Document:

<PAGE>
                                                                    Exhibit 10.8

                 FOURTH AMENDMENT TO LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT

         This Fourth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement (the "Fourth
Amendment") is made as of this 2nd day of February, 2002 by and among

         Fleet Retail Finance Inc. f/k/a BankBoston Retail Finance Inc. (the
"Agent"), a Delaware corporation with its principal executive offices at 40
Broad Street, Boston, Massachusetts) for the Lenders party to the Agreement
(defined below), and

         The Lenders party to the Agreement (defined below), and

         Aeropostale, Inc., f/k/a MSS Delaware, Inc. (the "Borrower"), a
Delaware corporation with its principal executive offices at 35 Continental
Drive, Wayne, New Jersey 07470

in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained and benefits to be
derived herefrom.

                              W I T N E S S E T H:

         WHEREAS, on July 31, 1998 the Agent, the Lenders and the Borrower
entered in a certain Loan and Security Agreement (as amended and in effect, the
"Agreement"); and

         WHEREAS, the Borrower has formed a Subsidiary known as Aeropostale
West, Inc. ("AWI"), a Delaware corporation; and

         WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Agreement, among
other things, in connection with the formation of any new Subsidiary, such
Subsidiary is required to guaranty the Liabilities of the Borrower and grant to
the Agent, for the ratable benefit of the Lenders, a security interest in all of
such Subsidiary's assets; and

         WHEREAS, in connection with the formation of AWI, the Agent, the
Lenders, and the Borrower desire to modify certain of the provisions of the
Agreement as set forth herein.

         NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby agreed among the Agent, the Lenders and
the Borrower as follows:

         1.       Capitalized Terms. All capitalized terms used herein and not
                  otherwise defined shall have the same meaning herein as in the
                  Agreement.

         2.       Amendments to Article 1. The provisions of Article 1 of the
                  Agreement are hereby amended as follows:

                  (a)      by inserting the following new definitions:

                           (i)      "AWI": Aeropostale West, Inc., a Delaware
                                    corporation with an address of 35
                                    Continental Drive, Wayne, New Jersey 07470,
                                    a wholly owned Subsidiary of the Borrower.

                           (ii)     "CONSOLIDATED": With reference to any term
                                    defined herein, shall mean that term as
                                    applied to the accounts of the Borrower and
                                    its Subsidiaries, consolidated in accordance
                                    with GAAP.

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                  (b)      the definition of "ACCEPTABLE ACCOUNTS" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead.

                  (c)      the definition of "ACCEPTABLE BLANK STOCK INVENTORY"
                           is hereby amended by deleting the references to the
                           term "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower
                           and AWI" in their stead.

                  (d)      the definition of "ACCEPTABLE L/C INVENTORY" is
                           hereby amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead.

                  (e)      the definition of "ACCEPTABLE IN-TRANSIT INVENTORY"
                           is hereby amended by deleting the references to the
                           term "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower
                           and AWI" in their stead, and provided, however that
                           the "Maximum Percentage" referred to therein shall be
                           on a aggregate basis as to the Borrower and AWI.

                  (f)      the definition of "ACCEPTABLE INVENTORY" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead.

                  (g)      the definition of "DDA" is hereby amended by deleting
                           the references to the term "Borrower" therein and
                           substituting "Borrower and AWI" in their stead.

                  (h)      the definition of "EBITDA" is hereby deleted in its
                           entirety, and the following substituted in its stead:

                           "EBITDA": With respect to any fiscal period of the
                           Borrower and its Subsidiaries on a Consolidated
                           basis, the earnings before interest, income taxes,
                           B/S Management Fees, depreciation, and amortization,
                           each as determined in accordance with GAAP.

                  (i)      the definition of "GENERAL INTANGIBLES" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead.

                  (j)      the definition of "INTEREST EXPENSE" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead.

                  (k)      the definition of "MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE" is hereby
                           deleted in its entirety, and the following
                           substituted in its stead:

                           "MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT": A material adverse effect
                           upon (i) the Borrower's and AWI's respective
                           business, properties, operations or financial
                           affairs, taken as a whole, or (ii) the Collateral,
                           taken as a whole, or (iii) the ability of the
                           Borrower or AWI to perform its obligations under this
                           Agreement and the other Loan Documents,

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                           taken as a whole, or (iv) the validity,
                           enforceability, perfection or priority of this
                           Agreement or the other Loan Documents or of the
                           rights and remedies of the Agent or any Lender under
                           any Loan Document, taken as a whole.

                  (l)      the definition of "RECEIVABLES COLLATERAL" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead

                  (m)      the definition of "TRUST DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS" is hereby
                           amended by deleting the references to the term
                           "Borrower" therein and substituting "Borrower and
                           AWI" in their stead

         3.       Amendment to Article 4 The provisions of Section 4-5(a)(i) are
                  hereby deleted in their entirety, and the following
                  substituted in their stead:

                           (i)      35 Continental Drive, Wayne, New Jersey
                                    07470

         4.       Concerning Articles 4,5, 6 and 7. To induce each Lender to
                  continue to provide financial accommodations to and for the
                  account of the Borrower, and to induce the Agent and the
                  Lenders to enter into this Fourth Amendment, the Borrower
                  hereby acknowledges and agrees that each of the
                  representations and warranties made by the Borrower to the
                  Agent and the Lenders set forth in Article 4 of the Loan
                  Agreement shall also be deemed to have been made by AWI as
                  well, and the Borrower acknowledges and agrees that AWI is
                  bound by, and shall at all times comply with, the provisions
                  of Articles 5, 6 and 7 of the Loan Agreement as if AWI were
                  the Borrower thereunder. Without limiting the generality of
                  the foregoing, the Borrower acknowledges and agrees that
                  Capital Expenditures shall be calculated on a Consolidated
                  basis for purposes of calculating Capital Expenditures
                  pursuant to paragraph 2 of Exhibit 5-2(a).

         5.       Amendment to Exhibits. Exhibit 4-2 is hereby amended by adding
                  the following thereto:

                           Aeropostale West, Inc., a Delaware corporation

         6.       Consent and Waiver. The Agent and the Lenders hereby consent
                  to the organization of the AWI and the Borrower's and AWI's
                  entering into the Agreements set forth on Schedule 1 (items 11
                  through and including 15) and waive any Event of Default
                  arising therefrom under Section 4-18(f) of the Agreement. This
                  consent and waiver relates only to the organization of AWI and
                  is not intended to modify or waive the provisions of Section
                  4-18(f) with respect to any other transaction nor is it
                  intended to modify or waive any other provision of the
                  Agreement or any other Loan Document.

         7.       Ratification of Loan Documents. Except as provided herein, all
                  terms and conditions of the Agreement and the other Loan
                  Documents remain in full force and effect. The Borrower hereby
                  ratifies, confirms, and reaffirms all representations,
                  warranties, and covenants contained therein and hereby
                  represents that no Events of Default exist under the Loan
                  Documents. The Borrower further ratifies and confirms that any
                  and all Collateral previously granted to the Agent continues
                  to secure the existing Liabilities as well as the Liabilities
                  as amended

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<PAGE>
                  hereby, and any future Liabilities. Except as set forth on
                  Schedule A hereto, there have been no changes to the Exhibits
                  to the Agreement and the other Loan Documents.

         8.       Conditions to Effectiveness. This Fourth Amendment shall be
                  become effective upon the satisfaction of the following
                  conditions precedent:

                  (a)      This Fourth Amendment shall have been duly executed
                           and delivered by each of the Borrower, the Lenders
                           and the Agent and shall be in full force and effect.
                           The Agent shall have received a fully executed copy
                           of this Amendment. Further, AWI and the Borrower
                           shall have provided the Agent with the additional
                           documents set forth in Schedule 1 annexed hereto and
                           incorporated herein by reference.

                  (b)      All proceedings in connection with the transactions
                           contemplated by this Fourth Amendment and all
                           documents incident thereto shall be reasonably
                           satisfactory in substance and form to the Agent, and
                           the Agent shall have received all information and
                           such counterpart originals or certified or other
                           copies of such documents as the Agent may reasonably
                           request. Further, the Borrower shall have delivered
                           to the Agent such additional documents which the
                           Lender may reasonably request.

                  (c)      The Borrower shall have paid all reasonable costs and
                           expenses of the Agent including, without limitation,
                           all attorneys' fees and expenses incurred by the
                           Agent in connection with the Agreement, the Loan
                           Documents, and the preparation, negotiation and
                           execution of this Fourth Amendment.

         9.       Miscellaneous.

                           (a) This Fourth Amendment may be executed in several
                  counterparts and by each party on a separate counterpart, each
                  of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original,
                  and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.

                           (b) This Fourth Amendment expresses the entire
                  understanding of the parties with respect to the transactions
                  contemplated hereby. No prior negotiations or discussions
                  shall limit, modify, or otherwise affect the provisions
                  hereof.

                           (c) Any determination that any provision of this
                  Fourth Amendment or any application hereof is invalid, illegal
                  or unenforceable in any respect and in any instance shall not
                  effect the validity, legality, or enforceability of such
                  provision in any other instance, or the validity, legality or
                  enforceability of any other provisions of this Fourth
                  Amendment.

                           (d) The Borrower shall pay on demand all costs and
                  expenses of the Agent, including, without limitation,
                  reasonable attorneys' fees in connection with the preparation,
                  negotiation, execution and delivery of this Fourth Amendment.

                           (e) The Borrower warrants and represents that the
                  Borrower has consulted with independent legal counsel of the
                  Borrower's selection in

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<PAGE>
                  connection with this Fourth Amendment and is not relying on
                  any representations or warranties of any Lender or the Agent
                  or their respective counsel in entering into this Fourth
                  Amendment.

                           (f) The Borrower acknowledges and agrees that the
                  Borrower does not have any claims, counterclaims, offsets, or
                  defenses against any Lender or the Agent directly or
                  indirectly relating to the Borrower's relationship with,
                  and/or the Borrower's Liabilities, and to the extent that the
                  Borrower has or ever had any such claims, counterclaims,
                  offsets, or defenses against any of the Lenders or the Agent,
                  the Borrower affirmatively WAIVES the same. The Borrower, and
                  for its representatives, successors and assigns, hereby
                  RELEASES, and forever discharges the Lenders and the Agent and
                  their respective officers, directors, agents, servants,
                  attorneys, and employees, and their respective
                  representatives, successors and assigns, of, to, and from all
                  known debts, demands, actions, suits, accounts, covenants,
                  contracts, agreements, damages, and any and all claims,
                  demands, or liabilities whatsoever, of every name and nature,
                  both at law and in equity through the date hereof.

                  [remainder of page left intentionally blank]

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<PAGE>
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have hereunto caused this Fourth
Amendment to be executed and their seals to be hereto affixed as of the date
first above written.

                                        AEROPOSTALE, INC.
                                                      ("Borrower")

                                        By: /s/ Michael J. Cunningham
                                           ------------------------------------

                                        Name: Michael J. Cunningham
                                             ----------------------------------

                                        Title: Senior VP, CFO
                                              ---------------------------------

                                        FLEET RETAIL FINANCE INC.
                                                      ("Agent")

                                        By: /s/ Timothy R. Tobin
                                           ------------------------------------

                                        Name: Timothy R. Tobin
                                             ----------------------------------

                                        Title: Director
                                              ---------------------------------

                                                     The "Lenders"

                                        FLEET RETAIL FINANCE INC.

                                        By: /s/ Timothy R. Tobin
                                           ------------------------------------

                                        Name: Timothy R. Tobin
                                             ----------------------------------

                                        Title: Director
                                              ---------------------------------

                                        IBJ WHITEHALL BUSINESS CREDIT
                                        CORPORATION

                                        By: /s/ Dan Bruno
                                           ------------------------------------

                                        Name: Dan Bruno
                                             ----------------------------------

                                        Title: A.U.P.
                                              ---------------------------------

                                        6
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                                   Schedule A
                             Amendments to Exhibits

                                   EXHIBIT 4-2

                                Related Entities

                 Aeropostale West, Inc., a Delaware corporation

                                        7
<PAGE>
                                   Schedule 1

1.       Certificate of Legal Existence and Good Standing for AWI from Delaware
         Secretary of State

2.       Certificates of Foreign Qualification for AWI from:

         a. Arizona Secretary of State
         b. California Secretary of State

3.       Officers' Certificate for AWI with copies of:

         a.       Certificate of Incorporation
         b.       By-Laws
         c.       Resolutions

4.       Guaranty by AWI

5.       Security Agreement by AWI

6.       Trademark Security Agreement by AWI

7.       Financing Statement from AWI

         a.       Secretary of State of Delaware

8.       Stock Pledge from Aeropostale Inc. of all of stock of AWI

         a.       Stock Certificate
         b.       Stock Power

9.       Opinion of Counsel To AWI

10.      Insurance Certificates

11.      Sublicense Agreement between Aeropostale, Inc. and AWI

12.      Promissory Note from Aeropostale, Inc. in favor of AWI

13.      Purchase and Sale Agreement between Aeropostale, Inc. and AWI

14.      Management Services Agreement between Aeropostale, Inc. and AWI

15.      Contribution and License Agreement between Aeropostale, Inc. and AWI

                                        8<PAGE>
                                                                    Exhibit 10.9

[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

Facility Name/Location
   Material Distribution Center, South River, NJ 08882-9998           334952-001

1. THIS LEASE, by and between the UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE, hereinafter
called Lessor, and AEROPOSTALE, INC. and its subsidiaries, hereinafter called
the Lessee, with an address at 35 Continental Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470 to use and
occupy the property hereinafter described under the terms and subject to the
conditions contained herein.

2.   The Lessor hereby leases to the Lessee the following described premises: a
     one story warehouse/distribution building located at 2 Brick Plant Road,
     South River, New Jersey which consists of a 22.76 Acre site on Brick Plant
     Road known as Block 73.1, Lot 1 in the Borough of South River, County of
     Middlesex, State of New Jersey, reference being made to Subdivision Map no.
     5492 File No. 978 Filed July 1, 1991 (the "Leased Premises") which property
     contains areas, spaces, improvements, and appurtenances as follows:

          Floor space                   315,000 square feet
          Parking & Maneuvering          96,700 square feet
          Other:

          Driveway                       14,800 square feet
          Landscaping                   562,725 square feet
          Sidewalks                       2,200 square feet

     Total Site Area                    991,425 square feet

to be used exclusively for the following purpose(s): A Warehouse and
Distribution Center with associated office space for the Lessee

It is understood and agreed that this Lease is subordinate and subject to the
lease dated July 11, 1995 between the United States Postal Service and Northend
Associates (the "Prime Lessor") a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A
(the "Prime Lease"), and to any pre-existing mortgage on the Leased Premises,
and that anywhere the words Lessor or Lessee appear in this Lease, these words
shall become Sublessor and Sublessee.

3. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the Leased Premises with their appurtenances for the
following term:

                     February 1, 2002 through April 21, 2006

4. See Addendum 1 regarding additional terms and conditions for potential
Co-occupancy Period.

5. The Lessee shall pay the Lessor an annual rent of $1,260,000 (See Paragraph
32 for additional rent and terms and conditions.) Except as provided in Addendum
1, all rents to start on April 1, 2002 and payable in arrears at the rate of
$105,000 per month. Rents for part of a month shall be prorated. All payments
shall be made payable to the Disbursing Officer, United States Postal Service,
and contain the following Postal Service finance/sublocation number for
identification purposes: 334952-001 All payments are to be paid by check or
money order and delivered to the Accounting Service Center, U.S. Postal Service,
Disbursing Office, P.O. Box 21888, Eagan, MN 55121-0888 by mail or otherwise on
or before the 1st day of each month. A late fee, equal to .5% of the balance of
the unpaid rent, may be charged on any rents that are not received within thirty
(30) days after Lessor has provided written notice to Lessee of such past due
rent. The first and last month's rental must be in the form of a check or money
order, made payable to the Disbursing Officer, U.S. Postal Service and submitted
to the Contracting Officer along with the signed copies of this Lease Agreement.

6.   The Lessor shall furnish the Lessee with services and utilities as follows:
     None, except during the Co-tenancy Period as defined and provided for in
     Addendum 1

If the heating or air conditioning services are provided under this lease, the
Lessor agrees to maintain temperatures in the Leased Premises in accordance with
current Postal Service standards for postal buildings. In the event of a fuel
shortage or change in applicable law or regulation where the Lessor is required
to cut back or curtail fuel consumption, the Lessee agrees to accept heating or
air conditioning at whatever level is available.

                                       1
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[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

7. Lessee has inspected and knows the condition of the Leased Premises and
agrees to accept same in broom clean condition with all systems, fixtures and
equipment, including but not limited to the heating system, the air conditioning
equipment, light fixtures, sewerage system, electrical system and water system
as provided for in Section 7 of the Prime Lease and section A.24 of the General
Conditions to the Prime Lease, to be provided in good working order. It is
further understood that the Leased Premises are hereby leased to Lessee without
any obligation on the part of Lessor to make any additions, improvements or
alterations thereto, except for the provision of racking and other equipment as
provided for in section 32 of this Agreement.

8. Lessee shall not make any additions, improvements, repairs, or alterations to
the Leased Premises, except for those requiring immediate repair, are necessary
because of an emergency situation or are of a non-structural nature which do not
exceed $5,000 in cost, without the prior written consent of Lessor in each and
every instance. If this provision is violated, Lessee is liable for the cost of
removal and restoration, plus applicable administrative cost. Prior to the
expiration or termination of this Lease, Lessee may remove such alterations or
improvements and restore the Leased Premises to as good condition as that
existing at the time of entering upon the same under the Lease, reasonable and
ordinary wear and tear and damages by the elements or by circumstances over
which the Lessee has no control, excepted.

9. The Lessor shall, except as otherwise specified herein and except for damages
resulting from the act or negligence of the Lessee, its agents or employees,
maintain in good repair and leaseable condition the Leased Premises, including
the building and any and all equipment, fixtures, and appurtenances, whether
severable or nonseverable, furnished by the Lessor under this Lease.

10. Lessee shall use reasonable care in the occupation and use of the Leased
Premises. Upon the expiration or termination of this Lease, Lessee shall vacate
the Leased Premises, remove its property therefrom and forthwith yield and place
Lessor in peaceful possession of the Leased Premises, free and clear of any
liens, claims, or encumbrances and in as good condition as that existing at the
time of entering upon the same under the Lease, reasonable and ordinary wear and
tear and damages by the elements or by circumstances over which the Lessee has
no control, excepted.

11. Lessee shall comply with all applicable Municipal and State laws, ordinances
and regulations and obtain and pay for all licenses and permits as may be
required by Lessee.

12. Lessee agrees not to use the Leased Premises in any way which, in the
judgement of the Lessor poses a hazard to the Lessor, the general public, the
Leased Premises, other lessees, or the building in part or whole; nor shall
Lessee use the Leased Premises so as to cause damage, annoyance, nuisance or
inconvenience to the building occupants or others.

13. Lessee, Lessee's agents, employees, invitees and visitors may use the Leased
Premises only for lawful purposes consistent with the requirements of applicable
laws, codes and regulations, and shall comply fully with all applicable Rules
and Regulations Governing Conduct on Postal Property (Title 39, Code of Federal
Regulations, Part 232) as attached hereto or subsequently amended.

14. The Lessor reserves the right to enter the Leased Premises at all reasonable
hours with 24 hour prior notice to and permission from Lessee to inspect the
Leased Premises to make such repairs, additions or alterations as Lessor
considers necessary or to show the Leased Premises within 180 days prior to the
expiration of the term of this Lease or any renewal term hereof.

15. The Lessee must obtain, at no cost to the Lessor, a public liability
insurance policy naming the Lessor as an additional insured (co-insured) and
providing limits of liability for bodily injury of for each person and for each
occurrence and aggregate and property damage limits of for each occurrence and
aggregate. A certified true copy of the complete policy (not a memorandum of
insurance nor a certificate of insurance) with endorsement naming the Lessor as
an additional insured thereunder, shall be furnished the Lessor prior to
occupancy. The policy must include the following endorsement: "It is a condition
of this policy that the insurance company must furnish written notice to the
United States Postal Service thirty (30) days in advance of the effective date
of any reduction in or cancellation of this policy." Failure to provide and
maintain the aforementioned insurance policy with required endorsements may
result in termination of the Lease at the option of the Lessor.

                                       2
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[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

In all cases wherein federal, state, or local governmental bodies are
self-insured, acceptable evidence of such self-insurance shall be provided prior
to occupancy.

16. Lessor shall not be responsible for damages to property or injuries to
persons, which may arise from or be incident to the use and occupation of the
Leased Premises, nor for damages to the property or injuries to the person of
Lessee or of others who may be on said Leased Premises at Lessee's invitation
and Lessee shall hold Lessor harmless from any and all claims for such damages
or injuries, unless such damages or injuries are due to the negligence or
misconduct of Lessor or any of its agents, employees, invitees or visitors.

17. In the event Lessee is in default of its rental obligations or abandons the
Leased Premises for a period of thirty days or more, or breaches any other
portion of this Lease without correcting said breach within 30 days after
written notice thereof by Lessor, then the Lessor may, at its option, on
authority hereby granted the Lessor by the Lessee, (a) declare this Lease ended
and terminated and may re-enter the Leased Premises and remove all persons or
things therefrom, and the Lessee hereby expressly waives all service of any
demand or notice prescribed by any statute whatever, and (b) Lessor may enter
the Leased Premises and eject Lessee, forcibly or otherwise, without regard to
any statute to the contrary, dispose of such personal property left in the
Leased Premises as deemed in the best interest of the United States Postal
Service and Lessee shall be liable for such damages as the Lessor may incur. The
rights and remedies of the Lessor as provided in this clause are not exclusive
and are in addition to any other rights and remedies provided by law or under
this lease agreement.

18. In the event that a state or local tax is imposed upon the occupancy, use,
possession, or leasehold interest of or in the real property herein leased, the
obligation for the payment of the tax will be wholly that of the Lessee.

19. No member of or delegate to Congress or Resident Commissioner shall be
admitted to any share or part of this Lease agreement, or to any benefit that
may arise therefrom; but this provision shall not be construed to extend to any
corporation or company if the agreement be for the general benefit of such
corporation or company.

20. The Lessee's name and location may be placed on the building directory,
floor directory and/or door plate, if the building is so equipped. No signs of
the Lessee shall otherwise be placed inside or outside of the Leased Premises
unless specifically authorized by the Lessor in writing, which authorization
shall not be unreasonably withheld.

21. Lessor and Lessee each warrant that (a) they have dealt with no other real
estate broker in connection with this transaction except NAI Eric Bram & Co. who
represents Lessor and (b) upon execution of this Lease, Lessor shall pay the
real estate brokerage commission due in accordance with its agreement with such
broker for the leasing of the Leased Premises. For breach or violation of this
warranty by Lessee, the Lessor shall have the right to annul this Lease without
liability, or, in its discretion, to require Lessee to pay in addition to the
contract price or consideration, the full amount of such commission, percentage,
brokerage, or contingent fee.

22. The failure of Lessor to insist in any one or more instance upon performance
of any of the terms, covenants, or conditions of this Lease shall not be
construed as a waiver or relinquishment of the future performance of any such
term, covenant, or condition. Lessee's obligation with respect to such future
performance shall continue in full force and effect.

23. Any notice or advice to or demand upon Lessee shall be in writing and shall
be deemed to have been given or made on the day when it is deposited in the mail
by certified mail to the Lessee's address indicated in paragraph 1, or at such
other address as Lessee may hereafter from time to time specify in writing for
such purpose. Any notice or advice to or demand upon Lessor shall be in writing
and shall be deemed to have been given or made on the day when it is deposited
in the mail by certified mail to the Lessor's Contracting Officer at the address
indicated on the signature page herein, or at such other address as Lessor's
Contracting Officer may hereafter from time to time specify in writing for such
purpose. The Contracting Officer is the Lessor's representative and is the only
person who has authority to sign or amend the terms or conditions of this Lease.

24. The Lessee agrees that he will not discriminate by segregation or otherwise
against any person or persons because of race, color, creed, sex or national
origin in furnishing, or by refusing to furnish to, such person or persons the
use of any facility, including any and all services, privileges, accommodations
and activities provided therein.

                                       3
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

25. Except with the prior written consent of Lessor, which consent shall not be
unreasonably withheld, Lessee shall neither transfer nor assign this lease or
any of its rights hereunder, nor sublet the Leased Premises or any part thereof
or any property thereon nor grant any interest, privilege or license whatsoever
in connection with this Lease. In the event the Lessor consents to the
subleasing or assignment of this Lease, Lessee shall remain obligated to pay
rent and to perform all other covenants under this Lease.

26. Lessee acknowledges that he acquires no right by virtue of execution of this
Lease to claim any benefits under Title 39, Code of Federal Regulations, Part
777. (Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies)

27. If the property leased is located in a State requiring the recording of
leases, the Lessee shall comply with all such statutory requirements at Lessee's
expense.

28.  Access to the leased space is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

29. Hazardous/Toxic Conditions Clause: The Lessee must comply with all state and
local rules, laws, regulations, ordinances and licensing or permit requirements
which affect the environment and physical integrity of the Leased Premises or
its surrounding area. If any activity of the Lessee involves the storage on
Leased Premises, shipping to or from the Leased Premises or any use on the
Leased Premises of any material, chemical or agent that qualifies as a hazardous
or toxic substance under federal, state and local regulations or is an
unregulated substance that has hazardous characteristics and is used, stored or
transported in sufficient quantities to qualify as hazardous material then all
federal, state and local regulations, licensing or permit requirements must be
complied with and copies of all licenses, permits or authorizations for their
use, shipment, storage or transport must be forwarded to the Contracting Officer
as well as copies of any citations or listing of infractions and subsequent
corrections by the Lessee. Copies of any changes in any and all licenses or
permits must be forwarded to the Contracting Officer. Where more than one rule
or regulation applies, the more stringent will apply. If any federal, state or
local law, regulation, rule or ordinance requires the filing of periodic reports
by the Lessee, it shall be the obligation of the Lessee under this Lease to file
a copy of any such periodic report(s) with the Postal Service Contracting
Officer at the same time such report(s) is filed with the federal, state or
local government or its assignee.

The Lessor reserves the right to inspect the Leased Premises at any reasonable
time with 24-hour prior notice to Lessee to ascertain if any Lease violations
occur. If any contamination, as reasonably determined by the Contracting
Officer, occurs due to the handling, use, storage or transfer by the Lessee of
any material, whether such contamination, violation or hazardous condition is
discovered during the lease term or after expiration or termination thereof,
Lessee shall be solely responsible for removal or remediation of the hazardous
or toxic condition in accordance with federal, state and local regulations and
permit requirements. Notwithstanding any other clause in this section or in the
Lease, the Lessee shall remove all hazardous material from the property at the
expiration or termination of the Lease which hazardous material was brought onto
the Leased Premises during Lessee's occupancy of said Leased Premises, and
provide copies of all permits, notices and manifests required for such removal
to the Lessor. Lessee's failure to comply with the provisions of this paragraph
shall be grounds for termination of this Lease for default. Receipt by Lessor of
notices, reports, or any other information or documentation required herein
shall not impose any responsibility on Lessor to supervise the affairs of Lessee
nor relieve Lessee of its responsibility to comply fully with all applicable
laws and regulations. The rights and remedies of the Lessor provided in this
clause are in addition to any other rights and remedies which may be available
to the Lessor by law or under this agreement. The Lessee hereby indemnifies the
Lessor and its officers, agents, representatives, and employees from all claims,
loss, damage, actions, causes of action, expense and/or liability, including the
cost of defense, resulting from, brought for, or on account of any violation of
this clause. Notwithstanding any other clause in this section or in the Lease to
the contrary, hazardous or toxic materials shall not include general maintenance
chemicals commonly used in commercial facilities.

30. Gratuities or Gifts (April 1993): The Lessor may terminate this contract for
default if, after notice and a hearing, the Postal Service Board of Contract
Appeals determines that the Lessee or the Lessee's agent or other
representative:
         1. Offered or gave a gratuity or gift (as defined in 5 CFR 2635) to an
         officer or employee of the Postal Service; and
         2. Intended by the gratuity or gift to obtain a contract or favorable
         treatment under a contract.

The rights and remedies of the Lessor provided in this clause are in addition to
any other rights and remedies provided by law or under this contract.

                                       4
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

31. Lessee shall pay in arrears as additional rent, such payment commencing upon
the later of (a) April 1, 2002 or (b) the date Lessor terminates any Co-tenancy
Period allowed pursuant to Addendum 1 of this Lease, $78,750 annually for the
use of warehouse related equipment, racking and material handling equipment,
office furniture, and other equipment listed as Exhibit B to this Lease (the
"Equipment"), all such Equipment to be provided in As is condition. At the end
of the initial term of this Lease, Lessor agrees (a) that all of its right,
title and interest to the Equipment shall transfer to the Lessee, free and clear
of any claims or liens from any third party, without any further compensation or
fees due from Lessee to Lessor, including but not limited to the annual payment
of $78,750 provided for in this paragraph 31, and (b) to execute a valid Bill of
Sale for such Equipment. Lessee, as the owner of the Equipment at the end of the
initial term of the Lease, shall be entitled to use the Equipment either on the
Leased Premises or remove the Equipment from the Leased Premises, at the sole
option of the Lessee. Lessee's ownership of the Equipment at the end of the
initial term of this Lease shall not be affected in any way by its options to
purchase the Leased Premises or renew the Lease.

32. Lessee will have the option to renew the lease for a five-year term,
commencing on April 22, 2006 and expiring on April 21, 2011, at the rate of
$4.50 per square foot of floor space triple net. Lessee will have an additional
five-year renewal option commencing on April 22, 2011 and expiring April 21,
2016 at a market rate rent to be determined as set forth in paragraph V of the
Addendum to the Prime Lease. Lessee shall provide Lessor with written notice of
its intent to exercise either option to renew this Lease at least 360 days prior
to expiration of the original term or then extended term of this Lease.

33. Lessee will have one option to purchase the Leased Premises upon its
notification in writing via certified mail to be delivered to Lessor by October
21, 2004, accompanied by a deposit of a $1,000,000 check payable to U.S. Postal
Service, Disbursing Officer, to be held in a Postal Service escrow account. This
notice and payment by Lessee to Lessor will require Lessor to immediately
exercise its option to purchase the Leased Premises pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the Option to Purchase Rider of the Prime Lease (the "Purchase
Rider") and to comply with the terms and conditions set forth in said Purchase
Rider. Notwithstanding the foregoing, since both parties agree that the Lessee
will ultimately obtain title to the Leased Premises pursuant to this paragraph
33, Lessor agrees to obtain the prior approval of Lessee in connection with any
and all decisions Lessor is required to make during the purchase process set
forth in the Purchase Rider, which decisions shall include, but not be limited
to (a) naming the MAI appraiser, (b) deciding whether the purchase price is too
high, (c) agreeing upon a closing date, and (d) requesting any objections to
title be cured. Lessor agrees to transfer title of the Leased Premises to Lessee
on the same day it obtains title from the Prime Lessor provided Lessee pays
Lessor 105% of the purchase price. The $1,000,000 deposit and interest thereon
shall be applied toward the purchase price. In the event the purchase
transaction does not close for any reason other than the Lessee's default, the
deposit shall be returned to the Lessee in full.

34. Lessee agrees to pay for snow removal, garbage removal, taxes, sprinkler
fees, insurance, and any costs to maintain the Leased Premises however, Lessee
shall not be responsible for any costs which are (i) Lessor's responsibility
pursuant to paragraph 9 of this Lease or (ii) included as the Prime Lessor's
responsibility pursuant to paragraph d. of the Maintenance Rider of the Prime
Lease. Additionally, there will be an annual charge of $0.10 per square foot of
floor space for management and roof maintenance, such payment commencing upon
the late of April 1, 2002 or the date Lessor terminates any Co-tenancy Period
allowed pursuant to Addendum 1 of this Lease.

35. Lessor will allow Lessee to make any building improvements subject to
Lessor's approval, not to be unreasonably withheld. The Lessor reserves the
right to bid any construction modification to the Leased Premises.

36. Addendum 1, Addendum 2, Exhibit A and Exhibit B all attached hereto is made
a part hereof as if same were written in the body of this Lease.

                                       5
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

EXECUTED this 5th day of February, 2002.

 John Mills - Chief Operating Officer       /s/ John S. Mills
-------------------------------------       --------------------------
Print Name & Title                          Signature

     Lessee Address:    35 Continental Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470

       Telephone No:    973-872-5660

             Tax Id:    31-144-3880

Witness                                      Witness

                        ACCEPTANCE BY THE POSTAL SERVICE

Date: 2/7/02
      -----------

   Louis J. Norris, Contracting Officer      /s/ Louis J. Norris
-------------------------------------------  --------------------------------
Print Name and Title of Contracting Officer  Signature of Contracting Officer

4301 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22203
-------------------------------------
Print Address of Contracting Officer

                                                 William H. Davis
-------------------------------------        -----------------------------------
Witness                                      Witness

Contact Person:

                                       6
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

                                    EXHIBIT A

                     THE PRIME LEASE AND ATTACHMENTS THERETO

                                       7
<PAGE>
                                    EXHIBIT B

     LIST OF WAREHOUSE RELATED EQUIPMENT TO BE FURNISHED BY LESSOR TO LESSEE

OFFICE EQUIPMENT
                      26   Four drawer metal file cabinet
                       4   Small metal 2 drawer file cabinet
                      23   Desks
                       3   Fancy desk - wood
                       4   Small metal desk
                      16   Cubicles
                      31   Metal wall cabinets
                       4   Fancy wall cabinets-wood
                       4   Fancy two door cabinet-wood
                       2   Small round table- wood
                       1   Large conference table
                       9   Small conference tables
                       5   Fancy wall units - wood
                      52   Chairs
                       2   Sofas
                      11   Telephones
                       7   Typewriters
                       1   Podium
                       1   Easel
                       1   TV
                       1   Tv table
                       1   Polaroid Camera
                       1   Fax machine
                       4   Presentation boards
                       1   Small refrigerator
                       1   Microwave
                       1   Toaster oven
                       1   Kitchen table

                                        All furniture in employee cafeteria
                                        All furniture in observation platform
                                        All furniture in receiving office
                                        All assorted janitorial supplies
                                        All lockeroom lockers
                                        All computer room phone systems
TOOLS AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT
                              2   Sort to light - 1200 and 1500 positions
                              3   Turret Trucks - T1-T2-T3
                              6   Extended Reach - ER1,2,3,4,5,6
                              3   Double Reach - DR1,2,3

                                       8
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

                              3   Order Pickers - OP1,2,3
                              3   Standard Fork lifts
                              1   Skyjack
                              1   Compactor
                              1   Transformer
                              1   Toledo Scale
                              1   Isle sweeper
                              1   Isle scrubber
                              1   Hyster power pallet handjack
                              2   Golf cars  - 1 small   1 large
                              1   Box maker - BM2
                              2   Carton tape machine
                              1   Parts wash tub
                              1   Welder
                              2   Vices
                              1   Grinder
                              1   Table saw
                              1   Greaser
                              1   Hand power washer
                              3   Spare hilo batteries
                              1   Portable compressor
                              3   Pipe benders
                              4   Crow bars
                              1   Cabinet with spare parts
                              2   Rolling metal work tables
                              5   Blue 12 drawer  tool cabinet with tools
                              1   brown nuts and screw cabinets-72 openings
                                    with nuts and screws
                              2   Blue fire cabinets
                              3   Yellow Fire cabinets
                              1   Battery changer
                              2   Dry vacuum
                              8   portable floor fans
                              1   Lobby desk
                              9   Skids of garbage bags
                              1   Pallet of turkey wire
                             10   Trailer legs

                                            All conveyors, motors gear box,legs,
                                                grids all spare conveyors,power
                                                parts,gravity & drives
                                            All upright and cross beams
                                            All pallet racking beams

                                       9
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

                                   ADDENDUM 1

 CO-OCCUPANCY AGREEMENT ATTACHED TO AND MADE A PART OF THAT CERTAIN LEASE DATED
  FEBRUARY. 2002 BY AND BETWEEN UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE (THE "LESSOR") AND
                        AEROPOSTALE, INC. (THE "LESSEE")

                                LEASED PREMISES:
                               2 BRICK PLANT ROAD
                             SOUTH RIVER, NEW JERSEY

All terms in the sublease agreement between the United States Postal Service and
Aeropostale shall remain in full force and effect subject to the following
temporary modifications:

1. It is the intent of the Lessor and the Lessee to co-occupy the Leased
Premises for a period of time commencing on February 1, 2002 and ending no later
than October 1, 2002 (the "Co-Occupancy Period").

2. During such Co-Occupancy Period Lessee will pay, commencing on April 1, 2002,
an annual rental rate of $1.10 per square foot of floor space which Lessee
occupies. Lessee shall also pay Lessor for its proportionate share of actual
operating expenses, real estate taxes and insurance, proof of each expense to be
provided in writing to Lessee. Lessee's proportionate share shall be determined
by calculating the square footage of floor space which Lessee occupies and
dividing it by the total square footage of the floor space of the building as
set forth in this Lease. It is estimated that Lessor will occupy approximately
165,000 square feet of floor space during the Co-Occupancy Period. Lessor will
fence in, at its sole cost and expense, the area of the Leased Premises which it
will occupy and remove such fencing at the expiration of the Co-Occupancy
Period. This fencing shall be used as security between Lessor and Lessee and as
a way to measure the square footage of each tenant.

3. Lessor agrees to and guarantees to vacate the Leased Premises no later than
October 1, 2002. Lessor understands and agrees that its vacating the Leased
Premises by this date is critical to Lessee's success during the Lessee's busy
holiday season and consequently Lessor agrees to provide Lessee with monthly
written status updates starting on June 1, 2002 regarding Lessor's efforts and
progress in relocating its remaining business located on the Leased Premises. In
the event Lessor has not vacated the Leased Premises by October 1, 2002, Lessee
shall have the option to either: (a) cancel the Lease without any further
obligations upon thirty (30) days written notice to Lessor, or (ii) continue to
occupy its portion of the Leased Premises in which case any and all rent
obligations of Lessee to Lessor under the Lease or otherwise shall cease until
such time that Lessor vacates the Leased Premises. In addition, if Lessee
chooses to continue to co-occupy the Leased Premises with Lessor after October
1, 2002, during such extended co-occupancy period, Lessor (a) shall diligently
pursue vacating the Leased Premises on a date to be agreed upon and acceptable
to Lessee, and (b) grants Lessee the right to terminate the Lease, without any
continuing obligations or penalty, at any time with thirty (30) days written
notice.

The lease commencement date shall not be affected by this amendment.

                                       10
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

                                   ADDENDUM 2

           ADDITIONAL LEASE PROVISIONS ATTACHED TO AND MADE A PART OF
          THAT CERTAIN LEASE DATED FEBRUARY 2002 BY AND BETWEEN UNITED
           STATES POSTAL SERVICE (THE "LESSOR") AND AEROPOSTALE, INC.
                                 (THE "LESSEE")

                                LEASED PREMISES:
                               2 BRICK PLANT ROAD
                             SOUTH RIVER, NEW JERSEY

37. Provided Lessee is not in default hereunder, Lessor covenants and agrees to
timely pay all amounts due by Lessor under the Prime Lease and perform all of
Lessor's other obligations under the prime Lease so as not to cause a default
under the Prime Lease. Lessor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lessee from
and against any and all loss, liability, cost or expense (including reasonable
attorneys' fees) incurred by Lessee by reason of any failure of Lessor to
perform its obligations under this Lease or under the Prime Lease.

38. Lessor warrants that (i) Lessor leases the Leased Premises and has rights of
access thereto; (ii) Lessor has full right to make and perform this Lease; (iii)
that the Prime Lease is in full force and effect and that rental payments and
all other amounts due under the Prime Lease are current and that there are no
unperformed obligations on the part of the Lessor pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the Prime Lease, and (iv) upon Lessee paying the rent and
observing and performing all the terms, covenants and conditions on Lessee's
part to be observed and performed under this Lease, Lessee may peacefully and
quietly enjoy the Leased Premises.

39. Lessor waives any lien rights it may have concerning Lessee's personal
property located at the Leased Premises. Lessee has the right to remove the same
at any time without Lessor's consent.

40. In the event that the Prime Lease expires or is terminated for any reason,
Lessor shall give Lessee written notice thereof no later than five (5) days
after Lessor receives notice or becomes aware of such expiration or termination.

41. Any provision in this Lease or the Prime Lease to the contrary
notwithstanding, if Lessor fails to perform any of its obligations under this
Lease or the Prime Lease and such failure (a) interferes with the normal use of
the Leased Premises, and (b) continues for more than three (3) consecutive days,
then the rent and all other amounts due under this Lease shall be
proportionately abated until such interference is eliminated or the Leased
Premises is otherwise rendered tenantable and or useable again. Additionally, if
such interference continues for a period of thirty (30) or more consecutive
days, Lessee shall have the right and option to cancel this Lease by giving
written notice to Lessor within fifteen (15) days after the end of such 30-day
period.

42. If the Leased Premises or any portion thereof is damaged or destroyed by
fire or other casualty, Acts of God, of a public enemy, riot or destruction or
are otherwise determined by the Lessee to be unfit for use and occupancy, Lessee
shall have the options set forth under section A.23 to the General Conditions of
the Prime Lease.

43. Lessor represents and warrants to Lessee that as of the commencement of this
Lease:

     a) To the best of its knowledge, no hazardous substances, including
specifically, but not limited to Anthrax, have been manufactured, refined,
stored, disposed of, produced, processed or identified on or in any part of the
Leased Premises, with the exception of general maintenance chemicals commonly
used in commercial facilities.
     b) Lessor is in compliance with all federal environmental, pollution,
health, safety, fire or building code laws and has no knowledge and has received
no notice of any federal, state, county or municipal environmental, pollution,
health, safety, fire or building code violations.
     c) To the best of its knowledge, the Leased Premises are not currently
subject to investigation for alleged federal, state, county or municipal
environmental pollution, health, safety, fire or building code violations.
     d) Lessor will defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Lessee, its directors,
officers, employees, and agents and any assignees, subtenants or successors to
Lessee's interest in the Leased Premises from and against any and all losses,
claims, judgments, damages, penalties, fines, expenses and liabilities,
including all out-of-pocket litigation costs and the reasonable fees and
expenses of counsel associated with its breach of this representation and
warranty. This indemnification provision shall survive for one year after the
expiration or termination of this Lease.

                                       11
<PAGE>
[UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE LOGO]

                                                              SUBLEASE AGREEMENT

     e) If any cleanup, repair, or similar action is required by any
governmental or quasi-governmental agency as a result of the storage, release,
disposal, production, or processing of hazardous substances by Lessor at any
time or the identification of such hazardous substances, including but not
limited to Anthrax, on the Leased Premises attributable to the Lessor, and such
action requires that the Lessee be denied access to the Leased Premises for
greater than a 24 hour period, then the rent and all other sums due under this
Lease will be abated entirely during the period beyond 24 hours. If the denial
of access persists in excess of 30 days, then at the Lessee's election by
written notice to Lessor within 10 days after the end of the 30 day period, this
Lease will immediately end.
Notwithstanding the foregoing representation and warranty Lessor agrees to allow
Lessee to conduct any environmental testing on the Leased Premises it deems
necessary, such testing to be conducted prior to the later of: (i) April 1, 2002
or (ii) the expiration or termination of the Co-Occupancy Period. Lessee shall
provide Lessor with a copy of the results of any environmental testing and if
the results identify any hazardous or toxic substances on the Leased Premises,
Lessor agrees to remove such hazardous or toxic substances at Lessor's sole cost
in accordance with EPA or State guidelines. If Lessor fails to remove the
hazardous or toxic substances, the Lessee has the right to accomplish the work
and deduct the cost plus administrative costs, from further rent payment or
recover these costs from Lessor by other means, or may at its sole option,
cancel this Lease. In addition, Lessee may proportionally abate the rent for any
period the Leased Premises, or any part thereof, are determined by the Lessee to
have been rendered unavailable to it by reason of such condition.

                                       12

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