X0202 4 2006-10-24 0 0001015293 HOUSTON EXPLORATION CO THX 0001323689 Bergeron Jr John E THE HOUSTON EXPLORATION COMPANY 1100 LOUISIANA ST., SUITE 2000 HOUSTON TX 77002 0 1 0 0 VP and Gen. Manager Offshore common stock ($0.01 par value) 2006-10-24 4 A 0 2700 55.50 A 4700 D employee stock options (right to buy) 55.50 2006-10-24 4 A 0 7300 55.50 A 2007-10-24 2017-10-24 common stock 7300 7300 D Restricted shares were granted pursuant to the Company's Amended and Restated 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, and are restricted from sale or transfer until fully vested. Shares fully vest and restrictions are terminated at the end of three years from the grant date as set forth in the award agreement. Employee Stock Options were granted pursuant to the Company's Amended and Restated 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, and vest in annual 1/3 increments beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant and expire 10 years from the date of grant, as set forth in the award agreement. /s/ John E. Bergeron, Jr. 2006-10-26