****************************************************** PR # 32153 We propose to observe the compact elliptical galaxy NGC 4291 with ASCA for 40 ksec in order to measure the metallicity of its hot interstellar gas. ASCA PV phase observations of elliptical galaxies suggest a relationship between compactness at optical and X-ray wavelengths and metallicity that may reveal a fundamental connection between baryon-to-nonbaryon ratio, dissipation in galaxy formation, and metal enrichment. NGC 4291 is the only suitable galaxy bright enough to test this connection. We will also obtain GIS and SIS spectra of MKN 205 that can be used to study the flux and spectral variability of this quasar. ******************************************************