Faculty members have donated nearly $2700 to defray legal expenses of Samuel L. Popkin, assistant professor of Government.

Popkin was called to appear before a Federal grand jury in October as part of a government investigation into the leak of the Pentagon Papers.

"The response is impressive and gratifying." Popkin said yesterday. "We are by no means out of the woods financially, but it is a off my back to know that people and appreciate my position."

Popkin said that to raise money had gone . "The people understand a real question of principle .

The Popkin Legal October 10 by John Warburg Professor mailed a letter to members, soliciting effort by Professor the right of a university keep confidential all formation."

The Popkin Legal Fund formal solicitations, but Popkin most of the senior Faculty the Government Department working informally to aid him

Popkin requested exempt grand jury questioning in late First Amendment grounds, static should not be obligated to questions on information obtained capacity as a scholar, author teacher."

The court denied the request October 29. Later the same day, the grand jury was suspended and not reopened until November 30, Popkin has not as yet been recalled.

"Since October 10, approximately 250 persons have made $10-$20 contributions." Galbraith said yesterday. No target goal has been set for the fund, he said, and although the "big rush" is over, contributions are still arriving.