Applicant shall indemnify and hold The Gas Company harmless from and against all liability (excluding only Pre-Existing Environmental Liability) connected with or resulting from injury to or death of persons, including but not limited to employees of The Gas Company or Applicant, injury to property of The Gas Company, Applicant or a third party, or violation of local, state or federal laws or regulations (excluding environmental laws or regulations) (including attorneys’ fees) arising out of the performance of this Contract, except only for liability to the extent it is caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of The Gas Company.