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to become due and payable, the Company in its discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay such Security.

Upon the issuance of any new Security under this Section, the Company may require the payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Trustee) in connection therewith.

Every new Security issued pursuant to this Section in lieu of any mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall constitute an original additional contractual obligation of the Company, any Subsidiary Guarantor and any other obligor upon the Securities, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security shall be at any time enforceable by anyone, and shall be entitled to all benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with any and all other Securities duly issued hereunder.

The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Securities.

SECTION 2.10. Outstanding Securities. Securities outstanding at any time are all Securities authenticated by the Trustee except for those canceled by it, those delivered to it for cancellation and those described in this Section as not outstanding. A Security does not cease to be outstanding in the event the Company or an Affiliate of the Company holds the Security except that the Company or an Affiliate of the Company shall not obtain voting rights with respect to such Security.

If a Security is replaced pursuant to Section 2.9, it ceases to be outstanding unless the Trustee and the Company receive proof satisfactory to them that the replaced Security is held by a bona fide purchaser.

If the Paying Agent segregates and holds in trust, in accordance with this Indenture, on a maturity date money sufficient to pay all principal and interest payable on that date with respect to the Securities maturing and the Paying Agent is not prohibited from paying such money to the Securityholders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture, then on and after that date such Securities cease to be outstanding and interest on them ceases to accrue.

SECTION 2.11. Temporary Securities. In the event that Definitive Securities are to be issued under the terms of this Indenture, until such Definitive Securities are ready for delivery, the Company may prepare and the Trustee shall authenticate temporary Securities. Temporary Securities shall be substantially in the form of Definitive Securities but may have variations that the Company considers appropriate for temporary Securities. Without

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unreasonable delay, the Company shall prepare and the Trustee shall authenticate Definitive Securities. After the preparation of Definitive Securities, the temporary Securities shall be exchangeable for Definitive Securities upon surrender of the temporary Securities at any office or agency maintained by the Company for that purpose and such exchange shall be without charge to the Holder. Upon surrender for cancellation of any one or more temporary Securities, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery in exchange therefor, one or more Definitive Securities representing an equal principal amount of Securities. Until so exchanged, the Holder of temporary Securities shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as a Holder of Definitive Securities.

SECTION 2.12. Cancellation. The Company at any time may deliver Securities to the Trustee for cancellation. The Registrar and the Paying Agent shall forward to the Trustee any Securities surrendered to them for registration of transfer, exchange or payment. The Trustee and no one else shall cancel and return to the Company all Securities surrendered for registration of transfer, exchange, payment or cancellation and deliver a certificate of such cancellation to the Company. The Company may not issue new Securities to replace Securities it has paid or delivered to the Trustee for cancellation.

At such time as all beneficial interests in a Global Security have either been exchanged for Definitive Securities, transferred, redeemed, repurchased or canceled, such Global Security shall be returned by the Depositary to the Trustee for cancellation or retained and canceled by the Trustee. At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Security is exchanged for Definitive Securities, transferred in exchange for an interest in another Global Security, redeemed, repurchased or canceled, the principal amount of Securities represented by such Global Security shall be reduced and an adjustment shall be made on the Global Security and on the books and records of the Trustee (if it is then the Securities Custodian for such Global Security) with respect to such Global Security, by the Trustee or the Securities Custodian, to reflect such reduction.

SECTION 2.13. Payment of Interest; Defaulted Interest. Interest on any Security which is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for, on any interest payment date shall be paid to the Person in whose name such Security (or one or more predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the regular record date for such interest at the office or agency of the Company maintained for such purpose pursuant to Section 2.3.

Any interest on any Security which is payable, but is not paid when the same becomes due and payable and such nonpayment continues for a period of 30 days shall forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on the regular record date by virtue of having been such Holder, and such defaulted interest and (to the extent lawful) interest on such defaulted interest at the rate borne by the Securities (such defaulted interest and interest thereon herein collectively called “Defaulted Interest”) shall be paid by the Company, at its election in each case, as provided in clause (a) or (b) below:

(a) The Company may elect to make payment of any Defaulted Interest to the Persons in whose names the Securities (or their respective predecessor Securities) are

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registered at the close of business on a Special Record Date (as defined below) for the payment of such Defaulted Interest, which shall be fixed in the following manner. The Company shall notify the Trustee in writing of the amount of Defaulted Interest proposed to be paid on each Security and the date (not less than 30 days after such notice) of the proposed payment (the “Special Interest Payment Date”), and at the same time the Company shall deposit with the Trustee an amount of money equal to the aggregate amount proposed to be paid in respect of such Defaulted Interest or shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for such deposit prior to the date of the proposed payment, such money when deposited to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such Defaulted Interest as in this clause provided. Thereupon the Trustee shall fix a record date (the “Special Record Date”) for the payment of such Defaulted Interest which shall be not more than 15 days and not less than 10 days prior to the Special Interest Payment Date and not less than 10 days after the receipt by the Trustee of the notice of the proposed payment. The Trustee shall promptly notify the Company of such Special Record Date, and in the name and at the expense of the Company, shall cause notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date and Special Interest Payment Date therefor to be given in the manner provided for in Section 10.2, not less than 10 days prior to such Special Record Date. Notice of the proposed payment of such Defaulted Interest and the Special Record Date and Special Interest Payment Date therefor having been so given, such Defaulted Interest shall be paid on the Special Interest Payment Date to the Persons in whose names the Securities (or their respective Predecessor Securities) are registered at the close of business on such Special Record Date and shall no longer be payable pursuant to the following clause (b).

(b) The Company may make payment of any Defaulted Interest in any other lawful manner not inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on which the Securities may be listed, and upon such notice as may be required by such exchange, if, after notice given by the Company to the Trustee of the proposed payment pursuant to this clause, such manner of payment shall be deemed practicable by the Trustee.

Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Section, each Security delivered under this Indenture upon registration of transfer of or in exchange for or in lieu of any other Security shall carry the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried by such other Security.

SECTION 2.14. Computation of Interest. Interest on the Securities shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

SECTION 2.15. CUSIP Numbers. The Company in issuing the Securities may use “CUSIP” numbers (if then generally in use). The Trustee shall not be responsible for the use of CUSIP numbers, and the Trustee makes no representation as to their correctness as printed on any Security or notice to Securityholders. The Company shall promptly notify the Trustee in writing of any change in the CUSIP numbers.

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ARTICLE III

Covenants

SECTION 3.1. Payment of Securities. The Company shall promptly pay the principal of and interest on the Securities on the dates and in the manner provided in the Securities and in this Indenture. Principal and interest shall be considered paid on the date due if on such date the Trustee or the Paying Agent holds in accordance with this Indenture money sufficient to pay all principal and interest then due and the Trustee or the Paying Agent, as the case may be, is not prohibited from paying such money to the Securityholders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

The Company shall pay interest on overdue principal at the rate specified therefor in the Securities, and it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest at the same rate to the extent lawful.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Indenture, the Company may, to the extent it is required to do so by law, deduct or withhold income or other similar taxes imposed by the United States of America from principal or interest payments hereunder.

SECTION 3.2. SEC Reports. Notwithstanding that the Company may not remain subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Company will file (if then permitted to do so) with the SEC and provide (whether or not so filed with the SEC) the Trustee and Securityholders and prospective Securityholders (upon request) within 15 days of the date of filing with the SEC or, if not filed, on the date that such reports would be required to be filed with the SEC if the Company was a reporting company, with the annual reports and the information, documents and other reports, which are specified in Sections 13 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act; provided, however, that the Company shall provide one copy of the exhibits of the foregoing to the Trustee and shall (upon request) provide additional copies of such exhibits to any Securityholder or prospective Securityholder. The Company shall also comply with the other provisions of TIA § 314(a).

SECTION 3.3. Limitation on Indebtedness. (a) The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, Incur any Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness); provided, however, that the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries may Incur Indebtedness if on the date of the Incurrence of such Indebtedness the Consolidated Coverage Ratio would be equal to or greater than 2.00:1.00.

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing paragraph (a), the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as set forth below, may Incur the following Indebtedness:

(i) (A) Indebtedness of the Company Incurred pursuant to the Revolving Credit Facility and (B) the Incurrence by a Receivables Entity of Indebtedness in a Qualified Receivables Transaction that is nonrecourse to the Company or any Subsidiary of the

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Company (except for Standard Securitization Undertakings) in an aggregate principal amount for Indebtedness Incurred under clauses (A) and (B) and outstanding at any one time, not to exceed the greater of (x) $900.0 million, less the aggregate amount of all repayments of principal actually made under the Revolving Credit Facility since the Issue Date with Net Available Cash from Asset Dispositions pursuant to clause (a)(iii)(A) of Section 3.7 and (y) the Borrowing Base;

(ii) the incurrence by the Company of Indebtedness represented by the Securities;

(iii) Indebtedness (A) of the Company to any Wholly-Owned Subsidiary and (B) of any Restricted Subsidiary to the Company or any other Wholly-Owned Subsidiary; provided, however, that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event that results in any such Wholly-Owned Subsidiary ceasing to be a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to the Company or a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary) will be deemed, in each case, an Incurrence of Indebtedness by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be;

(iv) any Indebtedness (other than the Indebtedness described in clauses (i) or (iii) above) outstanding on the Issue Date, including the 2003 Senior Notes, the 2001 Senior Notes, the 1998 Notes and the Senior Secured Notes then in existence and the Guarantees related thereto, and any Refinancing Indebtedness Incurred in respect of any Indebtedness described in this clause (iv) or paragraph (a);

(v) Indebtedness represented by the Subsidiary Guarantees and Guarantees of Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to clause (i) above;

(vi) Indebtedness in respect of performance, surety or appeal bonds provided in the ordinary course of business;

(vii) Indebtedness under Hedging Obligations; provided, however, that such Hedging Obligations are entered into for bona fide hedging purposes of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

(viii) Indebtedness (in addition to Indebtedness described in clauses (i), (iii) and (iv)) of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary attributable to Capitalized Lease Obligations, or Incurred to finance the acquisition, construction or improvement of fixed or capital assets, or constituting Attributable Debt in respect of Sale/Leaseback Transactions, in an aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding, since the Issue Date, not in excess of $50.0 million;

(ix) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary issued and outstanding on or prior to the date on which such Restricted Subsidiary was acquired by the Company (other than Indebtedness Incurred (A) as consideration in, or to provide all or any portion of the

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funds or credit support utilized to consummate, the transaction or series of related transactions pursuant to which such Restricted Subsidiary became a Restricted Subsidiary or was acquired by the Company or (B) otherwise in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition) and any Refinancing Indebtedness with respect thereto; provided, however, that on the date of any such acquisition of a Restricted Subsidiary, the Company shall have been able to Incur at least an additional $1.00 of Indebtedness under paragraph (a) above after giving effect to such acquisition; and

(x) Indebtedness (in addition to Indebtedness described in clauses (i)-(ix)) in a principal amount which, when taken together with the principal amount of all other Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to this clause (x) since the Issue Date and then outstanding, will not in the aggregate exceed $50.0 million.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company will not Incur any Indebtedness pursuant to the foregoing paragraph (b) if the proceeds thereof are used, directly or indirectly, to refinance any Subordinated Indebtedness unless such Indebtedness (i) will be subordinated to the Securities to at least the same extent as such Subordinated Indebtedness and (ii) will not mature prior to the Stated Maturity of the Indebtedness to be refinanced or refunded, and the Average Life of such new Indebtedness is at least equal to the remaining Average Life of the Indebtedness to be refinanced or refunded.

(d) No Subsidiary Guarantor will incur any Indebtedness if the proceeds thereof are used, directly or indirectly, to refinance any Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor unless such Indebtedness will be subordinated to the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee to at least the same extent as such Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness.

(e) The Company will not permit any Unrestricted Subsidiary to Incur any Indebtedness other than Non-Recourse Indebtedness; provided, however, if any such Indebtedness ceases to be Non-Recourse Indebtedness, such event shall be deemed to constitute an Incurrence of Indebtedness by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary.

(f) For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 3.3, in the event that an item of Indebtedness meets the criteria of more than one of the types of Indebtedness described in the above clauses, the Company, in its sole discretion, shall classify such item of Indebtedness at the time of Incurrence and only be required to include the amount and type of such Indebtedness in one of such clauses. All Indebtedness outstanding on the Issue Date under the Revolving Credit Facility shall be deemed initially Incurred on the Issue Date pursuant to clause (b)(i) of this Section 3.3.

(g) For purposes of determining compliance with any U.S. dollar-denominated restriction on the Incurrence of Indebtedness, the U.S. dollar-equivalent principal amount of Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency shall be calculated based on the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date such Indebtedness was Incurred, in the case of term Indebtedness, or first committed, in the case of revolving credit Indebtedness; provided that if

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such Indebtedness is Incurred to refinance other Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency, and such refinancing would cause the applicable U.S. dollar-dominated restriction to be exceeded if calculated at the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date of such refinancing, such U.S. dollar-dominated restriction shall be deemed not to have been exceeded so long as the principal amount of such refinancing Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount of such Indebtedness being refinanced. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 3.3, the maximum amount of Indebtedness that the Company may Incur pursuant to this Section 3.3 shall not be deemed to be exceeded solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies. The principal amount of any Indebtedness incurred to refinance other Indebtedness, if Incurred in a different currency from the Indebtedness being refinanced, shall be calculated based on the currency exchange rate applicable to the currencies in which such Refinancing Indebtedness is denominated that is in effect on the date of such refinancing.

SECTION 3.4. Limitation on Restricted Payments. (a) The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, to (i) declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on or in respect of its Capital Stock (including any payment in connection with any merger or consolidation involving the Company) except (x) dividends or distributions payable solely in its Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) and (y) dividends or distributions payable to the Company or any of its Subsidiaries (and, if such Subsidiary is not directly or indirectly owned 100% by the Company, to its other stockholders on a pro rata basis), (ii) purchase, redeem, retire or otherwise acquire for value any Capital Stock of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary held by Persons other than the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, (iii) purchase, repurchase, redeem, prepay interest, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value, prior to scheduled maturity, scheduled repayment or scheduled sinking fund payment, any Subordinated Indebtedness or Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness (other than the purchase, repurchase or other acquisition of Subordinated Indebtedness or Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness purchased in anticipation of satisfying a sinking fund obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in each case due within one year of the date of purchase, repurchase or acquisition) or (iv) make any Restricted Investment in any Person (any such dividend, distribution, purchase, redemption, repurchase, defeasance, other acquisition, retirement or Investment referred to in clauses (i) through (iv) being herein referred to as a “Restricted Payment”), if at the time the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary makes such Restricted Payment: (1) a Default shall have occurred and be continuing (or would result therefrom); (2) the Company could not Incur at least an additional $1.00 of Indebtedness under paragraph (a) of Section 3.3; or (3) the aggregate amount of such Restricted Payment and all other Restricted Payments (the amount so expended, if other than in cash, to be determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors, whose determination shall be conclusive and evidenced by a resolution of the Company’s Board of Directors) declared or made subsequent to the Issue Date would exceed the sum of: (A) $300.0 million; (B) 50% of the Consolidated Net Income accrued during the period (treated as one accounting period) commencing on the Issue Date to the end of the most recent fiscal quarter ending prior to the date of such Restricted Payment as to which financial results are available (but in no event ending more than 135 days prior to the date of such Restricted Payment) (or, in case such Consolidated Net Income shall be a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit); (C) the aggregate Net Cash Proceeds received by the Company from the

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issuance or sale of its Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) or other cash capital contributions subsequent to the Issue Date (other than an issuance or sale to a Subsidiary of the Company and other than an issuance or sale to an employee stock ownership plan or other trust established by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries for the benefit of their employees to the extent the purchase by such plan or trust is financed by Indebtedness of such plan or trust and for which the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary is the lender or is liable as guarantor or otherwise); (D) the fair market value (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company) of shares of Qualified Stock of the Company issued to acquire Additional Assets from a third party; (E) the sum of (i) the amount by which Indebtedness of the Company is reduced on the Company’s balance sheet upon the conversion or exchange (other than by a Subsidiary of the Company) subsequent to the Issue Date, of any Indebtedness of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries convertible or exchangeable for Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Company (less the amount of any cash or other property (other than Capital Stock) distributed by the Company upon such conversion or exchange) and (ii) the aggregate Net Cash Proceeds received by the Company (less any contingent amounts that the Company may be required to refund or return) upon the conversion or exchange (other than by a Subsidiary of the Company) subsequent to the Issue Date of any Indebtedness of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries convertible or exchangeable for Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock); (F) the amount equal to the net reduction in Investments since the Issue Date in Unrestricted Subsidiaries resulting from (i) repayments of loans or advances or other transfers of assets to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary from Unrestricted Subsidiaries or (ii) the redesignation of Unrestricted Subsidiaries as Restricted Subsidiaries (valued in each case as provided in the definition of “Investment”) not to exceed, in the case of any Unrestricted Subsidiary, the amount of Investments previously made by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in such Unrestricted Subsidiary, which amount was treated as a Restricted Payment (and, with respect to clauses (i) and (ii), without duplication of any amounts included in Consolidated Net Income); and (G) to the extent that any Restricted Investment that was made after the Issue Date is sold for cash or otherwise liquidated or repaid for cash, the lesser of (A) the net proceeds of such sale, liquidation or repayment and (B) the net book value of such Restricted Investment.

(b) So long as there is no Default or Event of Default continuing, the provisions of the foregoing paragraph (a) will not prohibit: (i) any purchase, defeasance or redemption of Capital Stock or Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company made by exchange for, or out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale of, Capital Stock of the Company (other than Disqualified Stock and other than Capital Stock issued or sold to a Subsidiary of the Company or an employee stock ownership plan or other trust established by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries for the benefit of their employees to the extent the purchase by such plan or trust is financed by Indebtedness by such plan or trust and for which the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary is the lender or is liable as a guarantor or otherwise); provided, however, that (A) such purchase, defeasance or redemption shall be excluded in subsequent calculations of the amount of Restricted Payments and (B) the Net Cash Proceeds from such sale of Capital Stock shall be excluded in calculations under clause (3) (C) of Section 3.4(a); (ii) any purchase, defeasance or redemption of Subordinated Indebtedness made by exchange for, or out of the proceeds of the

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substantially concurrent sale of, Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company that is Refinancing Indebtedness; provided, however, that (A) such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Securities at least to the same extent as such Subordinated Indebtedness so purchased or redeemed and (B) such purchase, defeasance or redemption shall be excluded in subsequent calculations of the amount of Restricted Payments; (iii) the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value of Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company or Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness of any of its Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to a “change of control” or “asset sale” covenant set forth in the Indenture pursuant to which the same is issued and such “change of control” and “asset sale” covenants are substantially identical in all material respects to the comparable provisions included in the Indenture; provided that such repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value shall only be permitted if all of the terms and conditions in such provisions have been complied with and such repurchases, redemptions or other acquisitions or retirements for value are made in accordance with such indenture pursuant to which the same is issued and provided further that the Company has repurchased all Securities required to be repurchased by the Company pursuant to the terms and conditions described in Section 3.7 or 3.9, as the case may be, prior to the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value of such Subordinated Indebtedness or Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness pursuant to the “change of control” or “asset sale“ covenant included in such indenture; provided that such repurchase, redemption or other acquisition shall be excluded in subsequent calculations of the amount of Restricted Payments; (iv) dividends paid within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof if at such date of declaration such dividend would have complied with the requirements of Section 3.4(a); provided, however, that such dividend shall be included in subsequent calculations of the amount of Restricted Payments; (v) any repurchase of an Equity Interest deemed to occur upon exercise of stock options if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price of such options; or (vi) Permitted Employee Payments in an aggregate amount not in excess of $5.0 million since the Issue Date; provided, however, that such payments shall be included in the calculation of Restricted Payments.

SECTION 3.5. Limitation on Sale/Leaseback Transactions. The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, enter into any Sale/Leaseback Transaction unless: (i) the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, receives consideration at the time of such Sale/Leaseback Transaction at least equal to the fair market value (as determined by two Officers of the Company and set forth in an Officers’ Certificate delivered to the Trustee) of the property subject to such transaction; (ii) the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary could have Incurred Indebtedness in an amount equal to the Attributable Debt in respect of such Sale/Leaseback Transaction pursuant to Section 3.3; (iii) the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary would be permitted to create a Lien on the property subject to such Sale/Leaseback Transaction without securing the Securities pursuant to Section 3.11; and (iv) the Sale/Leaseback Transaction is treated as an Asset Disposition and all of the conditions of the Indenture described in Section 3.7 (including the provisions concerning the application of Net Available Cash) are satisfied with respect to such Sale/Leaseback Transaction, treating all of the consideration received in such Sale/Leaseback Transaction as Net Available Cash for purposes of such covenant.

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SECTION 3.6. Limitation on Restrictions on Distributions from Restricted Subsidiaries. The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, create or otherwise cause or permit to exist or become effective any consensual encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any Restricted Subsidiary to (i) pay dividends or make any other distributions on its Capital Stock or pay any Indebtedness or other obligations owed to the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary, (ii) make any loans or advances to the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary or (iii) transfer any of its property or assets to the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary; except: (a) any encumbrance or restriction pursuant to an agreement in effect at or entered into on the Issue Date, including pursuant to this Indenture, the Revolving Credit Facility and the Senior Secured Notes then in existence; (b) any encumbrance or restriction with respect to a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to an agreement relating to any Indebtedness Incurred by such Restricted Subsidiary prior to the date on which such Restricted Subsidiary was acquired by the Company (other than Indebtedness Incurred as consideration in, or to provide all or any portion of the funds or credit support utilized to consummate, the transaction or series of related transactions pursuant to which such Restricted Subsidiary became a Restricted Subsidiary or was acquired by the Company) and outstanding on such date; (c) any encumbrance or restriction with respect to a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to an agreement effecting a refinancing of Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to an agreement referred to in the preceding clauses (a) or (b) or this clause (c) or contained in any amendment to an agreement referred to in the preceding clauses (a) or (b) or this clause (c); provided, however, that the encumbrances and restrictions contained in any such refinancing agreement or amendment are no less favorable to the Holders of the Securities taken as a whole, than the original encumbrances and restrictions contained in such agreements; (d) in the case of clause (iii) of this Section 3.6, any encumbrance or restriction (A) that restricts in a customary manner the subletting, assignment or transfer of any property or asset that is subject to a lease, license or similar contract, (B) by virtue of any transfer of, agreement to transfer, option or right with respect to, any property or assets of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary not otherwise prohibited by this Indenture, (C) contained in security agreements securing Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary to the extent such encumbrance or restrictions restrict the transfer of the property subject to such security agreements and (D) ordinary course provisions restricting the assignability of contracts; (e) any restriction with respect to the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an agreement entered into for the sale or disposition of all or substantially all the Capital Stock or assets of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary pending the closing of such sale or disposition; (f) restrictions created in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction that, in the good faith determination of the Board of Directors, are necessary to effect such Qualified Receivables Transaction; provided that such restrictions apply only to such Receivables Entity; and (g) any restriction by operation of applicable law.

SECTION 3.7. Limitation on Sales of Assets. (a) The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, make any Asset Disposition unless (i) the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary receives consideration (including by way of relief from, or by any other Person assuming sole responsibility for, any liabilities, contingent or otherwise) at the time of such Asset Disposition at least equal to the fair market value of the shares and assets subject to such Asset Disposition (as determined in good faith by the management of the Company, or if

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such Asset Disposition involves consideration in excess of $20.0 million, by a resolution of the Board of Directors set forth in an Officers’ Certificate delivered to the Trustee), (ii) at least 75% of the consideration thereof received by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary is in the form of cash and/or Cash Equivalents (except such requirement of cash and/or Cash Equivalents shall not apply to any property, plant, equipment or other facility closed and designated as unused, idle or obsolete by either Senior Management or by resolution of the Board of Directors, and in either case set forth in an Officers’ Certificate delivered to the Trustee) and (iii) an amount equal to 100% of the Net Available Cash from such Asset Disposition is applied by the Company (or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be) as follows: (A) first, to the extent the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary elects (or is required by the terms of any Indebtedness), to prepay, repay or purchase Indebtedness (other than Disqualified Stock or Subordinated Indebtedness) (and to correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto) within 365 days after the date of such Asset Disposition; (B) second, to the extent of the balance of Net Available Cash after application in accordance with clause (A), to the extent the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary elects, to reinvest in Additional Assets (including by means of an Investment in Additional Assets by a Restricted Subsidiary with Net Available Cash received by the Company or another Restricted Subsidiary) within 365 days from the date of such Asset Disposition; (C) third, to the extent of the balance of such Net Available Cash after application in accordance with clauses (A) and (B), to make an offer to purchase Securities and Pari Passu Indebtedness (including, without limitation, the 2003 Senior Notes and the 2001 Senior Notes) with similar asset sale provisions, pro rata at 100% of the tendered principal amount thereof (or 100% of the accreted value of such other Pari Passu Indebtedness so tendered, if such Pari Passu Indebtedness was offered at a discount) plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to the purchase date and (D) fourth, to the extent of the balance of such Net Available Cash after application in accordance with clauses (A), (B) and (C) above, to fund (to the extent consistent with any other applicable provision of the Indenture) any corporate purpose; provided, however, that in connection with any prepayment, repayment or purchase of Indebtedness pursuant to clause (A) or (C) above, the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary will retire such Indebtedness and will cause the related loan commitment (if any) to be permanently reduced in an amount equal to the principal amount so prepaid, repaid or purchased. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 3.7, the Company and the Restricted Subsidiaries shall not be required to apply any Net Available Cash in accordance with this covenant except to the extent that the aggregate Net Available Cash from all Asset Dispositions that is not yet applied in accordance with this Section 3.7 at any time exceeds $10.0 million.

For the purposes of this Section 3.7, the following will be deemed to be cash: (x) the assumption of Indebtedness of the Company (other than Disqualified Stock or Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company) or any Restricted Subsidiary and the release of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary from all liability on such Indebtedness in connection with such Asset Disposition and (y) securities received by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary from the transferee that are converted within 30 days by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary into cash. Upon the completion of the application of the Net Available Cash from any Asset Disposition pursuant to this paragraph (a), the amount of Net Available Cash attributable to such Asset Disposition shall be deemed to be zero.

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(b) In the event of an Asset Disposition that requires the purchase of Securities pursuant to Section 3.7(a)(iii)(C), the Company will be required to apply such Excess Proceeds (as defined below) to the repayment of the Securities and any other Pari Passu Indebtedness (including, without limitation, the 2003 Senior Notes and the 2001 Senior Notes) outstanding with similar provisions requiring the Company to make an offer to purchase such Indebtedness with the proceeds from any Asset Disposition as follows: (A) the Company will make an offer to purchase (an “Offer”) within ten days of such time from all holders of the Securities in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Indenture in the maximum principal amount (expressed as a multiple of $1,000) of Securities that may be purchased out of an amount (the “Note Amount”) equal to the product of such Excess Proceeds multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the outstanding principal amount of the Securities and the denominator of which is the sum of the outstanding principal amount of the Securities and such Pari Passu Indebtedness and (B) to the extent required by such Pari Passu Indebtedness to permanently reduce the principal amount of such Pari Passu Indebtedness, the Company will make an offer to purchase or otherwise repurchase or redeem Pari Passu Indebtedness (a “Pari Passu Offer”) in an amount equal to the excess of the Excess Proceeds over the Note Amount at a purchase price of 100% of their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest (or 100% of the accreted value of such Pari Passu Indebtedness, if such Pari Passu Indebtedness was offered at a discount) to the purchase date in accordance with the procedures (including prorating in the event of oversubscription) set forth in this Indenture with respect to the Offer and in the documentation governing such Pari Passu Indebtedness with respect to the Pari Passu Offer. If the aggregate purchase price of the Securities tendered pursuant to the Offer and Pari Passu Offer is less than the Excess Proceeds, the remaining Excess Proceeds will be available to the Company for use in accordance with clause (a)(iii)(D) above. The Company shall not be required to make an Offer for Securities pursuant to this Section 3.7 if the Net Available Cash available therefor (after application of the proceeds as provided in clauses (a)(iii)(A) and (a)(iii)(B) above) (“Excess Proceeds”) is less than $10.0 million (which lesser amounts shall be carried forward for purposes of determining whether an Offer is required with respect to the Net Available Cash from any subsequent Asset Disposition).

(c) (1) Promptly, and in any event within 10 days after the Company is required to make an Offer, the Company will deliver to the Trustee and send, by first-class mail to each Holder, a written notice stating that the Holder may elect to have his Securities purchased by the Company either in whole or in part (subject to prorating as hereinafter described in the event the Offer is oversubscribed) in integral multiples of $1,000 of principal amount, at the applicable purchase price. The notice shall specify a purchase date not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days after the date of such notice (the “Purchase Date”).

(2) Not later than the date upon which such written notice of an Offer is delivered to the Trustee and the Holders, the Company will deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate setting forth (i) the amount of the Offer (the “Offer Amount”), (ii) the allocation of the Net Available Cash from the Asset Dispositions as a result of which such Offer is being made and (iii) the compliance of such allocation with the provisions of Section 3.7(a). Upon the expiration of the period (the “Offer Period”) for which the Offer remains open, the Company

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shall deliver to the Trustee for cancellation the Securities or portions thereof which have been properly tendered to and are to be accepted by the Company. The Trustee shall, on the Purchase Date, mail or deliver payment to each tendering Holder in the amount of the purchase price of the Securities tendered by such Holder to the extent such funds are available to the Trustee.

(3) Holders electing to have a Security purchased will be required to surrender the Security, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Company at the address specified in the notice prior to the expiration of the Offer Period. Each Holder will be entitled to withdraw its election if the Trustee or the Company receives, not later than one Business Day prior to the expiration of the Offer Period, a facsimile transmission or overnight mail from such Holder setting forth the name of such Holder, the principal amount of the Security or Securities which were delivered for purchase by such Holder and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing his election to have such Security or Securities purchased. If at the expiration of the Offer Period the aggregate principal amount of Securities surrendered by Holders exceeds the Offer Amount, the Company shall select the Securities to be purchased on a pro rata basis (with such adjustments as may be deemed appropriate by the Company so that only Securities in denominations of $1,000, or integral multiples thereof, shall be purchased). Holders whose Securities are purchased only in part will be issued new Securities equal in principal amount to the unpurchased portion of the Securities surrendered.

(d) The Company will comply, to the extent applicable, with the requirements of Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act and any other securities laws or regulations in connection with the repurchase of Securities pursuant to this Section 3.7. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with provisions of this Section 3.7, the Company will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under this Indenture by virtue thereof.

SECTION 3.8. Limitation on Transactions with Affiliates. (a) The Company shall not, and shall not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, directly or indirectly, enter into or conduct any transaction or series of transactions (including the purchase, sale, lease or exchange of any property or assets or the rendering of any service or the making of any Investment) with any Affiliate of the Company (an “Affiliate Transaction”) on terms: (i) that are less favorable to the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, than those that could be obtained at the time of such transaction in arm’s-length dealings with a Person who is not an Affiliate and (ii) that, in the event such Affiliate Transaction involves an aggregate amount in excess of $10.0 million, are not in writing and have not been approved or negotiated and entered into on behalf of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary by Senior Management acting pursuant to authorizing resolutions adopted by a majority of the members of the Board of Directors or by a majority of the members of the Board of Directors having no personal stake in such Affiliate Transaction (and such majority or majorities, as the case may be, determines that such Affiliate Transaction satisfies the criteria in clause (i) above). Any Affiliate Transaction involving aggregate payments or other transfers by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries in excess of $20.0 million will also require an opinion from an independent investment banking firm or appraiser, as appropriate, of national prominence, to the effect that the terms of such transaction are either (i) no less favorable to the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be,

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than those that could be obtained at the time of such transaction in arm’s-length dealings with a Person who is not an Affiliate or (ii) fair to the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, from a financial point of view.

(b) The provisions of Section 3.8(a) shall not prohibit (i) any Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment permitted to be paid pursuant to Section 3.4, (ii) the performance of the Company’s or Restricted Subsidiary’s obligations under any collective bargaining agreement, employee benefit plan, related trust agreement or any other similar arrangement heretofore or hereafter entered into in the ordinary course of business, (iii) payment of reasonable fees and compensation to employees, officers or directors as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors or Senior Management (including indemnification to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, directors’ and officers’ insurance and similar arrangements, employment contracts, noncompetition and confidentiality agreements and similar instruments or payments) entered into in the ordinary course of business, (iv) maintenance in the ordinary course of business of reasonable benefit programs or arrangements for employees, officers or directors, including vacation plans, health and life insurance plans, SERPs, split-dollar life insurance plans, deferred compensation plans, and retirement or savings plans and similar plans as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors or Senior Management, (v) any transaction between the Company and a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary or between Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries, (vi) transactions effected as part of a Qualified Receivables Transaction, (vii) any issuance by the Company of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) or other payments, awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of, employment arrangements, stock options and stock ownership plans to the extent reasonable, as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors in the ordinary course of business, and loans or advances to employees in the ordinary course of business of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries consistent with past practices, (viii) transactions with customers, suppliers, or purchasers or sellers of goods or services, in each case, in the ordinary course of business and otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Indenture which are fair to the Company or the Restricted Subsidiaries or are on terms at least as favorable as might reasonably have been obtained at such time from an unaffiliated third party, in the reasonable determination of the Board of Directors of the Company or the Senior Management thereof, and (ix) any agreement as in effect on the Issue Date or any amendment thereto (so long as any such amendment is not disadvantageous to the holders of the Securities in any material respect).

SECTION 3.9. Change of Control. (a) Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each Holder shall have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or any part of such Holder’s Securities at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date) provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall not be obligated to repurchase the Securities pursuant to this Section 3.9 to the extent that the Company has exercised its right to redeem Securities pursuant to the terms of Section 5.1.

(b) In the event that at the time of such Change of Control the terms of any Indebtedness restrict or prohibit the repurchase of Securities pursuant to Section 3.9(a), prior to

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the mailing of the notice to Holders provided for in Section 3.9(c) but in any event within 30 days following any Change of Control, the Company shall either (i) repay in full all Indebtedness or offer to repay in full all such Indebtedness and repay the Indebtedness of each lender who has accepted such offer or (ii) obtain the requisite consent under the agreements governing such Indebtedness to permit the repurchase of the Securities as provided for in Section 3.9(c). The Company will first comply with the preceding sentence of this Section 3.9(b) before the Company will be required to make the Change of Control Offer or to purchase the Securities pursuant to this Section 3.9; provided, that compliance with this clause (b) will not extend the time periods set forth in Section 3.9(c) for the Company to make an offer to repurchase the Securities in connection with a Change of Control.

(c) Subject to the provisions of Section 3.9(b), within 30 days following any Change of Control, the Company shall mail a notice (the “Change of Control Offer”) to each Holder with a copy to the Trustee stating:

(1) that a Change of Control has occurred and that such Holder has the right to require the Company to purchase such Holder’s Securities at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of purchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on a record date to receive interest on the relevant interest payment date);

(2) the circumstances and relevant facts and financial information regarding such Change of Control;

(3) the repurchase date (which shall be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such notice is mailed) (the “Change of Control Payment Date”);

(4) that any Security not tendered will continue to accrue interest pursuant to its terms;

(5) that, unless the Company defaults in the payment of the purchase price, any Security accepted for payment pursuant to the Change of Control Offer shall cease to accrue interest on and after the Change of Control Payment Date; and

(6) the instructions determined by the Company, consistent with this Section 3.9, that a Holder must follow in order to have its Securities purchased or to cancel such order of purchase.

(d) Holders electing to have a Security purchased will be required to surrender the Security, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Company at the address specified in the notice at least three Business Days prior to the purchase date. Each Holder will be entitled to withdraw its election if the Company receives, not later than one Business Day prior to the purchase date, a telegram, telex, facsimile transmission or letter from such Holder setting forth the name of such Holder, the principal amount of the Security or Securities which were delivered

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for purchase by such Holder and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing his election to have such Security or Securities purchased.

(e) On or before the Change of Control Payment Date, the Company shall: (i) accept for payment Securities or portions thereof tendered pursuant to the Change of Control Offer, (ii) deposit with the Paying Agent money sufficient to pay the purchase price of all Securities or portions thereof so accepted and (iii) deliver, or cause to be delivered, to the Trustee, all Securities or portions thereof so accepted together with an Officers’ Certificate specifying the Securities or portions thereof accepted for payment by the Company. The Paying Agent shall promptly mail, to the Holders of Securities so accepted, payment in an amount equal to the purchase price, and the Trustee shall promptly authenticate and mail to such Holders a new Security equal in principal amount to any unpurchased portion of the Securities surrendered; provided that each Security purchased and each new Security issued shall be in a principal amount of $1,000 or integral multiples thereof.

(f) The Company will publicly announce the results of the Change of Control Offer on or as soon as practicable after the Change of Control Payment Date.

(g) The Company will comply, to the extent applicable, with the requirements of Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act and any other securities laws or regulations in connection with the repurchase of Securities pursuant to this Section 3.9. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with provisions of this Section 3.9, the Company will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under this Indenture by virtue thereof.

SECTION 3.10. Limitation on the Sale or Issuance of Capital Stock of Restricted Subsidiaries. The Company (i) will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, transfer, convey, lease, sell or otherwise dispose of any shares of Capital Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary to any Person (other than to the Company or a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary) and (ii) will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, to issue or sell any shares of its Capital Stock (other than directors’ qualifying shares) to any Person (other than to the Company or a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary); provided, however, that (i) the Company is permitted to sell all the Capital Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary as long as the Company is in compliance with the terms of Section 3.7 and (ii) the Company is permitted to sell less than all of the Capital Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary if (A) immediately after giving effect to such sale such Restricted Subsidiary would no longer constitute a Restricted Subsidiary and any Investment in such Person remaining after giving effect to such sale would have been permitted to be made under Section 3.4 if made on the date of such issuance or sale and (B) the Company is in compliance with the terms of Section 3.7.

SECTION 3.11. Limitation on Liens. (a) The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) that secures obligations under any Indebtedness on any asset or property of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, including any Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, or any income or profits therefrom, or assign or convey any right to

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receive income therefrom, unless the Securities are equally and ratably secured with the obligations so secured (or senior to, in the event the Lien relates to Subordinated Indebtedness) or until such time as such obligations are no longer secured by a Lien.

(b) The Company will not permit any Subsidiary Guarantor to directly or indirectly create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) that secures obligations under any Indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor on any asset or property of such Subsidiary Guarantor or any income or profits therefrom, or assign or convey any right to receive income therefrom, unless the Subsidiary Guarantee of such Subsidiary Guarantor is equally and ratably secured with the obligations so secured (or senior to, in the event the Lien relates to Guarantor Subordinated Indebtedness) or until such time as such obligations are no longer secured by a Lien.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, Liens on assets transferred to a Receivables Entity or on assets of a Receivables Entity incurred in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction will not require such equal and ratable security.

SECTION 3.12. Limitation on Issuances of Guarantees of Indebtedness by Restricted Subsidiaries. (a) The Company will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to Guarantee the payment of any Indebtedness of the Company or any Indebtedness of any other Restricted Subsidiary unless (i) such Restricted Subsidiary simultaneously executes and delivers a supplemental indenture (in the form of Exhibit C) to the Indenture providing for a Guarantee of payment of the Securities by such Restricted Subsidiary (a “Subsidiary Guarantee”) except that with respect to a Guarantee of Indebtedness of the Company if such Indebtedness is by its express terms subordinated in right of payment to the Securities, any such Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary with respect to such Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to such Restricted Subsidiary’s Subsidiary Guarantee with respect to the Securities substantially to the same extent as such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Securities; (ii) such Restricted Subsidiary waives and will not in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any rights of reimbursement, indemnity or subrogation or any other rights against the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary as a result of any payment by such Restricted Subsidiary under its Subsidiary Guarantee; and (iii) such Restricted Subsidiary shall deliver to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that (A) such Subsidiary Guarantee has been duly executed and authorized and (B) such Subsidiary Guarantee constitutes a valid, binding and enforceable obligation of such Restricted Subsidiary, except insofar as enforcement thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws (including, without limitation, all laws relating to fraudulent transfers) and except insofar as enforcement thereof is limited by general principles of equity; provided that this paragraph (a) shall not become applicable to any Guarantee of any Restricted Subsidiary (x) that (A) existed at the time such Person became a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company and (B) was not incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or (y) that Guarantees the payment of obligations of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary under the Revolving Credit Facility or the Senior Secured Notes or Indebtedness Incurred after the Issue Date with similar terms (other than interest rates and maturity), provisions and covenants as the Senior Secured Notes and such Indebtedness is secured by a Lien Incurred exclusively under

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clause (18) of the definition of Permitted Liens and the principal amount of such Indebtedness in the aggregate does not exceed 15% of Total Assets and any refunding, refinancing or replacement thereof, in whole or in part; provided, that such Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (y) and any refunding, refinancing or replacement thereof (1) does not constitute Subordinated Indebtedness and (2) is not Incurred pursuant to a registered offering of securities under the Securities Act or a private placement of securities (including under Rule 144A) pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, which private placement provides for registration rights under the Securities Act (any guarantee excluded by operations of this clause (y) being an “Excluded Guarantee”).

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing and the other provisions of this Indenture, any Subsidiary Guarantee by a Restricted Subsidiary shall provide by its terms that it shall be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged upon (1) any sale, exchange or transfer, to any Person not an Affiliate of the Company, of all of the Company’s Capital Stock in, or all or substantially all the assets of, whether by way of merger, consolidation or otherwise, such Restricted Subsidiary (which sale, exchange or transfer is not prohibited by this Indenture), (2) the release or discharge of the guarantee which resulted in the creation of such Subsidiary Guarantee, except a discharge or release by or as a result of payment under such guarantee or (3) such Restricted Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary of the Company in accordance with the terms of this Indenture by the Company’s Board of Directors.

SECTION 3.13. Limitation on Lines of Business. The Company will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, engage in any business other than a Related Business.

SECTION 3.14. Effectiveness of Covenants. The covenants described in Sections 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.10, 3.12 and 3.13 will no longer be in effect upon the Company reaching Investment Grade Status.

SECTION 3.15. Maintenance of Office or Agency. The Company will maintain in The City of New York, an office or agency where the Securities may be presented or surrendered for payment, where, if applicable, the Securities may be surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where notices and demands to or upon the Company in respect of the Securities and this Indenture may be served. The corporate trust office of the Trustee, which initially shall be located at SunTrust Bank, c/o Computershare Trust Company, 88 Pine Street, 19th Floor, New York, New York 10005 Attention: Corporate Trust Department (the “Corporate Trust Office”) shall be such office or agency of the Company, unless the Company shall designate and maintain some other office or agency for one or more of such purposes. The Company will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any change in the location of any such office or agency. If at any time the Company shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and the Company hereby appoints the Trustee as its agent to receive all such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands.

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The Company may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies (in or outside of The City of New York) where the Securities may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind any such designation; provided, however, that no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve the Company of its obligation to maintain an office or agency in The City of New York for such purposes. The Company will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

SECTION 3.16. Money for Security Payments to Be Held in Trust. If the Company shall at any time act as its own Paying Agent, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any of the Securities, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto a sum sufficient to pay the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest so becoming due until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided and will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of its action or failure to so act.

Whenever the Company shall have one or more Paying Agents for the Securities, it will, on or before each due date of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Securities, deposit with any Paying Agent a sum in same day funds (or New York Clearing House funds if such deposit is made prior to the date on which such deposit is required to be made) that shall be available to the Trustee by 10:00 a.m. New York City time on such due date sufficient to pay the principal (and premium, if any) or interest so becoming due, such sum to be held in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled to such principal, premium or interest, and (unless such Paying Agent is the Trustee) the Company will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of such action or any failure to so act.

The Company will cause each Paying Agent (other than the Trustee) to execute and deliver to the Trustee an instrument in which such Paying Agent shall agree with the Trustee, subject to the provisions of this Section, that such Paying Agent will:

(a) hold all sums held by it for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest on Securities in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided;

(b) give the Trustee written notice of any default by the Company (or any other obligor upon the Securities) in the making of any payment of principal (and premium, if any) or interest; and

(c) at any time during the continuance of any such default, upon the written request of the Trustee, forthwith pay to the Trustee all sums so held in trust by such Paying Agent.

The Company may at any time, for the purpose of obtaining the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture or for any other purpose, pay, or by Company Order direct any Paying Agent to pay, to the Trustee all sums held in trust by the Company or such Paying Agent,

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such sums to be held by the Trustee upon the same trusts as those upon which such sums were held by the Company or such Paying Agent; and, upon such payment by any Paying Agent to the Trustee, such Paying Agent shall be released from all further liability with respect to such sums.

Any money deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Company, in trust for the payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Security and remaining unclaimed for two years after such principal, premium or interest has become due and payable shall be paid to the Company on Company Order, or (if then held by the Company) shall be discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Security shall thereafter, as an unsecured general creditor, look only to the Company for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Company as trustee thereof, shall thereupon cease; provided, however, that the Trustee or such Paying Agent, before being required to make any such repayment to the Company, may at the expense of the Company cause to be published once, in a leading daily newspaper (if practicable, The Wall Street Journal (Eastern Edition)) printed in the English language and of general circulation in New York City, notice that such money remains unclaimed and that, after a date specified therein, which shall not be less than 30 days from the date of such publication nor shall it be later than two years after such principal (or premium, if any) or interest shall have become due and payable, any unclaimed balance of such money then remaining will be repaid to the Company.

SECTION 3.17. Corporate Existence. Subject to Article IV, the Company will do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and effect its corporate existence and that of each Restricted Subsidiary and the corporate rights (charter and statutory) licenses and franchises of the Company and each Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to preserve any such existence (except the Company), right, license or franchise if the Board of Directors of the Company shall determine that the preservation thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of the business of the Company and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, and that the loss thereof is not, and will not be, disadvantageous in any material respect to the Holders.

SECTION 3.18. Payment of Taxes and Other Claims. The Company will pay or discharge or cause to be paid or discharged, before the same shall become delinquent, (i) all material taxes, assessments and governmental charges levied or imposed upon the Company or any Subsidiary or upon the income, profits or property of the Company or any Subsidiary and (ii) all lawful claims for labor, materials and supplies, which, if unpaid, might by law become a material liability or lien upon the property of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to pay or discharge or cause to be paid or discharged any such tax, assessment, charge or claim whose amount, applicability or validity is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which appropriate reserves, if necessary (in the good faith judgment of management of the Company) are being maintained in accordance with GAAP.

SECTION 3.19. Maintenance of Properties. The Company will cause all material properties owned by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary or used or held for use

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in the conduct of its business or the business of any Restricted Subsidiary to be maintained and kept in normal condition, repair and working order and will cause to be made all necessary repairs, renewals, replacements, betterments and improvements thereof, all as in the judgment of the Company may be necessary so that the business carried on in connection therewith may be properly conducted at all times; provided, however, that nothing in this Section shall prevent the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries from discontinuing the maintenance of any of such properties if such discontinuance is, in the judgment of the Company, desirable in the conduct of its business or the business of any Restricted Subsidiary and not adverse in any material respect to the Holders.

SECTION 3.20. Insurance. To the extent available at commercially reasonable rates, the Company will maintain, and will cause its Restricted Subsidiaries to maintain, insurance with responsible carriers against such risks and in such amounts, and with such deductibles, retentions, self-insured amounts and co-insurance provisions, as are customarily carried by similar businesses, of similar size in their country of organization, including professional and general liability, property and casualty loss, workers’ compensation and interruption of business insurance. In the event the Company determines that insurance satisfying the first sentence of this Section 3.20 is not available at commercially reasonable rates, it shall provide an Officers’ Certificate to such effect to the Trustee and the Trustee may conclusively rely on the determinations set forth therein.

SECTION 3.21. Compliance with Laws. The Company shall comply, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to comply, with all applicable statutes, rules, regulations, orders and restrictions of the United States of America, all states and municipalities thereof, and of any governmental regulatory authority, in respect of the conduct of their respective businesses and the ownership of their respective properties, except for such noncompliances as would not in the aggregate have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

SECTION 3.22. Compliance Certificate. The Company shall deliver to the Trustee within 120 days after the end of each Fiscal Year of the Company an Officers’ Certificate stating that in the course of the performance by the signers of their duties as Officers of the Company they would normally have knowledge of any Default or Event of Default and whether or not the signers know of any Default or Event of Default that occurred during such period. If they do, the certificate shall describe the Default or Event of Default, its status and what action the Company is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto. The Company also shall comply with TIA § 314(a)(4). The Officers’ Certificate shall also notify the Trustee should the then current Fiscal Year be changed to end on any date other than on the date as herein defined.

SECTION 3.23. Further Instruments and Acts. Upon request of the Trustee, the Company will execute and deliver such further instruments and do such further acts as may be reasonably necessary or proper to carry out more effectively the purpose of this Indenture.

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ARTICLE IV

Successor Company and Successor Guarantor

SECTION 4.1. When Company May Merge or Otherwise Dispose of Assets. The Company will not, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, consolidate with or merge with or into, or convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all its assets to, any Person nor permit any Person to merge with or into the Company, unless:

(i) the resulting, surviving or transferee Person (the “Successor Company”) will be a Person organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia and the Successor Company (if not the Company) will expressly assume, by an indenture supplemental hereto, executed and delivered to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, all the obligations of the Company under the Securities and this Indenture;

(ii) immediately before and after giving effect to such transaction (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Company or any Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Company or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction), no Default or Event of Default will have occurred and be continuing;

(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction, the Successor Company would be able to Incur an additional $1.00 of Indebtedness under paragraph (a) of Section 3.3;

(iv) each Subsidiary Guarantor (unless it is the other party to the transactions above, in which case clause (i) shall apply) shall have by supplemental indenture confirmed that its Subsidiary Guarantee shall apply to such Person’s obligations in respect of the Indenture and the Securities; and

(v) the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger or transfer and such supplemental indenture (if any) comply with this Indenture.

For purposes of the foregoing, the transfer (by lease, assignment, sale or otherwise, in a single transaction or series of transactions) of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of one or more Subsidiaries of the Company, the Capital Stock of which constitutes all or substantially all of the properties and assets of the Company, shall be deemed to be the transfer of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of the Company.

The Successor Company shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Company under this Indenture, but the predecessor Company in the case of a conveyance, transfer, lease of all or substantially all its assets will not be released from the obligation to pay the principal of and interest on the Securities. Solely for

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the purpose of computing amounts described in clause (3)(B) of Section 3.4(a), the Successor Company shall only be deemed to have succeeded and be substituted for the Company with respect to periods subsequent to the effective time of such merger, consolidation, combination or transfer of assets.

Notwithstanding clauses (ii) and (iii) of the first sentence of this Section 4.1: (1) any Restricted Subsidiary may consolidate with, merge into or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to the Company and (2) the Company may merge with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating the Company in another jurisdiction to realize tax or other benefits.

SECTION 4.2. When a Subsidiary Guarantor May Merge or Otherwise Dispose of Assets. Subject to Section 3.12(b), the Company will not permit any Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, to, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, consolidate with or merge with or into, or convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all its assets to, any Person nor permit any Person to merge with or into such Subsidiary Guarantor, unless:

(i) the resulting, surviving or transferee Person (the “Successor Guarantor”) will be a Person organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, any State thereof or the District of Columbia and the Successor Guarantor (if not the Subsidiary Guarantor) will expressly assume in writing all the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under such Subsidiary Guarantor’s respective Subsidiary Guarantee;

(ii) immediately before and after giving effect to such transaction (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Guarantor or any Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Guarantor or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction), no Default or Event of Default will have occurred and be continuing;

(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction, the Company would be able to Incur an additional $1.00 of Indebtedness under paragraph (a) of Section 3.3;

(iv) each other Subsidiary Guarantor shall have delivered a written instrument in form and substance satisfactory to the Trustee confirming its Subsidiary Guarantee; and

(v) the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger or transfer and such assumption of the Subsidiary Guarantee, if applicable, comply with this Indenture.

For purposes of the foregoing, the transfer (by lease, assignment, sale or otherwise, in a single transaction or series of transactions) of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of one or more Subsidiaries of such Subsidiary Guarantor, the Capital Stock of which constitutes all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such Subsidiary

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Guarantor, shall be deemed to be the transfer of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such Subsidiary Guarantor.

The Successor Guarantor shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture and the relevant Subsidiary Guarantee, but the predecessor Subsidiary Guarantor in the case of a conveyance, transfer or lease of all or substantially all its assets will not be released from its obligation to pay the principal of and interest on the Securities. Solely for the purpose of computing amounts described in clause (3)(B) of Section 3.4(a), the Successor Company shall only be deemed to have succeeded and be substituted for the Company with respect to periods subsequent to the effective time of such merger, consolidation, combination or transfer of assets.

Notwithstanding clauses (ii) and (iii) of the first sentence of this Section 4.2, (1) any Restricted Subsidiary may consolidate with, merge into or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to the Company and (2) the Company may merge with an Affiliate incorporated exclusively for the purpose of reincorporating the Company in another jurisdiction to realize tax or other benefits.

ARTICLE V

Redemption of Securities

SECTION 5.1. Optional Redemption. (a) Prior to August 1, 2007, the Company may, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, on any one or more occasions redeem up to 35% of the original principal amount of the Securities with the Net Cash Proceeds of one or more Public Equity Offerings at a redemption price of 107.00% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date); provided that

(1) at least 65% of the original principal amount of the Securities remains outstanding after each such redemption; and

(2) the redemption occurs within 60 days after the closing of such Public Equity Offering.

If the optional redemption date is on or after an interest record date and on or before the related interest payment date, the accrued and unpaid interest, if any, will be paid to the Person in whose name the Security is registered at the close of business on such record date, and no additional interest will be payable to holders whose Securities will be subject to redemption by the Company.

SECTION 5.2. Applicability of Article. Redemption of Securities at the election of the Company or otherwise, as permitted or required by any provision of this Indenture, shall be made in accordance with such provision and this Article.

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SECTION 5.3. Election to Redeem; Notice to Trustee. The election of the Company to redeem any Securities pursuant to Section 5.1 shall be evidenced by a Board Resolution. In case of any redemption at the election of the Company, the Company shall, upon not later than the earlier of the date that is 45 days prior to the Redemption Date fixed by the Company or the date on which notice is given to the Holders (except as provided in Section 5.5 or unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee), notify the Trustee of such Redemption Date and of the principal amount of Securities to be redeemed and shall deliver to the Trustee such documentation and records as shall enable the Trustee to select the Securities to be redeemed pursuant to Section 5.4.

SECTION 5.4. Selection by Trustee of Securities to Be Redeemed. If less than all the Securities are to be redeemed at any time pursuant to an optional redemption, the particular Securities to be redeemed shall be selected not more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date by the Trustee, from the outstanding Securities not previously called for redemption, in compliance with the requirements of the principal securities exchange, if any, on which such Securities are listed, or, if such Securities are not so listed, on a pro rata basis, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee shall deem fair and appropriate (and in such manner as complies with applicable legal requirements) and which may provide for the selection for redemption of portions of the principal of the Securities; provided, however, that no such partial redemption shall reduce the portion of the principal amount of a Security not redeemed to less than $1,000.

The Trustee shall promptly notify the Company in writing of the Securities selected for redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.

For all purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions relating to redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any Security redeemed or to be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount of such Security which has been or is to be redeemed.

SECTION 5.5. Notice of Redemption. Notice of redemption shall be given in the manner provided for in Section 10.2 not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to each Holder of Securities to be redeemed. The Trustee shall give notice of redemption in the Company’s name and at the Company’s expense; provided, however, that the Company shall deliver to the Trustee, at least 45 days prior to the Redemption Date, an Officers’ Certificate requesting that the Trustee give such notice at the Company’s expense and setting forth the information to be stated in such notice as provided in the following items.

All notices of redemption shall state:

(1) the Redemption Date,

(2) the redemption price and the amount of accrued interest to the Redemption Date payable as provided in Section 5.7, if any,

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(3) if less than all outstanding Securities are to be redeemed, the identification of the particular Securities (or portion thereof) to be redeemed, as well as the aggregate principal amount of Securities to be redeemed and the aggregate principal amount of Securities to be outstanding after such partial redemption,

(4) in case any Security is to be redeemed in part only, the notice which relates to such Security shall state that on and after the Redemption Date, upon surrender of such Security, the Holder will receive, without charge, a new Security or Securities of authorized denominations for the principal amount thereof remaining unredeemed,

(5) that on the Redemption Date the redemption price (and accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date payable as provided in Section 5.7) will become due and payable upon each such Security, or the portion thereof, to be redeemed, and, unless the Company defaults in making the redemption payment, that interest on Securities called for redemption (or the portion thereof) will cease to accrue on and after said date,

(6) the place or places where such Securities are to be surrendered for payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest, if any,

(7) the name and address of the Paying Agent,

(8) that Securities called for redemption must be surrendered to the Paying Agent to collect the Redemption Price,

(9) the CUSIP number, and that no representation is made as to the accuracy or correctness of the CUSIP number, if any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities, and

(10) the paragraph of the Securities pursuant to which the Securities are to be redeemed.

SECTION 5.6. Deposit of Redemption Price. Prior to 10:00 a.m. New York City time, on any Redemption Date, the Company shall deposit with the Trustee or with a Paying Agent (or, if the Company is acting as its own Paying Agent, segregate and hold in trust as provided in Section 2.4) an amount of money sufficient to pay the redemption price of, and accrued interest on, all the Securities which are to be redeemed on that date.

SECTION 5.7. Securities Payable on Redemption Date. Notice of redemption having been given as aforesaid, the Securities so to be redeemed shall, on the Redemption Date, become due and payable at the redemption price therein specified (together with accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date), and from and after such date (unless the Company shall default

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in the payment of the Redemption Price and accrued interest) such Securities shall cease to bear interest. Upon surrender of any such Security for redemption in accordance with said notice, such Security shall be paid by the Company at the redemption price, together with accrued interest, if any, to the Redemption Date (subject to the rights of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for redemption, the principal (and premium, if any) shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date at the rate borne by the Securities.

SECTION 5.8. Securities Redeemed in Part. Any Security which is to be redeemed only in part (pursuant to the provisions of this Article) shall be surrendered at the office or agency of the Company maintained for such purpose pursuant to Section 3.15 (with, if the Company so requires, due endorsement by, or a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company duly executed by, the Holder thereof or such Holder’s attorney duly authorized in writing), and the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery to the Holder of such Security at the expense of the Company, a new Security or Securities, of any authorized denomination as requested by such Holder, in an aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unredeemed portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered, provided, that each such new Security will be in a principal amount of $1,000 or integral multiple thereof.

ARTICLE VI

Defaults and Remedies

SECTION 6.1. Events of Default. An “Event of Default” occurs if:

(1) the Company defaults in any payment of interest on any Security when the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues for a period of 30 days;

(2) the Company defaults in the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, on any Security when the same becomes due and payable at its Stated Maturity, upon required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise;

(3) the Company or any Subsidiary Guarantor fails to comply with Article IV;

(4) the Company fails to comply with Section 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 3.12 or 3.13 (in each case other than a failure to repurchase Securities when required pursuant to Section 3.7 or 3.9, which failure shall constitute an Event of Default under Section 6.1(2)) and such failure continues for 30 days after the notice specified below;

(5) the Company defaults in the performance of or a breach by the Company of any other covenant or agreement in this Indenture or under the Securities (other than

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those referred to in (1), (2), (3) or (4) above) and such default continues for 60 days after the notice specified below;

(6) the failure by any Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary (if any) to comply with its obligations under any Subsidiary Guarantee to which such Subsidiary Guarantor is a party, after any applicable grace period;

(7) Indebtedness of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary is not paid within any applicable grace period after final maturity or is accelerated by the holders thereof and the total amount of such unpaid or accelerated Indebtedness exceeds $25.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent at the time;

(8) the Company or a Significant Subsidiary pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law (as defined below):

(A) commences a voluntary case;

(B) consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case;

(C) consents to the appointment of a Custodian (as defined below) of it or for any substantial part of its property; or

(D) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors;

or takes any comparable action under any foreign laws relating to insolvency;

(9) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that:

(A) is for relief against the Company or any Significant Subsidiary in an involuntary case;

(B) appoints a Custodian of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary or for any substantial part of its property; or

(C) orders the winding up or liquidation of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary;

or any similar relief is granted under any foreign laws and the order, decree or relief remains unstayed and in effect for 60 days;

(10) any judgment or decree for the payment of money in excess of $25.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent at the time in the aggregate for all such final judgments or orders against the Company or a Significant Subsidiary if (A) an enforcement proceeding thereon is commenced and not discharged within ten days or (B)

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such judgment or decree remains outstanding for a period of 60 days following such judgment or decree and is not discharged, waived, stayed or bonded; or

(11) the failure of any Subsidiary Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor (if any) which is a Significant Subsidiary to be in full force and effect (except as contemplated by the terms thereof) or the denial or disaffirmation by any such Subsidiary Guarantor of its obligations under any Subsidiary Guarantee if such Default continues for 30 days.

The foregoing will constitute Events of Default whatever the reason for any such Event of Default and whether it is voluntary or involuntary or is effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body.

The term “Bankruptcy Law” means Title 11, United States Code, or any similar Federal or state law for the relief of debtors. The term “Custodian” means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator, custodian or similar official under any Bankruptcy Law.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Default under clause (4) or (5) of this Section 6.1 will not constitute an Event of Default until the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Securities notify the Company of the Default and the Company does not cure such Default within the time specified in said clause (4) or (5) after receipt of such notice. Such notice must specify the Default, demand that it be remedied and state that such notice is a “Notice of Default”.

The Company shall deliver to the Trustee, within 30 days after the occurrence thereof, written notice in the form of an Officers’ Certificate of any Event of Default under clauses (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (10) or (11) of this Section 6.1.

SECTION 6.2. Acceleration. If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Section 6.1(8) or (9) with respect to the Company or a Significant Subsidiary) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee by notice to the Company, or the Holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the Securities by notice to the Company and the Trustee, may, and the Trustee at the request of such Holders shall, declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Securities to be due and payable. Upon such a declaration, such principal, premium and interest shall, subject to Section 9.4, be immediately due and payable. In the event of a declaration of acceleration because an Event of Default set forth in Section 6.1(7) above has occurred and is continuing, such declaration of acceleration shall be automatically rescinded and annulled if the event of default or payment default triggering such Event of Default pursuant to Section 6.1(7) shall be remedied or cured by the Company and/or the relevant Significant Subsidiaries or waived by the holders of the relevant Indebtedness within 60 days after the declaration of acceleration with respect thereto. If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.1(8) or (9) with respect to the Company occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued and unpaid interest on all the Securities will become and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any Holders. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities then

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outstanding by notice to the Trustee may waive all past defaults (except with respect to nonpayment of principal, premium or interest) and rescind an acceleration with respect to the Securities and its consequences if (i) the rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction and (ii) all existing Events of Default, other than the nonpayment of principal of, premium, if any or interest on the Securities that has become due solely because of such acceleration, have been cured or waived. No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or Event of Default or impair any right consequent thereto.

SECTION 6.3. Other Remedies. If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may pursue any available remedy to collect the payment of principal of or interest on the Securities or to enforce the performance of any provision of the Securities or this Indenture.

The Trustee may maintain a proceeding even if it does not possess any of the Securities or does not produce any of them in the proceeding. A delay or omission by the Trustee or any Securityholder in exercising any right or remedy accruing upon an Event of Default shall not impair the right or remedy or constitute a waiver of or acquiescence in the Event of Default. No remedy is exclusive of any other remedy. All available remedies are cumulative.

SECTION 6.4. Waiver of Past Defaults. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities by notice to the Trustee may waive an existing Default or Event of Default and its consequences except (i) a Default or Event of Default in the payment of the principal of or interest on a Security or (ii) a Default or Event of Default in respect of a provision that under Section 9.2 cannot be amended without the consent of each Securityholder affected. When a Default or Event of Default is waived, it is deemed cured, but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other Default or Event of Default or impair any consequent right.

SECTION 6.5. Control by Majority. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee. However, the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this Indenture or, subject to Sections 7.1 and 7.2, that the Trustee determines is unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Securityholders or would involve the Trustee in personal liability; provided, however, that the Trustee may take any other action deemed proper by the Trustee that is not inconsistent with such direction. Prior to taking any action under this Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification satisfactory to it in its sole discretion against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

SECTION 6.6. Limitation on Suits. A Securityholder may not pursue any remedy with respect to this Indenture or the Securities unless:

(1) the Holder gives to the Trustee written notice stating that an Event of Default is continuing;

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(2) the Holders of at least 25% in outstanding principal amount of the Securities make a written request to the Trustee to pursue the remedy;

(3) such Holder or Holders offer to the Trustee reasonable security or indemnity against any loss, liability or expense;

(4) the Trustee does not comply with the request within 60 days after receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity; and

(5) the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities do not give the Trustee a direction inconsistent with the request during such 60-day period.

A Securityholder may not use this Indenture to prejudice the rights of another Securityholder or to obtain a preference or priority over another Securityholder.

SECTION 6.7. Rights of Holders to Receive Payment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture, the right of any Holder to receive payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on the Securities held by such Holder, on or after the respective due dates expressed in the Securities, or to bring suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, shall not be impaired or affected without the consent of such Holder.

SECTION 6.8. Collection Suit by Trustee. If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.1(1) or (2) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may recover judgment in its own name and as trustee of an express trust against the Company for the whole amount then due and owing (together with interest on any unpaid interest to the extent lawful) and the amounts provided for in Section 7.7.

SECTION 6.9. Trustee May File Proofs of Claim. The Trustee may file such proofs of claim and other papers or documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Trustee and the Securityholders allowed in any judicial proceedings relative to the Company, its Subsidiaries or their respective creditors or properties and, unless prohibited by law or applicable regulations, may vote on behalf of the Holders in any election of a trustee in bankruptcy or other Person performing similar functions, and any Custodian in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make payments to the Trustee and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and its counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.7.

SECTION 6.10. Priorities. If the Trustee collects any money or property pursuant to this Article VI, it shall pay out the money or property in the following order:

First: to the Trustee for amounts due under Section 7.7;

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Second: to Securityholders for amounts due and unpaid on the Securities for principal and interest, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on the Securities for principal and interest, respectively; and

Third: to the Company.

The Trustee may fix a record date and payment date for any payment to Securityholders pursuant to this Section. At least 15 days before such record date, the Company shall mail to each Securityholder and the Trustee a notice that states the record date, the payment date and amount to be paid.

SECTION 6.11. Undertaking for Costs. In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken or omitted by it as Trustee, a court in its discretion may require the filing by any party litigant in the suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of the suit, and the court in its discretion may assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, against any party litigant in the suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by the party litigant. This Section does not apply to a suit by the Trustee, a suit by the Company, a suit by a Holder pursuant to Section 6.7 or a suit by Holders of more than 10% in outstanding principal amount of the Securities.

ARTICLE VII

Trustee

SECTION 7.1. Duties of Trustee. (a) If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture and use the same degree of care and skill in its exercise as a prudent Person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such Person’s own affairs; provided that if an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers under this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders unless such Holders have offered the Trustee reasonable indemnity or security against loss, liability or expense.

(b) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default:

(1) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are specifically set forth in this Indenture and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and

(2) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture. However, in the case of any such certificates or opinions which by any

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provisions hereof are specifically required to be furnished to the Trustee, the Trustee shall examine such certificates and opinions to determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture.

(c) The Trustee may not be relieved from liability for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act or its own wilful misconduct, except that:

(1) this paragraph does not limit the effect of paragraph (b) of this Section;

(2) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a Trust Officer or Trust Officers unless it is proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts; and

(3) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to Section 6.5.

(d) The Trustee shall not be liable for interest on any money received by it except as the Trustee may agree in writing with the Company.

(e) Money held in trust by the Trustee need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

(f) No provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if it shall have reasonable grounds to believe that repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability is not reasonably assured to it.

(g) Every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section and to the provisions of the TIA.

(h) The Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee reasonable security or indemnity satisfactory to it against the costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) and liabilities that might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction.

SECTION 7.2. Rights of Trustee. (a) The Trustee may conclusively rely and shall be protected in acting upon any paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper Person or Persons. The Trustee need not investigate any fact or matter stated in the document.

(b) Before the Trustee acts or refrains from acting, it may require an Officers’ Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel. The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in reliance on the Officers’ Certificate or Opinion of Counsel.

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(c) The Trustee may act through its attorneys and agents and shall not be responsible for the misconduct or negligence of any agent appointed with due care.

(d) The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith which it believes to be authorized or within its rights or powers; provided, however, that the Trustee’s conduct does not constitute wilful misconduct or negligence.

(e) The Trustee may consult with counsel of its selection, and the advice or opinion of counsel with respect to legal matters relating to this Indenture and the Securities shall be full and complete authorization and protection from liability in respect to any action taken, omitted or suffered by it hereunder in good faith and in accordance with the advice or opinion of such counsel.

(f) The Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond or other paper or document; but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit.

(g) The Trustee shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any Default or Event of Default except (i), during any period it is serving as Registrar and Paying Agent for the Securities, any Event of Default occurring pursuant to Section 6.1(1) and 6.1(2), or (ii) any Default or Event of Default of which a Trust Officer shall have received written notification or obtained “actual knowledge.” “Actual knowledge” shall mean the actual fact or statement of knowing by a Trust Officer without independent investigation with respect thereto.

SECTION 7.3. Individual Rights of Trustee. The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with the Company or its Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee. Any Paying Agent, Registrar, co-registrar or co-paying agent may do the same with like rights. However, the Trustee must comply with Sections 7.10 and 7.11. In addition, the Trustee shall be permitted to engage in transactions with the Company; provided, however, that if the Trustee acquires any conflicting interest the Trustee must (i) eliminate such conflict within 90 days of acquiring such conflicting interest, (ii) apply to the SEC for permission to continue acting as Trustee or (iii) resign.

SECTION 7.4. Trustee’s Disclaimer. The Trustee shall not be responsible for and makes no representation as to the validity or adequacy of this Indenture or the Securities, it shall not be accountable for the Company’s use of the Securities or the proceeds from the Securities, and it shall not be responsible for any statement of the Company in this Indenture or in any document issued in connection with the sale of the Securities or in the Securities other than the Trustee’s certificate of authentication or for the use or application of any funds received by any Paying Agent other than the Trustee.

SECTION 7.5. Notice of Defaults. If a Default or Event of Default occurs and is continuing and if a Trust Officer has actual knowledge thereof, the Trustee shall mail to each

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Securityholder notice of the Default or Event of Default within 90 days after it occurs. Except in the case of a Default or Event of Default in payment of principal of, premium (if any), or interest on any Security (including payments pursuant to the required repurchase provisions of such Security, if any), the Trustee may withhold the notice if and so long as its board of directors, a committee of its board of directors or a committee of its Trust Officers and/or a Trust Officer of the Trustee in good faith determines that withholding the notice is in the interests of Securityholders.

SECTION 7.6. Reports by Trustee to Holders. As promptly as practicable after each May 15 beginning with the May 15 following the date of this Indenture, and in any event prior to July 15 in each year, the Trustee shall mail to each Securityholder a brief report dated as of such May 15 that complies with TIA § 313(a) but only to the extent any such report is required to be given pursuant to TIA § 313(a). The Trustee also shall comply with TIA § 313(b). The Trustee shall also transmit by mail all reports required by TIA § 313(c).

A copy of each report at the time of its mailing to Securityholders shall be filed with the SEC and each stock exchange (if any) on which the Securities are listed. The Company agrees to notify promptly the Trustee in writing whenever the Securities become listed on any stock exchange and of any delisting thereof.

SECTION 7.7. Compensation and Indemnity. The Company shall pay to the Trustee from time to time such compensation for its services as the parties shall agree in writing from time to time. The Trustee’s compensation shall not be limited by any law on compensation of a trustee of an express trust. The Company shall reimburse the Trustee upon request for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred or made by it, including, but not limited to, costs of collection, costs of preparing and reviewing reports, certificates and other documents, costs of preparation and mailing of notices to Securityholders and reasonable costs of counsel retained by the Trustee in connection with the delivery of an Opinion of Counsel or otherwise, in addition to the compensation for its services. Such expenses shall include the reasonable compensation and expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee’s agents, counsel, accountants and experts. The Company shall indemnify the Trustee in each of its capacities hereunder (including Paying Agent, and Registrar), and each of its officers, directors, employees, counsel and agents, against any and all loss, liability or expense (including, but not limited to, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by it in connection with the administration of this trust and the performance of its duties hereunder, including the costs and expenses of enforcing this Indenture (including this Section 7.7) and of defending itself against any claims (whether asserted by any Securityholder, the Company or otherwise). The Trustee shall notify the Company promptly of any claim for which it may seek indemnity. Failure by the Trustee to so notify the Company shall not relieve the Company of its obligations hereunder. The Company shall defend the claim and the Trustee may have separate counsel and the Company shall pay the fees and expenses of such counsel. The Company need not reimburse any expense or indemnify against any loss, liability or expense incurred by the Trustee through the Trustee’s own wilful misconduct, negligence or bad faith, subject to the exceptions contained in Section 7.1(c) hereof.

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To secure the Company’s payment obligations in this Section, the Trustee shall have a lien prior to the Securities on all money or property held or collected by the Trustee other than money or property held in trust to pay principal of and interest on particular Securities. The Trustee’s right to receive payment of any amounts due under this Section 7.7 shall not be subordinate to any other liability or indebtedness of the Company.

The Company’s payment obligations pursuant to this Section and any lien arising hereunder shall survive the discharge of this Indenture and the resignation or removal of the Trustee. When the Trustee incurs expenses after the occurrence of a Default specified in Section 6.1(8) or (9) with respect to the Company, the expenses are intended to constitute expenses of administration under any Bankruptcy Law.

SECTION 7.8. Replacement of Trustee. The Trustee may resign at any time by so notifying the Company. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities may remove the Trustee by so notifying the Company and the Trustee in writing and may appoint a successor Trustee. The Company shall remove the Trustee if:

(1) the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10;

(2) the Trustee is adjudged bankrupt or insolvent;

(3) a receiver or other public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or

(4) the Trustee otherwise becomes incapable of acting.

If the Trustee resigns or is removed by the Company or by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities and such Holders do not reasonably promptly appoint a successor Trustee, or if a vacancy exists in the office of Trustee for any reason (the Trustee in such event being referred to herein as the retiring Trustee), the Company shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee.

A successor Trustee shall deliver a written acceptance of its appointment to the retiring Trustee and to the Company. Thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective, and the successor Trustee shall have all the rights, powers and duties of the Trustee under this Indenture. The successor Trustee shall mail a notice of its succession to Securityholders. The retiring Trustee shall promptly transfer all property held by it as Trustee to the successor Trustee, subject to the lien provided for in Section 7.7.

If a successor Trustee does not take office within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the retiring Trustee or the Holders of 10% in principal amount of the Securities may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.

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If the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10, unless the Trustee’s duty to resign is stayed as provided in TIA § 310(b), any Securityholder may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee.

Notwithstanding the replacement of the Trustee pursuant to this Section 7.8, the Company’s obligations under Section 7.7 shall continue for the benefit of the retiring Trustee.

SECTION 7.9. Successor Trustee by Merger. If the Trustee consolidates with, merges or converts into, or transfers all or substantially all its corporate trust business or assets to, another corporation or banking association, the resulting, surviving or transferee corporation without any further act shall be the successor Trustee.

In case at the time such successor or successors by merger, conversion or consolidation to the Trustee shall succeed to the trusts created by this Indenture, any of the Securities shall have been authenticated but not delivered, any such successor to the Trustee may adopt the certificate of authentication of any predecessor trustee, and deliver such Securities so authenticated; and in case at that time any of the Securities shall not have been authenticated, any successor to the Trustee may authenticate such Securities either in the name of any predecessor hereunder or in the name of the successor to the Trustee; and in all such cases such certificates shall have the full force which it is anywhere in the Securities or in this Indenture provided that the certificate of the Trustee shall have.

SECTION 7.10. Eligibility; Disqualification. The Trustee shall at all times satisfy the requirements of TIA § 310(a). The Trustee shall have a combined capital and surplus of at least $100 million as set forth in its most recent filed annual report of condition. The Trustee shall comply with TIA § 310(b).

SECTION 7.11. Preferential Collection of Claims Against Company. The Trustee shall comply with TIA § 311(a), excluding any creditor relationship listed in TIA § 311(b). A Trustee who has resigned or been removed shall be subject to TIA § 311(a) to the extent indicated.

ARTICLE VIII

Discharge of Indenture; Defeasance

SECTION 8.1. Discharge of Liability on Securities; Defeasance. (a) When (i) the Company delivers to the Trustee all outstanding Securities (other than Securities replaced pursuant to Section 2.9) for cancellation or (ii) all outstanding Securities not theretofore delivered for cancellation have become due and payable whether at maturity or upon redemption pursuant to Article V hereof and the Company irrevocably deposits or causes to be deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust solely for the benefit of the Holders money in U.S. dollars, non-callable U.S. Government Obligations, or a combination thereof, in such amounts as will be sufficient without consideration of any reinvestment of interest to pay and discharge the entire

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indebtedness on such Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation for principal, premium, if any, and accrued interest to the date of maturity and the Company has delivered irrevocable instructions to the Trustee under this Indenture to apply the deposited money toward the payment of such Securities at maturity, and the Company pays all other sums payable hereunder by the Company, then this Indenture shall, subject to Section 8.1(c), cease to be of further effect. The Trustee shall acknowledge satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture on demand of the Company (accompanied by an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent specified herein relating to the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture have been complied with) and at the cost and expense of the Company.

(b) Subject to Sections 8.1(c) and 8.2, the Company at its option and at any time may terminate (i) all the obligations of the Company and any Subsidiary Guarantor under the Securities and this Indenture (“legal defeasance option”) or (ii) the obligations of the Company and any Subsidiary Guarantor under Sections 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 3.12, 3.13, 4.1(iii), 4.1(v), 4.2(iii) and 4.2(v) and the Company may omit to comply with and shall have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such covenant or provision, whether directly or indirectly, by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to any such covenant or provision or by reason of any reference in any such covenant to any other provision herein or in any other document and such omission to comply with such covenants or provisions shall no longer constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 6.1(3) and 6.1(4) (“covenant defeasance option”), but except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and the Securities shall be unaffected thereby. The Company may exercise its legal defeasance option notwithstanding its prior exercise of its covenant defeasance option.

If the Company exercises its legal defeasance option, payment of the Securities may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default. If the Company exercises its covenant defeasance option, payment of the Securities may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default specified in Sections 6.1(4), 6.1(6), 6.1(7), 6.1(8) (but only with respect to a Significant Subsidiary), 6.1(9) (but only with respect to a Significant Subsidiary), 6.1(10) and 6.1(11) or because of the failure of the Company to comply with Sections 4.1(iii), 4.1(v), 4.2(iii) and 4.2(v).

Upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth herein and upon request of the Company, the Trustee shall acknowledge in writing the discharge of those obligations that the Company terminates.

(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 8.1(a) and (b), the Company’s obligations in Sections 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 6.7, 6.8, 8.4, 8.5 and 8.6 shall survive until the Securities have been paid in full. Thereafter, the Company’s obligations in Sections 6.7, 8.4 and 8.5 shall survive.

SECTION 8.2. Conditions to Defeasance. The Company may exercise its legal defeasance option or its covenant defeasance option only if:

(1) the Company irrevocably deposits in trust with the Trustee for the benefit of the Holders money in U.S. dollars or U.S. Government Obligations or a combination

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thereof the principal of and interest (without reinvestment) on which will be sufficient, or a combination thereof sufficient, for the payment of principal of and interest on the Securities to maturity;

(2) the Company delivers to the Trustee a certificate from a nationally recognized firm of independent accountants expressing their opinion that the payments of principal and interest when due and without reinvestment on the deposited U.S. Government Obligations plus any deposited money without investment will provide cash at such times and in such amounts as will be sufficient to pay principal and interest when due on all the Securities to maturity;

(3) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit (other than a Default or Event of Default with respect to the Indenture resulting from the incurrence of Indebtedness, all or a portion of which will be used to defease the Securities concurrently with such incurrence);

(4) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a Default under this Indenture or any other material agreement or instrument to which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by which the Company or any of its Subsidiaries is bound;

(5) the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that (A) the Securities and (B) assuming no intervening bankruptcy of the Company between the date of deposit and the 91st day following the deposit and that no Holder of the Securities is an insider of the Company, after the 91st day following the deposit, the trust funds will not be subject to the effect of any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors’ right generally;

(6) the deposit does not constitute a default under any other agreement binding on the Company;

(7) the Company delivers to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that the trust resulting from the deposit does not constitute, or is qualified as, a regulated investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940;

(8) in the case of the legal defeasance option, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel in the United States stating that (i) the Company has received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (ii) since the date of this Indenture there has been a change in the applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such Opinion of Counsel shall confirm that, the Securityholders will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such legal defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such legal defeasance had not occurred;

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(9) in the case of the covenant defeasance option, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel in the United States to the effect that the Securityholders will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such covenant defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such covenant defeasance had not occurred; and

(10) the Company delivers to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent to the defeasance and discharge of the Securities and this Indenture as contemplated by this Article VIII have been complied with.

SECTION 8.3. Application of Trust Money. The Trustee shall hold in trust money or U.S. Government Obligations deposited with it pursuant to this Article VIII. It shall apply the deposited money and the money from U.S. Government Obligations through the Paying Agent and in accordance with this Indenture to the payment of principal of and interest on the Securities.

SECTION 8.4. Repayment to Company. Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, the Trustee shall deliver or pay to the Company from time to time upon Company Order any money or U.S. Government Obligations held by it as provided in this Article VIII which, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, are in excess of the amount thereof which would then be required to be deposited to effect legal defeasance or covenant defeasance, as applicable, provided that the Trustee shall not be required to liquidate any U.S. Government Obligations in order to comply with the provisions of this paragraph.

Subject to any applicable abandoned property law, the Trustee and the Paying Agent shall pay to the Company upon written request any money held by them for the payment of principal of or interest on the Securities that remains unclaimed for two years, and, thereafter, Securityholders entitled to the money must look to the Company for payment as general creditors.

SECTION 8.5. Indemnity for U.S. Government Obligations. The Company shall pay and shall indemnify the Trustee against any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against deposited U.S. Government Obligations or the principal and interest received on such U.S. Government Obligations.

SECTION 8.6. Reinstatement. If the Trustee or Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article VIII by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Company under this Indenture and the Securities shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to this Article VIII until such time as the Trustee or Paying Agent is permitted to apply all such money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this

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Article VIII; provided, however, that, if the Company has made any payment of interest on or principal of any Securities because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Company shall be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government Obligations held by the Trustee or Paying Agent.

ARTICLE IX

Amendments

SECTION 9.1. Without Consent of Holders. The Company and the Trustee may amend this Indenture or the Securities without notice to or consent of any Securityholder:

(1) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency;

(2) to comply with Article IV in respect of the assumption by a Successor Company of an obligation of the Company under this Indenture;

(3) to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities; provided, however, that the uncertificated Securities are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code or in a manner such that the uncertificated Securities are described in Section 163(f)(2)(B) of the Code;

(4) to add Guarantees with respect to the Securities, to secure the Securities or to release a Subsidiary Guarantor upon its designation as an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that the designation is made in accordance with the applicable provision of this Indenture;

(5) to add to the covenants of the Company for the benefit of the Holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Company;

(6) to comply with any requirements of the SEC in connection with qualifying this Indenture under the TIA;

(7) to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Securityholder; or

(8) to provide for the issuance of the Exchange Notes, which will have terms substantially identical in all material respects to the Initial Notes (except that the transfer restrictions contained in the Initial Notes will be modified or eliminated, as appropriate), and which will be treated, together with any outstanding Initial Notes, as a single issue of securities.

After an amendment under this Section becomes effective, the Company shall mail to Securityholders a notice briefly describing such amendment. The failure to give such

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notice to all Securityholders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section.

SECTION 9.2. With Consent of Holders. The Company and the Trustee may amend this Indenture or the Securities without notice to any Securityholder but with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding. However, without the consent of each Securityholder affected, an amendment may not:

(1) reduce the principal amount of Securities whose Holders must consent to an amendment;

(2) reduce the rate of or extend the time for payment of interest on any Security;

(3) reduce the principal of or extend the Stated Maturity of any Security;

(4) reduce the premium payable upon the redemption or repurchase of any Security or change the time at which any Security may or shall be redeemed or repurchased in accordance with Section 3.9 or Article V;

(5) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in the Security;

(6) impair the right of any Holder to receive payment of principal of and interest on such Holder’s Securities on or after the due dates therefor or to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on or with respect to such Holder’s Securities;

(7) release any Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, from any of its obligations under its Subsidiary Guarantee or this Indenture, except in compliance with the terms thereof; or

(8) make any change in the amendment provisions which require each Holder’s consent or in the waiver provisions.

It shall not be necessary for the consent of the Holders under this Section to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment, but it shall be sufficient if such consent approves the substance thereof.

After an amendment under this Section becomes effective, the Company shall mail to Securityholders a notice briefly describing such amendment. The failure to give such notice to all Securityholders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section.

SECTION 9.3. Compliance with Trust Indenture Act. Every amendment to this Indenture or the Securities shall comply with the TIA as then in effect.

SECTION 9.4. Revocation and Effect of Consents and Waivers. A consent to an amendment or a waiver by a Holder of a Security shall bind the Holder and every subsequent

84

Holder of that Security or portion of the Security that evidences the same debt as the consenting Holder’s Security, even if notation of the consent or waiver is not made on the Security. However, any such Holder or subsequent Holder may revoke the consent or waiver as to such Holder’s Security or portion of the Security if the Trustee receives the notice of revocation before the date the amendment or waiver becomes effective. After an amendment or waiver becomes effective, it shall bind every Securityholder. An amendment or waiver made pursuant to Section 9.2 shall become effective upon receipt by the Trustee of the requisite number of written consents.

The Company may, but shall not be obligated to, fix a record date for the purpose of determining the Securityholders entitled to give their consent or take any other action described above or required or permitted to be taken pursuant to this Indenture. If a record date is fixed, then notwithstanding the immediately preceding paragraph, those Persons who were Securityholders at such record date (or their duly designated proxies), and only those Persons, shall be entitled to give such consent or to revoke any consent previously given or to take any such action, whether or not such Persons continue to be Holders after such record date. No such consent shall become valid or effective more than 120 days after such record date.

SECTION 9.5. Notation on or Exchange of Securities. If an amendment changes the terms of a Security, the Trustee may require the Holder of the Security to deliver it to the Trustee. The Trustee may place an appropriate notation on the Security regarding the changed terms and return it to the Holder. Alternatively, if the Company or the Trustee so determines, the Company in exchange for the Security shall issue and the Trustee shall authenticate a new Security that reflects the changed terms. Failure to make the appropriate notation or to issue a new Security shall not affect the validity of such amendment.

SECTION 9.6. Trustee To Sign Amendments. The Trustee shall sign any amendment authorized pursuant to this Article IX if the amendment does not, in the sole determination of the Trustee, adversely affect the rights, duties, liabilities or immunities of the Trustee. If it does, the Trustee may but need not sign it. In signing such amendment the Trustee shall be entitled to receive indemnity reasonably satisfactory to it and to receive, and (subject to Section 7.1) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that such amendment is authorized or permitted by this Indenture.

ARTICLE X

Miscellaneous

SECTION 10.1. Trust Indenture Act Controls. If any provision of this Indenture limits, qualifies or conflicts with another provision which is required to be included in this Indenture by the TIA, the provision required by the TIA shall control.

85

SECTION 10.2. Notices. Any notice or communication shall be in writing and delivered in person or mailed by first-class mail addressed as follows:

if to the Company:

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

200 Commerce Street

Smithfield, VA 23430

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

Facsimile No.: (757) 365-3023

With a copy to:

McGuireWoods LLP

One James Center

901 E. Cary Street

Richmond, VA 23219-4030

Attention: Jane Whitt Sellers, Esq.

Facsimile No.: (804) 698-2170

if to the Trustee:

SunTrust Bank

25 Park Place

24^th Floor

Atlanta, Georgia 30303-2900

Attention: Corporate Trust Department

Facsimile No.: (404) 332-3966 (mc 008)

The Company or the Trustee by notice to the other may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.

Any notice or communication mailed to a Securityholder shall be mailed to the Securityholder at the Securityholder’s address as it appears on the registration books of the Registrar and shall be sufficiently given if so mailed within the time prescribed.

Failure to mail a notice or communication to a Securityholder or any defect in it shall not affect its sufficiency with respect to other Securityholders. If a notice or communication is mailed in the manner provided above, it is duly given, whether or not the addressee receives it.

SECTION 10.3. Communication by Holders with other Holders. Securityholders may communicate pursuant to TIA § 312(b) with other Securityholders with respect to their rights under this Indenture or the Securities. The Company, the Trustee, the Registrar and anyone else shall have the protection of TIA § 312(c).

86

SECTION 10.4. Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent. Upon any request or application by the Company to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking any action under this Indenture, the Company shall furnish to the Trustee:

(1) an Officers’ Certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with; and

(2) an Opinion of Counsel in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such counsel, all such conditions precedent have been complied with.

SECTION 10.5. Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion. Each certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a covenant or condition provided for in this Indenture shall include:

(1) a statement that the individual making such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition;

(2) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

(3) a statement that, in the opinion of such individual, he has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been complied with; and

(4) a statement as to whether or not, in the opinion of such individual, such covenant or condition has been complied with.

In giving such Opinion of Counsel, counsel may rely as to factual matters on an Officers’ Certificate or on certificates of public officials.

SECTION 10.6. When Securities Disregarded. In determining whether the Holders of the required principal amount of Securities have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent, Securities owned by the Company or by any Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with the Company shall be disregarded and deemed not to be outstanding, except that, for the purpose of determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying on any such direction, waiver or consent, only Securities which the Trustee knows are so owned shall be so disregarded. Also, subject to the foregoing, only Securities outstanding at the time shall be considered in any such determination.

SECTION 10.7. Rules by Trustee, Paying Agent and Registrar. The Trustee may make reasonable rules for action by, or a meeting of, Securityholders. The Registrar and the Paying Agent may make reasonable rules for their functions.

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SECTION 10.8. Legal Holidays. A “Legal Holiday” is a Saturday, a Sunday or other day on which commercial banking institutions are authorized or required to be closed in New York City or Atlanta, Georgia. If a payment date is a Legal Holiday, payment shall be made on the next succeeding day that is not a Legal Holiday, and no interest shall accrue for the intervening period. If a regular record date is a Legal Holiday, the record date shall not be affected.

SECTION 10.9. Governing Law. This Indenture and the Securities shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

SECTION 10.10. No Recourse Against Others. An incorporator, director, officer, employee, stockholder or controlling person, as such, of the Company shall not have any liability for any obligations of the Company under the Securities or this Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of such obligations or their creation. By accepting a Security, each Securityholder shall waive and release all such liability. The waiver and release shall be part of the consideration for the issue of the Securities.

SECTION 10.11. Successors. All agreements of the Company in this Indenture and the Securities shall bind their respective successors. All agreements of the Trustee in this Indenture shall bind its successors.

SECTION 10.12. Multiple Originals. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement. One signed copy is enough to prove this Indenture.

SECTION 10.13. Variable Provisions. The Company initially appoints the Trustee as Paying Agent and Registrar and custodian with respect to any Global Securities.

SECTION 10.14. Qualification of Indenture. The Company shall qualify this Indenture under the TIA in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Registration Rights Agreement and shall pay all reasonable costs and expenses (including attorneys’ fees and expenses for the Company and the Trustee) incurred in connection therewith, including, but not limited to, costs and expenses of qualification of the Indenture and the Securities and printing this Indenture and the Securities. The Trustee shall be entitled to receive from the Company any such Officers’ Certificates, Opinions of Counsel or other documentation as it may reasonably request in connection with any such qualification of this Indenture under the TIA.

SECTION 10.15. Table of Contents; Headings. The table of contents, cross-reference sheet and headings of the Articles and Sections of this Indenture have been inserted for convenience of reference only, are not intended to be considered a part hereof and shall not modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.
By:	/s/ Michael H. Cole
	Name: Michael H. Cole
	Title: Vice President, Secretary and Deputy General Counsel

SUNTRUST BANK, as Trustee
By:	/s/ Jack Ellerin
	Name: Jack Ellerin
	Title: Assistant Vice President

89

EXHIBIT A

[FORM OF FACE OF SERIES A NOTE]

[Applicable Restricted Securities Legend]

[Depository Legend, if applicable]

A-1

No. [    ] Principal Amount $[                    ], as revised by the Schedule of Increases and Decreases in the Global Security attached hereto

CUSIP NO.                     

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

7% Senior Note, Series A, due 2011

Smithfield Foods, Inc., a Virginia corporation, promises to pay to [                    ], or registered assigns, the principal sum of [                            ] Dollars, as revised by the Schedule of Increases and Decreases in the Global Security attached hereto, on August 1, 2011.

Interest Payment Dates: February 1 and August 1.

Record Dates: January 15 and July 15.

Additional provisions of this Security are set forth on the other side of this Security.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

By: 

By: 

TRUSTEE’S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION
SUNTRUST BANK
as Trustee, certifies that this is one of the Securities referred to in the Indenture.
By
	Authorized Signatory	Date:

A-2

[FORM OF REVERSE SIDE OF SERIES A NOTE]

7% Senior Note, Series A, due 2011

1. Interest

Smithfield Foods, Inc., a Virginia corporation (such corporation, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called the “Company”), promises to pay interest on the principal amount of this Security at the rate per annum shown above.

The Company will pay interest semiannually on February 1 and August 1 of each year. Interest on the Securities will accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid on the Securities or, if no interest has been paid, from August 4, 2004. The Company shall pay interest on overdue principal or premium, if any (plus interest on such interest to the extent lawful), at the rate borne by the Securities to the extent lawful. Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

2. Method of Payment

By no later than 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the date on which any principal of or interest on any Security is due and payable, the Company shall irrevocably deposit with the Trustee or the Paying Agent money sufficient to pay such principal, premium, if any, and/or interest. The Company will pay interest (except Defaulted Interest) to the Persons who are registered Holders of Securities at the close of business on the January 15 and July 15 next preceding the interest payment date even if Securities are cancelled or repurchased after the record date and on or before the interest payment date. Holders must surrender Securities to a Paying Agent to collect principal payments. The Company will pay principal and interest in money of the United States that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts. Payments in respect of Securities represented by a Global Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) will be made by the transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the Depositary. The Company will make all payments in respect of a Definitive Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) by mailing a check to the registered address of each Holder thereof; provided, however, that payments on the Securities may also be made, in the case of a Holder of at least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Securities, by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such Holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or the Paying Agent to such effect designating such account no later than 15 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

3. Paying Agent and Registrar

Initially, SunTrust Bank, a banking corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Georgia (“Trustee”), will act as Paying Agent and Registrar. The Company may appoint and change any Paying Agent, Registrar or co-registrar without notice to any Securityholder. The Company or any of its domestically incorporated Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent, Registrar or co-registrar.

A-3

4. Indenture

The Company issued the Securities under an Indenture dated as of August 4, 2004 (as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Indenture”), among the Company and the Trustee. The terms of the Securities include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in effect from time to time (the “Act”). Capitalized terms used herein and not defined herein have the meanings ascribed thereto in the Indenture. The Securities are subject to all such terms, and Securityholders are referred to the Indenture and the Act for a statement of those terms.

The Securities are general unsecured senior obligations of the Company. The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under the Indenture is unlimited. This Security is one of the 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 referred to in the Indenture. The Securities include (i) $400,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 issued under the Indenture on August 4, 2004 (herein called “Initial Notes”), (ii) if and when issued, additional 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 or 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 of the Company that may be issued from time to time under the Indenture subsequent to August 4, 2004 (herein called “Additional Notes”) and (iii) if and when issued, the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 that may be issued from time to time under the Indenture in exchange for Initial Notes or Additional Notes in an offer registered under the Securities Act as provided in the Registration Rights Agreement. The Initial Notes, Additional Notes and Exchange Notes are treated as a single class of securities under the Indenture. The Indenture imposes certain limitations on the Incurrence of Indebtedness by the Company and its Subsidiaries, the payment of dividends and other distributions on the Capital Stock of the Company and its Subsidiaries, the purchase or redemption of Capital Stock of the Company and Capital Stock of such Subsidiaries, certain purchases or redemptions of Subordinated Indebtedness, the sale or transfer of assets and Capital Stock of Subsidiaries, certain Sale/Leaseback Transactions involving the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, the issuance or sale of Capital Stock of Subsidiaries, the incurrence of certain Liens, certain payment Guarantees, the business activities and investments of the Company and its Subsidiaries and transactions with Affiliates, provided, however, certain of such limitations will no longer be in effect if the Securities receive a rating of “BBB-” or higher from Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (or its successors) and “Baa3” or higher from Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (or its successors). In addition, the Indenture limits the ability of the Company and its Subsidiaries to enter into agreements that restrict distributions and dividends from Subsidiaries.

5. Redemption

At any time and from time to time prior to August 1, 2007, the Company may redeem in the aggregate up to 35% of the original principal amount of the Securities with the Net Cash Proceeds of one or more Public Equity Offerings received by the Company at a redemption price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) of 107.00% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date); provided, however, that at least 65% of the original principal amount of the Securities must remain outstanding after each

A-4

such redemption; provided further, that each such redemption occurs within 60 days of the date of closing of such Public Equity Offering.

If the optional redemption date is on or after an interest record date and on or before the related interest payment date, the accrued and unpaid interest, if any, will be paid to the Person in whose name the Security is registered at the close of business on such record date, and no additional interest will be payable to Holders whose Securities will be subject to redemption by the Company.

In the case of any partial redemption, selection of the Securities for redemption will be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Securities are listed or, if the Securities are not listed, then on a pro rata basis, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee in its sole discretion shall deem to be fair and appropriate, although no Securities of $1,000 in original principal amount or less will be redeemed in part. If any Security is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption relating to such Security shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. A new Security in principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion thereof will be issued in the name of the Holder thereof upon cancellation of the original Security. On and after the redemption date, interest will cease to accrue on Securities or portions thereof called for redemption as long as the Company has deposited with the Paying Agent funds in satisfaction of the applicable redemption price pursuant to the Indenture.

6. Put Provisions

(a) Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, any Holder of Securities will have the right to offer to cause the Company to repurchase all or any part of the Securities of such Holder at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date) as provided in, and subject to the terms of, the Indenture.

(b) In the event of an Asset Disposition that requires the purchase of Securities pursuant to Section 3.7(b) of the Indenture, the Company will be required to apply such Excess Proceeds to the repayment of the Securities and any Pari Passu Indebtedness in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section 3.7 of the Indenture.

7. Denominations; Transfer; Exchange

The Securities are in registered form without coupons in denominations of principal amount of $1,000 and whole multiples of $1,000. A Holder may transfer or exchange Securities in accordance with the Indenture. The Registrar may require a Holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements or transfer documents and to pay any taxes and fees required by law or permitted by the Indenture. The Registrar need not register the transfer of or exchange any Securities for a period beginning 15 days before an interest payment date and ending on such interest payment date.

A-5

8. Persons Deemed Owners

The registered Holder of this Security may be treated as the owner of it for all purposes.

9. Unclaimed Money

If money for the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, or interest remains unclaimed for two years, the Trustee or Paying Agent shall pay the money back to the Company at its request unless an abandoned property law designates another person. After any such payment, Holders entitled to the money must look only to the Company and not to the Trustee for payment.

10. Defeasance

Subject to certain conditions set forth in the Indenture, the Company at any time may terminate some or all of its obligations under the Securities and the Indenture if the Company deposits with the Trustee money or U.S. Government Obligations for the payment of principal and interest on the Securities to maturity.

11. Amendment, Waiver

Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, (i) the Indenture or the Securities may be amended with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities and (ii) any default (other than with respect to nonpayment) or noncompliance with any provision may be waived with the written consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities. Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, without the consent of any Securityholder, the Company and the Trustee may amend the Indenture or the Securities to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency, or to comply with Article IV of the Indenture in respect of the assumption by a Successor Company of an obligation of the Company under the Indenture, or to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities, or to add guarantees with respect to the Securities or to secure the Securities, or to release a Subsidiary Guarantor upon its designation as an Unrestricted Subsidiary or to add additional covenants or surrender rights and powers conferred on the Company, or to comply with any request of the SEC in connection with qualifying the Indenture under the Act, or to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Securityholder, or to provide for the issuance of Exchange Notes.

12. Defaults and Remedies

Under the Indenture, Events of Default include: (i) default for 30 days in payment of interest when due on the Securities; (ii) default in payment of the principal of or premium, if any, on the Securities at Stated Maturity, upon required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise; (iii) failure by the Company or any Significant Subsidiary to comply with other agreements in the Indenture or the Securities, in certain cases subject to notice and lapse of time; (iv) certain accelerations (including failure to pay within any grace period after final maturity) of other Indebtedness of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary if the amount accelerated (or

A-6

so unpaid) exceeds $25.0 million; (v) certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency with respect to the Company or any Significant Subsidiary; (vi) certain final, non-appealable judgments or decrees for the payment of money in excess of $25.0 million; and (vii) nonperformance by any Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary under a Subsidiary Guarantee or the failure of any Subsidiary Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor which is a Significant Subsidiary to be in full force and effect. If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee or Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding may declare all the Securities to be due and payable immediately. Certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency are Events of Default which will result in the Securities being due and payable immediately upon the occurrence of such Events of Default.

Securityholders may not enforce the Indenture or the Securities except as provided in the Indenture. The Trustee may refuse to enforce the Indenture or the Securities unless it receives reasonable indemnity or security. Subject to certain limitations, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities may direct the Trustee in its exercise of any trust or power. The Trustee may withhold from Securityholders notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default (except a Default or Event of Default in payment of principal or interest) if it determines that withholding notice is in their interest.

13. Trustee Dealings with the Company

Subject to certain limitations set forth in the Indenture, the Trustee under the Indenture, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with and collect obligations owed to it by the Company or its Affiliates and may otherwise deal with the Company or its Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.

14. No Recourse Against Others

A director, officer, employee or stockholder, as such, of the Company shall not have any liability for any obligations of the Company under the Securities or the Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of such obligations or their creation. By accepting a Security, each Securityholder waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for the issue of the Securities.

15. Authentication

This Security shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee (or an authenticating agent acting on its behalf) manually signs the certificate of authentication on the other side of this Security.

16. Abbreviations

Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a Securityholder or an assignee, such as TEN COM (=tenants in common), TEN ENT (=tenants by the entirety), JT TEN (=joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (=custodian) and U/G/M/A (=Uniform Gift to Minors Act).

A-7

17. CUSIP Numbers

Pursuant to a recommendation promulgated by the Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures the Company has caused CUSIP numbers to be printed on the Securities. No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers as printed on the Securities and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

18. Governing Law

This Security shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

The Company will furnish to any Securityholder upon written request and without charge to the Securityholder a copy of the Indenture which has in it the text of this Security in larger type. Requests may be made to:

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

200 Commerce Street

Smithfield, VA 23430

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

A-8

ASSIGNMENT FORM

To assign this Security, fill in the form below:

I or we assign and transfer this Security to

(Print or type assignee’s name, address and zip code)

(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax I.D. No.)

and irrevocably appoint              agent to transfer this Security on the books of the Company. The agent may substitute another to act for him.

Date:		Your Signature:
Signature Guarantee:
	(Signature must be guaranteed)
Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of this Security.

The signature(s) should be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution (banks, stockbrokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions with membership in an approved signature guarantee medallion program), pursuant to S.E.C. Rule 17Ad-15.

In connection with any transfer or exchange of any of the Securities evidenced by this certificate occurring prior to the date that is two years after the later of the date of original issuance of such Securities and the last date, if any, on which such Securities were owned by the Company or any Affiliate of the Company, the undersigned confirms that such Securities are being:

CHECK ONE BOX BELOW:

1 ¨ acquired for the undersigned’s own account, without transfer; or

2 ¨ transferred to the Company; or

3 ¨ transferred pursuant to and in compliance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”); or

4 ¨ transferred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act; or

5 ¨ transferred pursuant to and in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act; or

A-9

6 ¨ transferred to an institutional “accredited investor” (as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act), that has furnished to the Trustee a signed letter containing certain representations and agreements (the form of which letter appears as Section 2.7 of the Indenture); or

7 ¨ transferred pursuant to another available exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933.

Unless one of the boxes is checked, the Trustee will refuse to register any of the Securities evidenced by this certificate in the name of any person other than the registered Holder thereof; provided, however, that if box (5), (6) or (7) is checked, the Trustee or the Company may require, prior to registering any such transfer of the Securities, in their sole discretion, such legal opinions, certifications and other information as the Trustee or the Company may reasonably request to confirm that such transfer is being made pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, such as the exemption provided by Rule 144 under such Act.

	Signature
Signature Guarantee:
(Signature must be guaranteed)	Signature

The signature(s) should be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution (banks, stockbrokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions with membership in an approved signature guarantee medallion program), pursuant to S.E.C. Rule 17Ad-15.

TO BE COMPLETED BY PURCHASER IF (1) OR (3) ABOVE IS CHECKED.

The undersigned represents and warrants that it is purchasing this Security for its own account or an account with respect to which it exercises sole investment discretion and that it and any such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and is aware that the sale to it is being made in reliance on Rule 144A and acknowledges that it has received such information regarding the Company as the undersigned has requested pursuant to Rule 144A or has determined not to request such information and that it is aware that the transferor is relying upon the undersigned’s foregoing representations in order to claim the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A.

Dated: NOTICE: To be executed by an executive officer

A-10

[TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL SECURITIES]

SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL SECURITY

The following increases or decreases in this Global Security have been made:

Date of Exchange Amount of decrease in Principal Amount of this Global Security Amount of increase in Principal Amount of this Global Security Principal Amount of this
Global Security following
such decrease or increase
Signature of authorized
signatory of Trustee or
Securities Custodian

A-11

OPTION OF HOLDER TO ELECT PURCHASE

If you want to elect to have this Security purchased by the Company pursuant to Section 3.7 or 3.9 of the Indenture, check the box:

If you want to elect to have only part of this Security purchased by the Company pursuant to Section 3.7 or 3.9 of the Indenture, state the amount in principal amount (must be integral multiple of $1,000): $

Date:	Your Signature:
	(Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of the Security)

Signature Guarantee:	___________________________________________
	(Signature must be guaranteed)

The signature(s) should be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution (banks, stockbrokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions with membership in an approved signature guarantee medallion program), pursuant to S.E.C. Rule 17Ad-15.

A-12

EXHIBIT B

[FORM OF FACE OF SERIES B NOTE]

[Depository Legend, if applicable]

B-1

No. [            ]	Principal Amount $[                                         ],
	as revised by the Schedule of Increases and Decreases in the Global Security attached hereto

CUSIP NO.                     

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

7% Senior Note, Series B, due 2011

Smithfield Foods, Inc., a Virginia corporation, promises to pay to [                    ], or registered assigns, the principal sum of [                                ] Dollars, as revised by the Schedule of Increases and Decreases in the Global Security attached hereto, on August 1, 2011.

Interest Payment Dates: February 1 and August 1.

Record Dates: January 15 and July 15.

Additional provisions of this Security are set forth on the other side of this Security.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

By:

By:

TRUSTEE’S CERTIFICATE OF

AUTHENTICATION

SUNTRUST BANK

as Trustee, certifies

that this is one of

the Securities referred

to in the Indenture.

By
	Authorized Signatory	Date:

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[FORM OF REVERSE SIDE OF SERIES B NOTE]

7% Senior Note, Series B, due 2011

1. Interest

Smithfield Foods, Inc., a Virginia corporation (such corporation, and its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to, being herein called the “Company”), promises to pay interest on the principal amount of this Security at the rate per annum shown above.

The Company will pay interest semiannually on February 1 and August 1 of each year. Interest on the Securities will accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid on the Securities or, if no interest has been paid, from August 4, 2004. The Company shall pay interest on overdue principal or premium, if any (plus interest on such interest to the extent lawful), at the rate borne by the Securities to the extent lawful. Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

2. Method of Payment

By no later than 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the date on which any principal of or interest on any Security is due and payable, the Company shall irrevocably deposit with the Trustee or the Paying Agent money sufficient to pay such principal, premium, if any, and/or interest. The Company will pay interest (except Defaulted Interest) to the Persons who are registered Holders of Securities at the close of business on the January 15 and July 15 next preceding the interest payment date even if Securities are cancelled or repurchased after the record date and on or before the interest payment date. Holders must surrender Securities to a Paying Agent to collect principal payments. The Company will pay principal and interest in money of the United States that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts. Payments in respect of Securities represented by a Global Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) will be made by the transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the Depositary. The Company will make all payments in respect of a Definitive Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) by mailing a check to the registered address of each Holder thereof; provided, however, that payments on the Securities may also be made, in the case of a Holder of at least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Securities, by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such Holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or the Paying Agent to such effect designating such account no later than 15 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

3. Paying Agent and Registrar

Initially, SunTrust Bank, a banking corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Georgia (“Trustee”), will act as Paying Agent and Registrar. The Company may appoint and change any Paying Agent, Registrar or co-registrar without notice to any Securityholder. The Company or any of its domestically incorporated Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent, Registrar or co-registrar.

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4. Indenture

The Company issued the Securities under an Indenture dated as of August 4, 2004 (as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Indenture”), among the Company and the Trustee. The terms of the Securities include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 (15 U.S.C. §§ 77aaa-77bbbb) as in effect from time to time (the “Act”). Capitalized terms used herein and not defined herein have the meanings ascribed thereto in the Indenture. The Securities are subject to all such terms, and Securityholders are referred to the Indenture and the Act for a statement of those terms.

The Securities are general unsecured senior obligations of the Company. The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under the Indenture is unlimited. This Security is one of the 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 referred to in the Indenture. The Securities include (i) $400,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 issued under the Indenture on August 4, 2004 (herein called “Initial Notes”), (ii) if and when issued, additional 7% Senior Notes, Series A, due 2011 or 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 of the Company that may be issued from time to time under the Indenture subsequent to August 4, 2004 (herein called “Additional Notes”) and (iii) if and when issued, the Company’s 7% Senior Notes, Series B, due 2011 that may be issued from time to time under the Indenture in exchange for Initial Notes or Additional Notes in an offer registered under the Securities Act as provided in the Registration Rights Agreement. The Initial Notes, Additional Notes and Exchange Notes are treated as a single class of securities under the Indenture. The Indenture imposes certain limitations on the Incurrence of Indebtedness by the Company and its Subsidiaries, the payment of dividends and other distributions on the Capital Stock of the Company and its Subsidiaries, the purchase or redemption of Capital Stock of the Company and Capital Stock of such Subsidiaries, certain purchases or redemptions of Subordinated Indebtedness, the sale or transfer of assets and Capital Stock of Subsidiaries, certain Sale/Leaseback Transactions involving the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, the issuance or sale of Capital Stock of Subsidiaries, the incurrence of certain Liens, certain payment Guarantees, the business activities and investments of the Company and its Subsidiaries and transactions with Affiliates, provided, however, certain of such limitations will no longer be in effect if the Securities receive a rating of “BBB-” or higher from Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (or its successors) and “Baa3” or higher from Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (or its successors). In addition, the Indenture limits the ability of the Company and its Subsidiaries to enter into agreements that restrict distributions and dividends from Subsidiaries.

5. Redemption

At any time and from time to time prior to August 1, 2007, the Company may redeem in the aggregate up to 35% of the original principal amount of the Securities with the Net Cash Proceeds of one or more Public Equity Offerings received by the Company at a redemption price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) of 107.00% plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date); provided, however, that at least 65% of the original principal amount of the Securities must remain outstanding after each

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such redemption; provided further, that each such redemption occurs within 60 days of the date of closing of such Public Equity Offering.

If the optional redemption date is on or after an interest record date and on or before the related interest payment date, the accrued and unpaid interest, if any, will be paid to the Person in whose name the Security is registered at the close of business on such record date, and no additional interest will be payable to Holders whose Securities will be subject to redemption by the Company.

In the case of any partial redemption, selection of the Securities for redemption will be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Securities are listed or, if the Securities are not listed, then on a pro rata basis, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee in its sole discretion shall deem to be fair and appropriate, although no Securities of $1,000 in original principal amount or less will be redeemed in part. If any Security is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption relating to such Security shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. A new Security in principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion thereof will be issued in the name of the Holder thereof upon cancellation of the original Security. On and after the redemption date, interest will cease to accrue on Securities or portions thereof called for redemption as long as the Company has deposited with the Paying Agent funds in satisfaction of the applicable redemption price pursuant to the Indenture.

6. Put Provisions

(c) Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, any Holder of Securities will have the right to offer to cause the Company to repurchase all or any part of the Securities of such Holder at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date) as provided in, and subject to the terms of, the Indenture.

(d) In the event of an Asset Disposition that requires the purchase of Securities pursuant to Section 3.7(b) of the Indenture, the Company will be required to apply such Excess Proceeds to the repayment of the Securities and any Pari Passu Indebtedness in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section 3.7 of the Indenture.

7. Denominations; Transfer; Exchange

The Securities are in registered form without coupons in denominations of principal amount of $1,000 and whole multiples of $1,000. A Holder may transfer or exchange Securities in accordance with the Indenture. The Registrar may require a Holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements or transfer documents and to pay any taxes and fees required by law or permitted by the Indenture. The Registrar need not register the transfer of or exchange any Securities for a period beginning 15 days before an interest payment date and ending on such interest payment date.

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8. Persons Deemed Owners

The registered Holder of this Security may be treated as the owner of it for all purposes.

9. Unclaimed Money

If money for the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, or interest remains unclaimed for two years, the Trustee or Paying Agent shall pay the money back to the Company at its request unless an abandoned property law designates another person. After any such payment, Holders entitled to the money must look only to the Company and not to the Trustee for payment.

10. Defeasance

Subject to certain conditions set forth in the Indenture, the Company at any time may terminate some or all of its obligations under the Securities and the Indenture if the Company deposits with the Trustee money or U.S. Government Obligations for the payment of principal and interest on the Securities to maturity.

11. Amendment, Waiver

Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, (i) the Indenture or the Securities may be amended with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities and (ii) any default (other than with respect to nonpayment) or noncompliance with any provision may be waived with the written consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities. Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, without the consent of any Securityholder, the Company and the Trustee may amend the Indenture or the Securities to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency, or to comply with Article IV of the Indenture in respect of the assumption by a Successor Company of an obligation of the Company under the Indenture, or to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities, or to add guarantees with respect to the Securities or to secure the Securities, or to release a Subsidiary Guarantor upon its designation as an Unrestricted Subsidiary or to add additional covenants or surrender rights and powers conferred on the Company or to comply with any request of the SEC in connection with qualifying the Indenture under the Act, or to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Securityholder, or to provide for the issuance of Exchange Notes.

12. Defaults and Remedies

Under the Indenture, Events of Default include: (i) default for 30 days in payment of interest when due on the Securities; (ii) default in payment of the principal of or premium, if any, on the Securities at Stated Maturity, upon required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise; (iii) failure by the Company or any Significant Subsidiary to comply with other agreements in the Indenture or the Securities, in certain cases subject to notice and lapse of time; (iv) certain accelerations (including failure to pay within any grace period after final maturity) of other Indebtedness of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary if the amount accelerated (or

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so unpaid) exceeds $25.0 million; (v) certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency with respect to the Company or any Significant Subsidiary; (vi) certain final, non-appealable judgments or decrees for the payment of money in excess of $25.0 million; and (vii) nonperformance by any Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary under a Subsidiary Guarantee or the failure of any Subsidiary Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor which is a Significant Subsidiary to be in full force and effect. If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee or Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding may declare all the Securities to be due and payable immediately. Certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency are Events of Default which will result in the Securities being due and payable immediately upon the occurrence of such Events of Default.

Securityholders may not enforce the Indenture or the Securities except as provided in the Indenture. The Trustee may refuse to enforce the Indenture or the Securities unless it receives reasonable indemnity or security. Subject to certain limitations, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities may direct the Trustee in its exercise of any trust or power. The Trustee may withhold from Securityholders notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default (except a Default or Event of Default in payment of principal or interest) if it determines that withholding notice is in their interest.

13. Trustee Dealings with the Company

Subject to certain limitations set forth in the Indenture, the Trustee under the Indenture, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with and collect obligations owed to it by the Company or its Affiliates and may otherwise deal with the Company or its Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.

14. No Recourse Against Others

A director, officer, employee or stockholder, as such, of the Company shall not have any liability for any obligations of the Company under the Securities or the Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of or by reason of such obligations or their creation. By accepting a Security, each Securityholder waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for the issue of the Securities.

15. Authentication

This Security shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee (or an authenticating agent acting on its behalf) manually signs the certificate of authentication on the other side of this Security.

16. Abbreviations

Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a Securityholder or an assignee, such as TEN COM (=tenants in common), TEN ENT (=tenants by the entirety), JT TEN (=joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (=custodian) and U/G/M/A (=Uniform Gift to Minors Act).

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17. CUSIP Numbers

Pursuant to a recommendation promulgated by the Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures the Company has caused CUSIP numbers to be printed on the Securities. No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers as printed on the Securities and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

18. Governing Law

This Security shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

The Company will furnish to any Securityholder upon written request and without charge to the Securityholder a copy of the Indenture which has in it the text of this Security in larger type. Requests may be made to:

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

200 Commerce Street

Smithfield, VA 23430

Attention: Chief Financial Officer

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ASSIGNMENT FORM

To assign this Security, fill in the form below:

I or we assign and transfer this Security to

_______________________________________________

(Print or type assignee’s name, address and zip code)

__________________________________

(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax I.D. No.)

and irrevocably appoint                             agent to transfer this Security on the books of the Company. The agent may substitute another to act for him.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Date:                                  Your Signature                                         

Signature Guarantee:	__________________________________________________________________________________________________
	(Signature must be guaranteed)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of this Security.

The signature(s) should be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution (banks, stockbrokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions with membership in an approved signature guarantee medallion program), pursuant to S.E.C. Rule 17Ad-15.

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[TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL SECURITIES]

SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL SECURITY

The following increases or decreases in this Global Security have been made:

Date of Exchange Amount of decrease in Principal Amount
of this Global Security Amount of increase in Principal Amount of this Global Security Principal Amount of this Global Security following such decrease or increase Signature of authorized
signatory of Trustee or
Securities Custodian

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OPTION OF HOLDER TO ELECT PURCHASE

If you want to elect to have this Security purchased by the Company pursuant to Section 3.7 or 3.9 of the Indenture, check the box:

¨

If you want to elect to have only part of this Security purchased by the Company pursuant to Section 3.7 or 3.9 of the Indenture, state the amount in principal amount (must be integral multiple of $1,000): $

Date:	Your Signature:
	(Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of the Security)

Signature Guarantee:
	(Signature must be guaranteed)

The signature(s) should be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution (banks, stockbrokers, savings and loan associations and credit unions with membership in an approved signature guarantee medallion program), pursuant to S.E.C. Rule 17Ad-15.

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EXHIBIT C

FORM OF INDENTURE SUPPLEMENT TO ADD SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS TO

GUARANTEE NOTES

This Supplemental Indenture and Subsidiary Guarantee, dated as of [                     ], 20     (this “Supplemental Indenture” or “Guarantee”), among [name of future Subsidiary Guarantor] (the “Guarantor”), Smithfield Foods, Inc. (together with its successors and assigns, the “Company”), each other then existing Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture referred to below, and SunTrust Bank, as Trustee under the Indenture referred to below.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Company[, the Subsidiary Guarantors] and the Trustee have heretofore executed and delivered an Indenture, dated as of August 4, 2004 (as amended, supplemented, waived or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”), providing for the issuance of an unlimited aggregate principal amount of 7% Senior Notes due 2011 of the Company (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS, Section 3.12 of the Indenture provides that the Company will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to Guarantee the payment of any Indebtedness of the Company or any Indebtedness of any other Restricted Subsidiary, subject to certain exceptions, unless such Restricted Subsidiary simultaneously executes and delivers a supplemental indenture to the Indenture providing for a Guarantee of payment of the Securities by such Restricted Subsidiary; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 9.1 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture to amend the Indenture, without the consent of any Securityholder;

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NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Guarantor, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

ARTICLE I

Definitions

SECTION 1.1 Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf or for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

ARTICLE II

Agreement to be Bound; Guarantee

SECTION 2.1 Agreement to be Bound. The Guarantor hereby becomes a party to the Indenture as a Subsidiary Guarantor and as such will have all of the rights and be subject to all of the obligations and agreements of a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture. The Guarantor agrees to be bound by all of the provisions of the Indenture applicable to a Subsidiary Guarantor and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture.

SECTION 2.2 Guarantee. Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees, as primary obligor and not merely as surety, jointly and severally with each other Subsidiary Guarantor, to each Holder of the Securities and the Trustee the full and punctual payment when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Securities and all other obligations and liabilities of the Company under this Indenture (including without limitation interest accruing after the filing of any petition in bankruptcy, or the commencement of any insolvency, reorganization or like proceeding, relating to the Company or any Subsidiary Guarantor whether or not a claim for post-filing or post-petition interest is allowed in such proceeding) (all the foregoing being hereinafter collectively called the “Obligations”). Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees (to the extent permitted by law) that the Obligations may be extended or renewed, in whole or in part, without notice or further assent from it, and that it will remain bound under this Supplemental Indenture notwithstanding any extension or renewal of any Obligation.

Each Subsidiary Guarantor waives presentation to, demand of payment from and protest to the Company of any of the Obligations and also waives notice of protest for nonpayment. Each Subsidiary Guarantor waives notice of any default under the Securities, the Obligations or the Indenture. The obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder shall not be affected by (a) the failure of any Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against the Company, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other person under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement or otherwise; (b) any extension or renewal of any thereof; (c) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or

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provisions of this Indenture, any Subsidiary Guarantee, the Securities or any other agreement; (d) the release of any security held by any Holder or the Trustee for the Obligations or any of them; (e) the failure of any Holder to exercise any right or remedy against any other Subsidiary Guarantor; or (f) any change in the ownership of the Company.

Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee herein constitutes a Guarantee of payment when due (and not a Guarantee of collection) and waives any right to require that any resort be had by any Holder to any security held for payment of the Obligations.

The obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder shall not be subject to any reduction, limitation, impairment or termination for any reason (other than payment of the Obligations in full), including any claim of waiver, release, surrender, alteration or compromise, and shall not be subject to any defense of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment or termination whatsoever or by reason of the invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of the Obligations or otherwise. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor herein shall not be discharged or impaired or otherwise affected by the failure of any Holder to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any remedy under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement, by any waiver or modification of any thereof, by any default, failure or delay, willful or otherwise, in the performance of the Obligations, or by any other act or thing or omission or delay to do any other act or thing which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risk of any Subsidiary Guarantor or would otherwise operate as a discharge of such Subsidiary Guarantor as a matter of law or equity.

Subject to the provisions of Section 3.12 of the Indenture, each Subsidiary Guarantor agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee herein shall remain in full force and effect until payment in full of all the Obligations or such Subsidiary Guarantor is released from its Subsidiary Guarantee in accordance with the Indenture. Notwithstanding the foregoing and the other provisions of the Indenture, any Subsidiary Guarantee by a Restricted Subsidiary shall automatically and unconditionally be released and discharged upon (1) any sale, exchange or transfer, to any Person not an Affiliate of the Company, of all of the Company’s Capital Stock in, or all or substantially all the assets of, whether by way of merger, consolidation or otherwise, such Restricted Subsidiary (which sale, exchange or transfer is not prohibited by the Indenture), (2) the release or discharge of the guarantee which resulted in the creation of such Subsidiary Guarantee, except a discharge or release by or as a result of payment under such guarantee or (3) such Restricted Subsidiary being designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary of the Company in accordance with the terms of the Indenture by the Company’s Board of Directors. Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that its Subsidiary Guarantee herein shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment, or any part thereof, of principal of or interest on any of the Obligations is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by any Holder upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of the Company or otherwise.

In furtherance of the foregoing and not in limitation of any other right which any Holder has at law or in equity against any Subsidiary Guarantor by virtue hereof, upon the failure of the Company to pay any of the Obligations when and as the same shall become due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby promises to and will, upon receipt of written demand by the Trustee, forthwith pay, or cause to

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be paid, in cash, to the Holders an amount equal to the sum of (i) the unpaid amount of such Obligations then due and owing and (ii) accrued and unpaid interest on such Obligations then due and owing (but only to the extent not prohibited by law).

Each Subsidiary Guarantor further agrees that, as between such Subsidiary Guarantor, on the one hand, and the Holders, on the other hand, (x) the maturity of the Obligations guaranteed hereby may be accelerated as provided in this Indenture for the purposes of its Subsidiary Guarantee herein, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the Obligations guaranteed hereby and (y) in the event of any such declaration of acceleration of such Obligations, such Obligations (whether or not due and payable) shall forthwith become due and payable by the Subsidiary Guarantor for the purposes of this Subsidiary Guarantee.

Each Subsidiary Guarantor also agrees to pay any and all reasonable costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) incurred by the Trustee or the Holders in enforcing any rights under this Section.

SECTION 2.3 Limitation on Liability. The obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder will be limited to the maximum amount as will, after giving effect to all other contingent and fixed liabilities of such Subsidiary Guarantor and after giving effect to any collections from or payments made by or on behalf of any other Subsidiary Guarantor in respect of the obligations of such other Subsidiary Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee or pursuant to its contribution obligations under this Indenture or applicable law, result in the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee not constituting a fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer under federal or state law and not otherwise being void or voidable under any similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally.

SECTION 2.4 Release and Discharge. Each Subsidiary Guarantor will be deemed released from all its obligations under this Indenture and its Subsidiary Guarantee and such Subsidiary Guarantee will terminate upon the legal defeasance or covenant defeasance of the Securities pursuant to the provisions of Article VIII hereof.

SECTION 2.5 Right of Contribution. Each Subsidiary Guarantor hereby agrees that to the extent that any Subsidiary Guarantor shall have paid more than its proportionate share of any payment made on the obligations under the Subsidiary Guarantees, such Subsidiary Guarantor shall be entitled to seek and receive contribution from and against the Company or any other Subsidiary Guarantor who has not paid its proportionate share of such payment. The provisions of this Section 2.5 shall in no respect limit the obligations and liabilities of each Subsidiary Guarantor to the Trustee and the Holders and each Subsidiary Guarantor shall remain liable to the Trustee and the Holders for the full amount guaranteed by such Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder.

SECTION 2.6 No Subrogation. Notwithstanding any payment or payments made by each Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder, no Subsidiary Guarantor shall be entitled to be subrogated to any of the rights of the Trustee or any Holder against the Company or any other Subsidiary Guarantor or any collateral security or guarantee or right of offset held by the Trustee or any Holder for the payment of the Obligations, nor shall any Subsidiary Guarantor seek or be

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entitled to seek any contribution or reimbursement from the Company or any other Subsidiary Guarantor in respect of payments made by such Subsidiary Guarantor hereunder, until all amounts owing to the Trustee and the Holders by the Company on account of the Obligations are paid in full. If any amount shall be paid to any Subsidiary Guarantor on account of such subrogation rights at any time when all of the Obligations shall not have been paid in full, such amount shall be held by such Subsidiary Guarantor in trust for the Trustee and the Holders, segregated from other funds of such Subsidiary Guarantor, and shall, forthwith upon receipt by such Subsidiary Guarantor, be turned over to the Trustee in the exact form received by such Subsidiary Guarantor (duly indorsed by such Subsidiary Guarantor to the Trustee, if required), to be applied against the Obligations.

ARTICLE III

Miscellaneous

SECTION 3.1 Notices. All notices and other communications to the Guarantor shall be given as provided in the Indenture to the Guarantor, at its address set forth below, with a copy to the Company as provided in the Indenture for notices to the Company.

SECTION 3.2 Parties. Nothing expressed or mentioned herein is intended or shall be construed to give any Person, firm or corporation, other than the Holders and the Trustee, any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or in respect of this Supplemental Indenture or the Indenture or any provision herein or therein contained.

SECTION 3.3 Governing Law. This Supplemental Indenture shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

SECTION 3.4 Severability Clause. In case any provision in this Supplemental Indenture shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and such provision shall be ineffective only to the extent of such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability.

SECTION 3.5 Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby. The Trustee makes no representation or warranty as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

SECTION 3.6 Counterparts. The parties hereto may sign one or more copies of this Supplemental Indenture in counterparts, all of which together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

SECTION 3.7 Headings. The headings of the Articles and the sections in this Guarantee are for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed to alter or affect the meaning or interpretation of any provisions hereof.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

[SUBSIDIARY GUARANTOR], as a Guarantor
By:
	Name:
	Title:
SUNTRUST BANK, as Trustee
By:
	Name:
	Title:
SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.
By:
	Name:
	Title:
[INSERT OTHER SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS]
By:
	Name:
	Title:

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EX-4.2

EXHIBIT 4.2

REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT

This REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT dated August 4, 2004 (the “Agreement”) is entered into by and among Smithfield Foods, Inc., a Virginia corporation (the “Company”), and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. (“JPMorgan”), Goldman, Sachs & Co, Rabo Securities USA, Inc., SunTrust Capital Markets Inc., BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Harris Nesbit Corp. and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC (the “Initial Purchasers”).

The Company and the Initial Purchasers are parties to the Purchase Agreement dated July 28, 2004 (the “Purchase Agreement”), which provides for the sale by the Company to the Initial Purchasers of $400,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Company’s 7% Senior Notes due 2011 (the “Securities”). As an inducement to the Initial Purchasers to enter into the Purchase Agreement, the Company has agreed to provide to the Initial Purchasers and their direct and indirect transferees the registration rights set forth in this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement is a condition to the closing under the Purchase Agreement.

In consideration of the foregoing, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

“Business Day” shall mean any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York City are authorized or required by law to remain closed.

“Closing Date” shall mean the Closing Date as defined in the Purchase Agreement.

“Company” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble and shall also include the Company’s successors.

“Exchange Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time.

“Exchange Dates” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2(a)(ii) hereof.

“Exchange Offer” shall mean the exchange offer by the Company of Exchange Securities for Registrable Securities pursuant to Section 2(a) hereof.

“Exchange Offer Registration” shall mean a registration under the Securities Act effected pursuant to Section 2(a) hereof.

“Exchange Offer Registration Statement” shall mean an exchange offer registration statement on Form S-4 (or, if applicable, on another appropriate form) and all amendments and supplements to such registration statement, in each case including the Prospectus contained therein, all exhibits thereto and any document incorporated by reference therein.

“Exchange Securities” shall mean senior notes issued by the Company under the Indenture containing terms identical to the Securities (except that the Exchange Securities will not be subject to restrictions on transfer or to any increase in annual interest rate for failure to comply with this Agreement) and to be offered to Holders of Securities in exchange for Securities pursuant to the Exchange Offer.

“Holders” shall mean the Initial Purchasers, for so long as they own any Registrable Securities, and each of their successors, assigns and direct and indirect transferees who become owners of Registrable Securities under the Indenture; provided that for purposes of Sections 4 and 5 of this Agreement, the term “Holders” shall include Participating Broker-Dealers.

“Indenture” shall mean the Indenture relating to the Securities dated as of August 4, 2004 between the Company and SunTrust Bank, as trustee, and as the same may be amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.

“Initial Purchasers” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble.

“Inspector” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a)(xiii) hereof.

“JPMorgan” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble.

“Majority Holders” shall mean the Holders of a majority of the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Registrable Securities; provided that whenever the consent or approval of Holders of a specified percentage of Registrable Securities is required hereunder, any Registrable Securities owned directly or indirectly by the Company or any of its affiliates shall not be counted in determining whether such consent or approval was given by the Holders of such required percentage or amount; and provided, further, that if the Company shall issue any additional Securities under the Indenture prior to consummation of the Exchange Offer or, if applicable, the effectiveness of any Shelf Registration Statement, such additional Securities and the Registrable Securities to which this Agreement relates shall be treated together as one class for purposes of determining whether the consent or approval of Holders of a specified percentage of Registrable Securities has been obtained.

“Participating Broker-Dealers” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4(a) hereof.

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“Person” shall mean an individual, partnership, limited liability company, corporation, trust or unincorporated organization, or a government or agency or political subdivision thereof.

“Prospectus” shall mean the prospectus included in a Registration Statement, including any preliminary prospectus, and any such prospectus as amended or supplemented by any prospectus supplement, including a prospectus supplement with respect to the terms of the offering of any portion of the Registrable Securities covered by a Shelf Registration Statement, and by all other amendments and supplements to such prospectus, and in each case including any document incorporated by reference therein.

“Purchase Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble.

“Registrable Securities” shall mean the Securities; provided that the Securities shall cease to be Registrable Securities (i) when a Registration Statement with respect to such Securities has been declared effective under the Securities Act and such Securities have been exchanged or disposed of pursuant to such Registration Statement, (ii) when such Securities are eligible to be sold pursuant to Rule 144(k) (or any similar provision then in force, but not Rule 144A) under the Securities Act or (iii) when such Securities cease to be outstanding.

“Registration Expenses” shall mean any and all expenses incident to performance of or compliance by the Company with this Agreement, including without limitation: (i) all SEC, stock exchange or National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. registration and filing fees, (ii) all fees and expenses incurred in connection with compliance with state securities or blue sky laws (including reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for any Underwriters or Holders in connection with blue sky qualification of any Exchange Securities or Registrable Securities), (iii) all expenses of any Persons in preparing or assisting in preparing, word processing, printing and distributing any Registration Statement, any Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto, any underwriting agreements, securities sales agreements or other similar agreements and any other documents relating to the performance of and compliance with this Agreement, (iv) all rating agency fees, (v) all fees and disbursements relating to the qualification of the Indenture under applicable securities laws, (vi) the fees and disbursements of the Trustee and its counsel, (vii) the fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company and, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, the fees and disbursements of one counsel for the Holders (which counsel shall be selected by the Majority Holders and which counsel may also be counsel for the Initial Purchasers) and (viii) the fees and disbursements of the independent public accountants of the Company, including the expenses of any special audits or “comfort” letters required by or incident to the performance of and compliance with this Agreement, but excluding fees and expenses of counsel to the Underwriters (other than fees and expenses set forth in clause (ii) above) or the Holders and underwriting discounts and commissions, brokerage commissions and transfer taxes, if any, relating to the sale or disposition of Registrable Securities by a Holder.

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“Registration Statement” shall mean any registration statement of the Company that covers any of the Exchange Securities or Registrable Securities pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement and all amendments and supplements to any such registration statement, including post-effective amendments, in each case including the Prospectus contained therein, all exhibits thereto and any document incorporated by reference therein.

“SEC” shall mean the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended from time to time.

“Shelf Effectiveness Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2(b) hereof.

“Shelf Registration” shall mean a registration effected pursuant to Section 2(b) hereof.

“Shelf Registration Statement” shall mean a “shelf” registration statement of the Company that covers all or a portion of the Registrable Securities (but no other securities unless approved by the Holders whose Registrable Securities are to be covered by such Shelf Registration Statement) on an appropriate form under Rule 415 under the Securities Act, or any similar rule that may be adopted by the SEC, and all amendments and supplements to such registration statement, including post-effective amendments, in each case including the Prospectus contained therein, all exhibits thereto and any document incorporated by reference therein.

“Staff” shall mean the staff of the SEC.

“Trust Indenture Act” shall mean the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended from time to time.

“Trustee” shall mean the trustee with respect to the Securities under the Indenture.

“Underwriter” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(e) hereof.

“Underwritten Offering” shall mean an offering in which Registrable Securities are sold to an Underwriter for reoffering to the public.

2. Registration Under the Securities Act. (a) To the extent not prohibited by any applicable law or applicable interpretations of the Staff, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to (i) cause to be filed an Exchange Offer Registration Statement covering an offer to the Holders to exchange all the Registrable Securities for Exchange Securities and (ii) have such Registration Statement remain effective until 180 days after the closing of the Exchange Offer. The Company shall commence the Exchange Offer promptly after the Exchange Offer Registration Statement is declared effective by the

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SEC and use its reasonable best efforts to complete the Exchange Offer not later than 30 days after such effective date.

The Company shall commence the Exchange Offer by mailing the related Prospectus, appropriate letters of transmittal and other accompanying documents to each Holder stating, in addition to such other disclosures as are required by applicable law, substantially the following:

(i) that the Exchange Offer is being made pursuant to this Agreement and that all Registrable Securities validly tendered and not properly withdrawn will be accepted for exchange;

(ii) the dates of acceptance for exchange (which shall be a period of at least 20 Business Days from the date such notice is mailed) (the “Exchange Dates”);

(iii) that any Registrable Security not tendered will remain outstanding and continue to accrue interest but will not retain any rights under this Agreement;

(iv) that any Holder electing to have a Registrable Security exchanged pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be required to surrender such Registrable Security, together with the appropriate letters of transmittal, to the institution and at the address (located in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York) and in the manner specified in the notice, prior to the close of business on the last Exchange Date; and

(v) that any Holder will be entitled to withdraw its election, not later than the close of business on the last Exchange Date, by sending to the institution and at the address (located in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York) specified in the notice, a telegram, telex, facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of such Holder, the principal amount of Registrable Securities delivered for exchange and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing its election to have such Securities exchanged.

As a condition to participating in the Exchange Offer, a Holder will be required to represent to the Company that (i) any Exchange Securities to be received by it will be acquired in the ordinary course of its business, (ii) at the time of the commencement of the Exchange Offer it has no arrangement or understanding with any Person to participate in the distribution (within the meaning of the Securities Act) of the Exchange Securities in violation of the provisions of the Securities Act, (iii) it is not an “affiliate” (within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act) of the Company and (iv) if such Holder is a broker-dealer that will receive Exchange Securities for its own account in exchange for Registrable Securities that were acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities, then such Holder will deliver a Prospectus in connection with any resale of such Exchange Securities.

As soon as practicable after the last Exchange Date, the Company shall:

(i) accept for exchange Registrable Securities or portions thereof validly tendered and not properly withdrawn pursuant to the Exchange Offer; and

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(ii) deliver, or cause to be delivered, to the Trustee for cancellation all Registrable Securities or portions thereof so accepted for exchange by the Company and issue, and cause the Trustee to promptly authenticate and deliver to each Holder, Exchange Securities equal in principal amount to the principal amount of the Registrable Securities surrendered by such Holder.

The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to complete the Exchange Offer as provided above and shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act and other applicable laws and regulations in connection with the Exchange Offer. The Exchange Offer shall not be subject to any conditions, other than that the Exchange Offer does not violate any applicable law or applicable interpretations of the Staff.

(b) In the event that (i) the Company determines that the Exchange Offer Registration provided for in Section 2(a) above is not available or may not be completed as soon as practicable after the last Exchange Date because it would violate any applicable law or applicable interpretations of the Staff, (ii) the Exchange Offer is not for any other reason completed by January 31, 2005 or (iii) any Initial Purchaser shall so request in connection with any offer or sale of Registrable Securities not eligible to be exchanged for Exchange Securities in the Exchange Offer and held by it following the consummation of the Exchange Offer, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause to be filed as soon as practicable after such determination, date or request, as the case may be, a Shelf Registration Statement providing for the sale of all the Registrable Securities by the Holders thereof and to have such Shelf Registration Statement declared effective by the SEC.

In the event that the Company is required to file a Shelf Registration Statement pursuant to clause (iii) of the preceding sentence, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to file and have declared effective by the SEC both an Exchange Offer Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2(a) with respect to all Registrable Securities and a Shelf Registration Statement (which may be a combined Registration Statement with the Exchange Offer Registration Statement) with respect to offers and sales of Registrable Securities held by the Initial Purchasers after completion of the Exchange Offer.

The Company agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to keep the Shelf Registration Statement continuously effective until the expiration of the period referred to in Rule 144(k) (or any similar rule then in force, but not Rule 144A) under the Securities Act with respect to the Registrable Securities or such shorter period that will terminate when all the Registrable Securities covered by the Shelf Registration Statement have been sold pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement (the “Shelf Effectiveness Period”). The Company further agrees to supplement or amend the Shelf Registration Statement

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and the related Prospectus if required by the rules, regulations or instructions applicable to the registration form used by the Company for such Shelf Registration Statement or by the Securities Act or by any other rules and regulations thereunder for shelf registration or if reasonably requested by a Holder of Registrable Securities with respect to information relating to such Holder, and to use its reasonable best efforts to cause any such amendment to become effective and such Shelf Registration Statement and Prospectus to become usable as soon as thereafter practicable. The Company agrees to furnish to the Holders of Registrable Securities copies of any such supplement or amendment promptly after its being used or filed with the SEC.

(c) The Company shall pay all Registration Expenses in connection with any registration pursuant to Section 2(a) or Section 2(b) hereof. Each Holder shall pay all underwriting discounts and commissions, brokerage commissions and transfer taxes, if any, relating to the sale or disposition of such Holder’s Registrable Securities pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement.

(d) An Exchange Offer Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2(a) hereof or a Shelf Registration Statement pursuant to Section 2(b) hereof will not be deemed to have become effective unless it has been declared effective by the SEC.

In the event that either the Exchange Offer is not completed or the Shelf Registration Statement, if required hereby, is not declared effective on or prior to January 31, 2005, the interest rate on the Registrable Securities will be increased by 1.00% per annum until the Exchange Offer is completed or the Shelf Registration Statement, if required hereby, is declared effective by the SEC or the Securities become freely tradable under the Securities Act.

If the Shelf Registration Statement, if required hereby, has been declared effective and thereafter either ceases to be effective or the Prospectus contained therein ceases to be usable at any time during the Shelf Effectiveness Period, and such failure to remain effective or usable exists for more than 30 days (whether or not consecutive) in any 12-month period, then the interest rate on the Registrable Securities will be increased by 1.00% per annum commencing on the 31^st day in such 12-month period and ending on such date that the Shelf Registration Statement has again been declared effective or the Prospectus again becomes usable.

(e) Without limiting the remedies available to the Initial Purchasers and the Holders, the Company acknowledges that any failure by the Company to comply with its obligations under Section 2(a) and Section 2(b) hereof may result in material irreparable injury to the Initial Purchasers or the Holders for which there is no adequate remedy at law, that it will not be possible to measure damages for such injuries precisely and that, in the event of any such failure, the Initial Purchasers or any Holder may obtain such relief as may be required to specifically enforce the Company’s obligations under Section 2(a) and Section 2(b) hereof.

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3. Registration Procedures. (a) In connection with its obligations pursuant to Section 2(a) and Section 2(b) hereof, the Company shall as expeditiously as possible:

(i) prepare and file with the SEC a Registration Statement on the appropriate form under the Securities Act, which form (x) shall be selected by the Company, (y) shall, in the case of a Shelf Registration, be available for the sale of the Registrable Securities by the Holders thereof and (z) shall comply as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the applicable form and include all financial statements required by the SEC to be filed therewith; and use its reasonable best efforts to cause such Registration Statement to become effective and remain effective for the applicable period in accordance with Section 2 hereof;

(ii) prepare and file with the SEC such amendments and post-effective amendments to each Registration Statement as may be necessary to keep such Registration Statement effective for the applicable period in accordance with Section 2 hereof and cause each Prospectus to be supplemented by any required prospectus supplement and, as so supplemented, to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 under the Securities Act; and keep each Prospectus current during the period described in Section 4(3) of and Rule 174 under the Securities Act that is applicable to transactions by brokers or dealers with respect to the Registrable Securities or Exchange Securities;

(iii) in the case of a Shelf Registration, furnish to each Holder of Registrable Securities, to counsel for the Initial Purchasers, to counsel for such Holders and to each Underwriter of an Underwritten Offering of Registrable Securities, if any, without charge, as many copies of each Prospectus, including each preliminary Prospectus, and any amendment or supplement thereto, as reasonably requested, in order to facilitate the sale or other disposition of the Registrable Securities thereunder; and the Company consents to the use of such Prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto in accordance with applicable law by each of the Holders of Registrable Securities and any such Underwriters in connection with the offering and sale of the Registrable Securities covered by and in the manner described in such Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto in accordance with applicable law;

(iv) use its reasonable best efforts to register or qualify the Registrable Securities under all applicable state securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions as any Holder of Registrable Securities covered by a Registration Statement shall reasonably request in writing by the time the applicable Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC; cooperate with such Holders in connection with any filings required to be made with the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.; and do any and all other acts and things that may be reasonably necessary or advisable to enable each Holder to complete the disposition in each such jurisdiction of the Registrable Securities owned by such Holder; provided that the Company shall not be required to (1) qualify as a foreign corporation or other entity or as a dealer in securities in any such jurisdiction where it would not otherwise be required to so qualify, (2) file any general consent to service of process in any such jurisdiction or (3) subject itself to taxation in any such jurisdiction if it is not so subject;

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(v) notify counsel for the Initial Purchasers and, in the case of a Shelf Registration, notify each Holder of Registrable Securities and counsel for such Holders promptly and, if requested by any such Holder or counsel, confirm such advice in writing (1) when a Registration Statement has become effective and when any post-effective amendment thereto has been filed and becomes effective, (2) of any request by the SEC or any state securities authority for amendments and supplements to a Registration Statement and Prospectus or for additional information after the Registration Statement has become effective, (3) of the issuance by the SEC or any state securities authority of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of a Registration Statement or the initiation of any proceedings for that purpose, (4) if, between the effective date of a Shelf Registration Statement and the closing of any sale of Registrable Securities covered thereby, the representations and warranties of the Company contained in any underwriting agreement, securities sales agreement or other similar agreement, if any, relating to an offering of such Registrable Securities cease to be true and correct in all material respects or if the Company receives any notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of the Registrable Securities for sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation of any proceeding for such purpose, (5) of the happening of any event during the period a Shelf Registration Statement is effective that makes any statement made in such Shelf Registration Statement or the related Prospectus untrue in any material respect or that requires the making of any changes in such Shelf Registration Statement or Prospectus in order to make the statements therein not misleading and (6) of any determination by the Company that a post-effective amendment to a Registration Statement would be appropriate;

(vi) use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the withdrawal of any order suspending the effectiveness of a Registration Statement at the earliest possible moment and provide immediate notice to each Holder of the withdrawal of any such order;

(vii) in the case of a Shelf Registration, furnish to each Holder of Registrable Securities, without charge, at least one conformed copy of each Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto (without any documents incorporated therein by reference or exhibits thereto, unless requested);

(viii) in the case of a Shelf Registration, cooperate with the Holders of Registrable Securities to facilitate the timely preparation and delivery of certificates representing Registrable Securities to be sold and not bearing any restrictive legends and enable such Registrable Securities to be issued in such denominations and registered in such names (consistent with the provisions of the Indenture) as such Holders may reasonably request at least one Business Day prior to the closing of any sale of Registrable Securities;

(ix) in the case of a Shelf Registration, upon the occurrence of any event contemplated by Section 3(a)(v)(5) hereof, use its reasonable best efforts to prepare and file with the SEC a supplement or post-effective amendment to such Shelf Registration Statement or the related Prospectus or any document incorporated therein by reference or

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file any other required document so that, as thereafter delivered to purchasers of the Registrable Securities, such Prospectus will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; and the Company shall notify the Holders of Registrable Securities to suspend use of the Prospectus as promptly as practicable after the occurrence of such an event, and such Holders hereby agree to suspend use of the Prospectus until the Company has amended or supplemented the Prospectus to correct such misstatement or omission;

(x) a reasonable time prior to the filing of any Registration Statement, any Prospectus, any amendment to a Registration Statement or amendment or supplement to a Prospectus or of any document that is to be incorporated by reference into a Registration Statement or a Prospectus after initial filing of a Registration Statement, provide copies of such document to the Initial Purchasers and their counsel (and, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, to the Holders of Registrable Securities and their counsel) and make such of the representatives of the Company as shall be reasonably requested by the Initial Purchasers or their counsel (and, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, the Holders of Registrable Securities or their counsel) available for discussion of such document; and the Company shall not, at any time after initial filing of a Registration Statement, file any Prospectus, any amendment of or supplement to a Registration Statement or a Prospectus, or any document that is to be incorporated by reference into a Registration Statement or a Prospectus, of which the Initial Purchasers and their counsel (and, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, the Holders of Registrable Securities and their counsel) shall not have previously been advised and furnished a copy or to which the Initial Purchasers or their counsel (and, in the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, the Holders of Registrable Securities or their counsel) shall object;

(xi) obtain a CUSIP number for all Exchange Securities or Registrable Securities, as the case may be, not later than the effective date of a Registration Statement;

(xii) cause the Indenture to be qualified under the Trust Indenture Act in connection with the registration of the Exchange Securities or Registrable Securities, as the case may be; cooperate with the Trustee and the Holders to effect such changes to the Indenture as may be required for the Indenture to be so qualified in accordance with the terms of the Trust Indenture Act; and execute, and use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Trustee to execute, all documents as may be required to effect such changes and all other forms and documents required to be filed with the SEC to enable the Indenture to be so qualified in a timely manner;

(xiii) in the case of a Shelf Registration, make available for inspection by a representative of the Holders of the Registrable Securities (an “Inspector”), any Underwriter participating in any disposition pursuant to such Shelf Registration Statement, any attorneys and accountants designated by the Holders of Registrable Securities and any attorneys and accountants designated by such Underwriter, at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner, all pertinent financial and other records,

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documents and properties of the Company, and cause the respective officers, directors and employees of the Company to supply all information reasonably requested by any such Inspector, Underwriter, attorney or accountant in connection with a Shelf Registration Statement; provided that if any such information is identified by the Company as being confidential or proprietary, each Person receiving such information shall take such actions as are reasonably requested by the Company to protect the confidentiality of such information to the extent such action is otherwise not inconsistent with, an impairment of or in derogation of the rights and interests of any Inspector, Holder or Underwriter);

(xiv) in the case of a Shelf Registration, use its reasonable best efforts to cause all Registrable Securities to be listed on any securities exchange or any automated quotation system on which similar securities issued by the Company are then listed if requested by the Majority Holders, to the extent such Registrable Securities satisfy applicable listing requirements;

(xv) if reasonably requested by any Holder of Registrable Securities covered by a Shelf Registration Statement, promptly include in a Prospectus supplement or post-effective amendment such information with respect to such Holder as such Holder reasonably requests to be included therein and make all required filings of such Prospectus supplement or such post-effective amendment as soon as the Company has received notification of the matters to be so included in such filing; and

(xvi) in the case of a Shelf Registration, enter into such customary agreements and take all such other actions in connection therewith (including those requested by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Registrable Securities being sold) in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable Securities including, but not limited to, an Underwritten Offering and in such connection, (1) to the extent appropriate for the Company, make such representations and warranties to the Holders and any Underwriters of such Registrable Securities with respect to the business of the Company and its subsidiaries and the Registration Statement, Prospectus and documents incorporated by reference or deemed incorporated by reference, if any, in each case, in form, substance and scope as are customarily made by issuers to underwriters in underwritten offerings and confirm the same if and when requested, (2) obtain opinions of counsel to the Company (which counsel and opinions, in form, scope and substance, shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Holders and such Underwriters and their respective counsel) addressed to each selling Holder and Underwriter of Registrable Securities, covering the matters customarily covered in opinions requested in underwritten offerings, (3) obtain “comfort” letters from the independent certified public accountants of the Company (and, if necessary, any other certified public accountant of any subsidiary of the Company, or of any business acquired by the Company for which financial statements and financial data are or are required to be included in the Registration Statement) addressed to each selling Holder and Underwriter of Registrable Securities, such letters to be in customary form and covering matters of the type customarily covered in “comfort” letters in connection with underwritten offerings and (4) deliver such documents and certificates as may be reasonably requested by the Holders of a majority in principal

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amount of the Registrable Securities being sold or the Underwriters, and which are customarily delivered in underwritten offerings, to evidence the continued validity of the representations and warranties of the Company made pursuant to clause (1) above and to evidence compliance with any customary conditions contained in an underwriting agreement.

(b) In the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, the Company may require each Holder of Registrable Securities to furnish to the Company such information regarding such Holder and the proposed disposition by such Holder of such Registrable Securities as the Company may from time to time reasonably request in writing.

(c) In the case of a Shelf Registration Statement, each Holder of Registrable Securities agrees that, upon receipt of any notice from the Company of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 3(a)(v)(3) or 3(a)(v)(5) hereof, such Holder will forthwith discontinue disposition of Registrable Securities pursuant to the Shelf Registration Statement until such Holder’s receipt of the copies of the supplemented or amended Prospectus contemplated by Section 3(a)(ix) hereof and, if so directed by the Company, such Holder will deliver to the Company all copies in its possession, other than permanent file copies then in such Holder’s possession, of the Prospectus covering such Registrable Securities that is current at the time of receipt of such notice.

(d) If the Company shall give any notice pursuant to Section 3(c) hereof to suspend the disposition of Registrable Securities pursuant to a Shelf Registration Statement, the Company shall extend the period during which such Shelf Registration Statement shall be maintained effective pursuant to this Agreement by the number of days during the period from and including the date of the giving of such notice to and including the date when the Holders of such Registrable Securities shall have received copies of the supplemented or amended Prospectus necessary to resume such dispositions. The Company may give any such notice only twice during any 365-day period and any such suspensions shall not exceed 30 days for each suspension and there shall not be more than two suspensions in effect during any 365-day period.

(e) The Holders of Registrable Securities covered by a Shelf Registration Statement who desire to do so may sell such Registrable Securities in an Underwritten Offering. In any such Underwritten Offering, the investment bank or investment banks and manager or managers (each an “Underwriter”) that will administer the offering will be selected by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Registrable Securities included in such offering.

4. Participation of Broker-Dealers in Exchange Offer. (a) The Staff has taken the position that any broker-dealer that receives Exchange Securities for its own account in the Exchange Offer in exchange for Securities that were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making or other trading activities (a “Participating Broker-Dealer”) may be deemed to be an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act and must deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such Exchange Securities.

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The Company understands that it is the Staff’s position that if the Prospectus contained in the Exchange Offer Registration Statement includes a plan of distribution containing a statement to the above effect and the means by which Participating Broker-Dealers may resell the Exchange Securities, without naming the Participating Broker-Dealers or specifying the amount of Exchange Securities owned by them, such Prospectus may be delivered by Participating Broker-Dealers to satisfy their prospectus delivery obligation under the Securities Act in connection with resales of Exchange Securities for their own accounts, so long as the Prospectus otherwise meets the requirements of the Securities Act.

(b) In light of the above, and notwithstanding the other provisions of this Agreement, the Company agrees to amend or supplement the Prospectus contained in the Exchange Offer Registration Statement for a period of up to 180 days after the last Exchange Date (as such period may be extended pursuant to Section 3(d) of this Agreement), if requested by the Initial Purchasers or by one or more Participating Broker-Dealers, in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of any Exchange Securities by Participating Broker-Dealers consistent with the positions of the Staff recited in Section 4(a) above. The Company further agrees that Participating Broker-Dealers shall be authorized to deliver such Prospectus during such period in connection with the resales contemplated by this Section 4.

(c) The Initial Purchasers shall have no liability to the Company or any Holder with respect to any request that they may make pursuant to Section 4(b) above.

5. Indemnification and Contribution. (a) The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Initial Purchaser and each Holder, their respective affiliates, directors and officers and each Person, if any, who controls any Initial Purchaser or any Holder within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act, from and against any and all losses, claims, damages and liabilities (including, without limitation, legal fees and other expenses incurred in connection with any suit, action or proceeding or any claim asserted, as such fees and expenses are incurred), that arise out of, or are based upon, any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Registration Statement or any Prospectus or any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities arise out of, or are based upon, any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in reliance upon and in conformity with any information relating to any Initial Purchaser or information relating to any Holder furnished to the Company in writing through JPMorgan or any selling Holder expressly for use therein. In connection with any Underwritten Offering permitted by Section 3, the Company will also indemnify the Underwriters, if any, selling brokers, dealers and similar securities industry professionals participating in the distribution, their respective affiliates and each Person who controls such Persons (within the meaning of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act) to the same extent as provided

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above with respect to the indemnification of the Holders, if requested in connection with any Registration Statement.

(b) Each Holder agrees, severally and not jointly, to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, the Initial Purchasers and the other selling Holders, the directors of the Company, each officer of the Company who signed the Registration Statement and each Person, if any, who controls the Company, any Initial Purchaser and any other selling Holder within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act to the same extent as the indemnity set forth in paragraph (a) above, but only with respect to any losses, claims, damages or liabilities that arise out of, or are based upon, any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in reliance upon and in conformity with any information relating to such Holder furnished to the Company in writing by such Holder expressly for use in any Registration Statement and any Prospectus.

(c) If any suit, action, proceeding (including any governmental or regulatory investigation), claim or demand shall be brought or asserted against any Person in respect of which indemnification may be sought pursuant to either paragraph (a) or (b) above, such Person (the “Indemnified Person”) shall promptly notify the Person against whom such indemnification may be sought (the “Indemnifying Person”) in writing; provided that the failure to notify the Indemnifying Person shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have under this Section 5 except to the extent that it has been materially prejudiced (through the forfeiture of substantive rights or defenses) by such failure; and provided, further, that the failure to notify the Indemnifying Person shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have to an Indemnified Person otherwise than under this Section 5. If any such proceeding shall be brought or asserted against an Indemnified Person and it shall have notified the Indemnifying Person thereof, the Indemnifying Person shall retain counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person to represent the Indemnified Person and any others entitled to indemnification pursuant to this Section 5 that the Indemnifying Person may designate in such proceeding and shall pay the fees and expenses of such counsel related to such proceeding, as incurred. In any such proceeding, any Indemnified Person shall have the right to retain its own counsel, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such Indemnified Person unless (i) the Indemnifying Person and the Indemnified Person shall have mutually agreed to the contrary; (ii) the Indemnifying Person has failed within a reasonable time to retain counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person; (iii) the Indemnified Person shall have reasonably concluded that there may be legal defenses available to it that are different from or in addition to those available to the Indemnifying Person; or (iv) the named parties in any such proceeding (including any impleaded parties) include both the Indemnifying Person and the Indemnified Person and representation of both parties by the same counsel would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between them. It is understood and agreed that the Indemnifying Person shall not, in connection with any proceeding or related proceeding in the same jurisdiction, be liable for the fees and expenses of more than one separate firm (in addition to any local counsel) for all Indemnified Persons, and that all such fees and expenses shall be reimbursed as they are incurred. Any such separate firm (x) for any Initial Purchaser, its

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affiliates, directors and officers and any control Persons of such Initial Purchaser shall be designated in writing by JPMorgan, (y) for any Holder, its directors and officers and any control Persons of such Holder shall be designated in writing by the Majority Holders and (z) in all other cases shall be designated in writing by the Company. The Indemnifying Person shall not be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected without its written consent, but if settled with such consent or if there be a final judgment for the plaintiff, the Indemnifying Person agrees to indemnify each Indemnified Person from and against any loss or liability by reason of such settlement or judgment. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, if at any time an Indemnified Person shall have requested that an Indemnifying Person reimburse the Indemnified Person for fees and expenses of counsel as contemplated by this paragraph, the Indemnifying Person shall be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected without its written consent if (i) such settlement is entered into more than 30 days after receipt by the Indemnifying Person of such request and (ii) the Indemnifying Person shall not have reimbursed the Indemnified Person in accordance with such request prior to the date of such settlement. No Indemnifying Person shall, without the written consent of the Indemnified Person, effect any settlement of any pending or threatened proceeding in respect of which any Indemnified Person is or could have been a party and indemnification could have been sought hereunder by such Indemnified Person, unless such settlement (A) includes an unconditional release of such Indemnified Person, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to such Indemnified Person, from all liability on claims that are the subject matter of such proceeding and (B) does not include any statement as to or any admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of any Indemnified Person.

(d) If the indemnification provided for in paragraphs (a) and (b) above is unavailable to an Indemnified Person or insufficient in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities referred to therein, then each Indemnifying Person under such paragraph, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Person thereunder, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such Indemnified Person as a result of such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (i) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Company from the offering of the Securities and the Exchange Securities, on the one hand, and by the Holders from receiving Securities or Exchange Securities registered under the Securities Act, on the other hand, or (ii) if the allocation provided by clause (i) is not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) but also the relative fault of the Company on the one hand and the Holders on the other in connection with the statements or omissions that resulted in such losses, claims, damages or liabilities, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the Company on the one hand and the Holders on the other shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by the Company or by the Holders and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission.

(e) The Company and the Holders agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 5 were determined by pro rata allocation

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(even if the Holders were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in paragraph (d) above. The amount paid or payable by an Indemnified Person as a result of the losses, claims, damages and liabilities referred to in paragraph (d) above shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any legal or other expenses incurred by such Indemnified Person in connection with any such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 5, in no event shall a Holder be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which the total price at which the Securities or Exchange Securities sold by such Holder exceeds the amount of any damages that such Holder has otherwise been required to pay by reason of such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. No Person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any Person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

(f) The remedies provided for in this Section 5 are not exclusive and shall not limit any rights or remedies that may otherwise be available to any Indemnified Person at law or in equity.

(g) The indemnity and contribution provisions contained in this Section 5 shall remain operative and in full force and effect regardless of (i) any termination of this Agreement, (ii) any investigation made by or on behalf of the Initial Purchasers or any Holder or any Person controlling any Initial Purchaser or any Holder, or by or on behalf of the Company or the officers or directors of or any Person controlling the Company, (iii) acceptance of any of the Exchange Securities and (iv) any sale of Registrable Securities pursuant to a Shelf Registration Statement.

6. General.

(a) No Inconsistent Agreements. The Company represents, warrants and agrees that (i) the rights granted to the Holders hereunder do not in any way conflict with and are not inconsistent with the rights granted to the holders of any other outstanding securities issued by the Company under any other agreement and (ii) the Company has not entered into, or on or after the date of this Agreement will enter into, any agreement that is inconsistent with the rights granted to the Holders of Registrable Securities in this Agreement or otherwise conflicts with the provisions hereof.

(b) Amendments and Waivers. The provisions of this Agreement, including the provisions of this sentence, may not be amended, modified or supplemented, and waivers or consents to departures from the provisions hereof may not be given unless the Company has obtained the written consent of Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Registrable Securities affected by such amendment, modification, supplement, waiver or consent; provided that no amendment, modification, supplement, waiver or consent to any departure from the provisions of Section 5 hereof shall be effective as against any Holder of Registrable Securities unless consented to in writing by such Holder. Any amendments, modifications, supplements, waivers or

16

consents pursuant to this Section 6(b) shall be by a writing executed by each of the parties hereto.

(c) Notices. All notices and other communications provided for or permitted hereunder shall be made in writing by hand-delivery, registered first-class mail, telex, telecopier, or any courier guaranteeing overnight delivery (i) if to a Holder, at the most current address given by such Holder to the Company by means of a notice given in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6(c), which address initially is, with respect to the Initial Purchasers, the address set forth in the Purchase Agreement; (ii) if to the Company, initially at the Company’s address set forth in the Purchase Agreement and thereafter at such other address, notice of which is given in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6(c); and (iii) to such other persons at their respective addresses as provided in the Purchase Agreement and thereafter at such other address, notice of which is given in accordance with the provisions of this Section 6(c). All such notices and communications shall be deemed to have been duly given: at the time delivered by hand, if personally delivered; five Business Days after being deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, if mailed; when answered back, if telexed; when receipt is acknowledged, if telecopied; and on the next Business Day if timely delivered to an air courier guaranteeing overnight delivery. Copies of all such notices, demands or other communications shall be concurrently delivered by the Person giving the same to the Trustee, at the address specified in the Indenture.

(d) Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the successors, assigns and transferees of each of the parties, including, without limitation and without the need for an express assignment, subsequent Holders; provided that nothing herein shall be deemed to permit any assignment, transfer or other disposition of Registrable Securities in violation of the terms of the Purchase Agreement or the Indenture. If any transferee of any Holder shall acquire Registrable Securities in any manner, whether by operation of law or otherwise, such Registrable Securities shall be held subject to all the terms of this Agreement, and by taking and holding such Registrable Securities such Person shall be conclusively deemed to have agreed to be bound by and to perform all of the terms and provisions of this Agreement and such Person shall be entitled to receive the benefits hereof. The Initial Purchasers (in their capacity as Initial Purchasers) shall have no liability or obligation to the Company with respect to any failure by a Holder to comply with, or any breach by any Holder of, any of the obligations of such Holder under this Agreement.

(e) Purchases and Sales of Securities. The Company shall not and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act) not to, purchase and then resell or otherwise transfer any Registrable Securities.

(f) Third Party Beneficiaries. Each Holder shall be a third party beneficiary to the agreements made hereunder between the Company, on the one hand, and the Initial Purchasers, on the other hand, and shall have the right to enforce such agreements

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directly to the extent it deems such enforcement necessary or advisable to protect its rights or the rights of other Holders hereunder.

(g) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

(h) Headings. The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only, are not a part of this Agreement and shall not limit or otherwise affect the meaning hereof.

(i) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

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(j) Miscellaneous. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all oral statements and prior writings with respect thereto. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction contained in this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable or against public policy, the remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions contained herein shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated. The Company and the Initial Purchasers shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, void or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, void or unenforceable provisions.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.
By:	/s/ Michael H. Cole
Name:	Michael H. Cole
Title: Vice President, Secretary and Deputy General Counsel

Confirmed and accepted as of the date first above written:

J.P. MORGAN SECURITIES INC.
For itself and on behalf of the several Initial Purchasers
By:	/s/ Gerald J. Murray
	Authorized Signatory

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EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

Certifications

I, Joseph W. Luter, III, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Smithfield Foods, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(c) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: September 10, 2004

/s/ Joseph W. Luter, III

Joseph W. Luter, III

Chairman of the Board and

Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

Certifications

I, Daniel G. Stevens, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Smithfield Foods, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(c) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: September 10, 2004

/s/ Daniel G. Stevens

Daniel G. Stevens

Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Smithfield Foods, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended August 1, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Joseph W. Luter, III, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ Joseph W. Luter, III

Joseph W. Luter, III

Chairman of the Board and

Chief Executive Officer

Date: September 10, 2004

EX-32.2

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Smithfield Foods, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended August 1, 2004 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Daniel G. Stevens, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ Daniel G. Stevens

Daniel G. Stevens

Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

Date: September 10, 2004